The Dodecanese is a group of Greek islands in the southeastern Aegean Sea, in Europe. The name means "twelve islands", and the group takes in twelve main islands, among them Rhodes and Kos, which are the two best known to visitors.
The islands are known for their medieval architecture and their ancient history. Visitors come to see old town quarters, castles and fortifications, and the traces of many centuries of settlement that layer one on another across the group. Rhodes and Kos each carry a long past that can be explored on foot, and the wider island group offers smaller places where the pace of life is quieter.
What a visit is like
Because the Dodecanese is spread across many islands, a trip usually means choosing a base and moving between them, or focusing on one or two islands rather than trying to see everything. Rhodes and Kos work well for a first visit, since each offers a substantial historic centre and a range of places to stay and eat.
- Walking the historic quarters and medieval streets of the main towns
- Exploring castles, fortifications and archaeological sites
- Island hopping between the smaller islands of the group
- Combining sightseeing with the relaxed rhythm of Aegean island life
Planning your trip
The Dodecanese sits in the southeastern Aegean, so getting there and getting around between islands both depend on ferries and flights. Check current schedules before you set out, as connections between the smaller islands can be less frequent than those to the larger ones. Allow time for each island you choose, so that the historic sites and the coastline can both be enjoyed without rushing.
