Historical Sites
Rhodes, Greece, is one of the most beautiful and historically-rich islands in the Mediterranean. It is home to some of the most stunning ancient sites, including the Acropolis of Lindos, the Palace of Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, and the Temple of Apollo. Here, we will talk about the various historical sites around the Island of Rhodes, Greece, and what makes them so unique.
Acropolis of Rhodes
The Acropolis of Rhodes is a fortified citadel on Monte Smith, the highest hill at the city’s center. It was built in 408 BCE; this monument was constructed during the Classical period and was defended and restored by later rulers. Visitors can explore several ruins, such as a large rectangular rampart — known as othonia — that encircles an assembly and large cisterns.
The acropolis also houses the small Temple of Apollo, enabling visitors to take in the full majesty of this beautiful historical site.
The most striking architectural feature at the Acropolis of Rhodes is undoubtedly its southern gate — known as San Gabriel’s Gate — which features two towers flanking an arched passageway, complete with intricate carvings still visible today. Other attractions include amazing views from atop Monte Smith and ancient fortifications, such as ramparts on two sides of the citadel that date back to the 13th century BC! Additionally, visitors will find various sculptures and artifacts scattered throughout this historical site, including Greek columns and mosaic decorations, in some rooms within the Acropolis walls.
The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is an exceptional example of late medieval defensive architecture. It was built between 1309 and 1319 by the Grand Master de Foulques de Villaret and expanded by successive grand masters over the centuries to become one of the most impressive monuments in Greece. Towering inside the old city walls that rise above sparkling blue waters, this monumental tower symbolizes Old Town Rhodes.
The palace houses several museums and galleries, including two courtyards, artifacts from different historical periods, secret passages, sculptures, and more than a hundred works of Renaissance art. Inside the palace, you can also explore some of its secretive areas, such as the famous underground Chapel of St Paul with its beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from his life. Visitors will be amazed by this complex filled with exciting stories from medieval history, providing an insight into these glorious days of Rhodes’ past.
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is one of the most popular sites in Rhodes, Greece. Located in the old town of Rhodes, it houses a vast collection of archaeological artifacts from the region’s Greek and Roman periods. The museum also holds artifacts from Prehistoric and Byzantine times and its later periods under the rule of various foreign powers, including Italy and Turkey.
Highlights include sculptures from ancient Greek temples, pieces of jewelry and pottery, inscriptions, vases, and coins. With its impressive collections, this museum provides a great insight into the rich local history and culture. It also has many educational events and activities, such as guided tours. The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is open all year round except for Mondays; it offers free admission for citizens of EU countries on Wednesdays (until November 2014).
Beaches
Rhodes, Greece, is a stunningly beautiful island with ancient cities, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters. It is also home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. So whether you are looking for a beach with golden sand and calm waves or with secret coves and white rocks, you will surely find it in Rhodes.
Let’s take a look at some of the best beaches in Rhodes, Greece:
Faliraki Beach
Faliraki Beach is a stunningly beautiful crescent of golden sand on the east coast of Rhodes, with crystal-clear waters lined along its banks with lush green hills. The large beach stretches about three kilometers and has something for everyone – from family-friendly amenities and activities to exciting nightlife options.
Plenty of water sports are available, such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and parachuting, as well as popular beach bars that offer themed parties ranging from foam parties to exotic music festivals. Beach umbrellas and sun beds are also available for rent along the shoreline. With its indigenous wildlife, a snaking network of paths that stretch up the hillside, a host of watersports venues, and live music spots, Faliraki Beach promises an unforgettable experience!
Anthony Quinn Bay
Anthony Quinn Bay is an idyllic beach situated on the east coast of Rhodes, just off the Diagoras International Airport. It is ripe for exploration, with calmer waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. This famous beach has plenty of sunbeds to rent and an array of water sports activities.
The surrounding countryside is a delight, too – towering sandstone cliffs rise from the bay and provide breathtaking views across Turkey in the distance. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with a wealth of sea life waiting to be discovered.
Food & beverage is also available right on the beach in the form of café-style bars offering cold refreshments throughout the day and pizza and ice cream during lunchtime service. In addition, Anthony Quinn Bay has several small private villas adjacent to gently sloping gardens leading down to the private beach access points for those seeking more private accommodation away from the main resorts.
Tsambika Beach
Tsambika Beach is a sandy haven near the village of Archangelos on the Mediterranean Island of Rhodes in Greece. With its breathtaking views and stunning sunsets, this beach has provided visitors with a unique blend of tranquility and excitement for over fifty years.
Along the shoreline sits a small Byzantine chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, perfectly combining landscape, scenery, and Christian spirituality. The surrounding countryside also creates an idyllic backdrop as it slopes gently downwards towards the ocean.
The beach’s white sand is bordered by clear blue waters, which offer excellent swimming conditions for all abilities. For those looking for activities to enjoy during their stay, there are numerous water sports available, including:
- Kayaking
- Windsurfing
- Parasailing
There are also plenty of organized volleyball games to get involved in throughout the day. Visitors can also relax on one of many sunbeds that line the beach or grab something tasty from one of several famous snack stands while enjoying sunset views of the Aegean Sea.
Tsambika Beach provides families with an enchanting place to visit where they can not only make memories together but also get away from it all and truly relax in a dreamy environment.
Cultural Attractions
Rhodes is an island in the Aegean Sea off the coast of Greece. It’s known for its beaches and the Medieval City of Rhodes, surrounded by a fortified wall. It’s a unique destination with plenty of cultural attractions among the sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.
Here are a few of the top cultural attractions for travelers to explore on the Island:
Old Town of Rhodes
The Old Town of Rhodes is a popular attraction for travelers in Greece. Located in the northeast part of the Island of Rhodes, this medieval walled city has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In the 14th century, during Byzantine times, the Old Town was considered impregnable, and some of its fortifications are still in use today.
Most buildings and churches have remained unchanged since they were first built centuries ago; however, many shops, restaurants, and even palaces line the streets. Many tourists enjoy walking through cobblestone alleyways while admiring the architecture and intricate carvings. You can also find plenty of souvenir shops filled with traditional Greek items such as pottery, jewelry, and artwork.
Furthermore, there are numerous historical sites within Old Town, including the Grand Master’s Palace, which includes a great collection of international artwork and artifacts related to Orthodox Christianity and other religions that have played a major role in Greek history. There are also two mosques located here: Suleiman Mosque and Fatih Mosque, that each offer insight into Ottoman rule in Greece during their respective eras.
Old Town is known for its charming atmosphere, which provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into life on an idyllic Mediterranean island; it’s easy to spend hours winding through narrow lanes while looking at old churches or taking in stunning views from atop ancient city walls.
Street of the Knights
The Street of the Knights is an iconic part of the Old Town of Rhodes, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area dates back to the 14th century and is considered one of Europe’s most impressive medieval monuments. In this historic district, visitors can explore cobblestone streets and admire the ancient architecture, including palaces and tower-filled walls that served as a defensive defense for past civilizations and still stand for those visiting today.
Aside from strolling through the remains of medieval times, visitors can also discover the famous statue complex dedicated to “Le Grand Maître” at Place Massimi. Street of the Knights also features several traditional restaurants, taverns, and bars in heritage buildings from different centuries – like Thermes a la Rue des Chevaliers, built in 1722 as part of Ottoman architecture.
This street also sits near two important gateways – Gate d’Amboise and Gate d’Avila, two arcades that allow access to Old Town along the Street of the Knights. Whether you cross one or both gates, prepare to be mesmerized by stunning stone fortifications that echo much further into cultural history than modern times. As you wander this thought-provoking site, ensure your camera is charged so you don’t miss any photo opportunities!
Rhodes Aquarium
The Rhodes Aquarium is a unique attraction for visitors to this charming Mediterranean island. As the largest aquarium in Greece, Rhodes Aquarium lets guests explore a fascinating underwater world featuring colorful fish, rare marine life, and breathtaking displays.
Guests are taken on an interactive journey with educational guides who will explain the aquatic biodiversity of the Dodecanese region and offer fun facts about the different fish species. After taking in all of the sights and sounds of the vast exhibition, visitors can explore nearby Foss Beach to continue their aquatic adventure in real life.
With its convenient location near Mandraki Harbor, accessible by car or bus from all parts of Rhodes Island, a visit to Rhodes Aquarium is an ideal break from sightseeing and beach activities in this beautiful part of Europe.
Outdoor Activities
The beautiful Island of Rhodes, Greece, offers many outdoor activities to take part in. Whether you’re looking for adventurous activities such as paragliding and rafting, or leisurely activities like hiking and swimming, there are plenty of choices.
In this section, we’ll explore the wide range of outdoor activities you can do while on the Island:
Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Rhodes, Greece, allowing travelers to explore its stunning landscapes. Numerous trails offer an option suitable for all ages and abilities.
Popular trails include Mount Attavyros, which winds through lush forests with occasional views of the Aegean Sea, and the Grand Canyon of Rhodes, a trek offering fantastic panoramic views over the region. For a reward at the end of your journey, check out the iconic beaches on many trails.
For those looking for a more strenuous adventure, hiking Mount Tsambika or Petaloudes Valley provides an extended 10 km climb with unparalleled views over Rhodes Town when you reach the summit. The Island’s highest peak at 1,215m above sea level also offers challenging trails up Mount Atavyros and through Maquens Monastery.
Whether taking a stroll or tackling more demanding routes around the region – hiking in Rhodes is an unforgettable experience that will add another memorable dimension to your trip!
Windsurfing
Rhodes, Greece, is an ideal destination for windsurfing, as it has a wealth of tranquil oceans, picturesque coastlines, and consistent weather. Plus, with its proximity to Turkey and other areas in the Mediterranean Sea, windsurfing lovers have plenty of prime spots to explore.
The windsurfing season typically occurs from May through September, when the solid warm breezes off of the Aegean provide perfect conditions for novices and seasoned veterans alike. Several private beaches in Rhodes offer windsurfing classes and equipment rental. The North East Coastlines of Kolymbia and Kamiros Skala are particularly popular for windsurfing due to their shallow depths. For more advanced surfers, there is no better place than the famous channel between Rhodes and Symi Island, where winds can reach up to Force 7-8, continually blowing across thrilling waves that give you the ultimate ride!
Whatever your skill level, Rhodes offers some incredible surfing experiences that will leave you wanting more!
Scuba Diving
Rhodes is full of crystal clear waters, ideal for exploring beautiful underwater marine life. Its Mediterranean Sea provides excellent visibility for divers to observe colorful coral and fish. In addition, it’s home to countless caves and artifacts, making scuba diving in Rhodes an unforgettable experience. With many tourist-friendly dive centers offering professional training instructions and certified dives, now’s the perfect time to take up an adventure below sea level!
Several dives are relatively shallow for beginners, making exploring easy but still providing stunning views. Experienced divers have access to breathtaking walls, incredible wrecks from World War II, and plenty of reefs filled with sea life diversity. You can even visit one of the many ancient sites on the seabed, such as a shipwreck of a 2000-year-old merchant vessel or an amphora graveyard in St Paul’s Bay!
Whether you want to explore or to spend an adventure trying something new out on the waters around Greece’s largest Island, Rhodes has plenty of activities available for all scuba diving enthusiasts.
Nightlife
While Rhodes is primarily known for its historical attractions and pristine beaches, the Island also has an exciting nightlife. From Greek taverns to beach bars and Irish pubs, you can find various places to enjoy yourself in Rhodes after the sun sets.
Let’s take a look at some of the best places to visit for nightlife in Rhodes:
Mandraki Harbour
Mandraki Harbour is situated in the heart of the historical city of Rhodes and is one of the most popular attractions on the Island. This picturesque harbor is surrounded by stunning architecture, lush green trees, and idyllic restaurants where visitors can enjoy an exquisite dining experience.
Mandraki Harbour comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife that caters to all tastes. On certain nights throughout the summer, visitors can enjoy musical performances from local artists, live DJ sets from renowned music producers, and traditional Greek dance shows. There are also plenty of bars, pubs, and nightclubs for a fun evening with friends.
Whether relaxing with a beer or dancing until sunrise at one of the Island’s most iconic locations, Mandraki Harbour offers something for everyone. So if you’re looking for something unique to do during your visit to Rhodes, then make sure to check out the thrilling nightlife at Mandraki Harbour!
Rhodes Town Market
Rhodes Town Market is the most popular night-time attraction in Rhodes, Greece. It is a perfect evening or night-out spot in the city’s heart. The market features a variety of stalls offering a range of items, from traditional handcrafted items to modern souvenirs and clothing made by residents. There are also various bars and restaurants dotting the area. Some tourist favorites include classic Greek tavernas serving tasty local dishes. These cafes have live bands playing traditional folk music and more upscale venues that feature DJs and late-night fun. Many also appreciate some shopping options, as convenient retailers offer everything from clothes to specialized Rhodes memorabilia.
Nightlife in Rhodes does not only have to involve food and drink; visitors can enjoy cultural experiences such as visiting historical churches, castles, and archaeological sites or just simply strolling through leafy parks and lively squares at night. The market lights up after dark with an array of buskers, performers, and impromptu music events popping up across different corners, making it a vibrant mix of locals, ex-pats, and visitors all looking for their own exceptional Rhodes island experience!
The Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Rhodes, Greece. Standing tall next to Castle Street, it dates back to the medieval period and is a sight no visitor should miss. Once known as “The Colossus,” this impressive structure stands over 10 meters tall and has been an integral part of life in the city for centuries.
At night, the stunning gold-colored tower comes alive with its intricate detail on display against a backdrop of twinkling stars, making it a popular spot for taking pictures or simply pondering the beauty of this mesmerizing 16th-century landmark.
From concerts and dances performed by traditional Greek musicians to open-air film screenings amidst picture-perfect surroundings – locals and tourists alike can take advantage of various cultural nights out. Plenty of food stalls are around, serving everything from hot dogs to traditional Greek dishes for those looking for something more substantial after hours.
For anyone intending on experiencing Rhodes’ legendary nightlife scene, make time for some drinks at one or two bars close by, such as The Greco Pub and Gallery Club, and relax with friends – all while enjoying beautiful views from The Clock Tower terrace!