Rhodes – largest island of the Dodecanese

The Colossus of Rhodes once stood at the entrance to Rhodes Harbour. A giant statue of Helios, Greek god of the sun, would have dominated the skyline; a fitting patron of this lush Greek island with its 300 days of annual sunshine!  These days it might take longer to find a Greek god in the lively resorts of Lindos and Faliraki; however if you explore beyond the beaches, you’re sure to uncover some genuine Greek culture. Rhodes Town is the beautifully preserved medieval capital, built within the walls of a Venetian castle by the Knights of St John. Hire a moped or car to see the exquisite Byzantine churches dotted around the island. Visit nearby Lindos for a morning tour of the Acropolis and The Castle of the Knights of St John, spend the afternoon on the beach and head into Lindos town for the evening.

Why Go?
Go to Rhodes for its glorious beaches, museums and picturesque villages. If you’re interested in the Knights’ Templar or medieval settlements, you’ll find plenty to keep you intrigued. If your ideal holiday involves spending days on the beaches and nights in the bars, Rhodes has plenty to offer you too.

When to Go?
Rhodes basks in more than 300 days of sunshine a year, with temperatures exceeding 40˚C between July and August. September to October and April to mid-June are warm without being too hot, whilst winters are cooler (60-70˚C). Windsurfers will enjoy Rhodes best in mid-summer when the winds are strongest. The most popular times to visit Rhodes are April to September. Avoid the peak season (July-August) if you prefer milder temperatures and cheaper flights.

How to get there?
Direct flights to Rhodes are available from all major UK and European airports. Rhodes International Airport (Diagoras - RHO) is 13km to the southwest of Rhodes and it’s connected to the city by buses and taxis. You can also travel by ferry from Piraeus which takes around 16 hours. The best way to get around the walled city of Rhodes is on foot. Taxis, cars, motorcycles and mopeds can be hired for trips outside the city.

Must see
For a strong sense of history, take a stroll down the imposing Knights’ Street which runs 200m between the Catholic Cathedral and the Palace of the Grand Master. Or visit the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes to see collections and sculptures from the Classical, Hellenistic and Roman eras. Faliraki beach is probably the best beach for almost guaranteed sun, and, if you get the chance, take a trip inland to the restaurants and cafés in the charming village of Kalithies.