The Greek island of Rhodes, the largest and, for some, the most beautiful of the 12 islands forming the Dodecanese in the Aegean Sea, has long played a major role in history. Lying just 12 miles off the coast of Turkey, the island straddles the sea-lanes linking Greece, Egypt, and the Holy Land. Rhodes Town bears witness to that long history. The ancient city features a classical stadium and the ruins of the Temple of Apollo. The "old" city is a walled town with medieval buildings and streets harking back to the days of the Crusades. The new town is a center of luxury resorts lining the island's picturesque Mandaraki Harbor. The Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is reputed to have once stood guard over the harbor. Today, the bronze statues of a stag and doe top the two columns marking the port entrance.
“Rhodes, 1990” by Nathan Hughes Hamilton is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Search for and book a flight toRhodes via the Greek national carrierAegean Airlines,or within Greece via Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air, an Aegean Airlines subsidiary. To search and book a car rental among the most reputable car rental companies worldwide so that you may visit any of Greece's wonderful destinations visit Auto Europe. To easily book your ferry tickets to Rhodes or some other island of the Aegean, go to BookaWay now!
Highlights
Rhodes Old Town Once home to the Knights of St. John, this medieval walled city is a living settlement of some 6,000 people who live and work in the same buildings that were used by the knights over 500 years ago.
Palace of the Grand Masters Built in the 14th century by the Knights of St. John, its fortress defended the town and harbor. Destroyed in 1856 and rebuilt in 1939, it now houses a museum with ancient Greece exhibits.
Street of Knights This medieval road features the lodgings of the Knights of St. John. They represent the seven countries or languages from where the Knights came and lead to the Palace of the Grand Masters.
The Acropolis of Lindos Above the village rises an awe-inspiring fortress, which was fortified in turn by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Knights of St. John and the Ottomans. Landmarks include Temple of Athena Lindia.
The Church of Our Lady The Church of Panagia (Our Lady) was originally built in 1300, but has been reconstructed several times. With high walls and charming courtyard, it is an enchanting stop on the road to the Acropolis.
Mandraki Harbor & Colossus of Rhodes Built to symbolize freedom, this bronze statue of the Greek god Helios stood 110' high on a 50' pedestal. Felled by earthquake, huge pieces lay for centuries until the 7th century A.D.
Mt. Philerimos This peak is crowned by the Church of Our Lady, which is built over the ruins of a Greek temple and early Christian catacombs. The barrel-vaulted Chapel of St. George dates from the 15th century.
Monte Smith Although named after a 19th century British admiral, this is the site of ancient Rhodes' Acropolis and Hellenistic stadium where the athletic games of Alioi took place to honor the Greek god Helios (Sun).
In Rhodes, we recommend checking with Electra Palace Rhodes on Ialyssos Beach. Literally on the water's edge, Electra Palace Rhodes offers magnificent sea vistas. With its own private beach and an extra-chic wooden sun-deck, the elegantly appointed rooms and family suites, a fusion of all different cuisines, a collection of signature bars, a holistic spa, a professionally run crèche and children's club and an endless list of activities, Electra Palace invites guests to explore authentic Greek hospitality served with gentle sophistication and originality. Famed for its colorful sunset, a sheer visual indulgence, complemented by the unique Mediterranean breeze and yet only ten minutes drive from the cosmopolitan city center and the Unesco heritage medieval town, Electra Palace Rhodes is the perfect backdrop for a stylish retreat!
