Sun Beach Resort, Rhodes - All Inclusive - 15 Days

We take a trip into pretty Rhodes Town, with a rich history that stretches back to 408BC and dominated by a sun-weathered, centuries-old castle. Our tour includes a stroll through the spectacular UNESCO-listed Old Town, where mosaics of different influences are on display within the double ring of ancient city walls, resulting in a tangle of storied lanes dotted with relics of the Classical, Ottoman and Italian eras. Along the way, we learn about tales of the island’s past such as the siege of Suleiman the Magnificent and the knights of Saint John, a religious and military order who once played a crucial role on Rhodes. We also spend some time at the vibrant bazaar and take a drive through the delightful Mandraki Harbour, surrounded by early 1900 buildings, a medieval tower and three famous windmills.

The western coast of the island beckons on this excursion, starting with charming Filerimos, home to a pride of stunning peacocks and a peaceful monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This significant archaeological site was built by the Knights of Saint John, laid upon the ruins of the historic Acropolis of Ialyssos and the Temple of Athena. There is the option to walk along a scenic path, flanked by the Italian Stations of the Cross, which leads us to the top of Filerimos Mountain and the giant Cross awaiting there, standing proudly over the Aegean.

We continue to the crumbling city of Kamiros, founded in the 10th century BC but only unearthed in 1914 by Italian archaeologists, and beautifully set against the sparkling sea. There are three remarkable sections to explore, the market square, residential area with dwellings and bathing complexes plus the acropolis at the highest point of the city, providing a fascinating insight into how the ancient Greeks once lived! Afterwards, we head to the nearby beach for lunch (not included) and a chance to relax on the sunbeds or paddle in the clear waters.

On this full-day trip we venture into the heart of the island to learn more about traditional Greek life, meandering through verdant forests and pretty mountains to three quaint villages and two striking places of natural beauty. Highlights include a 15th-century Byzantine chapel and the Folklore Museum of Apollonia, home to traditional local costumes, agricultural tools, household items, weapons, newspaper archives, pottery, embroidery and other symbols of local heritage. We also learn the secrets of Greek philosophy, become familiar with original Greek humour and have the opportunity to taste some authentic wine and delicious food.

We embark on a panoramic tour of Rhodes, taking in picture-perfect scenery on the way to the ancient spa centre of Kalithea. It’s no surprise that this area is popular with location scouts, with the comedic Escape to Athena and Agatha Christie’s Triangle at Rhodes being partly filmed here. The island was also the setting for one of Hollywood’s greatest war films, The Guns of Navarone!

Next, we make our way to the ancient acropolis of Rhodes, where we learn all about the festivals and games of the ancient world. Dating back to the 5th century BC and constructed on steep terraces, it features the imposing Temple of Apollo, the marble Odeon, the longest ancient stadium and the ruined gymnasium amongst other spots here.

The stunning island of lesser-known Symi awaits. The harbour here is arguably the prettiest in the Aegean, where colourful villas and striking architecture meets crystal clear waters and forms the capital of the island, Yialos. As well as plenty of time here, the full-day trip also includes a visit to the 18th-century Monastery of Archaengel Michael (the island’s patron saint and the Dodecanese guardian of sailors) in the pretty village of Panormitis.

This evening excursion features a one-hour guided walking tour through the residential part of medieval Rhodes. We take in picturesque locations, Byzantine alleyways, the Jewish quarter and impressive medieval and Ottoman architecture, discovering the authentic way of living amongst these neighbourhoods along the way. Afterwards, dinner is included in an atmospheric taverna with live acoustic music as we dine under the stars.

Take a trip to the charming village of Lindos, one of the real treasures of the island and indeed Greece as a whole. Here, an ancient Acropolis dating back to the 6th century BC perches atop a picturesque hill, standing proudly over the traditional white-washed houses stacked like sugar cubes and the sparkling turquoise waters below. The village itself is a lovely place for a leisurely wander to discover local life, with cobbled streets dotted with little shops selling honey, olives and lace. Another pretty spot is St Paul’ Bay, which offers a unique vantage point to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding harbours and coastline.

Please note: a visit to the acropolis itself is not included due to the lack of protective railbars and 303 slippery steps. You may choose to visit and pay the entrance fee under your own responsibility.