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Dodecanese
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Explore the Dodecanese for medieval cities, volcanic islands, ancient ruins, clear Aegean waters and distinctive island traditions.

The Dodecanese forms Greece’s southeastern island world, scattered across the Aegean between the Cyclades, Crete and the coast of Asia Minor. Rhodes and Kos are the principal international gateways, while smaller islands such as Symi, Patmos, Kalymnos, Leros, Nisyros, Tilos, Halki, Karpathos and Kastellorizo each possess a distinct character. Distances across the archipelago can be considerable, and the region is best understood as a group of separate island destinations rather than a single compact area.
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Rhodes offers the greatest concentration of urban history, from the medieval Old Town enclosed by formidable walls to the ancient acropolis at Lindos and the wooded interior around the Valley of the Butterflies. Kos combines long beaches and cycling routes with the remains of ancient Asklepieion, Roman-era streets and a substantial medieval castle. The smaller islands have their own visual languages: Symi is known for its neoclassical harbour houses, Patmos for the Monastery of Saint John and its religious heritage, Kalymnos for maritime traditions and climbing landscapes, and Nisyros for volcanic geology.
The islands’ landscapes range from dry limestone hills and fragrant scrub to fertile valleys, volcanic slopes, sheltered bays and steep coastal cliffs. Karpathos retains strong links to village customs, music and traditional dress, especially in the north, while Leros reflects a markedly different architectural history through its planned Italian-era settlements. Tilos and parts of Nisyros provide quieter settings for walking and observing island wildlife. Kastellorizo, far to the east and close to the Turkish coast, is geographically remote from the rest of the group and rewards visitors who allow time for its central harbour and sea caves.
Food varies by island but commonly centres on fresh fish, octopus, local cheeses, pulses, wild greens, honey, olive oil and wheat-based dishes. Rhodes has a broader restaurant scene, while smaller islands often focus on family-run tavernas and seasonal produce. Swimming, snorkelling, sailing, diving, sea kayaking and hiking are central to the regional experience, although summer heat, exposed paths and limited shade require sensible planning.
The Dodecanese also reveals layers of Byzantine, medieval, Ottoman and Italian rule alongside its ancient Greek heritage. Churches, castles, monasteries, windmills, archaeological sites and traditional settlements frequently stand within a short distance of beaches and working harbours. A rewarding itinerary allows time for the contrasts between the major islands and the smaller communities, rather than attempting to cover the entire archipelago in one hurried journey.

When is the best time to visit Dodecanese?

Best: May–June, September · 25–29°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January15130
February16110
March1790
April2160
May (best)2530
June (best)2920
July3210
August3220
September (best)2930
October2470
November19100
December16120

Getting to and around Dodecanese

How to get there

Rhodes International Airport and Kos International Airport are the region’s principal international gateways, with seasonal direct flights from many European countries. Domestic flights connect Rhodes and Kos with Athens and may serve other islands depending on current schedules. Smaller airports operate on Karpathos, Kalymnos, Leros and Astypalaia, though their services are more limited. Ferries from Piraeus and other Greek ports reach the Dodecanese, usually via routes that continue to several islands. Bodrum and other Turkish ports can be useful gateways for selected eastern islands when international entry requirements and current ferry services permit, but they are outside Greece and the Dodecanese.

Transportation

Ferries are the essential link between the islands, but routes, sailing times and frequency differ sharply by season and island group. Rhodes and Kos have the broadest transport networks, while smaller islands may have only a few weekly connections. Local buses serve the main towns and resort areas on larger islands, with taxis and car hire useful for beaches, villages and archaeological sites away from bus routes. A car or scooter can be convenient, but visitors should check licence, insurance and helmet requirements and take care on narrow, steep or poorly lit roads. Walking and cycling work well in selected areas, especially around Kos Town, but summer heat makes long inland journeys demanding.

Top city travel guides in Dodecanese

The cities of Dodecanese, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Best attractions in Dodecanese

The Dodecanese offers a varied collection of attractions spread across islands with markedly different landscapes and histories. Rhodes combines the medieval Old Town, the archaeological site of Lindos, the ancient remains of Kamiros and museums with beaches and wooded walks such as the Valley of the Butterflies. Kos brings together the Asklepieion, Roman remains, cycling routes and long stretches of coast, while nearby Nisyros offers volcanic scenery, traditional villages and access to the caldera around Stefanos crater. Patmos centres on the Monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, both important religious and cultural sites. Kalymnos is associated with sponge-diving heritage, climbing and clear-water coves, while Leros has harbours, Italian-era architecture and quiet bays. Karpathos is valued for mountain villages, walking and enduring local customs; Tilos for nature and low-key hiking; and Symi for its harbour and maritime character. Swimming, snorkelling, diving, sailing and sea kayaking are available throughout the archipelago, but conditions and facilities vary considerably between islands.

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Best landmarks in Dodecanese

The medieval walls and gates of Rhodes Old Town are the Dodecanese’s most imposing historic landmark, enclosing the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master in a remarkably coherent fortified city. The acropolis of Lindos occupies a dramatic limestone height above the village and sea, while the remains of ancient Kamiros preserve the plan of a once-important city. On Kos, the Asklepieion records the island’s ancient medical and religious importance, and the Neratzia Castle reflects the strategic role of the harbour during the Hospitaller period. Patmos is defined by the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, whose fortress-like form dominates Chora, together with the Cave of the Apocalypse below it. Symi’s harbour is a landmark in its own right, lined with steeply rising neoclassical houses. Nisyros offers a geological landmark in the volcanic caldera near Nikia and Emporeios, while Leros retains distinctive Italian-era civic architecture around Lakki. The blue harbour of Kastellorizo and the island’s rugged sea caves provide a remote eastern counterpoint to the larger islands’ monumental sites.

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Explore Dodecanese on the map

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Best restaurants in Dodecanese

Dodecanese cooking reflects Greek island staples while allowing each community to retain its own accents. Menus commonly feature grilled fish, octopus, calamari, pulses, aubergine, courgette, wild greens, local cheeses, olives and dishes seasoned with herbs, lemon and olive oil. Rhodes is known for a broad range of tavernas, seafood restaurants and contemporary dining, while smaller islands generally favour family-run establishments serving the day’s catch and seasonal produce. Kalymnos has strong maritime food traditions, Kos combines agricultural products with a busy café and restaurant culture, and Nisyros is noted for robust home-style dishes using local beans, tomatoes and cheeses. Patmos offers tavernas alongside food connected with monastic and village traditions, while Karpathos retains distinctive regional recipes and pasta forms. Bakeries, waterfront cafés, village grills and farmers’ stalls are often as revealing as formal restaurants. Local honey, sweet preserves, wine and spirits may vary by island, so asking where ingredients were produced is part of understanding the region’s culinary geography.

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Best bars in Dodecanese

Evening life in the Dodecanese ranges from lively resort entertainment to quiet harbour dining. Rhodes Town, Faliraki and parts of Lindos have the broadest selection of cocktail bars, music venues and late-night businesses, while Kos Town is known for a concentrated visitor-oriented nightlife scene alongside quieter cafés and waterfront restaurants. On Symi, Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos and Karpathos, evenings usually centre on tavernas, ouzeries, cafés, hotel bars and harbour promenades rather than large clubs. Smaller islands may have seasonal music and a handful of late venues, but opening patterns change from year to year. Traditional coffeehouses and village squares remain important social settings, particularly outside the peak season. Visitors should expect dinner to begin late by northern European standards, respect residential quiet in small settlements and remember that enjoying local nightlife does not require heavy drinking. Breweries, wine bars and occasional live-music venues add variety on the larger islands.

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Best nightclubs in Dodecanese

Evening life in the Dodecanese ranges from lively resort entertainment to quiet harbour dining. Rhodes Town, Faliraki and parts of Lindos have the broadest selection of cocktail bars, music venues and late-night businesses, while Kos Town is known for a concentrated visitor-oriented nightlife scene alongside quieter cafés and waterfront restaurants. On Symi, Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos and Karpathos, evenings usually centre on tavernas, ouzeries, cafés, hotel bars and harbour promenades rather than large clubs. Smaller islands may have seasonal music and a handful of late venues, but opening patterns change from year to year. Traditional coffeehouses and village squares remain important social settings, particularly outside the peak season. Visitors should expect dinner to begin late by northern European standards, respect residential quiet in small settlements and remember that enjoying local nightlife does not require heavy drinking. Breweries, wine bars and occasional live-music venues add variety on the larger islands.

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Best shops in Dodecanese

Shopping in the Dodecanese is shaped more by island produce, craft and market-town streets than by large retail centres. Rhodes Town has the region’s broadest selection, from modern shops and galleries to stores selling ceramics, leather goods, jewellery, embroidered textiles and food products, while Lindos focuses more heavily on seasonal visitor retail. Kos Town combines international brands with small shops offering local honey, herbs, olive oil, wine and traditional sweets. On smaller islands, waterfront lanes and village squares are the places to look for handmade ceramics, woven goods, religious items, artworks and locally produced preserves. Symi is associated with distinctive neoclassical surroundings and small galleries, Patmos with books, icons and religious art, and Karpathos with textile and craft traditions. Markets and farm shops are useful for island cheeses, honey, dried herbs, capers and sweets, although availability depends on the season. Compare provenance carefully and favour products labelled as locally made rather than assuming every souvenir reflects Dodecanese culture.

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Dodecanese essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the euro, used throughout Greece and the Dodecanese, with the code EUR. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in hotels, supermarkets, larger restaurants and established visitor businesses on Rhodes and Kos. Small tavernas, beach services, village shops, taxis and remote islands may still prefer cash, and cash machines are less frequent away from main settlements. Carry modest euro notes and keep a reserve for ferry-related expenses, although exchange rates and card charges depend on the visitor’s bank.
Safety
The main visitor concerns are intense summer heat, sun exposure, dehydration, road accidents and difficulties on rugged or unshaded paths rather than unusual regional dangers. Swim only where conditions are suitable, take care around rocky shores and never underestimate strong wind or waves between islands. Drivers should expect narrow roads, scooters, livestock and limited lighting in rural areas. Keep valuables secure in busy ports and resort areas, and use reputable operators for diving, boating and climbing. Wildfires can occur during hot, dry periods, so follow official restrictions and local instructions.
Emergency Situations
Call 112 for the unified emergency service in Greece; it can connect callers with police, fire and ambulance services and is appropriate when the required service is unclear. The direct national numbers are 100 for police, 199 for fire and 166 for ambulance, while 108 is used for the Hellenic Coast Guard. On remote islands, medical and rescue resources may be limited, so provide the exact island, settlement, harbour or marked location and follow instructions from local authorities. Travel insurance covering medical treatment, evacuation and activities such as diving can be particularly valuable.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress modestly when entering monasteries and churches, covering shoulders and knees where requested, and ask before photographing religious services or local people. Greece-wide customs such as queueing, respectful behaviour on public transport and leaving a small tip for good service apply in the Dodecanese as elsewhere. Do not remove stones or artefacts from archaeological sites, walk on fragile ruins or ignore notices at monasteries and protected natural areas. Keep noise down in residential lanes, avoid leaving rubbish on beaches and ask permission before entering private-looking courtyards or photographing homes.
Local Tips
Island-hopping is easiest when neighbouring islands are grouped by ferry route rather than selected solely by distance on a map. Rhodes and Kos provide the widest choice of accommodation and services, while Patmos, Symi, Leros, Kalymnos and Nisyros offer contrasting cultural or geological experiences. Visit village bakeries and local markets early, when fresh produce is most plentiful, and ask tavernas about seasonal dishes rather than expecting identical menus everywhere. On windy days, sheltered beaches and harbours can be more comfortable than exposed western or open-sea coastlines.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloΓειά σου[Yia sou]
GoodbyeΑντίο[Adio]
YesΝαι[Ne]
NoΌχι[Ochi]
Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ[Parakalo]
Thank youΕυχαριστώ[Efharisto]
Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη[Signomi]
How are you?Πώς είσαι;[Pos ise?]
Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;[Kala. Esy?]
Do you speak English?Μιλάς Αγγλικά;[Milas Anglika?]
I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω[Den katalaveno]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ[Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας[Den troo kreas]
Cheers!Γεια μας![Yia mas!]
I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ[Tha ithela na pliroso, parakalo]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Βοήθεια![Voitheia!]
Go away!Φύγε![Fyge!]
Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία![Kaleste tin Astynomia!]
Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό![Kaleste enan giatro!]
I'm lostΕίμαι χαμένος[Ime chamenos]
I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος[Ime arrostos]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...[Tha ithela na agoraso...]
I'm just lookingΑπλώς κοιτάω[Aplos kitao]
How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;[Poso kostizi?]
That's too expensiveΕίναι πολύ ακριβό[Ine poly akrivo]
Can you lower the price?Μπορείς να χαμηλώσεις την τιμή;[Boreis na chamilosis tin timi?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;[Ti ora ine?]
It's one o'clockΕίναι μία[Ine mia]
Half past (10)Δέκα και μισή[Deka ke misi]
MorningΠρωί[Proi]
AfternoonΑπόγευμα[Apogevma]
EveningΒράδυ[Vradi]
YesterdayΧθες[Chthes]
TodayΣήμερα[Simera]
TomorrowΑύριο[Avrio]
11[1]
22[2]
33[3]
44[4]
55[5]
66[6]
77[7]
88[8]
99[9]
1010[10]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;[Pou ine ena/to...?]
What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;[Poia ine i diefthinsi?]
Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείς να μου δείξεις (στο χάρτη);[Boreis na mou deikseis (sto charti)?]
When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);[Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για....)[Ena isitirio (gia....)]

History of Dodecanese

Bronze Age Seafaring and Early Settlements

The islands were occupied and connected through Aegean maritime networks long before classical Greece. Archaeological evidence from Rhodes, Kos, Karpathos and other islands records communities engaged in farming, craft production and seaborne exchange during the Bronze Age. Minoan and Mycenaean influences reached parts of the archipelago, while local cultures remained linked to the wider eastern Mediterranean. Their position between mainland Greece, Crete and Anatolia made the islands important passages for people, goods and ideas, a role that continued throughout later history.

Classical Rhodes, Kos and the Aegean Powers

In the classical period, Rhodes developed through the three cities of Lindos, Ialysos and Kamiros before their political unification in 408 BC at the city of Rhodes. Kos became known for its sanctuary of Asklepios and for the medical tradition associated with Hippocrates, although the surviving ancient landscape reflects many centuries of development. The islands moved through the influence of Athens, Sparta, Persia and other regional powers, while their ports and fleets supported trade across the eastern Aegean.

Hellenistic and Roman Transformation

The Hellenistic age brought monumental building, intensified trade and close connections with the kingdoms that emerged after Alexander the Great. Rhodes became a major maritime and commercial power, and its city was celebrated for its harbour, laws and artistic production. Roman rule later incorporated the islands into a broader imperial system, encouraging the construction of roads, baths, theatres and public buildings. The archaeological remains at Rhodes, Kos and Lindos show how Greek civic traditions were adapted within Hellenistic and Roman political structures.

Byzantine Christianity and Medieval Fortifications

After the division of the Roman world, the islands became part of the Byzantine sphere and Christianity shaped their religious and architectural heritage. Basilicas, monasteries and fortified settlements appeared amid repeated threats from raiders and rival powers. Patmos acquired exceptional significance after the foundation of the Monastery of Saint John in the eleventh century, while castles and defensive sites elsewhere reflect the insecurity of medieval Aegean routes. Byzantine traditions remain visible in churches, icons, religious festivals and the settlement patterns of several islands.

The Knights of Saint John in Rhodes, 1309–1522

The Knights Hospitaller established their headquarters on Rhodes in 1309 and transformed the island’s principal city into a heavily fortified seat of power. Their walls, gates, Street of the Knights, Palace of the Grand Master and harbour defences remain the most substantial medieval urban legacy in the Dodecanese. The order also strengthened fortifications on other islands and controlled important maritime routes. Ottoman forces captured Rhodes in 1522 after a major siege, bringing the Hospitaller period to an end while leaving an enduring architectural imprint.

Ottoman Rule and Island Maritime Economies

Following the Ottoman conquest of Rhodes, the Dodecanese became part of the Ottoman Empire, although island communities retained varied local institutions, religious foundations and commercial connections. Maritime trade, fishing, agriculture and small-scale crafts remained central to island economies. Kalymnos became particularly associated with sponge diving, a demanding occupation that connected its sailors and merchants with ports across the Mediterranean. Ottoman-era mosques, baths, houses and administrative remains survive alongside older Greek and medieval buildings in several island settlements.

Italian Administration, 1912–1943

Italy occupied the Dodecanese during the Italo-Turkish War in 1912 and later administered the islands as a colonial possession. Italian planners reshaped parts of Rhodes, Kos and Leros with roads, public buildings, ports and new settlements, leaving especially visible architectural traces in Kos Town and Leros. The period also brought archaeological restoration and attempts to control local institutions. Italian rule ended during the Second World War, after which the islands passed through German occupation and a short British administration.

Union with Greece and the Modern Tourist Era

The Dodecanese were formally transferred to Greece in 1947, completing the political integration of the islands with the modern Greek state. Post-war development brought improved roads, ports, electricity and air links, followed by rapid growth in tourism, especially on Rhodes and Kos. Other islands retained smaller-scale economies based on fishing, agriculture, shipping and seasonal visitors. Contemporary life therefore combines major resort infrastructure with communities where religious festivals, village architecture, traditional food and maritime occupations continue to influence local identity.

Dodecanese in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Dodecanese, Greece

Download Evendo, the 100% free travel guide app for Dodecanese. Discover top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more, with expert local tips and easy booking options.

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Explore the enchanting Dodecanese with Evendo, your all-in-one travel companion. Discover top attractions, local tips, and book experiences effortlessly. Download now!

  • User-friendly interface and easy navigation
  • History and travel essentials for Dodecanese
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 'Near me' feature to find attractions and activities around you
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Imagine stepping into the mesmerizing Dodecanese, a gem of the Aegean Sea, with Evendo by your side. This app-based travel guide is your key to unlocking the best of what this stunning Greek archipelago has to offer. From the ancient ruins of the Acropolis of Lindos to the medieval charm of Rhodes Old Town, Evendo provides detailed insights into all the major attractions, landmarks, and hidden gems. Fancy a taste of authentic Greek cuisine? Discover top-rated restaurants like Marco Polo Cafe in Rhodes or Taverna Maria on the picturesque island of Symi.

Evendo makes it incredibly easy to plan your trip with its user-friendly interface and comprehensive information. Whether you're looking for the best hotels, vibrant nightclubs, or unique tours and experiences, Evendo has got you covered. Each listing comes with images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making your travel planning seamless and enjoyable.

But that's not all! With Evendo, you can book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. No more hassle of browsing multiple websites or figuring out logistics. Everything you need is in one place. Plus, the 'Near me' feature ensures you won't miss out on exciting attractions and activities around you.

Evendo is more than just a travel guide; it's your travel companion. Download Evendo today and start exploring the wonders of Dodecanese and beyond!

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