Exploring the Enchanting Island of Rhodes with Friends

First Impressions of Rhodes: A Journey Back in Time

After a long journey from Toronto, with a layover in Athens, I finally arrived in Rhodes! The anticipation had been building for months, and stepping onto this historic island felt like entering another world. The air was warm, carrying the scent of the sea and blooming flowers – a welcome change from the lingering chill of Toronto's spring. I'm here with my friends, and we're all eager to explore everything Rhodes has to offer. Today, our adventure begins in the heart of it all: the Medieval City of Rhodes.


Explore the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history, stunning architecture, and vibrant local culture.

My friends and I started our day with a delightful breakfast at Koukos Rhodian Guesthouse. This adults-only guesthouse is located right in the heart of the town. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming and the rooms were very clean. Breakfast was a treat, with so many fresh and tasty options. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Koukos Rhodian Guesthouse – a unique blend of restaurant, bakery, bar, and hotel experience in the heart of Rhodes.

To walk through the Medieval City of Rhodes is to walk through history itself, a living museum where every stone has a story to tell.

As we stepped out of the guesthouse, the Medieval City unfolded before us in all its glory. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The towering walls, the cobblestone streets, and the imposing architecture transported us back centuries. The city was constructed between 1309 and 1523, and it feels like time has stood still here.

Exploring the Medieval City of Rhodes

The Medieval City is divided into two main parts: the high town (Collachium) and the lower town (Burgh or Hora). The high town was once home to the Knights, while the lower town was where the commoners lived. As we wandered through the streets, we admired the architecture, a blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Italian influences. The arches are particularly striking; I learned they help support the walls, which is crucial in an area prone to earthquakes.

One of the first things that struck me was the sheer size of the walls. They stretch for 4 kilometers, encircling the city and offering a sense of protection and grandeur. There are several gates leading into the city, each with its own unique charm.

As a marketing coordinator, I'm always fascinated by how places preserve their history and present it to the world. The Medieval City of Rhodes does an exceptional job. Every corner turned revealed a new perspective, a new detail to admire. I made sure to have my camera ready, wanting to capture every moment.

A Royal Visit: The Palace of the Grand Master

Our next stop was the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. This imposing structure is one of the most significant monuments in the city. Originally built in the late 7th century, it was transformed into a grand palace in the early 14th century. The palace served as the seat and residence of the Grand Master, who ruled Rhodes until the arrival of the Ottomans in 1522.


Explore the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a magnificent historical landmark that showcases the island's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.

The palace is designed as a fortress within a castle, acting as a defense at the highest point of the city. As we toured the halls, we were struck by the mosaics, frescoes, and period furniture. The reception rooms and knights' quarters were particularly impressive, all beautifully restored in the 1930s. The palace also houses a museum with collections of artifacts, weapons, and works of art, offering valuable insights into the city's history from its founding in 408 BC to its conquest by the Ottomans in 1522.

The weather in Rhodes in April is mild, with average high temperatures around 20°C (68°F). It was perfect for walking around and exploring, though I did make a note to myself to buy that light jacket I forgot to pack, as the evenings can get a bit cooler.

Lunch at Mama Sofia: A Taste of Authentic Greece

After a morning of exploring, we were ready for lunch. We chose Mama Sofia, a restaurant in the heart of the Medieval Old Town. It was recommended to us as a place to experience authentic Greek atmosphere and fresh, homemade food. The restaurant is family-run, dating back to 1967, and has a great reputation across the island.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Mama Sofia in Rhodes' Old Town; where tradition meets culinary excellence.

The staff were friendly and welcoming, and the service was fantastic. I decided to try the stuffed squid, and it was absolutely delicious! My friends enjoyed their meals as well, and we all agreed that Mama Sofia was a great choice.

Evening Delights at The Union Cocktail Bar

As the sun began to set, we decided to check out The Union cocktail bar for a pre-dinner drink. The bar is located in a cool, urban setting with an industrial design. They offer a wide selection of cocktails, and the atmosphere was perfect for relaxing after a busy day.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Union Cocktail Bar in Rhodes, where innovative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

Dinner at Kerasma: A Culinary Experience

For dinner, we chose Kerasma, a restaurant housed in one of the old mansions of Rhodes. It's known for its Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, with a focus on fine ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, and we chose to sit outside in the courtyard.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean flavors at Kerasma in Rhodes - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

The food was exquisite, and the service was outstanding. They even offered us wine to try before we made our choice, ensuring we found the perfect pairing for our meal. I can't recommend Kerasma enough; it was a truly memorable dining experience.

Reflections on the Day

As I sit here reflecting on our first day in Rhodes, I am filled with a sense of wonder and excitement. The Medieval City is a treasure trove of history and culture, and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to explore it. The warm weather, the friendly people, and the delicious food have all contributed to making this a truly unforgettable experience. I am so glad that I can share this experience with my friends. It is always more fun to have people with whom you can share your experiences.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Acropolis of Rhodes and the Ancient Stadium. I am eager to continue our exploration of this enchanting island and discover even more of its hidden gems. I am a little concerned about forgetting my adapter. I will need to make sure I find one tomorrow so I can charge all of my devices.

Until then, goodnight from Rhodes!