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Rhodes is an island that amazes and captivates. Its cultural and historical heritage, picturesque bays, delicious cuisine, and two seas — the Aegean and the Mediterranean — create an unforgettable atmosphere that is hard to forget.
Cultural and Historical Heritage
The first thing I did was visit the old town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fortified city, surrounded by massive walls, immerses you in a medieval atmosphere. Walking through the narrow streets, you are soaked in history. The Palace of the Grand Master impresses with its size and architecture. This imposing structure with massive towers and fortifications is one of the most significant monuments on the island.
A memorable place in the city of Rhodes is Rodini Park, one of the oldest parks in the world. Unfortunately, the park is currently neglected and not maintained, which is why it lacks visitors' attention. Despite this, you can enjoy a walk among greenery, artificial ponds, and ancient ruins here. Rodini Park is still a beautiful place for relaxation after a busy day in the city, but it needs care and attention.
The island also has many monasteries, each with its own unique history and atmosphere. I visited the Filerimos Monastery, located at the top of the mountain of the same name. From here, breathtaking views of the surroundings open up, and the monastery itself impresses with its architecture and tranquility. They also make a very tasty liqueur here, which is worth trying for all connoisseurs of quality drinks.
Picturesque Bays
Rhodes is famous for its bays. Saint Paul’s Bay, near the town of Lindos, particularly impressed me. Its crystal-clear water and rocky shores create an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling. Another gem is Anthony Quinn Bay, named after the famous actor. This place with transparent water and a rich underwater world is perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Delicious Food
The culinary traditions of Greece, and Rhodes in particular, deserve special attention. Local taverns offer Greek cuisine dishes that amaze with their taste. Greek cuisine is very rich and interesting. Main and popular dishes include gyros, souvlaki, traditional Greek salad, and many others, so many that it’s hard to remember them all. The products, especially vegetables and fruits, are always fresh and fragrant. Olives and olive oil from Greece are considered some of the best in the world. You can also try incredibly delicious ice cream on the island, which will be a perfect end to your meal.
Beaches
Rhodes has many beautiful beaches, but I especially want to highlight three:
- Tsambika Beach: This is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches on the island. It is famous for its white sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is surrounded by picturesque cliffs, and nearby is the Tsambika Monastery, which is worth visiting for a blessing and to enjoy the views.
- Traganou Beach: This beach is notable for its caves where you can hide from the sun and enjoy the coolness. The water here is very clear, making Traganou an ideal place for snorkeling and swimming. The beach is not too crowded, which gives it a special charm and seclusion.
- Elli Beach: Located in the city of Rhodes, this beach is perfect for those who do not want to leave the city conveniences. The beach is covered with fine pebbles and offers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable rest: sunbeds, umbrellas, bars, and restaurants. Here you can have a great day enjoying the sun and the sea.
However, there is one big downside. The beautiful nature and view of the beaches are often hidden under numerous sunbeds, which can be very disappointing and even prevent you from enjoying the surrounding beauty. This creates a feeling of overcrowding and some loss of natural charm. 😢
Travel Tips
Car Rental: Be sure to rent a car. The island has problems with public transport, and having your own means of transportation will give you the freedom to explore all corners of Rhodes. The roads on the island are good, and you can easily reach all the attractions.
What to Visit:
- Lindos: This ancient town with white houses and narrow streets is a must-see. Don’t miss the Acropolis of Lindos, which offers stunning views of the surroundings.
- Kalithea Springs: This resort complex, known for its thermal springs, combines magnificent architecture and picturesque landscapes. Here you can relax in the natural surroundings and enjoy spa treatments
- Kamiros: The ruins of the ancient city located on the west coast of the island impress with their history and scale.
- Butterfly Valley: A unique natural place where you can see thousands of butterflies resting on trees and bushes in the summer.
- Symi Island: This is a great place for a day trip. Symi Island is famous for its colorful houses, magnificent beaches, and the Panormitis Monastery. Be sure to take a tour with a visit to St. George’s Bay. This incredibly beautiful place can only be reached by sea. Here you can enjoy swimming in crystal-clear water and admire the surrounding natural beauty.
Sea Cruises
Rhodes offers many opportunities for sea cruises on beautiful pleasure boats and yachts. This is a great way to see the island from a different perspective, visit hard-to-reach bays, and enjoy the crystal-clear water. I recommend taking a cruise along the coast to see the beautiful landscapes and experience all the charm of the Mediterranean Sea.
Incredible Sunsets
One of the most unforgettable experiences was the sunsets on the west coast of Rhodes, washed by the Aegean Sea. In the evening, the sky is painted in incredible shades of orange and pink, creating picturesque landscapes. You can watch these sunsets endlessly, enjoying their beauty and the atmosphere of tranquility.
Two Seas
Rhodes is washed by two seas — the Aegean and the Mediterranean. The difference between them is noticeable: on the eastern coast, washed by the Mediterranean Sea, the water is warmer and calmer, which is perfect for family vacations. The western coast, washed by the Aegean Sea, is windier and suitable for water sports enthusiasts such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
My trip to Rhodes turned out to be incredibly rich and memorable. This island is a real treasure trove, combining rich history, amazing nature, and gastronomic delights. If you are planning a vacation, be sure to include Rhodes in your list of destinations.
