Rhodes
Rhodes, the largest of Greece's Dodecanese islands, is a captivating blend of ancient history, medieval charm, and vibrant modern life. Known as the 'Island of the Knights,' its UNESCO-listed Old Town is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, imposing fortifications, and grand palaces, remnants of the Knights of St. John. Beyond its historical riches, Rhodes boasts beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and a lush interior, offering a diverse range of experiences for every traveler seeking authenticity.
Population: Around 115,000 (main island)
Timezone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC+2 (standard time), UTC+3 (daylight saving)
Best time to visit: Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring without the peak summer heat and crowds. The sea is also warm enough for swimming in these months.
Local tips
- Explore beyond the main tourist hubs: While the Old Town is a must-see, venture into the smaller villages like Lindos (especially early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds), Embonas (for wine tasting), or the mountainous village of Salakos for a glimpse into authentic island life.
- Savor local mezes at a taverna: Instead of large main courses, order a selection of mezes (small plates) to sample a variety of traditional Greek flavors. Look for places packed with locals.
- Rent a car or scooter: This offers the freedom to explore hidden coves, remote beaches, and charming inland villages at your own pace. Roads are generally good, but be prepared for narrow paths in some areas.
- Embrace the slower pace: Island life is relaxed. Take your time, enjoy the 'siga siga' (slowly, slowly) philosophy, and strike up conversations with friendly locals.
- Discover hidden beaches: Ask locals for recommendations for less-crowded, more secluded beaches away from the popular tourist spots.
- Visit on a weekday: If possible, plan your visits to major attractions like the Palace of the Grand Master or the Acropolis of Lindos on weekdays to experience them with fewer people.
- Taste local wines: Rhodes has a long tradition of winemaking. Visit a local winery in the region of Embonas for a tasting and to learn about indigenous grape varietals.
Rare and unlikely things to do
Off-the-beaten-path experiences you won't find in typical travel guides
Beyond the Knights, explore the island's forgotten Minoan past through dedicated archaeological sites and expert-led explorations.
While Rhodes is famed for its medieval fortifications, a deeper, more ancient history lies beneath its surface. Venture beyond the well-trodden paths to discover lesser-known archaeological sites that offer glimpses into the Minoan civilization's presence on the island, predating the Mycenaean and Classical eras. Engage with local archaeologists or participate in guided tours that focus on the excavation and interpretation of these prehistoric settlements. Imagine standing on ground that was inhabited thousands of years before the arrival of any prominent historical figures, piecing together daily life from fragmented pottery, tools, and architectural remnants. These sites, often tucked away in more remote parts of the island, require a keen interest in history and a willingness to go off the beaten track. Programs might include visits to areas with unearthed Minoan-era artifacts, discussions on the trade routes and cultural influences of the time, and even potentially hands-on experiences with archaeological documentation techniques under expert supervision. This offers a profound connection to a civilization that shaped the very foundations of Aegean culture.
Escape the light pollution and journey to the island's southernmost reaches for unparalleled stargazing and astrophotography opportunities.
Venture to the sparsely populated southern tip of Rhodes, far from the urban glow of the main towns and tourist hubs. Here, the night sky reveals its full splendor, offering a breathtaking canvas for amateur astronomers and professional astrophotographers alike. Seek out spots with minimal light pollution, where the Milky Way stretches across the inky blackness and distant galaxies become visible to the naked eye. Consider investing in specialized equipment or joining a nocturnal excursion led by an astronomy guide who can point out constellations, planets, and celestial phenomena, and share insights into the universe. For those passionate about capturing the cosmos, this region presents an unadulterated backdrop for stunning astrophotography, from the Andromeda Galaxy to nebulae and meteor showers. This experience is about embracing the vastness and wonder of the universe, far from the distractions of modern life.
Delve into the world of traditional beekeeping, learn about local flora, and savor the exquisite flavors of Rhodes' artisan honeys.
Immerse yourself in the ancient craft of beekeeping on Rhodes by participating in workshops offered by local apiarists. These are not your typical tourist demonstrations; rather, they offer a genuine insight into the life cycle of bees and the meticulous process of honey production. Learn about the diverse local flora that contributes to the unique flavor profiles of Rhodes' honey, from wild thyme and pine to citrus blossoms. Depending on the season and the specific workshop, you might have the opportunity to don protective gear and observe the bees in their natural environment, understand hive management techniques, and even try your hand at carefully extracting honey. The experience culminates in guided tastings of various artisanal honeys, each with its distinct aroma, color, and taste. This is a sensory journey that connects you with the island's natural bounty and the dedication of its beekeepers.
Experienced divers can uncover sunken historical vessels and explore fascinating submerged geological formations off the island's less-frequented shores.
For certified and experienced divers, Rhodes offers a compelling underwater landscape that goes far beyond typical snorkeling spots. Venture to the less accessible coastal areas and explore a fascinating array of historical shipwrecks, remnants of ancient trade routes that have become artificial reefs teeming with marine life. These underwater sites offer a unique opportunity to connect with maritime history in a profound way, seeing where vessels met their fate and now serve as havens for octopuses, groupers, and schools of vibrant fish. In addition to shipwrecks, the island's coastline hides a network of intriguing underwater caves and caverns, sculpted by millennia of geological activity. Exploring these submerged Grottoes reveals a different, often dimly lit, world of stalactites, unusual rock formations, and unique aquatic ecosystems. This is an adventure for those with advanced diving certifications and a spirit of exploration, seeking out the hidden treasures beneath the Aegean Sea.
Get your hands dirty and witness the artisanal process of olive oil production, from grove to press, in a small, traditional village setting.
Step back in time and participate in the time-honored tradition of olive oil pressing in one of Rhodes' authentic, smaller villages. This is an opportunity to go beyond simply tasting olive oil and instead understand its journey from the gnarled branches of century-old olive trees to the rich, emerald liquid. Engage with local families who maintain these traditional presses, often using methods passed down through generations. Depending on the season (typically autumn), you might be able to join in with the olive harvesting, learning about the different varieties and the care required to pick them at the perfect ripeness. The highlight is witnessing and even participating in the pressing process itself, where olives are transformed into oil through mechanical means, often involving traditional stone mills. This hands-on experience provides a deep appreciation for the agricultural heritage of Rhodes and the dedication involved in producing high-quality olive oil, culminating in the chance to taste the freshest, most flavorful oil imaginable.