Rhodes

Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands in Greece, is known for its medieval Old Town, golden beaches, and ancient ruins. In the UNESCO-listed Old Town, you can walk through winding streets and see well-preserved fortifications. Outside the city walls, you'll find sites like the Acropolis of Lindos and the Valley of the Butterflies. Rhodes caters to those interested in history and archaeology, as well as beachgoers looking for relaxation or water sports.

Exploring the Old Town

The Old Town of Rhodes is a maze of cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. As you walk through the fortified walls, you'll see buildings from different historical periods. The Street of the Knights, lined with Gothic buildings, leads to the Palace of the Grand Master. This fortress now houses a museum about the island's history. The Archaeological Museum, in the former Hospital of the Knights, displays artifacts from various periods of Rhodes' past.

Ancient Ruins and Archaeological Sites

Rhodes has many ancient sites to explore. The Acropolis of Lindos sits on a cliff overlooking the sea. You can climb to the top for views of the surrounding area and see the remains of the Temple of Athena Lindia. In Rhodes Town, you can visit the ancient stadium and theater on Monte Smith hill. These ruins date back to the Hellenistic period and show aspects of the island's ancient Greek history.

Beaches and Coastal Areas

Rhodes has numerous beaches for different preferences. Elli Beach, near Rhodes Town, has clear waters and many facilities. For a quieter experience, you can go to Tsambika Beach, known for its golden sand and clear sea. Prasonisi Beach at the southern tip of the island is good for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to its wind conditions.

Natural Areas

The Valley of the Butterflies is an ecological park where many butterflies gather during summer months. You can walk on trails through this valley and see these insects in their natural habitat. Seven Springs (Epta Piges) is a green area with streams and a small lake, where you can cool off on hot summer days.

Local Food and Restaurants

Rhodes' food reflects its history and Mediterranean location. You can try local dishes like pitaroudia (chickpea fritters) or karavolous (snails in tomato sauce). In Lindos village, you can eat fresh seafood at a traditional taverna with views of the acropolis. In Rhodes Town, the New Market area has restaurants serving both local and international food.

Getting Around

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Rhodes, especially for sites outside of Rhodes Town. The island has good roads to most attractions. For shorter trips, local buses connect Rhodes Town with major beaches and villages. You can find taxis in tourist areas, but they can be expensive for longer journeys.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) are good times to visit Rhodes. During these months, the weather is warm enough for beach activities, but there are fewer tourists than in July and August. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and most attractions and restaurants are open but less crowded.