Rhodes Travel Guide

For the Sydney suburb, see Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park Rhodes (Greek: Ρόδος, Ródos) is one of the largest and most fertile of the Greek Islands, and is one of the most visited because of its combination of beaches, archaeological sites, and extensive medieval town. The climate is particularly good, with the weather typically sunny and mild. The island is usually counted as one of the Dodecanese, but due to its importance for travelers is considered separately here. The rock-rose is so prolific here that it has been named the 'Island of Roses,' though modern scholars doubt the ancient theory that the island's name comes from the Greek word for rose. While the northern coast is renowned for its lively tourist resorts the south offers tranquil beaches and a slower, more simple pace of life.

Rhodes is accessible via ferry fromSymi,Tilos, andBodrum,Fethiye,DatcaandMarmarisinTurkey.

Allpublic bus lines[dead link]radiate from Rhodes town and reach almost every relevant place throughout the island. Buses along the north-west coast (including airport) are operated by BODA, white-orange buses on the east coast are operated by KTEL.

Rhodes is generally, quite safe, however vigilance is required inFaliraki, infamous for thelewd behaviorof young, drunk, mainly British partiers attracted to the cheap alcohol and large numbers of small nightclubs. Astring of crimescommitted by these young tourists against locals, as well as against other tourists, gained national attention in the summer of 2003; they ranged from vandalism to serious acts of violence. Following this the local Police increased their presence to successfully cra

See individualtownsfor more accommodation options. For budget travellers, there is no longer a campground on the island but there is a youth hostel inRhodes Old Town.