Rhodes Old Town is a living testament to the rich history and culture of the Greek island of Rhodes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by medieval walls and adorned with cobblestone streets, is a must-visit for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the island’s past. Navigating through its narrow alleys and hidden corners can be an overwhelming experience for first-timers, but fear not – this insider’s travel guide will help you discover all the best spots in Rhodes Old Town.
First things first, let’s talk about getting there. If you’re arriving on the island by ferry or cruise ship, you’ll be dropped off at Mandraki Harbor which is right outside the walls of Rhodes Old Town. From there, you can easily enter through one of its eleven gates. Alternatively, if you’re staying in one of the nearby resorts or towns like Faliraki or Lindos, then taking a taxi or bus to Rhodes Old Town would be your best bet.
Once inside the old town walls, get ready to step back in time as every corner holds a piece of history waiting to be explored. The maze-like layout may seem confusing at first but don’t fret – it adds to its charm! One link useful tip is to follow the signs that lead towards Grand Master’s Palace (also known as Palazzo del Gran Maestro) – it serves as an excellent starting point for your exploration.
As you make your way through cobblestone streets lined with souvenir shops and restaurants serving traditional Greek cuisine such as moussaka and souvlaki (don’t miss out on these!), keep an eye out for landmarks like medieval towers and churches which serve as great photo opportunities.
One must-see attraction within Rhodes Old Town is Street of Knights (Ippoton) where knights from different countries used to reside during their time on Rhodes Island during medieval times. Admire their grandiose buildings and marvel at their coats of arms – quite a sight to behold.
The Palace of the Grand Master is another must-visit within Rhodes Old Town. Originally built as a Byzantine fortress, it was later renovated into an opulent palace by the Knights of St. John. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing medieval artifacts and offers stunning views of the old town from its balconies.
For those interested in learning more about Rhodes’ history and culture, Museum Square is where you’ll find various museums like Archaeological Museum and Folklore Museum. Here you can discover everything from ancient sculptures to traditional dress and learn about the island’s fascinating past.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite from all that walking (and probably taking hundreds of pictures), head towards Sokratous street – a bustling pedestrian shopping street filled with coffee shops and tavernas offering delicious Greek mezes (small dishes) that pair perfectly with ouzo or local wine.
Whether you’re looking to step back in time, indulge in mouth-watering cuisine, or simply bask in the charm of this medieval gem – there’s something for everyone in Rhodes Old Town. Navigate through its streets with this insider’s guide in hand, and let yourself be swept away by history.