The Dodecanese islands are spread out in the Aegean Sea and have charming villages. There are 12 main islands and about 150 other islands, out of which only 26 are lived on. This place is a paradise for travelers with a curiosity in Greek mythology and ancient remains.
Moreover, these islands offer a great escape for those who want a peaceful vacation away from the crowds, where they can enjoy hiking, strolling on pebble beaches, and experiencing the vibrant local culture.
11. Patmos
Patmos is a small island in the Dodecanese with a population of about 3,000. It has a rich religious history and is mentioned in the Bible’s Book of Revelation. John of Patmos had a revelation from Jesus here. Many places on the island are associated with John, making it a popular choice for religious pilgrimages.
The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where John had his vision, are important Christian sites on the island. The island also has ancient archaeological remains that date back to 2000 BC. The main village, Skála, serves as the capital and port of the island.
Visitors can find accommodations and dine at fresh-fish tavernas, which are housed in buildings previously used by the Italians during their rule of the Dodecanese Islands.
10. Leros
If you’re looking to relax and enjoy the local culture, Leros is the perfect place for you. You can kick back, explore the beaches, and take in the relaxed atmosphere. To get there, you can either take an 11-hour ferry ride from Piraeus or a quick 45-minute plane ride from Athens if you’re in a hurry.
Leros has a fascinating history, having been ruled by different powers throughout the centuries, including the Byzantines, Italians, Germans, and Greeks. During World War II, its port was heavily bombed, second only to Crete. One of the main attractions for tourists is the medieval castle of the Knights of Saint John.
When it comes to accommodations, the island offers simple but comfortable options, and there are plenty of taverns where you can enjoy the local cuisine.
9. Karpathos
Karpathos, an island in the Dodecanese, has managed to preserve its cultural and ethnic heritage due to its remote location. The Folk Art Museum on the island showcases this rich heritage. The beautiful beaches on Karpathos attract many visitors, although not all of them are sandy or easy to reach.
The island has a fascinating history, even being mentioned in Homer’s Iliad. Travelers who have an interest in archaeology might find a visit to the ancient altars and sanctuaries, some of which date back to the 6th century BC, including the early Christian basilica of Agia Fotini, quite enjoyable.
8. Rhodes
Rhodes is the largest island in the Dodecanese group and has the highest population compared to other islands in the region. It is situated in the eastern part of the Aegean Sea and has a significant historical significance as it used to be the capital of the surrounding islands.
The medieval center of the City of Rhodes is particularly popular among tourists from Europe. In addition to Rhodes Town, there are also charming small villages and beach resorts scattered across the island. Rhodes has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human presence dating back to the Neolithic period.
The island has many rocky shores, and its inland areas are used for farming various crops like grapes for wine production, olives, and citrus fruits. In the past, Rhodes was considered a hub of culture and trade in the Mediterranean region.
7. Kastellorizo
Even though it is the smallest island in the Dodecanese, Kastellorizo should not be underestimated. It is a peaceful island, with charming village buildings that stretch all the way to the waterfront. Due to its low population, it is a great place to enjoy the diverse nature, including the presence of water turtles and monarchos seals.
Kastellorizo is home to only around 200 residents and is often referred to as “the red castle” because of an ancient castle built by the Knights of Saint John using colorful rocks.
The picturesque Kastellorizo village, the island’s only populated area, showcases cobblestone alleys and traditional mansions adorned with wooden and iron balconies in vibrant colors.
6. Nisyros
Nisyros is an island that was formed by a volcano, which is still active but not erupting after 130,000 years. While there are a few sandy beaches, most of the coastline is rocky. Despite not having luxurious amenities, it is a popular destination for summer vacations.
The capital and harbor of the island is called Mandraki, where the houses are built using volcano rocks and insulated with pumice-stone. Nisyros also has numerous Orthodox Christian churches and monasteries, with the largest one being Panagia Spiliani, located next to a medieval castle constructed by the Knights Hospitalier in the 14th century.
Visitors might want to try soumada, a traditional non-alcoholic island beverage that has a pleasant almond flavor.
5. Astypalaia
Astypalaia has a connection to Greek mythology because it is named after a woman who was kidnapped by Poseidon in disguise. The capital town and port of the island is called Chora, and it is known for being one of the most beautiful towns in the Aegean. Chora is situated on a rocky promontory that extends into the sea, creating two bays.
The town is dominated by a castle on top of the hill, which used to be the town’s main attraction until stones from it were used to construct houses. A museum near the old port displays a collection of Neolithic pottery, while an ancient graveyard contains pottery urns holding the remains of infants and small children dating back to around 750 BC.
The island is also home to various other ancient religious ruins. Additionally, there are Roman ruins on the island, including a bathhouse with a mosaic floor.
4. Symi
Symi is a beautiful island known for its charming buildings that extend from the coast to the mountains. The main town, also called Symi, has an impressive port with stunning mansions on the hillside.
A must-visit attraction on the island is the Monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis, where monks still reside and draws tourists from around the globe. Additionally, the town of Symi boasts 13 churches. While the island is often visited by day trippers, those with more time can consider renting a boat to explore a secluded beach.
3. Kos
The island of Kos is known for its long, clean beaches and fertile farmland filled with grapes, figs, olives, corn, and wheat. It offers stunning landscapes and historical sites, along with beautiful beaches, all in a laid-back atmosphere.
Tourists can visit interesting places like the remnants of an ancient marketplace and a 14th-century fortress constructed by The Knights of Saint John of Rhodes. In the delightful city center of Kos Town, which is adorned with whitewashed buildings, there is a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to choose from.
2. Kalymnos
If you are looking for an adventurous vacation, consider visiting the island of Kalymnos. It is a great destination for hiking and rock climbing, but make sure you are experienced and can handle the challenging terrain.
Unlike its neighboring islands, Kalymnos is quite environmentally friendly, with green landscapes and pink oleanders lining its roads against the beautiful blue water.Kalymnos has a fascinating history in sponge diving, but unfortunately, a disease wiped out the sponges in the sea.
However, the island still celebrates its heritage with a Sponge Week festival happening every year after Easter. Despite the rocky terrain, Kalymnos doesn’t have much agriculture, but it is known for its delicious citrus fruits. Additionally, the island is famous for its women’s painted head scarves.
1. Halki
Halki is the smallest of the Dodecanese islands and has less than 500 residents. It is also known as Chalki and many of its residents moved to Tarpon Springs, Florida in the last century. The island has an ancient castle with original frescoes, but it is in ruins.
Water is not naturally available on the island, so it needs to be imported from Rhodes or collected in cisterns when it rains. The only village and main port on the island is called Nimporio. Over the years, Halki has been ruled by various nations including the Romans, Turks, Italians, and Greeks.
The main industry on the island is tourism, followed by fishing.