Things to do in Rhodes - The Island of Knights

I've been to Rhodes twice, most recently after the big fire in 2023. They've managed to restore everything, the island was beautiful, but the tourists haven't returned yet. It was a surreal and wonderful experience to be almost alone on the beaches and walk around the deserted old town. I felt sorry for the locals, because most of them live from tourism, but I also enjoyed not having to deal with the usual crowds, which made it easier to see the most important sights in Rhodes.

What should you know about Rhodes?

Rhodes (Greek: Ρόδος) is the largest of the Dodecanese islands, located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, close to Turkey. The island is famous for its historical heritage, sunny beaches, medieval towns and natural beauty. It is a perfect choice for those looking for culture, history, beaches and hiking all in one place.

Rhodes has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. In the 5th century BC, the island's three capitals - Lindos, Kameiros and Ialysos - united to form the city of Rhodes. Rhodes became an important maritime trading center. The famous Colossus of Rhodes, a 33-meter-high bronze statue of the god Helios (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), was built around 280 BC, but was destroyed by an earthquake 66 years later.

The Romans conquered Rhodes in 164 BC. It continued to have strategic importance during Byzantine times.

In 1309, the Knights of St. John (Holy Knights) conquered the island and built the famous medieval city of Rhodes. They built fortresses, palaces, and walls that still stand today. In 1522, the Turks besieged the island. Rhodes then remained under Ottoman rule for 400 years, and in 1912, It was occupied by the Italians. After World War II, it was finally annexed by Greece in 1947.

Rhodes is not volcanic, but composed of sedimentary and metamorphic rocks . The island's topography is varied: it is characterized by low mountains, green valleys, and coastal plains.

Its highest point is Mount Attavyros (1215m), which offers excellent views of most of the island.

Earthquakes have hit Rhodes several times throughout history, so many of the historic buildings had to be rebuilt.

Its climate is Mediterranean, with long, warm summers and mild, rainy winters - Rhodes is the "Island of the Sun", with an average of 300 days of sunshine per year.

Things to do in Rhodes

What is worth seeing on the island?

Grand Master's Palace

Street of Knights

Faliraki Beach

• Rhodes Town – Medieval Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Located within the city walls built by the Knights Hospitaller.

• Grand Master's Palace: a medieval fortress, now a museum.

• Street of Knights: cobblestone street with medieval buildings.

• Turkish bath, mosques, synagogue – they reflect Rhodes' multicultural past.

• Suleymaniye Mosque, Clock Tower, Archaeological Museum – all worth a visit.

• Lindos: With its whitewashed houses, steep alleys and acropolis (on the cliff above the old town), it is one of the most popular destinations.

• Faliraki: One of the most famous resorts in Rhodes. It is characterized by long, sandy beaches, water sports, restaurants and bars.

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• Faliraki Water Park: the largest water park in Greece, ideal for families.

• Kallithea Springs: A spa and building complex built by Italians in 1929. You can see beautiful mosaic floors and swimming pools here, and today it also hosts events.

• Valley of Butterflies (Petaloudes): In summer (June–September) thousands of butterflies (Callimorpha quadripunctaria) cover the valley. Shady paths, small streams, wooden benches – a perfect place for a hike.

• Prasonisi Peninsula: The southernmost tip of the island, where two seas meet: the Mediterranean and the Aegean. A Mecca for surfers, especially in summer when the meltemi wind blows.

• Epta Piges – Seven Springs: Cool forest environment, streams, tunnels, small lakes – a pleasant hiking trail. You can walk to the springs through a dark tunnel.

Rhodes perfectly combines a rich historical heritage with natural beauty and modern beach life. The medieval old town is one of the best-preserved knights' castles in Europe, while Lindos and its archaeological sites evoke ancient civilizations. Beach resorts, hiking opportunities and a pleasant climate make the island attractive all year round - whether you are looking for a cultural trip, an active holiday or a family holiday.