Rhodes Holidays

Rhodes’ east coast is where the best of the beaches can be found, although windsurfers flock to the less sheltered south coast.

The island’s busiest beach is found in the large resort of Faliraki, and the party atmosphere here is reflected in the vast choice of activities and watersports - from bungee jumping to banana boat rides. A contrast is the lovely but more laidback Lindos Beach.

Like all of Greece, Rhodes is steeped in ancient history, and nowhere is this more obvious than in the island’s capital, Rhodes Town.

Travel back in time as you wander around the crumbling walls to the medieval city which is packed with historic sites and places to eat, drink and watch the world go by.

Rhodes may be a favourite with fun-loving tourists but many of its charming villages and harbours still retain a traditional feel. The large village of Afandou is only 19km away from Rhodes Town and has a lovely square complete with tavernas, bars and a picture-perfect beach.

If you’re into ancient history, visit Rhodes' most famous street and explore the tales of the Medieval Avenue of the Knights.

Party-hub Faliraki is where the cheap shots and foam party crowd head for their annual dose of holiday hedonism.

Rhodes Town has a great restaurant scene and places to see traditional Greek entertainment. Elsewhere, the nightlife ranges from low key to lively – the resort of Lindos has great rooftop bars and tavernas.

Love butterflies? Thousands of these beautiful winged wonders flock to the trees, streams and waterfalls at the Valley of Petaloudes during August. The reserve is also home to Jersey Tiger Moths, drawn here by the valley’s oriental sweetgum trees.

Follow the shaded trails through the trees up to Kalópetra, the 18th-century chapel at the top of the valley.

Get your walking boots on or ride a donkey to reach the Acropolis at Líndos for stunning views of the bay.

Discover ancient monuments including the Temple of Athena Lindia, alongside the Acropolis of Rhodes, a spectacular example of Hellenic architecture and the Monastery of Panagia Filerimos, its floor covered in ornate pebbles and shells.

The small island of Symi paints a pretty picture with colourful yachts dotting the harbour, framed by pastel-shaded mansions on both sides. Largely forgotten by time, it’s a maze of neoclassical stone facades built across the slopes.

Among the juniper and pine forests, there are dozens of tiny monasteries, including Panormítis, an important pilgrimage destination.

Go windsurfing or kitesurfing at Prasonisi beach on the south coast where the wind sweeps between twin bays, creating near-perfect conditions. Or paddleboard and kayak in the more sheltered coves on the other side of the island.