Discover Rhodes: Culture, Nature and Water Sports
Accommodation in Rhodes
Rhodes can be explored through a wide variety of experiences: the medieval city of Rhodes represents UNESCO World Heritage and Gothic architecture, while archaeological sites, a butterfly valley and activities on the water offer other highlights. When looking for a holiday apartment, it is worth first considering which of these sides you want to shape your stay.
Medieval city and archaeological collections
The medieval city of Rhodes lies within 4 km of city walls and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Street of the Knights is one of the most remarkable examples of Gothic urban architecture. Those interested in architecture and historic urban spaces will find two distinctive points of interest here: the walled medieval city and a street known for its Gothic architecture.
The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is housed in the medieval building that was used as the Hospital of the Knights and is also known as the Knights Hospitaller. Its main exhibition includes finds from Ialissos and Kamiros. The renovated historic courtyard displays mosaic floors from Hellenistic villas. The museum thus brings together artifacts from two named sites and mosaics from villas, each adding its own focus to the archaeological collection.
Archaeology and nature trails
The Acropolis of Rhodes preserves important antiquities in an archaeological park that is suitable for archaeological and ecological walks. Visitors can also see the restored ancient Stadium of Diagoras there. Those wishing to combine archaeological remains with a walk will find both in this park.
In the Valley of the Butterflies, the route is 1,300 metres long and ends at the Holy Monastery of Panagia Kalopetra. In summer, from early June to mid-September, thousands of Panaxia quadripunctaria butterflies live in the valley. The route’s length and endpoint provide clear guidance, while the butterflies shape the nature experience during this period.
The area around the route Salakos – Monastery of Prophet Elias also has a special protected status: it is a wildlife refuge and is protected by Natura 2000. Another route leads to the Acropolis of Ialysos and the Monastery of Our Lady of Filerimos. The final 500 metres of the way can only be covered on foot and lead to these two places.
Water, coast and regional speciality
Lindos lies on the southeast coast of Rhodes. At Lindos Beach, a guidance system in the sea and along the shore is available for visitors with visual impairments. Prasonisi on Rhodes is suitable for windsurfing and kitesurfing; dive boats depart daily from Mandraki Harbour. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea near Kallithea Springs. This gives travellers a choice of different water activities alongside a specific guidance aid at the beach.
Regional flavours include Melekouni (μελεκούνι), a traditional sweet from Rhodes. It is made with honey, sesame, almonds, grated orange or bergamot zest, and spices. These ingredients make the sweet a distinctive culinary discovery alongside the archaeological and natural experiences.
More places to help you find your way
For further orientation, here are the places mentioned on this page: Afántou, Lárdos, Faliraki, Kiotari, Kalathos, Pastida, Koskinou, Symi, Lakhaniá, Paradisi, Kallithea, Petaloudes, Rhodes, Trianda, Archángelos, Kremastí, Tilos, Haraki, Halki, Kastellorizon, Soroni, Fanes, Vati, Siana, Gennadi, Monolithos, Theologos, Kritinia, Emponas, Pefki, Stegna, Kolympia, Plimmiri, Notia Rodos, Apolakkia, Kalavarda, Sgourou, Kattavia, Profilia and Rhodes.
For the broader travel overview: South Aegean.
