Start at the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, ideally right when it opens at 8:00 am in summer, because the courtyards and upper levels are much nicer before the crowds and cruise groups roll in. Budget about €8–€10 for entry. It’s the island’s big statement piece, so give yourself time to take in the mosaics, stonework, and the sense of scale before you head out into the medieval lanes. From there, continue naturally onto the Street of the Knights, which is just a few minutes’ walk and one of those rare places that still feels properly medieval rather than staged. It’s best enjoyed slowly; look up at the coats of arms, stop for photos, and let the lane lead you downhill through the Old Town’s most atmospheric spine.
Next, make your way to the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, a short walk from the Street of the Knights through the Old Town’s quieter corners. It’s a compact but excellent stop, usually around €6–€8, and worth an hour even if you’re not a huge museum person, because the ancient sculpture and tomb finds add context to everything you’ve been seeing on the streets. After that, settle in for lunch at a well-reviewed taverna in the Old Town — a good local-style pick is Niohori by Psitopolis for grilled seafood and meze, or Tamam if you want a classic Old Town institution with a bit more buzz. Expect €20–€35 per person with a drink; in July, it’s smartest to arrive before 1:30 pm or be ready for a wait.
After lunch, wander toward the Roloi Clock Tower for a quick change of pace and a nice orientation point above the maze of alleys. If it’s open, the climb is usually a small fee and the view is one of the easiest ways to understand how the Old Town sits between the harbor, the walls, and the newer town outside. Then let the rest of the afternoon soften a bit: drift through the side streets, browse the little shops, and finish with a café or gelato stop near the lanes — Macao Gelato and Gelateria Ice Art are both good bets when you want something cold and easy. At this point the day should feel unhurried; the Old Town is best when you leave room for detours, shaded benches, and one last slow look at the stone alleys before heading back out.