Savvas Dimitropoulos, Rhodes Travel Advisor, Sunday 14-09-2025
The ancient city of Ialyssos is an easy and rewarding half day from Rhodes Town. You drive up to Filerimos Hill, park near the entrance, and explore the Acropolis of Ialyssos with the Temple of Athena, the monastery of Panagia Filerimos, and the peaceful Road to Golgotha that ends at the sixteen meter high Cross. Peacocks often wander under the pines and wide views stretch from the old airfield to the modern runway and across the sea on clear days.
Ialyssos is one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes along with Lindos and Kamiros. Its remains sit on Filerimos Hill above the modern resort area. The site blends archaeology, medieval history, and gentle nature in one compact walk. You see columns and foundations from the Hellenistic acropolis, stroll past a serene monastery, and end at a viewpoint with open sky and sea. It is close to town yet feels calm, which makes it perfect before an evening in Rhodes medieval center.
Begin at the archaeological zone where you can trace streets and platforms of the ancient city. Continue to the monastery and small chapels that keep the hill quiet even on busy days. Follow the cypress avenue known as the Road to Golgotha and you will reach the Cross, a tall landmark that stands above the coast. Take a moment to look north toward Rhodes Town and west to the open sea. If you are patient you will see peacocks moving slowly between the trees, which adds a gentle touch to the visit.
Drive from Rhodes Town toward Ialyssos and follow signs for Filerimos Hill. The route is short and straightforward. Near the top you will find places to park and clear paths that lead to the archaeological area, the monastery, and the Cross. Keep valuables out of sight and mark your car location on your phone. Wear light shoes because surfaces change between soil, stone, and steps, and bring a bottle of water in warmer months.
Opening hours can vary by season and area. Typical times are winter from eight thirty in the morning to two forty in the afternoon with Monday closed, and summer from eight in the morning to seven forty in the evening with Monday open until two forty. Check the posted times at the entrance on the day of your visit. Plan about one to two hours for a relaxed loop that includes photos and a short pause at the viewpoint. Respect quiet inside the monastery and dress modestly if you step into chapels.
After Filerimos, drive down to the coast for a swim in Ixia or Ialyssos or continue to Rhodes Town for a harbor walk at Mandraki. If you prefer a west coast loop, you can head toward Butterflies Valley or ancient Kamiros for a fuller day. Keep your schedule light so you can enjoy the shade, the photos, and the views without hurry.
What exactly is on Filerimos Hill? The Acropolis of Ialyssos with the Temple of Athena remains, the monastery of Panagia Filerimos, the Road to Golgotha, and the tall Cross with a viewpoint.
How long should I plan? One to two hours is enough for a calm loop with photos and a short rest at the viewpoint.
Are there set hours? Yes by season. Expect winter hours in the morning to early afternoon and longer summer hours. Always confirm at the entrance on the day.
Can I see peacocks? Often yes. Peacocks roam freely on the hill and add a gentle, quiet feel to the visit.
Is the Cross open to climb? Access to the interior is sometimes restricted. Enjoy the views from the square even if entry is not available.
