Rhodes tops the list of our must visit islands in Greece. It’s packed with history, surrounded by crystal clear sea and, despite recent fires, home to beautiful forests. However, our number one reason to visit is the exquisite medieval Old Town.
Rhodes Old Town is UNESCO listed and charms at every corner. It does get crowded with tourists in the Summer – especially Sokratous and Hippocrates Square. Luckily, just steps off the main tourist drags, you can lose yourself in the cobbled alleyways. At night or early morning, it’s even better, totally magical and hard to beat.
Don’t miss:
Ippoton AKA the Street of the Knights
This 14th century street is a medieval marvel. Running between two of Rhodes Town’s big hitters the Palace of The Grand Master of the Knights and the Archeological Museum – both of which are magnificent. Ippoton housed the ruling Knights Hospitalier from various countries and states in various “inns” – from the 14th century onwards. It’s a straight cobbled hill with ironwork lighting and courtyards each side.
Our tip – visit at night after the tours and soak up the atmosphere from the soft lighting.
Circle the fortifications
Visit a mosque
Rhodes has exceptional Ottoman architecture and a selection of exquisite mosques. We suggest wandering in Hora – the Turkish quarter – south of Sokratous. Walk between Ibrahim Pasha Mosque (built in 1540 by Suleyman the Magnificent) and the large pink stoned Suleymaniye Mosque. Make sure you wander up the quiet side streets many have arched buttresses and mini tunnels.
Our tip – don’t be afraid to get lost, you won’t regret it.
Hit the beach
Rhodes town is surrounded by beaches. Our favourite is Paralia Enidriou about 15 minutes walk from the centre. It gets busy, but it has deliciously vivid blue water and bobbing waves.
Our tip – at sunset walk across the gardens of Enidriou plaza to the other side of the promontory to Sunset Beach for outstanding views. Also, check out the Art Deco Aquarium at the tip of the plaza built during the Italian occupation.