Rhodes

Go Back

 Historic, Scenic, Versatile

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and one of Greece’s most versatile event destinations, offering a rich mix of medieval heritage, Mediterranean charm, and modern infrastructure. For local audiences, it is a proud guardian of history, with the Medieval Old Town of Rhodes recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For regional travellers, particularly from the eastern Mediterranean, Rhodes serves as a convenient resort hub with strong transport links and established hospitality. For international organisers, it is a destination that balances cultural depth with scale, capable of hosting large conferences and incentives while still offering authentic experiences in historic settings.

The appeal of Rhodes lies in its ability to cater to diverse audiences. The Old Town provides a living backdrop of cobbled streets, fortifications, and Gothic architecture that can transform events into atmospheric experiences. Within these walls, boutique hotels and restored mansions offer intimate venues for weddings, gala dinners, and cultural programmes. At the same time, modern resorts along the coast, such as the Sheraton Rhodes Resort, the Amathus Beach Hotel, and the Mitsis Grand Hotel, provide purpose-built spaces for conferences, corporate meetings, and large-scale incentives. This dual character — historic and modern — allows Rhodes to host events that range from highly exclusive to broadly international.

Venues of note include the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, which provides a dramatic medieval setting for receptions, and the Kallithea Springs, a restored thermal spa complex that now serves as a striking venue for weddings and cultural gatherings. For outdoor celebrations, beaches such as Lindos and Faliraki offer coastal charm, while hillside villages like Embonas allow organisers to integrate wine tastings, gastronomy, and local traditions into their programmes.

Cultural immersion is a key strength. Rhodes has been shaped by centuries of influence — Greek, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Italian — and this diversity is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. Guests can explore archaeological sites, attend folk dance performances, or enjoy a guided tour through the Knights’ Quarter. Culinary experiences are especially rich, with Rhodes’ gastronomy drawing on both Greek staples and unique island flavours. Integrating olive oil tastings, cooking workshops, and vineyard tours can transform an event into a multi-sensory journey.

The island also benefits from strong accessibility. Rhodes International Airport connects to Athens and many European cities, with seasonal charter flights increasing capacity during peak months. The island’s port remains an important gateway for cruise arrivals, making Rhodes a frequent stop for international visitors. While this influx drives demand, it also ensures that infrastructure — from hotels to transport — is designed to handle high volumes, a valuable asset for organisers considering larger events.

In terms of event types, Rhodes is unusually versatile. It is one of the most popular Greek islands for destination weddings, particularly in Lindos, where chapels overlooking the Aegean provide romantic settings. It is also a proven host for international conferences, with venues capable of accommodating thousands of delegates. Incentive travel thrives here, as organisers can combine beach leisure with cultural exploration and adventurous activities such as sailing, hiking, or diving. The island also lends itself to community-focused events, with opportunities to work alongside local artisans, musicians, and cultural groups to design programmes that leave a lasting impact.

Sustainability and heritage preservation are increasingly emphasised. Local authorities and hoteliers are working to protect Rhodes’ fragile cultural assets while ensuring the island remains event-ready. For organisers, this presents opportunities to align with initiatives that promote responsible tourism and community engagement. Using local suppliers, integrating cultural experiences, and supporting heritage conservation can help events build a narrative that is both meaningful and globally relevant.

Ultimately, Rhodes offers something few destinations can: the ability to combine scale with atmosphere. It is large enough to host global conferences and corporate programmes yet intimate enough to provide romantic backdrops for weddings or exclusive retreats. For local communities, events reinforce cultural pride; for regional audiences, Rhodes is a convenient and trusted hub; and for international organisers, it is a destination where medieval castles, Mediterranean beaches, and modern resorts coexist in a way that ensures every gathering feels distinctive. Rhodes stands as one of Greece’s most balanced event destinations, equally capable of delivering grandeur, intimacy, and authenticity.