If you haven't visited Rhodes, it's time to take this special trip. A journey through time and history. The island, located between east and west, is waiting for you to explore and surrender to its irresistible charm. Rhodes is one of the first Greek islands to be developed as a tourist destination and is still a top travel destination worldwide.
What to see in the city
– It is worth dedicating a day to the medieval city of Rhodes, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Admire its fortified walls and gates, visit the Palace of the Grand Master, walk along the Street of the Knights of St. John, observe the churches, mosques, buildings, squares and let your senses free. The small, colorful shops await you with all kinds of objects and souvenirs, the smells of the food invite you to try them. This part of the city is the busiest and remains alive at all hours of the day.
– The two deer in the old port or Mandraki is perhaps one of the most photographed spots on the island. It is believed that the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, was located there. Right next to it is the Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary (formerly the Catholic Church of St. John) as well as buildings built during the period of Italian occupation.
– At the northern end of the city there is an aquarium where you can see rare species of fish and other marine life. Before you enter, notice the names of the Dodecanese islands and their corresponding symbol on the paved road.
– The island’s acropolis dominates the hill of Monte Smith, which is a 3-4 minute drive away. There you will see ruins of ancient temples of Apollo, Athena and Zeus. The best time to visit this place is at sunset.
What to see outside the city
– A tour of the monastery of Panagia Filerimos on the homonymous hill and on the Martyrdom Street is an unforgettable experience. The cobblestone road, which leads to the huge 18-meter-high cross, has copper engravings on its right side that represent the passions of the Lord. You have the shade of pine trees as well as dozens of peacocks as company. Inside the cross there is a staircase that leads to its horizontal part and from there you can admire the panoramic view.
– The springs of Kallithea are a place you must visit. The complex of thermal springs consists of magnificent buildings surrounded by gardens and picturesque paths. The Great Rotunda with its magnificent dome hosts painting and photography exhibitions.
– Lindos is a traditional settlement with a significant history. The acropolis is built above the settlement. After wandering the alleys, admire the view of the sea from above.
– Prophet Elias is the 3rd highest mountain in Rhodes. It is 40-45 minutes from the city. Near the top are the hotels “Elafos” and “Elafina” which were built by the Italians. After taking your walk in the forest and climbing to the little chapel of Taxiarchis, enjoy food or coffee in the beautiful grounds of the hotel. Also, on the way back, stop at Agios Nikolaos Fountouklis, a wonderful church located on the road to Eleousa.
– The “Seven Springs” are located about 30 minutes from the city and are a landscape of incredible natural beauty. You can walk under the plane trees, explore the tunnel that was built to supply water to a nearby village, listen to the water gushing from the springs and “meet” the gizani, an endemic fish.
– The Butterfly Valley is a rare habitat that is home to the Panaxia Quadripunctaria butterfly, which appears from mid-June to late September. Stroll along the shady paths and wooden bridges between ponds and waterfalls. The butterflies may be sleeping on the tree trunks or awake, forming an orange cloud with their wings.
– Ancient Kameiros was one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes. You can visit the archaeological site and find yourself in front of a settlement with streets, arcades, houses and altars.
– Panagia Tsambika is the monastery of Rhodes. It is located on the top of a hill, above the beach of the same name. The names Tsambika and Tsambikos are particularly widespread on the island.
Where to swim
There are many choices, especially on the eastern side of the island. We chose based on our own criteria, without this meaning that the other beaches are inferior. Agios Pavlos, Agathi, Ladiko, Glystra, Gennadi, Kallithea, Prasonisi (for water sports enthusiasts)
Where to eat
The island offers traditional Greek flavors as well as international cuisine. You can dine in expensive restaurants, quaint taverns and fast food joints in every corner of the island. We recommend the following and we hope you like them.
– Longline (fish-seafood)
– El toro (Mediterranean cuisine)
– Capricci (Italian cuisine)
– Canton (Asian cuisine)
– Tsambikos (Greek traditional cuisine)
Where will you have fun...
Here too, the choices are endless. You can have your drink in one of the bars of the Old Town that are always full of locals and tourists. The Casino of Rhodes is also a place you should visit either to try your luck or to spend a special evening in the flowered garden. You also have the option of going out of town towards Ialyssos and enjoying a cocktail with a sea view at the bar of a luxury hotel.
