THE TOP 7 THINGS TO DO & SEE IN RHODES
Rhodes is the capital of the Dodecanese, an island that is ideal not only for relaxation but also for those looking for an action-packed holiday!
With its bright green hills and uninterrupted line of golden beaches, Rhodes is truly a stunning place.
Add in the excellent facilities for tourism, the island’s special blend of cosmopolitan and traditional, and numerous cultural and archaeological sites and you have the perfect holiday destination!
1. The Medieval City of Rhodes (Old City)
The Old City of Rhodes is the largest medieval city in the European continent. It is considered one of the most important monuments of cultural heritage on an international level and was therefore declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO in 1988. The narrow streets, the classical architecture, the medieval churches and the bridges, shape the unique atmosphere of the Old City that is reminiscent of a different era that you will love at first sight.
2. Lindos
Lindos is an ancient city on the island of Rhodes, about 50 kilometers southeast of the island’s center. It is one of the most picturesque parts of the island, with charming houses and narrow streets. The Acropolis of Lindos, with the ancient temple and the towers, is a magnificent archaeological site and, for good reason, one of the most visited archaeological sites in Greece.
3. The Valley of the Butterflies
Just 15 kilometers southwest of the city of Rhodes, you will find a place of incomparable natural beauty, surrounded by hills, with countless trees and streamlets. From June until September, the Butterfly Valley (“Petaloudes”) is full of colorful butterflies that select this location to leave their eggs and reproduce. It is an ideal location to find peace and relaxation during the hot summer days, complete with a restaurant and a gift shop.
4. Kallithea Springs
The Springs are located East of the island, 9 km away from Rhodes City. Opened in 1929, the springs were renowned for Kallithea spring water’s curative and therapeutic properties. People were coming from all over the world to find a cure for arthritis, diabetes or asthma. Then, the springs were left in a state of decay for many years to finally re-open in 2007. Once you are there, you can visit the buildings, discover the beautiful mosaic floors and admire a magnificent sea view. There is also a small beach with deckchairs, umbrellas and a restaurant. It is one of Rhodes’ most famous private beaches.
5. Ancient Kamiros
Located on the northwestern shore of Rhodes, close to the promontory of Agios Minas lies the third of the island’s ancient cities – Kamiros. Kamiros was one of the three large Doric cities of the island, which united with Ialysos and Lindos in the 5th century B.C. to create the powerful city – the state of Rhodes. Although the Dorians established it, it seems like the first inhabitants of the area must have been Achaeans, as the ruins of an ancient Mycenaean necropolis close to the village of Kalavarda reveal. Kamiros was an agricultural society that produced oil, wine and figs. During the city’s golden era of the 6th century, it was the first Rhodian city to cut its own coins.
6. The Marine Aquarium (Hydro-biological Station) of Rhodes
The Hydro-biological Station of Rhodes (Aquarium) is located in the northern tip of the island and was built between 1934-1396, initiated its activities in 1937. In 1945, it was incorporated as a peripheral station of the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research under the supervision of the Athens Academy. It has been operating as an Aquarium-museum and research unit since 1963. The NCMR falls under the supervision of the General Secretariat of Research and Technology belonging to the Ministry of Development.
7. Prasonisi
Prasonisi (Greek for ‘Green Island’) is located on the southernmost point of the island, 92 kilometers away from the city of Rhodes. Known as the ultimate destination for water sports lovers, especially kite surfing and windsurfing, as well as for bathers who want to enjoy moments of relaxation, away from the crowded touristy beaches.
