Tips for Visiting the Dodecanese Islands

[d_kakavouli]

Hi everyone! I’m planning a trip to the Dodecanese Islands and could use some advice on which islands to prioritize. There are so many to choose from—Rhodes, Kos, Symi, Patmos, Karpathos, Astypalaia, and more—but I won’t have time to see them all.

I love a mix of history, beautiful beaches, authentic Greek food, and charming villages. I’d love to visit at least one island with a lively atmosphere and another that’s more off-the-beaten-path. If you’ve been, which ones stood out to you the most?

Also, any general tips for visiting the Dodecanese? Is island-hopping easy between them? Are there ferry routes that work well for multiple stops, or would it be better to focus on just 1–2 islands?

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Sounds like an amazing trip! If you love history, beaches, food, and charming villages, here’s what I’d suggest:

• Rhodes is a must for its medieval Old Town, ancient sites, and vibrant atmosphere. It has great beaches, too!
• Symi is perfect for a picturesque, off-the-beaten-path feel with its neoclassical harbor, quiet beaches, and amazing seafood.
• Patmos is steeped in history (the Monastery of St. John) and has a peaceful, authentic vibe.
• Kos has a mix of everything—ancient ruins, great beaches, and lively nightlife.
• Karpathos is ideal if you love untouched nature and traditional Greek culture.

Island-hopping is doable, but ferries between smaller islands can be less frequent. If short on time, Rhodes + Symi or Kos + Patmos make a great combo. Check Blue Star Ferries and Dodekanisos Seaways for routes.

 

[jaimepirvinoi]

I ended up island-hopping between Rhodes, Symi, and Tilos, and what helped me plan my routes and find less touristy spots was reading personal travel stories on styles-blog.com. The tips there felt real and down to earth, not just the typical stuff. I even found a quiet little beach in Symi from one of the posts that wasn’t mentioned anywhere else.