When you arrive in Rhodes today you will make your way by taxi to the hotel. The amazing hotels in the old city are mostly small, restored historic properties, but none have a lot of rooms. So, for a full group we’ll use two hotels, just 100 meters apart from each other.
Rhodes is known as the Island of the Knights and capital of the Dodecanese. It's an island which is ideal not only for those who want to relax but also for those looking for an action-packed adventure! With its bright green hills, rich green valleys and uninterrupted line of golden beaches, Rhodes is truly a blessed place. Add in the island’s special blend of cosmopolitan and traditional, and numerous cultural and archaeological sites and you’ve got the perfect place to explore.
Upon arriving at your hotel, you can check in, get settled, freshen up, and then meet around 5:00 pm for an orientation party at the hotel. The exact time and location will be posted at the hotel when you check in. After the orientation we’ll enjoy a fascinating walking tour of the stunning medieval old town by an expert local guide. The ancient city of Rhodes was begun in 407 BC and soon developed into one of the most important seafaring and trading centers in the Eastern Mediterranean. Its golden era lasted from the 5th to the 3rd century BC. It was during this period that the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, was constructed, (supposedly), straddling the harbor. It then became a province of the Roman, and later the Byzantine Empire. In 1309 the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem conquered Rhodes and built strong fortifications to protect the island, turning it into a thriving multinational medieval city. In subsequent periods Rhodes was conquered by the Ottoman Turks, and then by the Italians. The new rulers embellished the city with magnificent buildings, wide roads and squares. The Palace of the Grand Master was rebuilt, and the Street of the Knights was reconstructed in order to regain its medieval purity. It was not until 1948 that Rhodes officially became part of Greece. In 1988 the Medieval City of Rhodes was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
All this walking will work up an appetite, so after the tour we'll make our way to one of our favorite local restaurants for an amazing welcome dinner. Like most European countries, food in Greece is so much more than sustenance...it's about culture, comfort, family, and life itself. Greece's culinary traditions have evolved over literally thousands of years, with influences from diverse cultures all over the Mediterranean. Many traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka and tzatziki in fact have Turkish, Persian and Arabic roots. From some of the best lamb dishes on earth to dishes featuring eggplant, tomatoes, lemon, cheese, herbs, honey, and of course olive oil...Greek cuisine has something to please every palate. Vegetarians need not feel left out, as Greeks are masters of meatless dishes as well. Depending on what the local fisherman have netted, seafood will find its way onto your table as well. And of course, a true Greek salad of fresh tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, and olives topped with a slab of feta is a small piece of heaven! It's best to wash all of this wonderful food down with some of the local Greek wines or beers.
And to finish off the meal you'll find their desserts are excellent, with flaky phyllo pastry and ice creams, yogurt and nuts in evidence. And of course, no conversation about Greek cuisine would be complete without mentioning their excellent wines. Although not as famous for export as their neighbors to the west (Italy and France), Greece has had a thriving wine industry for over 6500 years! Their wines, both red and white varieties, are known for their value and easy-going drinkability. Just the thing to sip as you relax at a simple seaside taverna.
After dinner you're free to explore the town (Rhodes town is magical at night), visit a taverna, or simply return to your hotel to enjoy a glass of wine under the night stars.