Rhodes Travel Guide (Dodecanese/Greek Islands/Greece/Europe)

Introduction to Rhodes

Rhodes is a stunning island situated in the eastern Aegean Sea in Greece. This Dodecanese island is renowned for its rich history, breathtaking beaches, and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful escape or want to indulge in a wide range of activities, Rhodes offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Rhodes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Rhodes has a rich historical background and is home to many culturally significant attractions, including museums and historical landmarks. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes: one of the most famous landmarks in Rhodes, this palace dates back to the 14th century.
The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes: This museum displays a vast collection of artifacts, mosaics, and murals from ancient Rhodes.
The Ancient Acropolis of Rhodes: This ancient site contains ruins from Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

Natural Attractions of Rhodes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

From crystal-clear beaches to picturesque mountains, Rhodes is packed with natural attractions. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures and scenic views to check out:

Prassonissi Beach: Located at the southernmost tip of Rhodes, this beach is ideal for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Valley of the Butterflies: This beautiful valley is a nature reserve and home to thousands of colorful butterflies.
Mount Attavyros: Standing at 1,215 meters, this is the highest mountain in Rhodes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rhodes

Rhodes is a paradise for hikers and cyclists. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region:

Rhodes Medieval City to Lindos: This route stretches for about 60 km and is known for its stunning coastal views.
Profitis Ilias to Embonas: This 9 km route offers breathtaking views of the island’s vineyards and countryside.
Seven Springs to Archipoli: This 6 km hike cuts through pine forests and offers spectacular views of the coastline.

Best Things to Do in Rhodes: Activities and Tours

Rhodes is filled with endless activities and tours to experience. Some of the must-do things include:

The Old Town Tour: Take a tour of Rhodes’ fascinating medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Water Sports: Try out various water sports activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, and many more.
Boat Trip to Symi Island: Take a boat trip to visit this picturesque island with colorful houses, narrow streets, and turquoise beaches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rhodes

Day 1: Take a tour of the Old Town and the Palace of the Grand Master of Knights of Rhodes, followed by a visit to the Archaeological Museum.

Day 2: Spend the day indulging in water sports activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, or kiteboarding.

Day 3: Explore the stunning natural beauty of Rhodes, including the Valley of the Butterflies and Mount Attavyros.

Day 4: Take a boat trip to Symi Island and explore the colorful houses and turquoise beaches.

Day 5: Enjoy a relaxing day at the therapeutic hot springs of Kallithea.

Day 6: Go on a hiking or mountain biking trail to explore the island’s beautiful scenery.

Day 7: Spend the day basking in the sun at one of Rhodes’ stunning beaches like Prassonissi Beach or Kallithea Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Rhodes

Must-Try Dishes

Rhodes has a diverse cuisine that combines the Mediterranean diet with Turkish and Middle Eastern influences. Here are a few local dishes that you must try:

Meze Platter: a selection of small dishes, similar to Spanish tapas.
Moussaka: a classic Greek dish made with layers of sliced eggplant, ground beef, and béchamel sauce.
Tsipouro: a traditional Greek spirit made by fermenting the pomace (grape residue) leftover after wine production.

Local Beverages

Rhodes is known for its excellent wine and other locally produced beverages. Some of the local drinks to try include:

Souma: a liquor produced by fermenting grape must.
Lindos Beer: The island’s famous local beer made with pure and natural ingredients.
Kritamos: a refreshing drink made from rock samphire and served chilled.

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

Whether you are searching for luxury or budget-friendly accommodations, Rhodes has options for everyone. Here are some of the best places to stay:

Lindos Blu: Located in Lindos, this luxury adult-only hotel offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
Matina Pefkos Aparthotel: A budget-friendly option located in Pefkos village; it’s perfect for families and couples.
Petrino: This traditional guesthouse is situated in the heart of Rhodes Old Town.

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

Rhodes is known for its high-quality local products, including wines, olive oil, honey, and beauty products. Here are some of the must-buy souvenirs and local products:

Olive Oil: Rhodes is famous for its high-quality, cold-pressed olive oil.
Mandolato: a local pastry made with honey, almonds, and sugar.
Local Wines: Rhodes has some of the finest wines in Greece, like the island’s dry white wine, Athiri.

Local Culture and Customs of Rhodes

When visiting Rhodes, it’s essential to respect the local culture and customs. Greeks are warm and welcoming people, and you’ll be welcomed with open arms if you follow a few basic customs like dressing appropriately, removing shoes before entering a home or a sacred place, and always greeting people with a smile.

Best Time to Visit Rhodes

The best time to visit Rhodes is from May to October when the weather is sunny and mild, and the sea is warm and inviting. July and August are the peak tourist seasons, and the beaches and hotels tend to be crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rhodes

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Try local food and drinks.
Stay hydrated and use sun protection.

Don’t:

Disrespect religious sites or customs.
Leave your valuables unattended on the beach or in public places.
Be loud and disruptive in residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rhodes

Rhodes is a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always recommended to stay cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded tourist areas and beaches. Make sure you keep your valuable belongings safe and carry a photocopy of your passport.

Health in Rhodes

Rhodes has an adequate health system with several public and private hospitals. Ensure that you have comprehensive health insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation if required.

Getting to Rhodes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rhodes

The island has one main airport, Rhodes International Airport (RHO), which is located on the west coast of the island.

Bus Stations Near Rhodes

Rhodes is well-connected with the rest of Greece by bus service. The main bus terminal is located in the capital city, Rhodes Town.

Other Options

There are several ferry services that run to Rhodes from neighboring islands and mainland Greece.

How to Get Around in Rhodes

The best way to get around the island is by renting a car, scooter, or ATV. Taxis are also available, but they are relatively expensive. Bus services are available, although they can be time-consuming and infrequent.

Where to Go Next from Rhodes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations that you can visit from Rhodes include:

Kos: A stunning Greek island famous for its white sandy beaches, therapeutic hot springs, and ancient ruins.
Bodrum: A city in Turkey with a fascinating history, notable landmarks, and vibrant nightlife.
Marmaris: A coastal town in Turkey close to Rhodes; it’s famous for its diverse natural beauty and a wide range of adventure activities.

Conclusion

Rhodes is a fascinating destination for travelers who want to indulge in history, nature, and beach fun. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to this stunning island, covering everything from transportation, accommodations, local customs, food and drink, must-visit attractions, and much more. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable vacation on this beautiful Greek island.