Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands, which are located in the eastern part of the Aegean Sea, off the coast of Turkey. The island of Rhodes – also known as the island of the Knights – has a rich history and numerous heritage sites.
Stroll through the beautiful old town of Rhodes, admire the charming village of Lindos and its Acropolis. Relax on the beautiful beaches on the east coast and enjoy a delicious dinner in a taverna at the Mandraki harbor with views on the medieval windmills. Rhodes offers numerous sights and has everything to capture your heart.
The town Lindos in Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes town
The medieval old town of Rhodes is a real jewel. It is with good reason that this completely walled city is on the World Heritage list of UNESCO. Wander through the maze of small winding streets. Look for the famous Knight Street, which starts at the Archaeological Museum and ends at the Palace of the Grand Master, one of the most beautiful buildings that have been preserved from the medieval period.
Palace of the Grand Master
Mandráki Harbor
The fortifications of the old town of Rhodes have multiple gateways. The best entrance is the Marine Gate, which lies near the harbor of Mandráki, the port of ancient Rhodes. Even before you enter the port, you will find several attractions like the three windmills (that can be found on many postcards).
Furthermore you cannot miss the imposing Fort St. Nicholas and the statues of “the stag and the doe“, the symbols of Rhodes. If you stay a little longer in Rhodes, you can make a day trip from Mandráki harbor to the lovely island Symi.
Take a boat trip to Symi Island
Pitoresque town Lindos
Whitewashed houses, narrow streets and a clear blue sea. This is Lindos, a picturesque Greek city which is located about 50 km south of Rhodes town. The Acropolis, which stands high above the city of Lindos, is amazing and offers one of the best views of Rhodes. The climb to the Acropolis is demanding because you’ll need to climb a lot of stairs, but once there you’ll be rewarded with beautifully preserved buildings dating back to 300 BC.
In the town of Lindos, you will find many charming alleys with great taverns and bars where you can relax after the climb. One of which is Cesar Meze Bar, a rooftop bar where you can taste delicious “meze” with a fantastic view.
The pitoresque town Lindos in Rhodes
The healing springs of Kalithea
Kalithea Springs is located in a picturesque bay surrounded by beautiful gardens and is perhaps one of the most attractive hot spots of Rhodes. The springs have been known since the time of the Ancient Greeks for their healing properties. The Kalithea facilities were first opened by the Italians in 1929 and attracted many people from all over the world. Even Hollywood managed to find its way here. In fact, Kalithea became the set for filming several international and Greek movies.
After years of work, Kalithea Springs reopened in 2007 and now welcomes visitors in its beautifully renovated property. Although the spa is no longer active, the unique architectural complex has been converted into dining and bar facilities. Today Kalithea is home to many cultural and artistic events such as festivals, concerts and exhibitions. The scenic bay with crystal clear water and the surrounding palm trees attracts many people during the summer for a relaxing day in the sun.
“Kalithea Healing Springs” on Rhodos
A day relaxing on the beach
Of course, most people come to Rhodes to enjoy the sun and the beach. St. Paul Bay, near Lindos, is one of the most beautiful bays on the island offering a sheltered sandy beach. Another spectacular bay on the east coast of the island is the Bay of Anthony Quinn, located just 15 km south of the ancient city of Rhodes. This place is the perfect spot for the magnificent holiday pictures. Just a few minutes walking from this bay, you’ll find Lakido beach, a small fine sand beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Water sports enthusiasts should travel to the northwest coast of Rhodes; the popular beach resorts Ixia and Lalyssos are hotspots for surf lovers. Would you rather explore the underwater world? Rhodes also has an answer to that because there is a vast array of places where you can go snorkeling or diving in the clearest waters.
A day at the beach at Rhodes
Casa Cook Hotel
If you’re looking for a stylish hotel with a casual atmosphere and a delicious, healthy cuisine, then book a room at the recently opened Casa Cook Hotel. This small adult-only hotel is located about a half hour drive from the Old Town of Rhodes and stands for luxury, comfort, and relaxation.
Casa Cook Hotel Rhodes
The 4-star Casa Cook has 90 minimalist rooms divided over a handful of white units that provide direct access to the pool. Here you can enjoy the Greek sun, or you can go to the nearby Tsambika beach, which is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches of Rhodes. For more relaxation you can visit the wellness center with sauna and steam bath or you can follow some yoga classes in the open air.
Casa Cook Hotel
The restaurant serves traditional Greek dishes and international specialties. All dishes are made with carefully selected fresh ingredients providing a healthy and tasteful meal. The small and personal “Casa” Cook makes sure that every guest will feel himself at home.
How to get there?
By plane: From the Netherlands various airlines fly to Rhodes. TUIFly serves as many as 14 destinations in Greece including non-stop to the international airport “Diagoras” in Rhodes. This airport is just 14 kilometers away from Rhodes town.
By ferry: Ferries go daily from Piraeus in Athens to the port of Rhodes (with stops). The trip takes about 12 hours. There is also a ferry from Rhodes to the other Dodecanese islands like Kos and Patmos and as well to Crete and Santorini.