About Rhodes


Rhodes (Rodos in Greek) is the fourth largest Greek island and chief island of the Dodecanese, located in the eastern Aegean Sea in the Mediterranean, at the crossroads of two continents. The island represents one of the most alluring destinations of the Mediterranean, possessing natural beauty, fantastic climate and combining the worldiness of Europe with the mystery of the Orient. The island has a population of around 104 000 and administratively it forms a separate municipality within the Rhodes regional unit, which is part of the South Aegean region. The principal town of the island and seat of the municipality is the city of Rhodes. The city has a population of around 50 000 and is one of the important cities in Greece. Further, the island is the best connected Greek island with numerous flight and ferry options offered to visitors. Hence, it is not surprising that Rhodes is the most popular conference destination of Greece.


Once in the city of Rhodes, a visitor would be amazed at the diversity of attractions around: (i) Less than 3 km away is the Upper Acropolis of Ancient Rhodes, where are several important ancient monuments, including the temple of Pythian Appolo, the Theater, and the Stadium, all dating back to 2nd century B.C. (ii) Just in the city is the Medieval Town - there (inside the walls) live approximately 6000 residents who are lucky to enjoy the spirit of Rhodes' unique history, reflected not only in the ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Chora but also in all monuments featuring different periods in the island's history, including the Byzantine period, the Roman period, the six centuries of the Knights of St. John, the Turkish occupation, the Italian liberation, the British presence, and so on. (iii) Next to the Medieval Town is Mandraki, the harbor of ancient Rhodes beyond which is the New Town, dominated by Kyprou Square, where are to be found some of the finest boutiques in Rhodes, jewellery stores, fabric shops, modern restaurants/cafes and nearly all the banks. (iv) At the same time, visitors may also enjoy some beautiful beaches around, including the two small beaches in the city and the 5 km of golden sand and crystal-clear waters of Faliraki which is less than 15 km away. Hence, the beautiful city of Rhodes is the ideal starting point in exploring this "Paradise Island" which is also known as the Emerald isle, the Isle of Dreams, the Isle of Roses, and which is associated with myths and legends.


According to the myth: Rhode, the Goddess of the island of Rhodes, is praised as the sea maid, daughter of Aphrodite, bride of Helios - the Sun God and it was Helios who has witnessed the emergence of Rhodes, opening like a flower from the watery depths, and this island, called The Island of the Sun, was made by Helios the loveliest island in the Aegean Sea. Kerkafos was one of the sons of Helios and Rhode, having himself three children - Kameiros, Lalyssos, and Lindos who built the three largest towns on the island. Lindos is well-preserved today, as one of the main attractions of the island, staying less than 50 km away from the city of Rhodes.


Visiting the Upper Acropolis, walking along the Knights street in the Medieval Town, having lunch close to the Church of Our Lady of Chora, being at the harbor of ancient Rhodes, close to where the Colossus was standing, shopping in the unique boutiques of the New Town, exploring the Palace of the Grand Masters, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Faliraki, tasting the well-known local wines - all this inspires, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories and wishes to visit again this beautiful Greek island!


There are very many flights to Rhodes and it would not be difficult finding good options for flights from most of the big cities around the Globe. The city of Rhodes is less than 15 km away from Rhodes International Airport, with reliable bus and taxi services - the bus service would cost around 2 EURO one way while a taxi to the city would be between 15 and 20 EURO. Greece is not only part of the European Union but it is in the Schengen Area and it is an Eurozone country. This means that visitors to Rhodes should arrange their visits according to the Schengen rules and they will be using EURO on the island.