Unveil the wonders of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, a hidden gem in the Aegean that goes beyond its touristy reputation. While known for vibrant nightlife and clubbing scenes, Rhodes also boasts a rich historical heritage with museums, monuments, and ruins galore, especially in its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town.
Embrace the Island’s Dynamic Character Rhodes offers a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the unique unspoiled charm of Greek islands, surrounded by crystal-clear seas. Panos Constantinidis, CEO of Swot Hospitality Management Company, captures the essence, stating, “What makes Rhodes truly special is its dynamic character — offering relaxation, a vibrant party scene, serene beaches with crystal-clear waters, and windier beaches for thrilling sea sports.”
Top 5 Can’t-Miss Experiences:
Acropolis of Lindos: Explore the layered history of this fourth-century temple to the goddess Athena, offering stunning views across Lindos and the sea.
Melenos Art Boutique Hotel: Indulge in luxury at this island’s most luxurious property, featuring 12 suites, a rooftop restaurant, and breathtaking views of the coastline.
Valley of Butterflies: Immerse yourself in the serene park with streams, ponds, and a stunning display of butterflies.
Rhodes’ Old Town: Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site and explore the historic Jewish quarter.
Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes, Curio Collection by Hilton: Experience beachfront luxury with five theme restaurants in this standout hotel.
Best Hotels and Resorts:
Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes, Curio Collection by Hilton: A beachfront oasis with lush vegetation, tranquil waterways, and a private beach.
Allegory Boutique Hotel: Sumptuous accommodation within the Old Town, featuring five guest rooms with original Benaki Museum wall hangings.
Trinity Boutique Hotel: A chic property in a former Knights of St. John’s building, offering six guest rooms around a private courtyard.
Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites: An adults-only hotel with an infinity pool, pillow menu, and extensive cocktail list.
Melenos Art Boutique Hotel: The island’s most luxurious property with 12 suites and thoughtful details inspired by the island’s craft history.
Best Things to Do:
Tour the Jewish Quarter: Join historical walking tours through the quarter organized by Ladino poet Isaac Habib.
Browse books at the Muslim Library: Explore a library housing more than 2,000 books in Persian, Arabic, and Turkish.
Take a boat tour: From Mandraki Harbor, embark on day-long tours to Symi, with diving and swimming in turquoise waters.
Go windsurfing: Experience some of the best windsurfing on the wind-battered southwest coast.
Enjoy hiking: Head to the Valley of Butterflies for a gorgeous forest full of streams and trodden paths.
Best Restaurants:
Niku Restaurant: Indulge in luxurious Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine at Lindian Village.
Paraga: Experience local cuisine at Apollona village, highlighting Rhodian ingredients.
Avantis: Delight in seafood dishes at Afantou and Plimiri Beach, specializing in lobster.
Old Town Corner Bakery: Grab the best takeaway breakfast with delicious savory pies and buttery croissants.
Taverna Platanos Lachania: Tuck into Greek tavern classics under giant green platanos trees on the island’s western tip.
Best Time to Visit: The optimal time to experience Rhodes is during the shoulder seasons between April and June, and September to October. Avoid the summer crowds, high prices, and hot temperatures, opting for mild weather that allows for plenty of seaside activities. Consider visiting during Orthodox Easter for a truly atmospheric experience.
How to Get There: The fastest way to reach Rhodes is by plane, with daily flights from Athens and other European cities. Alternatively, ferries provide a scenic journey from Athens, Crete, the Cyclades, and other Dodecanese islands. Opt for a cabin during overnight ferry trips for added comfort.
Areas to Visit:
Old Town: Explore the heart of the island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Gothic architecture and cobblestoned streets.
Lindos: Discover the second-largest city with a history dating back over 4,000 years, centered around the Acropolis.
West Coast: Experience the least touristic part of Rhodes with remote beaches, hiking trails, and a small but interesting wine region.
How to Get Around: For convenient transportation, consider renting a car to explore beyond the Old Town. Public transportation, organized by KTEL, offers bus services around the island, while taxis are available in the main town.