Rhodes Old Town: All your questions answered
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Rhodes Old Town, a charming gem in the heart of the Mediterranean. In this article, we will delve into the rich history, architecture, and culture that make this ancient town so alluring to travellers.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or seeking more detailed information about Rhodes Old Town, this guide is sure to answer all your questions and ignite your wanderlust.
So, buckle up and let's explore the captivating beauty and timeless charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Is Rhodes Old Town worth a visit?
Absolutely! Rhodes Old Town is a unique and beautiful place to visit, full of history and culture. It is a World Heritage Site with some of the oldest buildings in Europe, several medieval monuments, and stunning views overlooking the Aegean Sea. The cobbled narrow streets are lined with boutique shops, traditional tavernas, and art galleries that offer a glimpse into its long and diverse past. Whether you are looking for a quiet stroll or an exciting day of exploration, Rhodes Old Town is sure to delight.
It is very important to mention that it is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe.
Where is Rhodes Old Town located?
Rhodes Old Town is located on the north coast of Rhodes island in Greece. There are many ways to enter the Old Town , but the most popular way is through the Gate of Freedom, where you can take a walk down its cobbled streets, explore its ancient monuments and marvel at its stunning views of the sea. The Old Town is easily accessible from Rhodes city centre by public bus or taxi.
Table of contents
- Is Rhodes Old Town worth a visit?
- Where is Rhodes Old Town located?
- Rhodes: Palace of the Grand Master Skip the Line Ticket
- How do I get to Rhodes Old Town from Rhodes Town?
- How long to spend in the Old Town?
- What is the most famous street in Rhodes Old Town?
- Can I climb up the walls of Old Town Rhodes?
- Are there any other attractions besides monuments in Old Town of Rhodes?
- What is the Rhodes Old Town famous for?
- How far is Old Town Rhodes from the city of Rhodes?
- Is it safe to visit Rhodes Old Town?
- What is the most famous sight of Rhodes Old Town?
- Is Rhodes Old Town a good place to visit?
- Best Hotels in Old Town
- What type of buildings are there in Rhodes Old Town
- How big are the city walls of Rhodes Old Town?
- Does Old Town of Rhodes have a market?
- Is Rhodes Town same as Old Town?
- What is the main entrance to the old city?
- Where is Socratous Street and why is famous?
- Where is Hippocrates Square?
- How to go to Old town from the port?
- Are there any beaches near the old town?
- Who were the most famous Grand Masters of Knights of Rhodes?
- Where to have shopping?
- What is the best instagramable spot?
- Was Rhodes founded as a Greek city?
Rhodes: Palace of the Grand Master Skip the Line Ticket
Visit the majestic building of the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. Save time with this pre-booked ticket, and see the most important monument of the city.
- Dive into the medieval, architectural history of Rhodes Island.
- See one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece.
- Explore the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights.
- See real medieval costumes, armor and swords.
- Dive into the legend of the Knights of Rhodes & Malta.
- Step into the throne room and the Palace's Yard.
How do I get to Rhodes Old Town from Rhodes Town?
Rhodes Old Town can be easily reached by public transport or taxi from the Rhodes town (new town) By bus, it takes approximately 10 minutes to reach the old town from the centre of Rhodes. Alternatively, it is a short taxi ride away and there are plenty of taxis available at all times. For those travelling by car, there are several parking spots located around the perimeter of the old town.
How long to spend in the Old Town?
The amount of time needed to fully explore the Old City depends on your desired itinerary. If you just want to take a leisurely stroll, about an hour or two should be enough. However, if you plan on visiting all the monuments and attractions, it is recommended that you give yourself at least 4 hours, maybe more.
What is the most famous street in Rhodes Old Town?
The most famous street in the medieval city is Ippoton Street, or "Knights' Street" or "Street of the Knights".
This narrow, cobbled road runs through the heart of the old town and is lined with buildings that date back to medieval times. It was once home to the knights of St. John.
The knights lived during their occupation of Rhodes and still displays many signs of this past including coats of arms, stone reliefs and monuments dedicated to the order.
It is a must-see sight when visiting the medieval town.
Can I climb up the walls of Old Town Rhodes?
Yes, you can climb up the walls of the Old City! The most popular wall to climb is the Grand Master's Palace, which is located at the entrance of the old town. From there, you can explore the city's many towers and fortifications and get a unique view of the city below. However, please note that climbing is only allowed during certain hours and it is important to follow the instructions of the guards.
Are there any other attractions besides monuments in Old Town of Rhodes?
Yes, there are plenty of other attractions in Rhodes Old Town besides its historic monuments. There are several boutique shops, traditional tavernas, cafes, art galleries and churches that offer a glimpse into its long and diverse past.
The old town also hosts many events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Medieval Festival in September and the Easter Parade.
Finally, there are several museums that can be visited, including the Archaeological Museum and the Maritime Museum of Rhodes.
What is the Rhodes Old Town famous for?
Rhodes Old Town is most famous for its medieval monuments, cobbled streets, and stunning views of the sea. It is a World Heritage Site and it was once home to the knights of St. John during their occupation of Rhodes. Additionally, it is known for its many shops, restaurants and cafes that offer a glimpse into its long and diverse past.
How far is Old Town Rhodes from the city of Rhodes?
Old Town Rhodes is located approximately 2 kilometers from the center of Rhodes City. It is easily accessible by public bus or taxi and takes about 10 minutes to reach the old town from the centre of Rhodes. Alternatively, it is a short taxi ride away and there are plenty of taxis available at all times.
For those travelling by car, there are several parking spots located around the perimeter of the old town.
Is it safe to visit Rhodes Old Town?
Yes, it is very safe to visit this medieval town. The area is heavily monitored by police and security personnel, so you can feel secure while exploring its cobbled streets and monuments. However, always be sure to follow the instructions of the guards and avoid any suspicious activities. Additionally, the area is well-lit at night and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to rest in during your visit. Overall, Rhodes Old Town is a safe and beautiful destination for tourists of all ages.
What is the most famous sight of Rhodes Old Town?
The most famous sight of Rhodes Old Town is the Grand Master's Palace, located at the entrance of the old town.
The Grand Master's Palace was once home to the knights of St. John and it features impressive towers, grand archways and a beautiful courtyard.
Inside, there are several exhibits highlighting the rich history of Rhodes Old Town and its many monuments.
Other popular sights include the Street of the Knights, Ippoton Street, which is lined with buildings from medieval times and offers a glimpse into its past. Additionally, there are several churches and art galleries to explore and stunning views overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Finally, don't forget to visit the ancient walls that surround the old town for an unforgettable experience!
Is Rhodes Old Town a good place to visit?
Yes, Rhodes Old Town is an amazing place to visit! A town filled with plenty of history and culture to explore with cobbled streets, medieval architecture, medieval walls, ancient sculptures and grand towers.
Plus, there are lots of shops and restaurants to enjoy plus stunning views over the Aegean Sea. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or an immersive experience of the past, Rhodes Old Town is an ideal destination for all types of travellers.
Also, no matter what type of accommodation you are looking for, there is something to suit your needs. From budget-friendly hostels and hotels to luxury villas and resorts, Rhodes has it all! So come visit and explore the rich culture and history that Old Town Rhodes has to offer. You won't regret it!
No matter how much time you have to visit Rhodes Old Town, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. From its cobbled streets and medieval monuments to its stunning views of the Aegean Sea, this is a destination that should not be missed.
Best Hotels in Old Town
What type of buildings are there in Rhodes Old Town
The Old City combines the history of many different cultures and era and therefore it combines different architectural styles. For example, Suleiman Mosque is a symbol of the ottoman era and one of the most symbolic ottoman buildings in Old Town of Rhodes.
The Ottoman Turks, having conquered Rhodes, considered the island as their proud gem, therefore, when Rhodes entered the Ottoman period, they constructed a series of building structures. One of them is the Turkish baths that are famous
The Grand Master Palace, which was the governor's palace the place that the Grand Master lived, has been reconstructed during the times of the Italian occupation. The Italian rule in Rhodes was branded by many architectural reconstructions of the buildings of the middle ages.
The Italian occupation admired the Old city with its gothic churches not only dedicated Saint John but also to the Virgin Mary.
In the Old Town there are also many buildings, constructed during the Byzantine times, such as byzantine churches and public baths.
Additionally, one of the main sights is medieval city is the Jewish Quarter. This area has a very unique architecture with narrow streets, traditional houses, and an old synagogue.
How big are the city walls of Rhodes Old Town?
The walls of the city are approximately 6 km long and 4m thick, forming an impressive fortified city which has remained largely intact since the Middle Ages. They also contain several gates, each with its own unique design , including the Gate of Freedom, Gate of Saint Athanasios and Gate of St. George. The city walls encircle a large area that contains many churches, monuments and other buildings associated with the history of Rhodes. In total, there are 11 towers along the city walls which provide stunning views over Old Town Rhodes and its surroundings.
Does Old Town of Rhodes have a market?
Unfortunately, there is no folk market in the old city. However there is a large market in the new city. The market is filled with stalls selling fresh produce from local farms and nearby local producers.
Is Rhodes Town same as Old Town?
No, Rhodes Town and Old Town are two separate places. Rhodes Town is located in the new part of the city and it is a modern commercial center with many shops, restaurants, cafes and clubs. Old Town is the historical area located in the heart of Rhodes City. It contains many monuments from different periods of history such as Byzantine churches and Ottoman houses.
What is the main entrance to the old city?
The main entrance to the Old Town of Rhodes is the Gate of Freedom, which lies at the base of Clock Tower Square. It is one of the oldest gates in Rhodes and is associated with both Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The gate has a single opening that leads to a cobblestone narrow path which winds through the old city. This gate is one of the Gates that leads straight to the Palace of the Grand Master.
Where is Socratous Street and why is famous?
Socratous Street is a popular pedestrian street located in the heart of Rhodes Old Town. It's a cobblestone road that runs through the center of the old city and is lined with many interesting shops, cafes and restaurants which give it its unique atmosphere. This street is also known for its connection to several famous monuments and buildings including the Great Hospital of the Knights. Socratous Streets has also a very vivid nightlife.
Where is Hippocrates Square?
Hippocrates Square is located in the Old Town of Rhodes and it is one of the most famous squares in all of Greece.
It's named after Hippocrates, who was a great physician from ancient times and is considered as one of the founders of western medicine.
The square has a large fountain, which is dedicated to him, along with several other monuments that surround the area.
This is a great place to visit if you're looking for some interesting historical sights and monuments. Hippocrates Square is also an ideal spot to relax, take a walk grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. All in all, this square is definitely worth visiting!
How to go to Old town from the port?
To reach the Old Town of Rhodes from the port, you can choose from several convenient options. The most popular and easiest way is to walk, as the distance is relatively short, approximately 1.5 km.
As you exit the port, follow the coastal road heading southeast towards Mandraki Harbour.
You will pass the iconic windmills and the historic Fort of St. Nicholas. Continue walking along the harbour until you reach the Gate of Freedom, which serves as the main entrance to the Old Town.
Another option is to use the local bus service. There is an electric mini bus making routes from the port to Old Town for free. It can be found at a stop close to the harbour and it will drop you off right in front of the Gate of Freedom.
The bus runs every 30 minutes, so be sure to check its schedule for departure times.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the port to the Old Town.
There are usually taxis waiting near the cruise ship terminal, and the ride should only take about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as some taxis may not use a meter.
Are there any beaches near the old town?
Yes, there are several beaches located nearby the Old Town of Rhodes. The closest one is called Elli Beach and it's only a 15-minute walk from the Gate of Freedom. It's a great spot to spend some time under the Mediterranean sun and enjoy swimming in its crystal clear waters.
Who were the most famous Grand Masters of Knights of Rhodes?
The most famous Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes were Philippe de L'Isle Adam, Pierre d'Aubusson, Jean de Valette and Alof de Wignacourt. Philippe was the first Grand Master of the Order, elected in 1305. He led the Order during its consolidation period and is credited with transforming Rhodes into a great fortified city. Pierre d'Aubusson was the Grand Master from 1476 to 1503 and he is famous for his reform of the Order's defensive policies, as well as for establishing an efficient diplomatic network in Europe.
Where to have shopping?
The medieval town has many shops mainly located in Socratous Street and on the narrow streets nearby. You can find souvenirs, gift shops, traditional items, jewellery or handmade crafts in the local stores of Old Town Rhodes. There are also some larger shops located in the rhodes town (the city of Rhodes) which offer a wider variety of products including fashion, electronics and more.
What is the best instagramable spot?
One of the most instagramable spots in Old Town Rhodes is the Street of the Knights. Apart from the Street of the Knights, another spot is the grand master palace. As you wander in the back streets or the main street of the walled town you may find many other picturesque spots.
Was Rhodes founded as a Greek city?
Yes, Rhodes was founded as a Greek city. It was initially colonized by the Dorians in around 1100 BC and for some time it was under the rule of the Persian Empire. In 408 BC, it came under the control of Athenian general Thrasybulus and then became part of the Ptolemaic Kingdom in 332 BC. It remained under Hellenistic rule until the 4th century when it came under the rule of the Byzantine Empire.
In 1309, Rhodes was captured by the Knights Hospitaller who established their own state there. The Order remained in control of Rhodes until 1522 when it fell to the Ottoman Empire. Currently, Rhodes is part of Greece and has been since 1947.
History
The oldest inhabited medieval city in Europe. A thrill beyond.
Explore the curated information about the history of Rhodes Old Town
Rhodes Old Town can be accessed also by bicycles! Find a wide range of bicycles at the link below!
About Municipality of Rhodes
The Greek island of Rhodes welcomes you with open arms. We are hospitable, well-traveled people and love to share our culture with visitors. Explore this beautiful corner of Europe and discover the rich history that surrounds everything! This ancient city is known as "Rhodes, The Island Of Knights" for its illustrious past; it's also famous for hosting fantastic culinary experiences, vibrant nightlife along with warmhearted locals who enjoy greeting newcomers like old friends - all under our unique sun where hospitality reigns supreme.
