by When travelers plan a visit to Greece’s Aegean Sea, it’s fashionable to consider Mykonos and Santorini, two of the busiest (and most touristy) islands in the world.
But there is an alternative: sunny Rhodes. The fourth largest island in Greece and the largest in the Dodecanese chain offers travelers around 100 beautiful laid-back beaches; important historic sites including the Acropolis of Lindos; adventure activities, such as kitesurfing, and a bustling nightlife.
Once conquered by the Ottoman Turks, later under Italian rule, Rhodes features a unique cuisine that highlights the products and cooking styles introduced by its rulers. What’s more, the island is full of pottery shops, in keeping with Greece’s reputation for fine antiques, pottery and other artifacts.
In summer, like most of Greece, Rhodes is packed with visitors. But take comfort in knowing that the island is big enough to escape the crowds.
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Here’s a taste of what to expect in Rhodes, Greece.
One of the most exciting tours in Greece is a tour of the Old Town walls of Rhodes, the oldest inhabited medieval enclave in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Almost 200 streets and alleys reveal a hidden past, its Byzantine and Gothic architecture framed by a unique setting.
The Acropolis of Lindos, one of the best-preserved ruins in Greece, is the most impressive archaeological site in Rhodes. The ancient citadel rises 120 meters above the ivory town of Lindos. It requires climbing more than 300 steps.
One of the best beaches on the island is St. Paul, adjacent to Lindos. It is named after the Christian apostle who landed on its shores in AD 51 to spread the gospel of Jesus.
The Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes, one of the few Gothic structures in Greece, was built in the 14th century, at the height of the Byzantine Empire. Seen from anywhere in Rhodes Town, it is a medieval marvel with fairy-tale appeal.
Anthony Quinn Bay is named after the popular Mexican actor who filmed “The Guns of Navarone” in Rhodes in 1961. One of several strands here is Ladiko Beach, on a quiet cove where a beach bar offers freshly squeezed orange juice.
Family-owned pottery shops sell the work of a new generation of skilled artisans across the island. Clay pottery has been produced in Greece since the early Neolithic period, around 6000 BC
The typical Rhodian diet consists of fresh Aegean seafood and various small dishes, including a meze selection of vegetables and legumes. The invasions of Romans, Turks, Persians, Saracens and Venetians influenced the cuisine of the island. On the other hand, Aristotle once said that the Greek Mediterranean diet was marked by excessive and unhealthy food and drink.
The seaside spa of Kallithea Springs is on the east side of the island of Rhodes. Re-opened in 2007 after a 10-year restoration, it features a Moorish rotunda set in the center of flourishing gardens and a 14th-century underground chapel. Peacocks roam the grounds freely.
The four massive columns of the Doric temple of Athena Lindia are at the northern end of the Lindos citadel. They are the island’s most distinguishable landmarks. Rhodes was also known for its 3rd-century statue of the sun god Helios, better known as the Colossus of Rhodes. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, it lasted just 54 years before collapsing in an earthquake.
Located on the hill of Stavros, near the village of Messanagros, Skiadi Monastery is one of eight important holy sites in Rhodes. Built between the 9th and 11th centuries, it was once a refuge for the persecuted during Ottoman rule. It has been renovated several times.
Thrilling excursions in all-terrain vehicles encourage visitors to get off the beach, combining nature walks with scenic views. Rhodes Adventures offers ATV tours and jeep safaris, crossing the island’s central mountains for rock climbing and abseiling. Stops on the three-hour journey include a local honey and wine shop.
On the perfect beach of St. Paul, Tambakio Restaurant and Bar tempts alfresco dining with beachside cabanas and the freshest catch of the day, including Linden prawns with Ouzo, fried squid, risotto and pasta.
The only city on the island is the vibrant city of Rhodes, the capital of the Dodecanese archipelago and home to around 50,000 people. The medieval Rua dos Cavaleiros is full of restaurants, bars and shops.
An authentic Rhodes experience must include a visit to Anastasia Triantafillou’s estate and restaurant in the inland village of Petaloudes. The winery offers tastings and cooking classes, where you can also learn the local winemaking process, from growing the grapes to eventual distillation.
Medieval culture fills the winding streets of the Old Town of Rhodes, which are especially popular with shoppers. The old alleys are lined with shops selling pottery, fashion and other souvenirs.
The Acropolis of Lindos stands out from several viewpoints on the island. Silhouetted against a backdrop of blue, almost 400 feet above the village of Lindos, the acropolis offers astonishing views across St. Paul and the vast Aegean Sea.
Bathing in Kallithea Bay is worth the small price of admission. The long cove of translucent water, lined with restaurant terraces and sun loungers, opened in July 2007 and is well worth a visit for dinner and a swim.
Kritinia Castle, built in the 15th century by the Venetians, is located in the remote west of the island. It is part of a complex that includes the 16th-century chapel of São João, decorated with frescoes of clocks. A coat of arms of the 41st Grand Master Emery D’Amboise is identified at the historic site.
A unique experience in Rhodes is a visit to Seven Springs, an inner oasis and protected area. Water flows from its springs all year round. Follow a trail or walk through a dark tunnel to reach a small lake in the park. The area is perfect for trekking in the wooded terrain.
Adjacent to the city of Rhodes is the yacht harbor of Mandraki. From its marina, ferries and cruise ships connect to other Greek islands. Popular from Rhodes is a day trip to idyllic Symi, an hour’s drive away. A highlight is the São Nicolau Fortress, built in 1480 to honor the patron saint of sailors.
The island’s restaurants offer all types of cuisine and styles, from fine dining to casual meze appetizer dishes. Rhodian meals usually consist of small dishes meant to be shared; they pair well with local wine.
A boat trip is a great way to discover the island of Rhodes. Private yachts take visitors to the island’s best beaches and snorkeling spots. Catamaran sightseeing cruises include lunch and drinks; other options afloat include kayaking and snorkeling.
The Greek islands are known for their spectacular sunsets. It is said that the god Apollo traveled great distances in his chariot simply to see each day end here. Indeed, it’s hard not to be captivated by the sheer beauty of the sunset.
