There are so many Greek islands to choose from, deciding between them can pose a problem. Rhodes has history, shopping, beaches and partying, something for everyone.
Here are a few things to check out if you want to make the most out of your trip to Rhodes.
History is one thing that Rhodes has by the bucketload. Having been established in the fifth century Rhodes Old Town is certainly old. This area of Rhodes offers a maze of over 200 narrow streets and lanes in which to get happily lost in. The medieval heart of Rhodes is a wonderful spot for a drink in one of the many street cafes, or to ponder the shops.
Also inside the old town is the Grand Masters Palace, which was originally built by the Kinghts of Rhodes in the fourteenth century. It has been home to many people including the Knights of Rhodes, Ottoman invaders and the Italians during the first and second world wars.
Rhodes Old Town is encased in the medieval city walls that once protected Rhodes against invaders but now simply give the area a sense of presence and history. The walls were initially constructed mid fourteenth century, rebuilt after the Ottoman siege and then an earthquake in 1481.
There is more to the island of Rhodes than Rhodes Town and the settlement of Lindos 55 kilometres south from town on the east coast is a wonderful escape from the bustle of town. Boat trips are available that sail south, spend some time at Lindos and then make a swim stop on the trip back north. Lindos bay offers a beautiful sandy beach with a lagoon-like sea to swim in and is overlooked by Lindos Castle, built by the Knights of St John in the early fourteenth century. The boat trip is almost as wonderful as Lindos itself; seeing the island from the sea is a wonderful experience.
Have you been to Rhodes? What would you recommend people see and do?