The largest of the Dodecanese islands, located in the eastern corner of the Aegean, Rhodes is a year-round destination. It is a cosmopolitan island and home of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Hosting strong contrasts between medieval monuments and traditional Greek elements, lacy beaches next to pine covered mountains, archaeological sites and cosmopolitan resorts. A place where different cultures and religions have collided.
History-lovers will take a time-travelling stroll between its stone houses, get lost in the alleys of the city of knights and discover the remnants of an eventful past, including the Medieval City, the Palace of the Grand Masters, mosques, UNESCO monuments, Hellenistic ruins, ancient temples, Byzantine churches and Turkish baths. The Old Town will enchant the romantics whereas conspicuous consumers can frequent the shops, restaurants, bars, cafés and even a casino.
On hot summer days, parks and mountains are ideal for cool, leafy walks while the organized beaches may tempt guests to take a refreshing swim or windsurf. There are several neighboring islets for one day trips, with the most preferred being Symi, with its venerable Panormitis monastery and achingly photogenic harbor town. It can also be combined with an island hopping itinerary including Crete, Santorini and more.
Rhodes has the longest season of any of the Greek islands generally lasting from early April till late November. With an abundance of things to see, guests will have plenty to do in the off season as some shops, restaurants and hotels are open throughout the year. The heat in July and August might be too much for some and this is when the youth crowds head to Rhodes' amazing beaches. But even in the hottest summer days you’ll find plenty of places to cool off. April and May, as well as September and October are considered the ideal months to visit as you still get warm, sunny days, and nights with pleasant island breeze. The weather isn’t cold during the winter months, but it is likely too chilly to swim.
You can get to Rhodes from Athens by plane (55 minutes) or ferry (12-15 hours). Rhodes has one of the biggest airports in Greece, located about 15km (nine miles) southwest of the main town and it is well connected with other major Greek cities and islands. Rhodes is also a major ferry destination from the other Dodecanese islands, Crete and several Cyclades, as well as Piraeus.
