Best Sights in Rhodes
Best Sights in Rhodes
Our Top Places in Rhodes!
The heart of the island is the charming city of Rhodes, capital of the Dodecanese prefecture. Located on the northern tip of the island, the city is divided into the
modern new town and the medieval town, once home to the Knights of Saint John and still bustling with life to today. In addition to the permanent residents, who are fortunate to live in a setting seemingly frozen in time, the town is a thriving commercial centre and a popular destination on the tourist trail. The imposing Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Saint John, at the top of Odos ton Ippoton (Street of the Knights), dominates the old town. Wandering through the warren of cobbled streets, the enchanting atmosphere intensifies the more a visitor begins to explore the town’s medieval alleys. Crossing though the shadows of an arcade, one might suddenly stumble upon a delightful hidden stone courtyard, then perhaps a little further on a Byzantine church built into niche within the imposing city walls, a witness to its own little piece in the city’s history. The old town’s charm is not limited though to its quaint streets and historic buildings and monuments. It is a city which is alive and vibrant with the local inhabitants still going about their daily business intermingled with tourists making their way to the Archaeological Museum, the Art Gallery or the Museum of Folk Art. This magical blend of past and present helps to create a truly dynamic urban environment that is rightly considered to be unique despite the town being largest medieval city in Europe.
The city, at the northernmost tip of the island, was founded in 408 BC and was laid out in a grid plan designed by Hippodamus of Miletus, who is considered to be the father of urban planning.
31 recommandé par les habitants
Old Town Rodes
6 Solomou Alchadef
The heart of the island is the charming city of Rhodes, capital of the Dodecanese prefecture. Located on the northern tip of the island, the city is divided into the
modern new town and the medieval town, once home to the Knights of Saint John and still bustling with life to today. In addition to the permanent residents, who are fortunate to live in a setting seemingly frozen in time, the town is a thriving commercial centre and a popular destination on the tourist trail. The imposing Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Saint John, at the top of Odos ton Ippoton (Street of the Knights), dominates the old town. Wandering through the warren of cobbled streets, the enchanting atmosphere intensifies the more a visitor begins to explore the town’s medieval alleys. Crossing though the shadows of an arcade, one might suddenly stumble upon a delightful hidden stone courtyard, then perhaps a little further on a Byzantine church built into niche within the imposing city walls, a witness to its own little piece in the city’s history. The old town’s charm is not limited though to its quaint streets and historic buildings and monuments. It is a city which is alive and vibrant with the local inhabitants still going about their daily business intermingled with tourists making their way to the Archaeological Museum, the Art Gallery or the Museum of Folk Art. This magical blend of past and present helps to create a truly dynamic urban environment that is rightly considered to be unique despite the town being largest medieval city in Europe.
The city, at the northernmost tip of the island, was founded in 408 BC and was laid out in a grid plan designed by Hippodamus of Miletus, who is considered to be the father of urban planning.
Overlooking the city from the west and situated on the city’s highest point is the Acropolis of Rhodes, which unlike other ancient acropoleis was not fortified. The monuments date from the Hellenistic and late Hellenistic periods (3rd to 2nd centuries BC) and include sanctuaries, public buildings, temples and underground places of worship.
The layout of the ancient acropolis first came to light with excavations carried out by the Italian School of
Archaeology at Athens during the Italian occupation of the island (1912-1943). Further discoveries have since been made on archaeological digs under the auspices of the Greek Archaeological Service, which have provided important information on the site’s history and topography. Today these excavations continue over an area of 3 acres with the aim of uncovering the whole site of the acropolis of the splendid ancient city of Rhodes. Preserved within the beautifully landscaped and verdant archaeological park is the Hellenistic stadium from the 3rd century BC. Here athletic competitions were staged as part of the Haleion Games, an important celebration held by the ancient Rhodians in honour of the god Helios. Right next to the stadium is the small restored marble theatre, where in antiquity and today musical performances are given. In a dominant position at the summit of the hill is the Temple of Pythian Apollo, the city’s guardian. Reconstruction of the temple was begun by the Italians and then continued by the Greek Archaeological Service after the end of World War II to repair the damage caused by bombs and the weight of artillery emplaced there. Further restoration work was started in 1996.
In the centre of the extensive Rhodian necropolis are the tombs of Saint John (oi tafoi tou Agiou Ioannou). The most important of these are the large corner funerary complex with tombs featuring vaulted masonry tombs, the cluster of yet more tombs of vaulted stonework crowned by a monument with triglyphs and metopes and the tomb carved into the rock that includes a monumental gateway. Of greatest interest is the underground quarry where burial chambers were dug into the sides of the tunnels.
65 recommandé par les habitants
Acropolis of Rhodes
68 Diagoridon
Overlooking the city from the west and situated on the city’s highest point is the Acropolis of Rhodes, which unlike other ancient acropoleis was not fortified. The monuments date from the Hellenistic and late Hellenistic periods (3rd to 2nd centuries BC) and include sanctuaries, public buildings, temples and underground places of worship.
The layout of the ancient acropolis first came to light with excavations carried out by the Italian School of
Archaeology at Athens during the Italian occupation of the island (1912-1943). Further discoveries have since been made on archaeological digs under the auspices of the Greek Archaeological Service, which have provided important information on the site’s history and topography. Today these excavations continue over an area of 3 acres with the aim of uncovering the whole site of the acropolis of the splendid ancient city of Rhodes. Preserved within the beautifully landscaped and verdant archaeological park is the Hellenistic stadium from the 3rd century BC. Here athletic competitions were staged as part of the Haleion Games, an important celebration held by the ancient Rhodians in honour of the god Helios. Right next to the stadium is the small restored marble theatre, where in antiquity and today musical performances are given. In a dominant position at the summit of the hill is the Temple of Pythian Apollo, the city’s guardian. Reconstruction of the temple was begun by the Italians and then continued by the Greek Archaeological Service after the end of World War II to repair the damage caused by bombs and the weight of artillery emplaced there. Further restoration work was started in 1996.
In the centre of the extensive Rhodian necropolis are the tombs of Saint John (oi tafoi tou Agiou Ioannou). The most important of these are the large corner funerary complex with tombs featuring vaulted masonry tombs, the cluster of yet more tombs of vaulted stonework crowned by a monument with triglyphs and metopes and the tomb carved into the rock that includes a monumental gateway. Of greatest interest is the underground quarry where burial chambers were dug into the sides of the tunnels.
Kallithea Springs are located at the bay of Kallithea, just 9km from the City of Rhodes. Known since antiquity for
their therapeutic properties, the thermal springs of Kallithea were utilized by the Italians, in the early 20th century, being very popular and attracting visitors from all over the world. Nowadays the renovated, majestic premises of Kallithea Springs completely restored and tastefully refurbished are welcoming once again hundreds of visitors per day, being one of the most popular attractions on the island of Rhodes.
117 recommandé par les habitants
Kallithea Springs
80 Leof. Kallitheas
Kallithea Springs are located at the bay of Kallithea, just 9km from the City of Rhodes. Known since antiquity for
their therapeutic properties, the thermal springs of Kallithea were utilized by the Italians, in the early 20th century, being very popular and attracting visitors from all over the world. Nowadays the renovated, majestic premises of Kallithea Springs completely restored and tastefully refurbished are welcoming once again hundreds of visitors per day, being one of the most popular attractions on the island of Rhodes.
Nestling at the foot of a steep rock and beautifully surrounded by the sea lies the traditional settlement of Líndos; on the top of the same rock stands a centuries-old acropolis, proudly overlooking the archipelagos. The acropolis bears silent witness to Líndos’ glorious past, a major naval power of ancient times which reputedly had a population of 17,000. The landscape of Líndos encapsulates the essence of Rhodes: a surprisingly felicitous blend of ancient and medieval! With 600,000 visitors annually, Líndos competes with Delphi as the second most visited archeological site in Greece. Enjoy it!
248 recommandé par les habitants
Lindos
Nestling at the foot of a steep rock and beautifully surrounded by the sea lies the traditional settlement of Líndos; on the top of the same rock stands a centuries-old acropolis, proudly overlooking the archipelagos. The acropolis bears silent witness to Líndos’ glorious past, a major naval power of ancient times which reputedly had a population of 17,000. The landscape of Líndos encapsulates the essence of Rhodes: a surprisingly felicitous blend of ancient and medieval! With 600,000 visitors annually, Líndos competes with Delphi as the second most visited archeological site in Greece. Enjoy it!
Prasonisi is one of the best windsurfing spots with wind statistics that are second to none in Europe. It is made up of two sandy coves and offers perfect sailing conditions, with flat water and waves in one location .
Prasonisi is located on the southern tip of the Greek island of Rhodes, the main island of the Dodecanese. Its name stems from a small island just off the mainland which is connected to the mainland only through a narrow strip of sand .
This distinctive geographical feature makes the north-westerly Meltemi wind accelerate hard through the narrow passage between the island and the mainland and with this local boost Meltemi gives us a choice of awesome windsurfing conditions:
Blasting flat water conditions and freestyle haven on the cross offshore side and small waves to bump and jump wave conditons on the onshore side.
The sandy beach is a favourite haunt of windsurfers, especially in July and August when the summer winds are at their most favourable. Windsurfing equipment can be hired from one of the specialised establishments on the beach and there are also some small taverns and rooms available for rent.
113 recommandé par les habitants
Prasonisi
Prasonisi is one of the best windsurfing spots with wind statistics that are second to none in Europe. It is made up of two sandy coves and offers perfect sailing conditions, with flat water and waves in one location .
Prasonisi is located on the southern tip of the Greek island of Rhodes, the main island of the Dodecanese. Its name stems from a small island just off the mainland which is connected to the mainland only through a narrow strip of sand .
This distinctive geographical feature makes the north-westerly Meltemi wind accelerate hard through the narrow passage between the island and the mainland and with this local boost Meltemi gives us a choice of awesome windsurfing conditions:
Blasting flat water conditions and freestyle haven on the cross offshore side and small waves to bump and jump wave conditons on the onshore side.
The sandy beach is a favourite haunt of windsurfers, especially in July and August when the summer winds are at their most favourable. Windsurfing equipment can be hired from one of the specialised establishments on the beach and there are also some small taverns and rooms available for rent.
The road to Tsampika monastery turns off the main road, some meters before the turn to Tsambika beach. The road leads half of the way up on the hill. From this point on, you will have to walk up the hill, following the 350 steps. On the top of the hill you will find the tiny, Byzantine church, dedicated to the Virgin. It's perched at an altitude of some 300 m featuring some truly spectacular views on the coast, both north over Kolymbia and south over Tsambika beach and all the way to Lindos, which makes the strenuous effort uphill definitely worth a try!
The legend has it that women facing difficulties in conceiving should climb the hill barefooted to pray the Virgin for fertility and that most of the times, faith is compensated and wishes fulfilled. If so, the bit to be born to such mother is to be named «Tsampikos» whereas the girl «Tsampika». For those still sceptical on the veracity of this lore, we recommend that you experiment by merely calling such name in a busy street anywhere on the island: just count the number of heads turning to you for cognizance! Tsampikoses and Tsampikas have their name’s day on the 7th of September.
7 recommandé par les habitants
Εκκλησία Τσαμπίκα Παναγιά
Ethniki Odos Rodou LindouThe road to Tsampika monastery turns off the main road, some meters before the turn to Tsambika beach. The road leads half of the way up on the hill. From this point on, you will have to walk up the hill, following the 350 steps. On the top of the hill you will find the tiny, Byzantine church, dedicated to the Virgin. It's perched at an altitude of some 300 m featuring some truly spectacular views on the coast, both north over Kolymbia and south over Tsambika beach and all the way to Lindos, which makes the strenuous effort uphill definitely worth a try!
The legend has it that women facing difficulties in conceiving should climb the hill barefooted to pray the Virgin for fertility and that most of the times, faith is compensated and wishes fulfilled. If so, the bit to be born to such mother is to be named «Tsampikos» whereas the girl «Tsampika». For those still sceptical on the veracity of this lore, we recommend that you experiment by merely calling such name in a busy street anywhere on the island: just count the number of heads turning to you for cognizance! Tsampikoses and Tsampikas have their name’s day on the 7th of September.
For a day of relaxation head to the small pebble beach at Fournoi. It has organised facilities and is just right for those that wish to swim far away from the madding crowds. It is mainly frequented by the villagers from nearby Monolithos.
8 recommandé par les habitants
Fourni Beach
For a day of relaxation head to the small pebble beach at Fournoi. It has organised facilities and is just right for those that wish to swim far away from the madding crowds. It is mainly frequented by the villagers from nearby Monolithos.
Explore idyllic sceneries, green forests with secret paths and historical churches. Taste traditional Greek Cuisine, flavored Greek coffee and transform an ordinary day into a unique experience.
Hotel Elafos-Elafina
49 Epar.Od. Profiti IliaExplore idyllic sceneries, green forests with secret paths and historical churches. Taste traditional Greek Cuisine, flavored Greek coffee and transform an ordinary day into a unique experience.
Perched on a hill 55 km from the island’s capital is the village of Kritinia, whose houses literally hang from the side of the slopes. It offers panoramic views of the sea and a Venetian castle of the same name, which has become a major tourist attraction. Also known as Kastello, the fortress is built on top of a rocky outcrop and was unsuccessfully besieged by the Ottomans in 1480. The castle is well preserved with the coat of arms of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Saint John, d’Amboise (1503-1512) and Orsini (1467-1476), still visible at the entrance. Among other attractions is the church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) where there are frescoes dating from the 16th century.
36 recommandé par les habitants
Kritinia Castle
15 Epar.Od. Ialisou-KataviasPerched on a hill 55 km from the island’s capital is the village of Kritinia, whose houses literally hang from the side of the slopes. It offers panoramic views of the sea and a Venetian castle of the same name, which has become a major tourist attraction. Also known as Kastello, the fortress is built on top of a rocky outcrop and was unsuccessfully besieged by the Ottomans in 1480. The castle is well preserved with the coat of arms of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Saint John, d’Amboise (1503-1512) and Orsini (1467-1476), still visible at the entrance. Among other attractions is the church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) where there are frescoes dating from the 16th century.
A distance of 73 km from Rhodes Monolithos is a town on the south west side of the island. During a stay on the island it is well worth visiting the Knights of Saint John castle astride the top of a rock 276m high which offers stunning views of the sea. Built on the ruins of a Byzantine fortress in 1476 by Grand Master d’Aubusson, whose coat of arms remain visible over the gate, it was one of the four most powerful fortifications on Rhodes and despite being attacked several times by invading armies it never fell. Also of interest are the region’s religious monuments, namely the church of Agios Panteleimon and the monastery of Skiada. For a swim there is the beach of Fournoi 4 km outside the village.
44 recommandé par les habitants
Monolithos Castle
89 Epar.Od. Monolinthou-Frourio MonolinthouA distance of 73 km from Rhodes Monolithos is a town on the south west side of the island. During a stay on the island it is well worth visiting the Knights of Saint John castle astride the top of a rock 276m high which offers stunning views of the sea. Built on the ruins of a Byzantine fortress in 1476 by Grand Master d’Aubusson, whose coat of arms remain visible over the gate, it was one of the four most powerful fortifications on Rhodes and despite being attacked several times by invading armies it never fell. Also of interest are the region’s religious monuments, namely the church of Agios Panteleimon and the monastery of Skiada. For a swim there is the beach of Fournoi 4 km outside the village.