A Rhodes Trip

Its sunshine, long sandy beaches, flower-filled interior and rich cultural history have made Rhodes the second most popular Greek destination – after Crete – for British holidaymakers. Here's how to get the best out of the island

Rhodes Old Town
When the Crusader knights finished beating up the Holy Land, they retreated to the Greek island of Rhodes where they built one of the most beautiful cities in the Mediterranean.

It housed 650 knights in eight garrisons. Today, Rhodes Old Town – known as mini Jerusalem – is one of Europe’s best preserved and restored mediaeval fortresses. Within its 14th century castle ramparts – protected by a massive moat – there’s a mix of villas, shops, tavernas, galleries and museums.

Stroll around the town walls, or head straight to the palace of the Grand Master to take in the history of the Knights of St John. Next, lose yourself in the alleys of the Jewish Quarter and visit the mosques and haman baths built by the Turkish Ottomans – they kicked out the knights in the 16th century and stayed for 450 years.

Shops and stalls sell everything from gold and silver to fur coats but if you tire of shopping, take a rest at a coffee house or ice cream parlour under the shade of a plane tree. The pace changes after dark: there are plenty of interesting bars – try the Roloi, a converted clock tower overlooking the ramparts.

Next to the Old Town is Mandraki harbour. In ancient times it was
straddled by a huge statue of Helios. One of the seven wonders of its time, it stood 140ft high – taller than New York's Statue of Liberty – but was destroyed by an earthquake in 225 BC. Today, the port’s packed with cruise ships, ferries and Flying Dolphin hydrofoils linking the island with all parts of the Med.

Eating out
The Old Town – and the new one outside the castle walls – has limitless attractions for foodies, from simple tavernas to expensive restaurants with a choice of Greek, Italian, French and Mexican menus. That Athenians fly down for the weekend just to eat there is an indication of the island's gourmet reputation. The Old Town's fish restaurants are unbeatable; bag a table around a Turkish fountain at Alexis or the more moderately-priced Fotis.

In the New Town, diners at the award-winning Palia Istoria are plied with an array of dishes from seafood to vegetarian specialities. It’s expensive, but a feast here is memorable. Book well ahead to get into Ta Kioupia, where you’ll dine in high style on upmarket mezzes (like tapas) with an Eastern twist.