Rhodes, one of the largest Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, is a perfect blend of history and modernity. Known as the Knights’ island, it is home to stunning architecture, pristine beaches, charming villages, and a vibrant nightlife. The island's historic Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of tourists every year. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top things to do in Rhodes.
Visit Lindos
The village of Lindos, located south of the capital, is one of the most attractive and beautiful villages on the island. It is dominated by the imposing acropolis situated on top of the village. Lindos is made up of whitewashed houses with pebble paved courtyards, narrow side streets and buildings influenced by Byzantine, medieval, Arab and Rhodian architecture. Lindos also boasts one of the best beaches/bays on the island, Saint Paul’s beach (Agios Pavlos). Legend has it that the bay owes its name to the beautiful white chapel that stands on the beach and is dedicated to Saint Paul, who preached Christianity in 43 AD. The beach is a combination of golden sand and pebbles, and the clear turquoise waters make it the perfect spot for swimming and diving.
Grand Master Palace
The Palace of Grand Masters is found at the end of the Street of the Knights in the old town. Originally built on the foundations of the Temple of Sun God (Helios), the palace was once the residence of the governor and administrative centre in Medieval times. Built by the knights in the 14th century, the palace was enormous in size, consisting of 158 rooms. Today, only 24 rooms are open to visitors. The impressive rooms have antique furniture from the 16th and 17th century, well-crafted multi coloured marbles, sculptures, carpets, and admirable Oriental vases. The most impressive rooms are the magnificent Grand reception, Waiting room, the spectacular ballroom, and tasteful Music Room.
Explore the Beaches
Rhodes boasts some of the best beaches in Greece, if not Europe. From small secluded coves to crowded beaches, the choice is yours. Faliraki Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It is located in the east coast of Rhodes and stretches for over 4 kilometers. The beach has clear waters and is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. For a more secluded beach experience, head to Agathi Beach, which is surrounded by lush green hills and crystal clear waters.
Monastery of Filerimos
The Monastery of Filerimos is located on a hill, about 15 kilometers from Rhodes town. The monastery was built in the 15th century on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to Athena. It was destroyed by the Turks in the 16th century and later rebuilt by the Italians. The monastery houses a small museum with Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons, a beautiful garden, and an impressive cross.
Rhodes is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, culture, and natural beauty. The island's stunning architecture, charming villages, and pristine beaches make it a popular destination for tourists. The things to do and see on the island are endless, from exploring the historic Old Town to relaxing on a secluded beach. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a family holiday, Rhodes has something for everyone.
