The 12 islands to visit in the Dodecanese

Visit the Dodecanese Islands: what are the best things to do and see in this magnificent Greek archipelago?

Archipelago of the Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese extends southeast of the Greece a few kilometers from the Turkish coast. It consists of more than 160 islands and islets, mostly uninhabited. Twelve main islands named him. These islands are among the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, including Rhodes for its history or Astypalea for its authenticity and charm. So what are the best islands in the Dodecanese to visit?

The heart of the Dodecanese

1. Rhodes

Which island of Dodecanese visit first? Rhodes, of course! The largest island in the archipelago is a great tourist destination in Greece. On site, you can marvel at its rich and unique cultural and historical heritage. Visit her Grand Masters Palace , vestige of the Crusades period, its Archaeological Museum of Rhodes or its Old Town.

Take a tour of Lindos and admire the view from its Acropolis. Also enjoy the beaches of the island, lose in its villages with whitewashed houses, taste local specialties and test some water sports!

2. Tilos

Small arid and mountainous island, like many islands in the region, Tilos is known for its conviviality and authenticity. A small corner of paradise, the island’s population has decided to opt for a gentle tourism, respecting nature and heritage.

Local buses and pedestrian paths make it possible to reach its picturesque beaches, ancient castles or sites or its large sandy beach. For a charming and romantic stay in the Dodecanese Islands, Tilos is all designated!

3. Symi

Small mountainous island of Dodecanese, Symi is known for its isolated beaches and coves, only accessible by the sea. Situated in small valleys, the island houses a few small historical sites. But it is above all its small port, by which you will likely enter the island, which will leave you an imperishable memory.

Built on the hillside, the main city of Symi is populated by beautiful pastel-colored houses. Take the time to lose yourself in its streets and enjoy it to take sublime clichés.

4. Nisiros

Nisiros is certainly one of the most beautiful islands of the Dodecanese. Volcanic, authentic and preserved from mass tourism, it deserves the detour. You will discover mysterious landscapes, with volcanic plains with a lunar atmosphere, but also black sand beaches and green hills.

Beautiful hikes await you all around the island of Nisiros.

North-West of the Dodecanese

5. Astypalea

The sublime Astypalea is obviously one of the most beautiful islands of the Dodecanese and Greece. Near the Cyclades, it belongs historically and culturally to this archipelago. Preserved by mass tourism, unlike many Greek islands, it offers beautiful dry landscapes, punctuated from villages to whitewashed houses.

During your stay in Astypalea, stroll through its traditional old port, discover its archaeological museum and especially relax on its beautiful beaches.

6. Kos

Kos is one of the most popular destinations in Greece. Located off Bodrum In Turkey, it is 40 kilometres long over 8 kilometres wide. Rich agricultural land, almond trees, fig trees, olive trees and vineyards populate its hills and green plains.

Its main city is filled with ancient monuments and sites, to be discovered absolutely. In the land, beautiful hikes await you, just like charming beaches.

7. Kalymnos

Known for its climbing spots, Kalymnos is one of the perfect destinations for athletes. She will also delight lovers of farniente and cultural discoveries. For the first, beautiful and isolated beaches await them, such as the beaches of Emporios or Telendos.

The latter will marvel at the two vestiges of crossed castles, as well as numerous monasteries and churches built on cliffs or hung on rocks. Gorgeous views await you on the Dodecanese, the Aegean Sea and the Turkish coasts.

8. Leros

Island with little tourism, Leros is the ideal destination for travellers looking for calm and authenticity. Arid in high altitude, green in low altitude, it offers beautiful landscapes, with charming contrasts. If you come to visit it, do not miss discovering its Byzantine castle, which overlooks the island.

You will enjoy exceptional views of Leros and the sea. Obviously, you will also find dream beaches, hiking trails, churches and traditional houses, as often in Greece.

9. Patmos

Listed as a monument to Unesco’s World Heritage, Patmos is an island known more for its cultural and religious heritage than its beaches or landscapes. L’imposant Monastery of Saint-Jean-le-Théologien , built at the top of a hill overlooking the island, is thus the strong point of the island, with its cave of Revelation.

Many travellers come only for the day and to see this site. However, the island offers much more: almost deserted beaches, a beautiful authentic and preserved port, green hills and thus charming hikes. If you have time, come and lose it and enjoy its tranquility.

South of the Dodecanese

10. Karpathos

Located south of Rhodes, Karpathos is also one of the most beautiful islands of the Dodecanese. Divided in two distinct regions, the island offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors. The most touristic south is ideal for windsurfing and other water sports.

But don't sit there too much, and go to the north, more preserved, authentic and charming. Enjoy beautiful hikes in its mountains, spread over its beautiful, almost deserted beaches and also enjoy the unique atmosphere of its villages.

11. Kassos

Situated a little further southwest of Karpathos, Kassos is a preserved island of mass tourism. Almost intact, it embodies the Greek traditions. Marked by its history and its participation in the Greek revolution, it will delight you with its authentic and timeless atmosphere, maintained by warm and welcoming inhabitants.

From its small port, go for adventure in the land, discover charming villages with old houses. Also admire the few olive fields and especially swim on exceptional, deserted beaches.

Eastern Dodecanese

12. Kastellórizo

Located on the edge of Greece, Kastellórizo is only seven kilometres from the city of Kaş, on the southern coast of Turkey. Its unique village is probably one of the most charming ports of the Mediterranean Sea. You will admire small neoclassical houses, roof tiles and blue or green shutters.

Take the time to lose yourself in the city, drunk Orient perfumes in its typical markets and enjoy its unique atmosphere. The waters of Kastellórizo are also rich in marine life and the island is thus a dream spot for snorkeling or scuba diving enthusiasts.

How do I go to the Dodecanese?

Like most travelers, your gateway to Greece will probably be Athens Where you land. You can then take a connecting flight or ferry to the Dodecanese Islands. Also, to help you compare the crossings, in terms of prices but also dates and times, think of using the comparator Direct Ferries .

During the summer period, several airlines offer direct flights from Athens to Rhodes, Kalymnos, Kos or other islands of the archipelago. To find cheap flights to the Dodecanese Islands, you can visit our partner's website Ulysses .

How to move into the Dodecanese?

When you arrive on a big island, like Rhodes, we recommend you rent a car especially if you intend to stay for a few days. For others, smaller, you can use the bus network (if available) or local taxis. Having your own vehicle is however a good asset to fully enjoy your visit to the island where you are.

To move from island to island in the Dodecanese, opt for ferries. The current network provides connections up to several times a day, especially during the high season. Rhodes, Kos, Kalymnos, Leros or Patmos are the most served from the port of La Pirée.

Where to stay in the Dodecanese?

Guests can stay on each of the twelve Dodecanese islands. Depending on the island and depending on the season you leave, you will need to focus on some types of accommodation. The hotel offer can be less important on some islands, so you can learn more about the upstream rental platforms.

Regardless of the islands of the Dodecanese chosen for your stay, you can find cheap hotels, especially thanks to a Compare hotels . For your accommodation, you can also opt for a holiday home or an apartment on the site Airbnb . There are, again, for all tastes, desires and budgets!