Dodecanese Travel Guide

Read this travel guide to Dodecanese for all the information you need to plan your trip, from attractions to food and drink, to safety and transportation.


Introduction to Dodecanese

Dodecanese is a group of 15 islands located in the southeastern Aegean Sea, close to the Turkish coast. The islands are known for their historic structures, stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and traditional Greek charm. A trip to Dodecanese promises a truly memorable experience to visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Dodecanese

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
  • The Acropolis of Lindos
  • The Ancient Kamiros
  • The Castle of the Knights in Kos
  • The Archaeological Museum of Kos
  • The Museum of Modern Greek Art in Rhodes
  • The Museum of Traditional Pottery in Kalymnos

Natural Attractions of Dodecanese: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Valley of the Butterflies in Rhodes
  • The Tsambika Beach in Rhodes
  • The Beaches of Kastellorizo Island
  • The Caves in Alimia Island
  • The Therma Beach in Kos
  • The Mount Dikeos in Kos
  • The Volcanic of Nisyros Island

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dodecanese

  • Hiking/Biking Trail in Rhodes Island
  • The Natura Trails in Kos Island
  • The Kastellorizo Island to Turkey border hike
  • The Mount Profitis Ilias Hike in Rhodes
  • Hiking Trail in Alimia Island

Best Things to Do in Dodecanese: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Trips to Kalymnos Island
  • Kitesurfing and Windsurfing in Prasonisi Beach in Rhodes
  • Island Hopping in Dodecanese
  • Kayaking in Pserimos Island
  • Scuba Diving in Nisyros Island

Week-Long Itinerary for Dodecanese

| Day | Itinerary | | — | — | | 1 | Explore Rhodes Old Town and the Palace of the Grand Master | | 2 | Visit the villages of Lindos, Kritinia, and Monolithos| | 3 | Relax on the beaches of Tsambika, Faliraki, and Afandou| | 4 | Take a ferry to Symi Island and explore its picturesque village| | 5 | Go hiking in Mount Dikeos on Kos Island| | 6 | Visit Nisyros Island and explore its volcanic craters| | 7 | Take a boat tour to the secluded Alimia Island |

Food and Drink Scene of Dodecanese

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mezze (Greek Tapas) including dolmades, tzatziki, and taramasalata
  • Saganaki cheese
  • Fresh seafood in coastal villages
  • Greek Salad with local Oregano and Feta cheese
  • Giaprakia, stuffed grape leaves with minced meat

Local Beverages

  • Ouzo, a Greek anise-flavored liquor
  • Retsina, a Greek wine flavoured with pine resin
  • Tsirouchià, a Greek spirit made from a juniper berry and reminiscents of Gin
  • Local herb teas including chamomile and wild rosehip

Where to Stay in Dodecanese: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • AquaGrand Hotel in Rhodes
  • Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel in Kos
  • Kokkini Porta Rossa Hotel in Rhodes
  • Pedi Beach Hotel in Symi
  • Alimnia Villa in Alimia Island

What to Buy in Dodecanese: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive oil soaps
  • Local honey
  • Handmade Ceramics
  • Handmade Lace by the locals in Rhodes
  • Traditional Musical Instruments like bouzouki, windpipes, and drums

Local Culture and Customs of Dodecanese

Dodecanese retains its cultural traditions, which include music, dance, and food. If you visit one of Dodecanese’s villages, you may witness locals dressed in traditional attire, playing music together and dancing.

Best Time to Visit Dodecanese

The best time to visit Dodecanese is between May and October. During these months, the weather is sunny, and the temperature is perfect for swimming and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dodecanese

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and walking
  • Try the traditional food and drink
  • Carry cash, as some places may not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Swim far away from the coast especially if you don’t know how to swim.
  • Visit religious sites in swimwear, as it is considered disrespectful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dodecanese

Dodecanese areas are generally safe, and the crime rate is low. However, it is still a good idea to be cautious and keep an eye on your valuables.

Health in Dodecanese

The tap water in Dodecanese is safe to drink. However, travelers should still take care by following food safety practices and carrying any necessary medication or first aid items.

Getting to Dodecanese: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dodecanese

  • Diagoras International Airport in Rhodes
  • Kos International Airport in Kos

Bus Stations Near Dodecanese

KTEL operates bus services that connect Rhodes town with other villages and beaches on the island, while Kos has an extensive bus network that includes the airport, port, and city center.

Other Options

  • Ferries from Athens arrive at Rhodes Port
  • There are domestic flights available to Rhodes and Kos Island from Athens International Airport

How to Get Around in Dodecanese

The best way to get around in Dodecanese is by car or motorbike. Rental services are available at all major resorts and ports. There are also public buses that connect villages and towns, but schedules may not be frequent.

Where to Go Next from Dodecanese: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bodrum, Turkey, which is just a ferry ride away from Kos Island
  • Samos Island, which is around two hours by ferry from Rhodes
  • Athens, the Greek Capital, reachable by plane from Rhodes or by ferry from Kos Island

Conclusion

Dodecanese is a treasure trove of beaches, history, culture, and natural beauty. With this comprehensive guide, you have all the information you need to plan a perfect trip to this enchanting island group in Greece. Make sure to take your time, try out the local food and drink, and soak up all that Dodecanese has to offer.



    Agathonisi
    Astypalaia
    Karpathos
    Kasos
    Kastellorizo
    Nisyros
    Patmos
    Rhodes
    Tilos