Rhodes

Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and one of the most popular destinations in the southeastern Aegean. Known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters and rich history, the island combines a lively modern atmosphere with one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Its location also makes Rhodes an excellent starting point for exploring the Dodecanese islands and the surrounding Aegean coast.

The island has a long and diverse history, having been influenced by Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Italian cultures. The Medieval City of Rhodes, surrounded by impressive fortifications, was developed by the Knights of St John between 1309 and 1523. The Old Town was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988 and remains the cultural heart of the island.

SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS

Medieval City of Rhodes
The Old Town of Rhodes is one of the island's most important attractions. Within its medieval walls, visitors can explore cobbled streets, historic buildings and impressive fortifications dating mainly from the period of the Knights of St John. The Palace of the Grand Masters, the Street of the Knights and the former Great Hospital are among its highlights.

Palace of the Grand Masters
Located at the highest point of the medieval city, the Palace of the Grand Masters was the headquarters and residence of the leaders of the Knights of St John. The imposing building forms one of the most recognisable landmarks of the Old Town.

Lindos
Lindos is a picturesque coastal village on the east coast of Rhodes, known for its whitewashed houses and narrow streets. Above the village stands the Acropolis of Lindos, an ancient site overlooking the Aegean Sea and the surrounding coastline.

Mandraki Harbour
Mandraki is the historic harbour of Rhodes Town and one of the most recognisable waterfront areas on the island. The harbour is traditionally associated with the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, although the exact location of the statue is not known.

Beaches and Bays
Rhodes offers a wide variety of beaches and sheltered bays, ranging from organised sandy beaches to quieter coastal spots. The eastern coastline is particularly popular for swimming and offers many attractive places to stop while exploring the island by boat.