The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is nestled within the azure waters of the Aegean Sea near the Turkish coast. It’s home to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town and ancient ruins, as well as picturesque stretches of sand where you soak up the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.

Things to do

Spend a day exploring the maze of cobblestone lanes that wind through the medieval Old Town of Rhodes and discover the legacy of the Knights Hospitaller along the Street of the Knights. Stop to admire the religious frescoes of the Byzantine Museum and learn about the island’s Jewish heritage at the Kahal Shalom synagogue.

Visit the Byzantine citadel of the Palace of the Grand Masters, which was transformed into a command centre and fortress under Ottoman rule. Today it serves as a museum showcasing medieval artefacts, sculptures and mosaics collected from across Rhodes.

Make a day trip to the whitewashed town of Lindos, which is watched over by an ancient cliff-top acropolis. Wander through the remains of the Temple of Athena Lindia and visit the 14th-century Castle of the Knights of St. John, then admire the 15th-century frescoes within the Virgin Mary of Lindos Church.

Rhodes is ringed by beautiful beaches, including the picturesque strip of sand at Elli Beach that is backed by traditional tavernas where you can grab a bite to eat. For a therapeutic bathing experience, head to the ancient springs at Kallithea, set within a grand complex overlooking Kallithea Bay.

Getting around

Rhodes International Airport is 25 minutes’ drive from Rhodes Town and there are high-speed ferries to Athens from the port. Buses travel across Rhodes Island and both cars and mopeds can be rented to explore at your leisure.