Kos and Rhodes experience – a journey through the history, sea, and legends of the Dodecanese

On a runway that seems to dive directly into the sea Kos appears like a mosaic of blue, green, and ochre. A journey that offers more than just a picture perfect vacation, but a true immersion in the roots, traditions, and secrets of two islands that, despite belonging to the same archipelago, have completely different personalities: Kos and Rhodes.

The Dodecanese is a Greek archipelago that plays with geography stretching toward Turkey, it basks in the sun year round, and blends ancient stories of crusading knights, Venetian merchants, Byzantine emperors, and Ottoman navigators. It’s the Mediterranean squared blinding sun, light Meltemi winds, and the scent of wild oregano.

Best time: Summer – Autumn

Trip duration: at least 10 days

Cost: from €1,000 per person

Kos: the birthplace of Hippocrates and thermal waters

Kos is not large, but its geography invites exploration. To the north, the coast is low and sandy, to the south cliffs and secret coves alternate, while in the center stands Mount Dikeos (846 m), the silent guardian of breathtaking sunsets. The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers a paradise for those who love the outdoors. Politically, its location just 4 km from the Turkish coast has always made Kos a sentinel in the Aegean Sea over the centuries, whoever controlled this island held a strategic part of the trade routes.

The name of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, who was born here in 460 BC, still lives on in Kos. It is said that under the great plane tree in the center of Kos Town, he taught his students the art of healing. But the history of Kos is more intricately interwoven from the Dorians to the Romans, from the Byzantines to the Knights of St. John, up to the Venetians and the Ottomans. Italy has also left profound traces buildings, roads, bridges, the result of the occupation that began in 1912.

Main and hidden beaches

• Paradise Beach: a well deserved name, with fine sand and turquoise waters, overlooking nearby Nisyros.
• Tigaki: long and golden, perfect for walks and sunsets.
• Kefalos: a village and beach that seem suspended in time.
• For those who love solitude, small coves like Limnionas or Agios Stefanos offer silence broken only by the waves.

Quaint villages where you can be enchanted by the views

• Zia: nestled among the Dikeos forests, it offers the most romantic view on the island.
• Antimachia: with its ruined Venetian castle and ancient mill, it becomes a small folklore museum.
• Pyli: fresh springs and stone houses.

Rhodes: The island of the sun and knights

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese and a world unto itself. Its capital, with its perfectly preserved medieval walls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The south is wilder, the north more populated, while the interior boasts agricultural villages and pine forests. According to myth, the island was born from the love between the sun god Helios and the nymph Rhodes. Its history is dotted with legendary moments: from the classical era with the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, to the rule of the Knights of St. John, who transformed it into an impregnable fortress. The Ottomans and then the Italians made it a strategic point in the Mediterranean.

Each village has its own patron saint and celebrates them with processions, music, and banquets. The Rhodes Carnival colors the city with masks and floats, while in September the Medieval Festival transforms the old town into a film set.

What to do and see in Rhodes

• Stroll through the Old Town of Rhodes: the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of cobbled alleys, medieval walls, and Knights’ Palaces. Walking through its narrow streets is like taking a journey through history, culture, and unforgettable picturesque views.
• Visit the Palace of the Grand Masters: located in the upper part of the Old Town, this imposing palace is a symbol of the era of the Knights of St. John. Inside, you can admire mosaics, historic rooms, and panoramic terraces with spectacular views of the city.
• Walking along the Street of the Knights: this perfectly preserved street is one of the most evocative in Europe. Once the home of the Knights, today it exudes a magical atmosphere, with Gothic buildings, stone arches, and a silence that speaks of centuries of history.
• Explore Lindos and its Acropolis: Lindos is a whitewashed village perched on the sea, dominated by a spectacular Acropolis overlooking the bay. With its picturesque alleys, traditional taverns, and ancient ruins, it’s one of Rhodes’ most charming destinations.
• Swim in St. Paul’s Bay: next to Lindos lies this enchanting bay, boasting turquoise waters, golden sand, and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying one of the most beautiful sea views on the entire island.
• Climb Mount Filerimos: Mount Filerimos offers spectacular views of the island and is home to a Byzantine monastery nestled in lush greenery. Climbing to the large panoramic cross is a captivating experience, immersed in nature, silence, and spirituality.
• Relax on Tsambika Beach: Tsambika is one of Rhodes’ most famous beaches long, sandy, and lapped by crystal clear waters. Perfect for families and couples, it offers shallow waters, well organized beach clubs, and spectacular views.
• Visit the Valley of the Butterflies: a magical, verdant place, ideal for nature lovers. In summer, thousands of butterflies fill this shaded valley. Strolling across bridges and streams is a relaxing and unique experience.
• Explore Ancient Kamiros: Kamiros is one of the island’s most important archaeological sites a perfectly preserved Doric city. Strolling among columns and ruins overlooking the sea allows you to immerse yourself in the history of ancient Greece.
• Discover the village of Embonas: Embonas is famous for its wines and its living traditions. Strolling among wineries, taverns, and artisan shops offers an authentic experience, far from the more touristy areas of the island.
• Take a trip to Prasonisi: Prasonisi is a spectacular stretch of sand where two seas meet: the Aegean and the Mediterranean. A paradise for surfers and nature lovers, it offers a unique landscape and a wild atmosphere.
• Visit the Tsambika Monastery: perched on a hill, the Tsambika Monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coast. Climbing the steps to the top is a spiritual and evocative experience, perfect at sunset.
• Watch the sunset at Monolithos: Monolithos Castle dominates the western coast. From here, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets in Rhodes, the sun sets over the Aegean illuminating the ruins and creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
• Sail to Symi: one of the most popular excursions is a boat trip to Symi, a nearby island with pastel colored neoclassical houses and a picturesque harbor. Perfect for those seeking a day of relaxation and authentic beauty.
• Experience the nightlife of Faliraki: Faliraki is the heart of Rhodes’ nightlife bars, clubs, music, and lively beaches. Ideal for those looking to have fun after sunset, combining sea, cocktails, and a party atmosphere.

Alternative experiences

• Horseback riding along Theologos Beach at sunset.
• Taste rare wines at a mountain winery.
• A night hike in the Valley of the Butterflies, where thousands of glowing insects create a magical atmosphere.

Without a doubt, an interesting and historic itinerary, two islands that are practically an open air museum, and wherever you turn, you’ll find a piece that tells the story of humankind. Perfect for a family, a couple, or even a group of friends, both Kos and Rhodes offer every kind of experience.

What are you waiting for? Email us at info@meraviglioseisolegreche.com with your dates and we’ll organize everything for you; all you’ll have to worry about is what to pack.