Why Choose Rhodes?

It's super close to Turkey.

After our ten day stint along the coast of Turkey we had a few spare days to jump across to Greece. Only a 90 minute ferry ride from Fethiye, the island of Rhodes became the obvious choice for us.     

You can stay in the oldest inhabited medieval town in Europe.

Heeding the invaluable advice from friends, we chose to stay in the Old Town. With its narrow cobblestone streets surrounded by medieval castle walls, I wouldn't recommend staying anywhere else on the island. Our simple family run hostel was only a ten minute walk from the port and the perfect place to base ourselves. The Old Town can prove to be a bit more expensive but the location and traditional aesthetic make it worth it. Over the summer places book out early so look well in advance to secure yourself the best deal.

Greek food, obviously!

Get up early to wander the streets minus the heavy foot traffic. Always choose to stray away from the main paths. By venturing only a few minutes from the gaudy Westernised restaurants in the main square you will find yourself in back alley utopia. Our favourite places can be found in the North Eastern Corner of the town.

Try Todo Bien for the best coffees. This hipster Cuban cafe turns into a bar in the evenings. Order the freddo cappuccino without sugar. It is the perfect way to cool down in the sweltering summer heat.

Our top pick for a meal is Ta Kardasia. Sit upstairs in the beautiful rooftop garden to enjoy the views and chill Greek music. The homemade food is divine, vegetarian friendly and they will ply you with wonderful service and free Halva. Make sure to ask the staff for their local recommendations.

If fresh bread tickles your fancy, the local bakery Fournariko is open around the clock. Grab a piece of spinach and cheese pie when it has just come out of the oven.

Theres plenty to explore.

Rhodes is much larger than the other islands we've visited, meaning that you have to travel a fair way to get to the best parts. I recommend hiring a car if you are spending more than three days here or don't plan to stay in the old town.
When it was time to venture out to the beaches, we simply walked to Rhodes town and caught the bus. Whilst they aren't the cheapest (a return ticket to Lindos will set you back 11Euro per person) they are a comfortable choice with air conditioning and relaxing music.

Lindos

A beautiful sandy beach, it is very popular with families. The town itself looks like a mini Oia and is home to its own castle. Be aware that the sand has a high content of iron making it super hot if you plan to place your towels on the sand.

Faliraki

To anyone familiar with the East Coast of Australia, Faliraki is the Gold Coast of the island. Unless the party backpacker vibe is your thing you can strike it off your list and avoid the place altogether.

Ladiko / Anthony Quinn Bay

These bays are just gorgeous and only 40 minutes from the main town. Purchase a parasol for 10euro. You can use your receipt at all three of the beaches in the area for the day. You really can't go past Anthony Quinn for swimming. Walk further along the beach where it isn't so crowded and choose a parasol on the waters edge so you can dip straight in when it gets too hot. If you are plastic conscious like us make sure to bring your own large water as the canteen only sells 500ml bottles. Be aware that the direct bus service is very infrequent and finishes early in the day. We missed the last one and found ourselves hitching to Faliraki with some french travellers to catch another service.

What are your favourite Greek Islands?