10Rhodes, Greece
The medieval Old Town of Rhodes is one of Europe’s great historic urban treasures. Surrounded by enormous stone walls, it feels almost like a city within a city.
The Street of the Knights is its most famous thoroughfare, lined with imposing medieval buildings that once belonged to knights of the Order of St John. Elsewhere, narrow lanes lead to courtyards, fountains, Ottoman-era buildings and atmospheric little squares.
What makes Rhodes especially fascinating is the mixture of cultures layered throughout the historic center. Medieval, Byzantine, Ottoman and Italian influences can all be seen within a relatively compact area.
Walking through the Old Town in the evening, when the stone buildings are illuminated and the streets become quieter, is particularly atmospheric.
