Day trip from Rhodes to Halki: what to do in 1 day

Halki is a stunning small island that is located in the Dodecanese, just a stone’s throw away from Rhodes. This relatively undiscovered island will astound you with its laid-back atmosphere, impressive architecture, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality.

If you are on holiday in Rhodes, take a day trip to the picturesque Halki island! Here, you can find all the information you need for your Rhodes - Halki ferry trip, as well as our suggestions on what to see and do there in 1 day.

1. Ride the ferry from Rhodes to Halki
2. Wander around the car-free Nimborio
3. Hit the beaches of Halki
4. Hike to the old abandoned capital of Chorio
5. Head back to Rhodes by ferry

Breathtaking view from the Castle in Halki

1. Ride the ferry from Rhodes to Halki

The fastest and easiest way to get to Halki is to take the 09:15 ferry from the port of Kamiros Skala in Rhodes. Morning crossings to Halki are operated daily by Nissos Chalki and Alko Ferries, so you can choose any day of the week for your day trip. The ferry ride lasts around 50 minutes and tickets are at €4-11.

Alternatively, you can reach the port of Halki from the Tourist port of Rhodes. The ferry crossing to Halki from there takes 1,5-2,5 hours and ferry tickets start at €8 with Saos Ferries and Blue Star Ferries, and at €21 with high-speed Dodekanisos Seaways ferries.

White-washed church overlooking the sea

2. Wander around the car-free Nimborio

Niborio (or Emporio) is the island’s port town and the only inhabited settlement in Halki. The amphitheatrically constructed town of Niborio with its pastel-colored neoclassical houses and harbor's crystal-clear waters, gives visitors a sense of calm. Take a stroll through Niborio's alleys and take in the natural beauty and tranquility.

The stunning Town Hall, located at the highest point of Niborio, is a great example of neoclassical architecture that offers a panoramic view of the bay and is definitely worth a visit. In front of the Town Hall, you can also admire the Clock Tower, a tall stone building with elaborate decoration.

The windmills are a must-see while in Niborio as they are a landmark in Halki and a fantastic location for breathtaking views.

Interesting fact: the slow-paced life in Halki has been so well preserved that even the chimes of the Clock Tower have been silenced to protect the island's peace and quiet.

Traditional taverns near the Clock Tower in Halki

3. Hit the beaches of Halki

The beaches in Halki are ideal for a relaxing vacation. Most of them are only accessible by sea or foot and have few amenities for visitors. Pondamos is a 10-minute walk from the port and stands out for its white sand and crystal clear blue waters, as well as amenities like umbrellas and sunbeds.

If you prefer a more secluded beach, take a water taxi to Trachia beach, a strip of land surrounded by the sea that is ideal for those seeking serenity.

The wild beauty of the rocky Ftenagia beach

4. Hike to the old abandoned capital of Chorio

If you want to try a different experience during your day trip, you can visit the impressive castle ruins of Chorio, the abandoned town of Halki. The breathtaking view of the Carpathian Sea from the Castle of the Knights will take your breath away. The old church of Agios Nikolaos, the island's cathedral, is also in Horio and has an impressive courtyard mosaic made of black and white sea pebbles.

The distance from Halki Town to Chorio is only 3 km and it’s quite easy to hike all the way there. If hiking isn't your thing, you can always take a taxi or rent a scooter to get to Chorio.

Black and white pebbled pavement outside Agios Nikolaos church

5. Head back to Rhodes by ferry

It is now time to return to Rhodes after a day full of exploration in Halki. The latest ferry back to Rhodes departs at 18:00. By 18:50, you'll have arrived in Rhodes' port of Kamiros Skala, carrying memories, souvenirs, and some Halki delicacies with you.

Departing from the port of Halki

If you want to get away from the cosmopolitan lifestyle of Rhodes, head to Halki in less than an hour and spend some time relaxing by the sea! Check all the available crossings on our Map of ferries and book your ferry tickets from Rhodes to Halki on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks!