Rhodes - Reviews and Recommendations

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First, let me explain how the name is pronounced (this was new to me).   The name Rhodes in Greek pronounces the soft e (rhod-es kind of like princess).  Who knew, right?  Anyway, this fun and quirky island is only about 20 miles from Turkey.  It is so close to Turkey that my cellular provider sent me a “welcome to Turkey!” text message.  I found that rather humorous but I am easily amused that way.

 

We had the privilege of docking just outside the old city walls.  The remarkable part of this particular old town is that it is still located within its protective walls.  It is amazing to see from the water and even more fun to explore.  The original old castle is still there and can also be explored.  Many of the original turrets and towers are still there and it is said that the movie “Troy” used this walled city as a template for the movie set.  If this is true, I can completely see why.  Walking around the old town will not take a lot of time and can be easily reached by the cruise port terminals.  A tour is not necessary to enjoy all this old town has to offer.  Of course, a tour would enhance your visit as always.

 

Lindos.  Many locations throughout Europe and especially the Mediterranean have acropolises.  None of them are as well known as the one in Athens but they are there.  Lindos is the sight of one of these.  I have yet to find a tour that will do more than drive you out to Lindos.  We opted to rent a car right at the cruise port and we used our best friend Google Maps and drove out to Lindos on our own.  The very helpful and friendly rental agent also provided us with a map and simple instructions.  At times it was a bit harrowing and confusing, but we managed nicely and even found a parking place that was somewhat close to the old town at the base.

 

From there, you are on your own to climb up to the top and explore.  The fun part is walking through the maze of streets of the old town to get to the path that leads you to the top.  I think we made at least three wrong turns before we discovered the very helpful signs that pointed the way.  Be warned, there is a fee to visit the Acropolis at Lindos and unfortunately, it isn’t until you are almost to the top before you can purchase your ticket.  There are mules available to take you up to the ticket booth but you are on your own to get the rest of the way up.  I would caution against using the mules.  If you are an animal lover, I would suggest you use your own power to get up.  I made it to the top unassisted.  It was a little tougher than the Acropolis in Athens but not by much.

 

Once on the top, the views are spectacular and there is a pamphlet to help you understand what you are seeing and it's importance.  Be sure to allow plenty of time to fully explore.  There is a lot to see and most of it is pretty interesting.  If history doesn’t interest you, the views from the top will and then you can race to the bottom again and go shopping in the twisty-turny maze of streets of the old town or put on your swimsuit and head for the beach!  Any of these are a great option!

Planning a trip to Greece?  Why not include Rhodes in your itinerary!  Better yet, contact us, your Rhodes and Greece experts to help you put your dream trip together!