Recent Blogs Created

Recent blogs created by our users

There are currently 0 users online.

Jan

10

Rhodes Holiday & Sightseeing Guide

Filed Under Greece

A trip to Rhodes

Much quieter than other Greek islands, Rhodes is a great island getaway. Located just off the Turkish coast, Rhodes is steeped in history, having been the home of one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, the Colossus of Rhodes, which only exists now in legend. The city of Rhodes is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and can be reached via Diagoras International Airport.

Flights to Rhodes
Although Rhodes has two airports, only one is open to the public. Diagoras International Airport is the third largest airport in Greece and is the main gateway to the island. The airport serves both domestic and European destinations and is located 10 miles southwest of Rhodes City. There are currently direct flights to London Gatwick via GB Airways. If you are looking for a cheap flight to Rhodes try lastminute.com.

Rhodes has a good and simple road network, making driving a car or a motorcycle a good way to explore the island. However, traffic during the peak summer months can quickly grind you to a halt. From the airport, it is easy to catch a cab or bus to Rhodes City. Rhodes can also reached by boat, and there are five ports on the island serving both private and public ferries.

Rhodes Greece

Sightseeing in Rhodes
Rhodes has a wonderful archeological history and most of the attractions are centered on its ancient history. Major historical sites include the Acropolis of Lindos, Temple of Apollo, Acropolis of Rhodes and the Palace of the Grand Master.

Nature is also an important heritage of Rhodes, with its beautiful beaches and lush mountains. Stegna Beach and Ladiko Beach are favourite destinations, with their pristine sands and deep blue waters. Strolling along the hills of Filerimos is a popular pastime for locals and visitors alike.

Fun by night – eating drinking and partying
Greece is known for its lively nightlife and Rhodes is no different. Night-time activities start late, after dinner. Many of the popular beach resorts have numerous clubs and bars to entertain visitors. One of the favourite and trendiest areas is Faliraki, considered the most popular resort on Rhodes. There are a range of night-time activities to choose from here, such as Bouzouki clubs, modern dance clubs as well as those featuring Greek folk dance and music.

For gamblers, Rhodes also is home to one of the only few licensed casinos in Greece. There are 300 slot machines and 30 betting tables at the Casino Rodos. There are also numerous bars, restaurants and cafés within the casino complex.

Fun by day - shopping and activities
There are plenty of water sports on offer in Rhodes, ranging from scuba diving, boating and sailing, to jet-skiing and windsurfing. Other sports are also available on the island, such as cycling, tennis, golf and horseback riding. The more adventurous can try their hand at bungee jumping.

For shopoholics, Rhodes as everything on offer from designer shops to eclectic knick-knacks and souvenirs. The island is also well known for its quality workmanship in jewellery, a favourite purchase by visitors. Jewellery outlets can be found all along the roads in the New City of Rhodes and the medieval part of town. For high quality reproductions of ancient artefacts, visit the shop at the Ministry of Culture Museum.

Daytrips

A number of pleasant daytrips can be accessed from Rhodes city, all of which can be easily reached by public transport. The beautiful Valley of the Butterflies is just a short drive away from the hustle of the island’s capital and is a paradisiacal place abundant in natural resources - perfect for a family day out.

From Rhodes’ ancient Mandraki Harbour, visitors can arrange a number of daytrips and excursions around the island and to other small islands in the vicinity. For yet more natural wonders, the Rhodes Aquarium is well worth a visit. Located in the north of the island, the historic aquarium houses a vast population of fish, turtles and other marine creatures including crabs, sharks and whales.

If you are looking for water thrills then nearby Faliraki boasts the largest water park in Europe. Easily accessed from all over the island, the park features a number of thrilling rides for children and adults alike.

Must-see attractions
Rhodes is brimming with must-see attractions but one of the best is the stunning Acropolis of Lindos with its incredible 4th and 5th century ruins. Visitors can choose to stroll around the grounds or explore them upon a donkey.

The equally enticing Acropolis of Rhodes overlooks the western part of the city and features ruins dating back to the 2nd century. The completely restored stadium allows visitors to imagine how life may have been in ancient Greece.

The 14th century Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes has been converted into a museum in recent years. Imposing architecture encases a vast collection of furniture and statues, making for a formidable visit.

Leading to the palace is the oldest street on the island, the Street of the Knights, which contains a number of inns that date back to the Middle Ages. Rhodes’ most important street is brimming with history and begs to be seen by every visitor to the island.

Best time to go
With its mild climate, Rhodes can be enjoyed year-round, with the high season stretching from early April to late November. Although the sea is generally too cold for swimming during the winter months, the city remains very much alive in winter, and the majority of attractions can still be enjoyed.

Those visiting in low season should be aware that there are less island connections available at this time, and those trips that are possible can be rough on the open seas. During the hot summer months visitors are cooled by the refreshing meltemi winds and shade can always be sought as protection from the strong sunrays.

Rainy day suggestions
Particularly during the winter months, it can be a good idea to have a few indoors sightseeing plans, should the weather spoil any other plans you may have. Situated in the medieval city, the Municipal Art Gallery of Rhodes contains a beautiful collection of works created by some of the most emotive names in Greek history, including Theophilos, Fassianos and Moralis among others.

The nearby Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is worth a visit for the architecture of the ancient building alone. With a collection of ceramics and other pieces ranging from Hellenistic times to the early Christian period, this museum is understandably one of Rhodes’ most favoured attractions.

Share and Enjoy: