21/06/2021
Rhodes, the largest island in the Dodecanese, is one of the most visited islands in the archipelago and also one of the most popular with families. Ideally located between the Mediterranean and the Aegean, the island offers a warm and sunny climate on the east coast while enjoying the cooler winds on the west coast. With its traditional villages, exceptional archaeological sites and wild nature, Rhodes is the ideal destination to discover an authentic and welcoming Greece with your family. So, are you ready to follow Little Guest to discover the island that was once home to the famous Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the world?
Located in south-eastern Greece, in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Rhodes is a perfect destination for families. Both an open-air museum and a terrestrial Eden, the island is home to picturesque towns, numerous beaches and bays, each more heavenly than the last, and real archaeological treasures. Whether you’re a fan of relaxation, culture or hiking, the largest of the Dodecanese islands will delight you. The following six must-see places are just a few examples!
The old town of Rhodes
Surrounded by high walls built in the time of the Knights of Rhodes, the medieval town of Rhodes has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. Considered the largest and best-preserved walled city in Europe, it is a Byzantine city that is entirely pedestrianised.
It is therefore on foot that you can admire the singular but successful marriage of the different architectural styles present in the city, true witnesses of its history. The pleasant cobbled streets, the Gothic influence of the towers of the upper town, the Ottoman style of the lower town, the extraordinary churches (notably Agia Triada and Agia Aikaterini) and, of course, the Palace of the Grand Masters, will delight young and old alike, who will have the impression of returning to the Middle Ages.
Tsambika beach and monastery
The beach of Tsambika is the ideal stopover on the road that connects the city of Rhodes to the magnificent village of Lindos. It would be a shame to miss one of the jewels of the eastern coast of the island! With its fine sand (quite rare on Rhodes) and warm, translucent waters, this beach is the ideal place for a refreshing swim or a hike in the Panagia Tsampika Psili Dimou Archagkelou park.
To enjoy the breathtaking view, simply climb the 350 steps of the staircase carved into the hillside that starts at the beach. At the top, you’ll find the Tsambika Monastery, a cute Byzantine church, and a breathtaking view of the coastline – including the beaches of Kolymbia and Tsambika – and even Lindos on the horizon.
The village of Lindos
After a diversion to Tsambika, there is nothing better than to discover the incredible village of Lindos. Located 55 km from Rhodes town, this village is a must-see! Recognisable by its traditional white houses and its impressive Acropolis perched on a hill, it retains the charm and authenticity of ancient Greece.
Lose yourself in the pedestrianised town centre of Lindos, admire the splendid view of St Paul’s Bay, but above all, visit the Acropolis – perched 117 metres high – and the incredible temple of Athena, two extraordinary archaeological sites that will take you back to the heart of ancient Greece.
Pefkos beach
What beach could rival Tsambika if not Pefkos? Nestled on the Mediterranean Sea, a few kilometres south of Lindos, this beach is a real treasure! Much quieter than its counterparts, it is located near an old fishing village.
With its clear, shallow waters, this beach is ideal for children to play and swim safely just a few steps away from you! For a day at the beach or a relaxing break between cultural visits, sit back and enjoy the many water activities nearby before taking a stroll through the old town of Pefkos.
Kamiros
Head to the northwest of the island now, to discover the archaeological site of Kamiros. The site is home to numerous remains of temples dating from antiquity spread over three levels. As well as being vast, Kamiros is home to some beautiful and well-preserved ruins, which is great fun for the whole family, especially if you are a fan of Greek mythology.
This archaeological site will immerse you in the daily life of a prosperous ancient Greek city. Founded by the Dorians, occupied by the Persians, then by Athens and the League of Delos, Kamiros is full of historical treasures and fascinating anecdotes about the culture of Rhodes. So don’t hesitate, put on a nice hat (there is very little shade on the site and the sun is shining hard) and go and discover a piece of history!
Symi island
It’s time to cast off and head for Symi, a charming island just an hour’s boat ride from Rhodes town! With its colourful houses on the mountainside, beautiful beaches, magnificent forests and numerous picturesque monasteries, the island is the perfect place to end your stay in Rhodes. Stay for at least one night to enjoy the peace and quiet after the tourists have left Rhodes for the day.
There are many other possibilities for excursions around Rhodes, as it would be a shame not to take advantage of its magnificent coastline! Don’t hesitate to take a boat trip around the island, sail to the Turkish border or discover the other islands of the Dodecanese, the children will love to be little pirates!
Is Rhodes a suitable destination for children?
The verdict is clear… the island of Rhodes is the kid-friendly destination par excellence! If the mercury can quickly rise (don’t forget that we are in the middle of the Mediterranean), the temperature will be the only constraint during your stay. Indeed, delinquency is almost non-existent on the island and the inhabitants are very welcoming; you can therefore leave with peace of mind!
Why is the island a kid-friendly destination? As you may have noticed, Rhodes is full of architectural treasures and traditional villages, but it is also rich in lush and varied nature (sandy and pebble beaches, green forests, hills and mountains). This exceptional environment is therefore perfect for families as it lends itself as much to beautiful walks or water activities as to cultural discoveries and lazy days. Whether they are sports enthusiasts, history buffs or foodies, your children will be delighted!
How to get to Rhodes?
It is very easy to get to Rhodes from Paris, Brussels and other European capitals. The major European airlines offer direct flights or flights with a stopover. The average flight time is between 3 and 4 hours. It is also possible to reach the island by boat from the main Mediterranean ports. Once on the island, the Rhodes – Diagoras International Airport is located 22 kilometres from the centre of Rhodes, making it very easy to get to.
How to get around once you’re here?
Rhodes is 85 km long and 35 km wide, with a vast network of roads, and buses are clearly the best way to get around the island. Many local buses (including KTEL and RODA) run throughout the day and stops are clearly marked! For even greater freedom, the best solution is obviously to drive your own car. To visit Rhodes at your own pace, you can easily rent a car, scooter or bicycle. The secret coves and intimate corners of paradise are yours for the taking!
Sheraton Rhodes Resort *****
The Sheraton Rhodes Resort *****, a Greek jewel from the famous brand collection, boasts with maintaining a tradition of high-end welcome in a sun, beach and relax setting. Located in the North of the island, the Sheraton combines its expertise of luxury with a verdant and laid back ambiance, enhanced by the huge outdoor pool at its heart. The hotel is suitable for all kind of travelers, from the farniente lovers to historical sites enthusiasts. May it be to chill on the beach with the sound of the waves on the background or to explore the remnants of a several-thousands-of-year-old island, there will always be a Mediterranean flavour in the air.
And for a memorable stay for the whole family, kids-club (from 4 to 11 years old) and babysitting are provided by the hotel. Children will find numerous dedicated activities and enjoy an endless fun time at the hotel’s beach, pool and playing area.
Gennadi Grand Resort *****
Peace and quiet, lush vegetation and a panoramic view of the Aegean Sea: the incredible Gennadi Grand Resort ***** is the 5-star spot to put your bags for your next family holiday. Located in the south-east of Rhodes, in the charming village of Gennadi, you will discover this splendid, high-end hotel that combines clean design and ecology.
Your children will be delighted by the incredible free kids-club, open every day in high season. There are plenty of toys and books available in perfectly designed play areas to make sure your children enjoy their holiday in the happiest of ways. They also have their own swimming pool and access to a small playgroundwith a slide and games.
Grecotel Lux Me Dama Dama ****
Superbly overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Grecotel Lux Me Dama Dama **** invites you in its breath-taking settings to enjoy fun activites for adults and children. Besides cultural tours to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Rhodes and a mesmerizing seafront, the Grecotel offers quality experience to its guest for the most memorable stay.
Everyone will marvel in this state-of-the-art resort, especially your children! A kids-club (from 4 to 12 years old) and a teen-club (from 13 years old), both free, have what it takes to keep them busy all day long: games, crafting, sporting and nautic activities are available to fully entertain them. A babysitting service is also offered by the hotel to the parents who would like to enjoy some dating time in the beauty of Rhodes. In any case, don’t forget to relax at the Mediterranean-blue-waters magnified beach and in the top-range spa with its variety of pampering cares.
Little Guest wishes you a wonderful holiday in Rhodes!
Guillaume, 27 years old, travel enthusiast from Paris
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