Governor’s Palace - a large building with a clock tower
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Governor’s Palace

4.6
·26k reviews·Rodos, Greece

A meticulously reconstructed medieval fortress, the Governor's Palace in Rhodes offers a captivating journey through centuries of history and architec...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Avoid crowds and heat

CrowdLow
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Governor’s Palace - a large building with a clock tower

Governor’s Palace

Best Time

Early mornings

Avoid crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A meticulously reconstructed medieval fortress, the Governor's Palace in Rhodes offers a captivating journey through centuries of history and architectural grandeur.

4.6
(26k reviews)

"Stepping through its massive stone corridors feels like stepping back in time, a must-see in Rhodes Old Town."

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TIP

🎟️ Ticket Value

Tickets are 20 EUR. While worth it for history buffs, some find it a bit steep for the experience.

☀️ Beat the Heat

Visit early to avoid crowds and the intense sun. Some rooms offer AC for a cool break.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Courtyard

Grand Courtyard

Inner Courtyard

Walk through massive stone corridors and feel the weight of centuries in this impressive central space.

Restored Rooms

Restored Rooms

Palace Interior

Marvel at beautifully preserved halls and furniture, offering a glimpse into historical grandeur.

Medieval Museum

Medieval Museum

Palace Museum

Discover artifacts and history spanning from WWII reconstruction to the 7th-century citadel.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Visit early to avoid long lines and the intense Mediterranean sun. Tickets are around 20 EUR, and the palace gets busy fast. Consider visiting during the week if possible.

Immerse in History

This reconstructed castle offers a deep dive into ancient and medieval Rhodes. Allow ample time to explore the museums and courtyards; AC in some rooms offers a welcome respite.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Avoid crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Must know tips if you’re headed to the Palace of Versailles in France! 🇫🇷✨ #travel #traveltiktok #traveltips #paris #parisfrance #parisfrance🇫🇷 #palaceofversailles #palaceofversaillesfrance #versailles #versaillespalace #palaceofversaillesgardens #parisfranceeurope #paristhingstodo #paristhings #parismustdo #parismustsee #parisitinerary #parisactivites #bestofparis #paristravel #paristrip #par...
@carielizabethh
39.9K likes • 684K views

🎟️ Ticket Value

Tickets are 20 EUR. While worth it for history buffs, some find it a bit steep for the experience. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Heat

Visit early to avoid crowds and the intense sun. Some rooms offer AC for a cool break. Reddit

all my best tips & a simple guide to Seoul palace hanbok rentals so you too can feel like a super pretty princess!!! 👸🏻 #hanbok #hanbokrental #gyeonbokgungpalace #gyeongbokgung #visitkorea #seoulkorea #thingstodoinseoul #seoulbucketlist #seoulitinerary #koreaitinerary
@itshelenmelon
27.2K likes • 440.2K views
Curious about old world brewing? 🍺 Discover the art of brewing malted barley beer, 18th-century style with Frank Clark, the Master of Historic Foodways, as he sheds some light on traditional brewing methods that are still used today at the Governor's Palace scullery. Cheers! Or shall we say ‘Huzzah’?
colonialwmsburg
1.8K likes • 25.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Old Town

The palace is part of the larger historic Rhodes Old Town, full of ancient walls and history. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush your visit; there's a lot to learn and see within the palace and its museums. TikTok

Hospitality was a fundamental ingredient of Virginia gentry life. Virginia-born gentleman-planter William Byrd II was described as leading a life of “supercharged socialability.” Lieutenant Governor Robert Dinwiddie was responsible for adding the ballroom and supper room on the back of the Royal Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg in 1752. The creation of two large rooms for public entertainments wa...
stanleyprestonlewis
166 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Ticket Value

Tickets are 20 EUR. While worth it for history buffs, some find it a bit steep for the experience. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Heat

Visit early to avoid crowds and the intense sun. Some rooms offer AC for a cool break. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Old Town

The palace is part of the larger historic Rhodes Old Town, full of ancient walls and history. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush your visit; there's a lot to learn and see within the palace and its museums. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(26k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Governor's Palace for its impressive architecture, historical significance, and well-preserved rooms, offering a tangible connection to the past. However, some find the 20 EUR entry fee a bit steep for the experience, suggesting it could benefit from more interactive elements to fully engage visitors.

"This place is so neat! Tickets are 20Euro or about $23 USD. Get there as early as you can, it gets crowded fast. Amazing restored rooms and furniture and so much to learn and see. It is an impressive building and beautifully decorated. There is a wonderful museum at the end to view as well."

Emily Eliason

"Tickets are 20 EUR, but honestly, it’s worth it, the palace is stunning, with beautifully preserved halls, mosaics and a real sense of history. The inner courtyard is impressive, and walking through the massive stone corridors feels like stepping back in time. Try to visit early in the day to avoid crowds and the heat. It’s one of the must-see landmarks in Rhodes Old Town."

Miodrag Jovic

"Nice museum, lots of history with the palace dating back to WWII and the citadel as far back as the 7th century. If you like medieval architecture then this is the place to be. Also the rooms had AC and nice shading to relax a bit from all the walking."

Nate A

What People Like

Impressive architecture
Rich history
Restored rooms

What People Dislike

Ticket price
Lack of interactivity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Governor's Palace is located within the historic Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's easily accessible on foot from most parts of the Old Town. If arriving by car, be aware that parking is limited within the Old Town walls, so it's best to park outside and walk in. Taxis can also drop you near the entrance. TikTok

Parking directly at the Governor's Palace is very limited as it's within the pedestrianized Old Town. The closest parking areas are outside the Old Town walls, such as the Municipal Market parking lot or various private lots. From there, it's a short walk into the historic center. TikTok

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the cruise port to the Rhodes Old Town and the Governor's Palace. The port is adjacent to the Old Town, and you can enter through one of the gates. The walk takes about 10-15 minutes to reach the palace area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for the Governor's Palace are approximately 20 EUR. It's recommended to purchase them upon arrival, but be aware that prices can change. Reddit+1

Opening hours can vary seasonally, but generally, the palace is open from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Reddit

While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's a good idea to arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues. Purchasing tickets on-site is usually possible. Reddit

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or group rates is not widely publicized. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official tourism website for Rhodes for any available concessions. Reddit

There isn't a widely advertised city pass that specifically includes the Governor's Palace. Most visitors purchase individual tickets. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find beautifully restored rooms, historical furniture, and artifacts. The palace also houses museums detailing the history of Rhodes from ancient times to the medieval period, including its WWII reconstruction. Reddit+1

Children might find the historical aspects engaging, especially the scale of the palace and the museum exhibits. However, it's primarily a historical site, so very young children might require more supervision. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed inside the Governor's Palace, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the artifacts. Always check for signage or ask staff if unsure. Instagram

The palace has many stone corridors and stairs, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. While some areas might be accessible, it's best to contact the palace directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

A typical visit can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in history and the depth you wish to explore the museums and exhibits. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes located directly inside the Governor's Palace. However, the surrounding Rhodes Old Town is filled with numerous tavernas, cafes, and restaurants offering local and international cuisine. TikTok

You'll find a wide variety of Greek and Mediterranean dishes, including fresh seafood, traditional mezes, souvlaki, and moussaka. Many establishments offer outdoor seating in charming courtyards or along the historic streets. TikTok

Yes, while some restaurants in the prime tourist spots can be pricier, you can find more affordable options by venturing slightly off the main paths or looking for smaller, local tavernas. Street food like gyros is also a budget-friendly choice. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The inner courtyard offers grand architectural shots. The restored rooms provide opportunities for interior photography, and the exterior views of the palace against the sky are also picturesque. Instagram

Drone photography is generally not permitted within historic city centers or around significant landmarks like the Governor's Palace due to regulations and preservation concerns. Always check local drone laws before flying. Instagram

Early morning light offers softer illumination and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Governor's Palace is rich in history, it might be more engaging for older children who can appreciate the historical narratives. The sheer scale of the palace and its courtyards can be exciting for younger ones to explore. Consider making it part of a broader exploration of the Old Town, which offers more varied sensory experiences. TikTok

To make the visit more enjoyable, focus on the visual aspects: the massive stone walls, the grand halls, and any artifacts that capture their imagination. Bringing a small notebook for them to sketch or jot down interesting facts can also add an interactive element. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks, as the palace can get warm. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

This is your prime destination! The Governor's Palace offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in medieval history and architecture. You'll be fascinated by the Knights Hospitaller's legacy and the subsequent Italian reconstruction. Reddit+1

Pay close attention to the architectural details, the strategic layout of the fortress, and the historical artifacts displayed within the museums. The Street of the Knights leading to the palace is also a must-see for a complete historical immersion. Allow ample time to absorb the atmosphere and details. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Governor's Palace and its surroundings offer numerous photographic opportunities. The inner courtyard provides a sense of scale and grandeur, perfect for wide-angle shots. The restored interiors offer opportunities for detailed shots of furniture and decor, while the exterior architecture against the sky is also striking. Instagram

Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light and to avoid crowds. The cobblestone streets of the Old Town leading to the palace also make for excellent atmospheric shots. Be mindful of any photography restrictions inside specific exhibits. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Governor's Palace in Rhodes, officially known as the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, is a medieval fortress that has been meticulously reconstructed. While its current form largely dates back to Italian reconstruction in the 1930s and 40s, the site itself has a much deeper history, with foundations tracing back to the 7th century and significant development by the Knights Hospitaller starting in the 14th century. It served as the headquarters of the Knights and later as a commandery for Italian governors. Reddit+1

The palace is a testament to the island's strategic importance throughout history, showcasing architectural styles that reflect its various rulers and periods. Visitors can explore numerous halls, chambers, and courtyards, each whispering tales of sieges, governance, and daily life within its formidable walls. The reconstruction aimed to restore its medieval grandeur, making it a key historical monument on the island. Reddit+1

Today, the Governor's Palace is not just a historical site but also a museum. It houses collections of ancient and medieval artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and pottery, offering a comprehensive look at the rich heritage of Rhodes. The experience is enhanced by the sheer scale and preservation of the structure, allowing visitors to truly step back in time. Reddit+1

Navigating the Old Town

The Governor's Palace is a central piece of the Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Wandering through its labyrinthine streets is an experience in itself, with ancient walls, Ottoman mosques, and charming squares around every corner. Reddit

When visiting the palace, consider dedicating time to explore the surrounding Street of the Knights, which leads to the palace and retains its medieval character. You can also visit other nearby attractions like the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes (housed in the medieval Hospital of the Knights) and the Palace of the Grand Master. Reddit

Many visitors find that the 20 EUR ticket price is justified by the historical significance and the overall experience of being within such a well-preserved medieval environment. However, some reviews suggest that for the price, more interactive elements could enhance visitor engagement. Reddit+1 It's a place where history is palpable, making it a must-see for any history enthusiast. Reddit

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