Kalathos White

Rhodes is the third-largest of the Greek islands, and it’s packed with beautiful beaches and idyllic countryside. With the capital city in the north-eastern corner and Prasonisi at the southern tip, this island has a whole lot to discover in between.

The town of Rhodes is known for its architecturally impressive Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved medieval towns in all of Europe. The main attraction is the Palace of the Grand Masters, a mighty former fortress and citadel that forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. This imposing palace’s history is certainly interesting, and best discovered on a personal visit. The site also hosts various events, exhibitions and performances throughout the year.

If you want to know more about the island’s past, you can uncover the history of Rhodes at the Archaeological Museum, or try The Museum of Modern Greek Art. Landmarks such as Evangelismós Cathedral and the Rhodes Acropolis can also be found in town, along with a fascinating assortment of churches, mosques and other architecturally noteworthy buildings. Other historic sights around the island include the Lindos Acropolis, the ancient ruins of which are situated on the clifftop at Lindos, offering offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

South of Rhodes is the resort of Faliraki, a place well equipped with family-friendly attractions. As well as a water-park, go-karting track and the Astronomy Café, there’s also a good beach. The Toy Museum, near the village of Archipoli, is an interesting place to take the kids, and free to visit. In Rhodes, the Bee Museum is the only one of its kind in Greece, and another place that combines fun and education.

West of Faliraki, the Valley of the Butterflies is a really stunning place for adults and children alike. Beautiful areas of forest are inhabited by these enchanting creatures – your best chance of seeing them is in summer. The Epta Piges, or Seven Springs, offer another magnificent sight – you can swim in the lake, picnic in the woods and enjoy the beauty of this natural attraction.

Rhodes town, nearby Ixia and, further south, Lindos, offer a good range of clubs and bars – in the capital, Orfanidou Street is known to some as ‘Bar Street’, such is its reputation for nightlife. For something more sophisticated, Lindos has some luxurious rooftop restaurants overlooking the Lindos Acropolis, and you will usually find beach bars even in the quieter parts of the island.

The real joy of Rhodes is simply taking in your surroundings, and there are numerous walking and cycling routes which allow you to do just that. Sporting activities from horse-riding to tennis and golf are easy to find, as well as water-based pursuits like scuba-diving. Boat trips and catamaran cruises are also a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of Rhodes.

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. It’s got a lot of history as it’s been invaded a lot by the Persians, Carians, Ottomans, Italians, and Germans.

Average temperatures go from 20’c in April up to 30’c in July/ August and down to 20’c in November. With an average of 85 rainy days a year they get sunshine for around 280 days.

The island is 90km long with Rhodes town at the northern tip. The airport (Rhodes International Airport "Diagoras") is also in the North (15km from Rhodes Town). Charter flights and Easyjet operate direct from the UK all season and out of season (Nov-March) you’d need to fly via Athens.

The Acropolis – The Acropolis that sits high above the town of Lindos is absolutely amazing and is a must see if you’re looking for some of the best views in all of Rhodes. One thing I should mention is that the climb up to the acropolis requires you to be somewhat active and able to climb stairs, lots of them. The trail begins through town and slowly but surely starts to get steeper as you climb the hill towards the acropolis. Once there, you’re rewarded with historical buildings dating back to 300 BC. Our Villa Corteau sit just underneath the ruins.

Rhodes has over 40 beaches, here are a few: 

• Anthony Quinn’s Bay – Anthony Quinn’s bay is one of the most beautiful bays. The bay is located 17km (10 mi) south of Old Town Rhodes and offers some incredible photo opportunities to say the least.
• The beach at Anthony Quinn’s bay is one of the best beaches in Rhodes. Get there early if you want to snag a sunbed and umbrella and enjoy wading around the bright blue and green water. Amazing!
• For the best views of Anthony Quinn’s Bay from above, head on up to the windy road that leads up the hill just north of the bay and you’ll find a spot where you can sit and enjoy the virtually 180 degree views of Rhodes and its coastline.
• Tsambika Beach (or Tsampika) –  Tsampika beach is located 30km (18 mi) south of Old Town Rhodes and is a great place to spend the day in the sun.  Note: Beware there is a small section where nudists congregate on Tsampika beach 
• Lakido Beach – Just opposite Anthony Quinn’s Bay is Lakido beach. It’s literally 3 minutes walking distance from Anthony Quinn’s bay so visiting both beaches in a day is totally doable. As a matter of fact, I would highly recommend visiting both if you get the chance
• Faliraki Beach – One of the most popular tourist spots on the island of Rhodes. It was known for 18-30’s holiday in the 90-2000’s but I don’t think there is that market so much now. It is quite commercialised now there are water sports and a few diving schools.

How to reach Rhodes island 

There are two ways to reach Rhodes Island: either by flight or by ferry.

By plane: If you don’t want to lose time you can fly to Rhodes (RHO) from Athens. The flight lasts 1 hour. Many direct flights also operate from many European countries, so it will not be difficult to arrive there.

By ferry: If you choose to travel from Piraeus to Rhodes with a ferry, it will surely take you much longer but travelling with a ferry in the summer nights can be pretty enticing! The port of Rhodes is located in the southern part of the island and offers bus services to the town centre. You can easily book your ferry tickets using the link below or the booking engine.

Book your ferry tickets to Rhodes here >>