You will never stop discovering something new in Rhodes. From north to south, it’s a place of contrasts, from secluded bays to big resorts, and quaint villages to impressive old towns.
Don’t miss Rhodes Town itself – the capital is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, but also has a modern side with all the attractions of a big city. If you fancy uncovering its story, try the Archaeological Museum, located at The Palace of the Grand Masters. This huge palace is the main attraction of a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can take a tour of parts of it. Nearby, the Street of the Knights is another big heritage draw, famously lined with seven inns which represent the origins of the knights in question.
The city is great for shopping and dining, while other attractions include the Museum of Modern Greek Art, the Marine Aquarium located by Elli Beach, and the pretty Rodini Park – the oldest landscaped park in the world. It’s also the centre of the island’s nightlife scene, with a huge casino, cinemas and countless bars and clubs. If the Orfanidou Street strip doesn’t appeal, the more sophisticated soirées of southern gem Lindos will.
Also famed for its nightlife, Faliraki lies just down the eastern coast from Rhodes town. That’s not its only attraction, however – the resort is reliable for family days out. The large beach is very popular, and there’s a water-park and go-karting track. Idyllic Anthony Quinn Bay is a lovely chillout spot if it gets too full-on – its crystal waters are perfect for snorkelling.
Many more beaches lie down the eastern coast, such as Kolymbia, Agathi and highly rated Tsampika. Spectacular Prasonisi, as far south as you can go, is the beach of choice for kite-surfers and windsurfers. All sorts of sports are catered for around the island, with golf courses, tennis courts, scuba-diving centres and much more. Following Rhodes’ excellent walking and cycling routes will get you active while taking in the sublime scenery.
Also requiring a certain amount of effort, the clifftop Lindos Acropolis will take you about 20 minutes to reach from the village. It’s well worth the climb – you’ll remember the incredible sea views it enjoys from its vantage point. Look down to the village and admire Lindos’ many rooftop terraces, ideal places to reward yourself with a well-deserved dinner.
For more unforgettable sights, the Valley of the Butterflies and Epta Piges make a grand double bill. The valley is magical in summer when hordes of colourful butterflies emerge, while the seven waterfalls of Epta Piges are a real marvel. About 35 minutes apart, both sites offer lovely areas of woodland, restaurants and amenities.
