Chapter 1 of 7
Choose breathable clothes, not just less clothing
In our summer heat, my first recommendation is always loose-fitting cotton or linen. Think lightweight trousers, airy summer dresses, skirts, and comfortable tops. You'll be walking, sitting at cafes, and maybe climbing steps, so choose clothes that move with you.
You don't have to wear shorts to stay cool. In fact, I often find airy, long trousers or a long skirt more comfortable and versatile. What I would strongly advise against are heavy jeans and tight, synthetic fabrics – they are your enemy in the midday sun.
A good hat and sunglasses are non-negotiable daytime accessories. While a loose shirt is great for extra coverage over a vest top, don't assume any thin fabric offers good sun protection. Sunscreen is still a must.
Chapter 2 of 7
What to wear in Rhodes Old Town and Lindos
Please don't feel you need to dress up to visit the Old Town or Lindos. Your everyday casual holiday clothes—a T-shirt and shorts, a loose dress, or light trousers and a shirt—are perfect. We're used to seeing tourists!
What you should dress for is the walking. I’ve seen too many people struggling on the Old Town’s cobblestones or the slopes of Lindos because their outfit was impractical. Your clothes should let you move freely, and a long hem can be a real nuisance on uneven steps.
A simple outfit like a loose top with light trousers and comfortable trainers will see you right through a day of exploring and a casual lunch. A sleeveless dress is also a great choice; just pop a scarf or light shirt in your bag in case you decide to visit a church.
Your choice of footwear is probably the most important decision you'll make. I have specific advice on which shoes work for Old Town streets and Lindos steps, and I urge you to read it.
Chapter 3 of 7
Beachwear: what to change before heading into town
On the beach or by the pool, your swimwear is all you need. I'd suggest having a cover-up, hat, and sunglasses handy for when you're out of the water or walking to the bar.
When you leave the beach area to go into a shop, a taverna, or just walk through town, my advice is to change into proper clothes. This isn't a strict law, but it's a matter of local etiquette. A seaside town isn't the same as a beach, and walking around in just your swim trunks or bikini is often seen as disrespectful.
Making the switch is easy with a simple dress or a shirt and shorts. And let's be clear: a sheer wrap is for the beach, not for walking around town. If you plan to eat after a swim, I'd bring a dry change of clothes. Nobody enjoys sitting in wet swimwear.
- At the beach or pool: Swimwear is fine; have a cover-up ready.
- In shops or towns: Put on a top and bottoms, or a dress. Don't just wear swimwear.
- For a meal after swimming: Change into dry, casual clothes. Check the restaurant's rules.
Chapter 4 of 7
What to wear in churches and monasteries
When you visit a church or monastery, please remember it's an active place of worship, not just a tourist attraction. The rule is simple and important: cover your shoulders and ensure your shorts, skirt, or dress are not too short.
To be safe, I recommend wearing clothes that cover your knees. This avoids any awkwardness at the entrance. A top that covers your shoulders with lightweight long trousers or a long skirt is the most respectful and straightforward option.
A scarf or pashmina is useful for covering bare shoulders, but it can't fix an outfit that's too revealing below the waist. Look for signs at the entrance and always be respectful if a member of staff gives you guidance. For more on local customs, see my guide on how to visit Rhodes respectfully.
Chapter 5 of 7
Rhodes evening dress code: relaxed, but venue-specific
For evenings out in Rhodes, you can generally leave the formalwear at home. Most restaurants are relaxed, and my advice is to aim for clean, comfortable 'smart casual'.
Casual tavernas and evening meals
For most places, light trousers with a polo shirt, a nice summer dress, or a skirt and top are perfect. You want to look a bit tidier than your daytime beach gear, but there's no need for a separate 'evening' wardrobe. Just keep the swimwear for the sea.
I'd also suggest smart flat sandals or comfortable loafers. They look good without making the walk to and from the restaurant a painful ordeal.
Hotel dinners and special reservations
Don't assume our relaxed island style applies everywhere. If you're dining at a high-end restaurant or in a smarter hotel, I strongly recommend checking their dress code in advance. They may have specific rules about shorts, open-toed shoes, or sleeveless tops.
And if your dinner involves a walk through the Old Town, remember the cobblestones. A smart outfit doesn't have to mean impractical heels.
Chapter 6 of 7
Adjust the layer, not the whole outfit
My strategy for dressing in Rhodes is all about smart layers. In summer, you'll live in lightweight clothes, but having a light cardigan, shirt, or shawl is a good idea for breezy evenings by the sea or for powerful air conditioning indoors.
For spring and autumn trips, layering is even more crucial. I'd go with light trousers, a long-sleeved top, and a jacket or cardigan you can easily take off. Winter is a different story; you'll need warmer clothes, a proper jacket, and closed shoes.
You can use my Rhodes month-by-month weather guide to get a feel for the season, then check a local forecast before you come. For what else to bring, that's covered in my Rhodes packing checklist.
Chapter 7 of 7
Before you head out: a quick outfit check
Here's the simple check I'd recommend: plan your outfit for the most 'demanding' part of your day—whether that's a church or a long walk—and adapt from there.
If you've still got questions on what to bring or anything else about visiting the island, have a look through the full list of Rhodes practical travel questions. I've probably answered it there.
- Walking in the Old Town or Lindos? I need breathable clothes and my best walking shoes.
- Going from beach to town? I have dry clothes to put on over my swimwear.
- Visiting a church? My shoulders are covered and my bottoms are long enough.
- Eating out somewhere nice? I've checked if they have a dress code.
- Staying out late? I have an extra layer in case it gets cool.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear shorts in Rhodes Old Town?
Absolutely. Shorts are completely normal for sightseeing and walking around the Old Town. My only caution is if you plan to enter a church; for that, you'll need to cover your shoulders and wear longer trousers or a skirt.
Do you need jeans for Rhodes evenings?
I wouldn't say they're necessary, especially in summer. You'll likely find lightweight trousers or chinos much more comfortable in the heat. I really only find jeans useful in the cooler off-season months, and even then, they're not required for evening dining.
Can the same outfit work for sightseeing and dinner?
Yes, for most situations. A smart summer dress or a pair of light trousers with a decent shirt works perfectly for daytime exploring and a relaxed dinner. My advice is to always check the rules for a specific high-end restaurant and make sure your shoes are comfortable enough for the walk there.