Filerimos: Day Trips and Tours from Rhodes

With its trio of famous attractions — the giant cross on the hill, the 15th-century Gothic monastery and the ancient hilltop castle — Filerimos is considered a must-see destination for anyone visiting the island of Rhodes.

Located just a short drive from Rhodes city center, Filerimos offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's rich history and culture. Postcard-worthy landmarks aside, you can also enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area from the hilltop location.

In this article, we'll explore the best ways to plan a day trip to Filerimos from Rhodes and discover the fascinating history and culture of this important Rhodes landmark.

Here's all you need to know about visiting Filerimos, one of the most beautiful destinations for day trips from Rhodes.

How to get to Filerimos From Rhodes?

Filerimos is located on the western coast of the island of Rhodes in Greece. The site is situated approximately 7 kilometers southwest of Rhodes City, making it easily accessible by car or bus – or a hassle-free guided tour.

From Rhodes to Filerimos by car

To get to Filerimos from Rhodes by car, simply take the main road south from Rhodes City towards the village of Ialyssos. Filerimos is located just off this road and is well-signposted. The drive takes around 15-20 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape along the way.

From Rhodes to Filerimos by public transport

To get to Filerimos from Rhodes by public transport, take the 13 or 51 bus from Rhodes City to the village of Ialyssos. From there, it's a short walk (or taxi) to Filerimos. Buses run regularly throughout the day, making it a convenient and affordable option for visitors.

Guided tour to Filerimos from Rhodes

Easily the most popular option for first-time visitors, a guided tour to Filerimos from Rhodes offers several benefits, including the convenience of transportation and the expertise of a knowledgeable guide.

Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the site and gain insights into the ancient ruins and religious significance of the area. Guided tours also typically include entry fees and often a traditional Greek lunch, making for a hassle-free and enjoyable day trip.

Depending on your tour, you might also visit additional nearby attractions like the Valley of the Butterflies and Lindos Acropolis.

What is the typical itinerary?

The itinerary for a day trip from Rhodes to Filerimos varies depending on the tour company and type of tour. However, most tours start with convenient hotel pickup and a scenic drive to the site in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Upon arrival, you'll have some time to explore the ruins of the ancient Doric temples and the 15th-century Monastery of Our Lady and admire views from atop the hilltop castle.

Depending on your tour, you'll likely also check out the Ancient Acropolis of Ialysos, walk through a Golgotha (a tree-lined walkway dotted with shrines) called Via Dolorosa, and admire the giant Filerimos Cross.

If you opt for a combination tour that also visits the Valley of the Butterflies, you'll be treated to a leisurely walk through a lush nature reserve filled with beautiful flora and fauna. The Kallithea Springs and a traditional Greek lunch are also usually included in combination tours.

At the end of the day, you'll be dropped off back at your hotel after a full and enjoyable day exploring Filerimos.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Filerimos?

There are several kinds of guided tours available to Filerimos. Here’s a quick look at the various tours that you can choose.

Small group bus tour to Filerimos Hill and Butterfly Valley

Great for first-time visitors, this popular day tour takes travelers to two of Rhodes' most scenic spots.

The tour includes a visit to Filerimos Hill, where you can explore the ancient ruins and enjoy panoramics views of the island, before heading to the picturesque Butterfly Valley, where thousands of butterflies roam free. At the latter, you can also take a refreshing swim in the river.

Small group excursion to Rhodes, Acropolis of Lindos, Filerimos Hill and a medieval town

This multi-stop day trip is a comprehensive tour that takes visitors on a journey through some of the island's most iconic landmarks.

With a friendly guide and fellow travelers to boot, the tour includes a visit to the Acropolis of Lindos, the medieval town of Rhodes and the hilltop Filerimos Monastery and castle.

Private tour of Filerimos and Rhodes Town highlights

Suited to those who prefer a more intimate experience, this private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as your own personal guide and chauffeur.

During the day, you’ll get to explore Filerimos Hill as well as some of Rhodes Town's most famous attractions such as the Grand Master Palace and Street of the Knights.

How much does a day trip to Filerimos from Rhodes cost?

The cost of a guided Filerimos day tour from Rhodes starts at around €25-€30 per person but can vary depending on the type of tour you choose. Small group bus tours to Filerimos Hill and Butterfly Valley start at €25 per person.

Multi-stop private excursions can cost as much as €280 per person. However, prices vary depending on your group size and are cheaper per person with more people. These tours can fit up to 15 participants and become even cheaper if you opt not to include a guide.

Private tours to Filerimos and Rhodes Town highlights typically start at around €150 per person but the price also depends on your group size.

What will you see and do?

Every day trip from Rhodes to Filerimos is unique, but most tours usually visit the same handful of major attractions, which are explained in more detail below.

The Monastery of Our Lady

Dating back to the 15th century, this former monastery is an impressive architectural feat located atop a hill overlooking the sea. It was previously used as a place of worship and served as an important landmark in Rhodes' history.

You will also get to gawk at the Filerimos giant cross, which stands at the site of Our Lady Monastery and was built by local monks with the intention of celebrating the island's Christian heritage.

Within the monastery you will also be able to visit the Church of Our Lady of Filerimos, a small but beautiful place of worship. It's known for its stunning frescoes and wall paintings that depict stories from the Bible.

The Valley of the Butterflies

The Valley of the Butterflies nature reserve is home to thousands of butterflies and is a beautiful spot for leisurely walks among lush vegetation. You can also take a refreshing dip in the river here!

Kallithea Springs

Included on some combination tours, Kallithea Springs is a stunning collection of thermal baths located close to Filerimos Hill. The hot springs here have been used by locals for centuries and are said to bring therapeutic benefits.

When is the best time to visit Filerimos?

The best time to visit Filerimos is during the spring and early summer (April to June) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant.

The site can get crowded during peak tourist season (July to August), so it is recommended to visit outside of these months to avoid crowds and high temperatures.

As for time of day, it’s recommended to start early in the morning so that you can make the most of your day trip!

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the hilltop ruins and monastery.
• Bring water and some snacks, as there are limited opportunities to buy drinks and food on site.
• Make sure to plan your route and itinerary for the day. Consider factors such as transportation, food, and attractions to ensure a smooth day trips.
• Start your day trip early in the morning to make the most of your time, since Filerimos is located around 20km away from Rhodes.
• Filerimos has a lovely park area where you can rest a bit and enjoy the scenery.
• For the best bang for your buck, consider booking a tour that combines multiple attractions.
• Book your tour online and in advance to lock in your preferred timeslot.