Morning: Depart Gatwick on a direct flight to Rhodes International Airport, enjoying comfortable seats and a brief lay‑over in Athens. Upon arrival you’ll collect your luggage and meet a private transfer to the ferry terminal.
Afternoon: Board the high‑speed ferry to Symi, a scenic 2‑hour ride across the Aegean with stunning coastal views. Check‑in is quick, and you’ll be welcomed with a welcome drink on deck.
Evening: Settle into a sea‑front apartment with a balcony overlooking Symi’s harbour. Enjoy a leisurely dinner of fresh fish at To Steno while watching the sunset.
Find HotelsMorning: Stroll through the white‑washed alleys of Symi Town, visiting the historic Panormitis Monastery perched on a hill with panoramic vistas.
Afternoon: Take a short boat ride to Plagia Beach, where crystal‑clear waters invite swimming and snorkeling among vibrant marine life.
Evening: Return to your balcony apartment for a relaxed evening, sipping local wine while the harbour lights twinkle.
Find HotelsMorning: Hike the coastal trail from Symi Town to the secluded Agios Georgios Bay, spotting ancient ruins and aromatic thyme.
Afternoon: Picnic on the beach, then explore the nearby Kastro ruins, a medieval fortress offering sweeping sea views.
Evening: Dine at Ouzeri Taverna for traditional meze, then enjoy a quiet night on your balcony under the stars.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Symi on a morning ferry to Nisyros, a 1.5‑hour crossing with scenic island silhouettes.
Afternoon: Check into a sea‑front apartment in Mandraki, then join a guided tour of the active Nisyros Volcano, walking through steaming craters.
Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at To Paradosi while the volcano’s glow fades into night.
Find HotelsMorning: Relax on the black‑sand Liotopi Beach, perfect for sunbathing and gentle swimming.
Afternoon: Visit the charming village of Apollona, wandering its narrow lanes and browsing local craft shops.
Evening: Sunset drinks at the harbor terrace, followed by a leisurely dinner at Alkyonides.
Find HotelsMorning: Take an early ferry to Patmos, a tranquil 2‑hour journey across turquoise waters.
Afternoon: Settle into a sea‑view apartment with a private balcony in Skala, then explore the historic Monastery of St. John.
Evening: Walk along the quiet waterfront promenade, ending with dinner at Artemisia featuring island specialties.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the Chrysopigi Monastery on the hilltop, enjoying its peaceful gardens and panoramic sea views.
Afternoon: Explore the ancient ruins of Hagia Theodoroi and the iconic Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John received his visions.
Evening: Sample local wines at a cozy taverna in the village of Megalochori, then return to your balcony for a quiet night.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a short boat to Grikou Beach, a pristine spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Afternoon: Enjoy a beachside lunch of grilled octopus, then relax on the soft sand while reading a book.
Evening: Return to Skala for a sunset cruise around the island, ending with dinner at Stavros.
Find HotelsMorning: Board a morning ferry to Kalymnos, a 2‑hour ride known for its dramatic cliffs.
Afternoon: Check into a sea‑front apartment in Pothia with a balcony, then wander the charming harbour and visit the Castle of the Knights.
Evening: Dine at Ouzeri Tou Pappou, savoring kalymnian lobster and local raki.
Find HotelsMorning: Hike the scenic coastal trail from Pothia to Agios Pavlos Beach, enjoying breathtaking cliffs and hidden coves.
Afternoon: Swim in the clear waters of Agios Pavlos, then relax on the sandy shore with a picnic.
Evening: Return to your apartment for a relaxed evening, perhaps a movie night on the balcony.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a mid‑morning ferry to Leros, a tranquil 1‑hour crossing.
Afternoon: Settle into a sea‑view apartment in Agia Marina, then explore the historic Castle of the Knights overlooking the bay.
Evening: Dinner at Kanava, featuring locally caught fish and Leros’ famous cheese pies.
**Day 12: Leros – History & Beaches**Morning: Visit the War Museum in the old town, learning about Leros’ role in World War II.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Plaka Beach, a quiet stretch of golden sand perfect for sunbathing.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset aperitif at a beachfront bar, then a relaxed dinner at O Pitarakis.
Find HotelsMorning: Ferry back to Rhodes (≈2 hours), arriving in the historic city of Rhodes.
Afternoon: Explore the UNESCO‑listed Rhodes Old Town, walking its medieval streets and visiting the Palace of the Grand Master.
Evening: Celebrate the last night with dinner at Marco Polo in the Old Town, enjoying traditional Greek dishes and live music.
Find HotelsMorning: Transfer to Rhodes Airport for your return flight to Gatwick, reflecting on the serene island memories.
Afternoon: Arrival at Gatwick, completing your two‑week Dodecanese adventure.
Evening: Optional: unwind at home with a Greek-inspired dinner to extend the holiday vibe.
Find HotelsIf you wish to shorten the trip, skip Leros and spend an extra day on Patmos for more beach time. To extend the vacation, add a day on each of the quieter islands—Symi, Nisyros, and Kalymnos—to explore additional hidden coves and enjoy slower-paced evenings on your balcony. Booking ferries in advance during October ensures seats and often better rates, while choosing apartments with kitchenettes can help reduce meal costs.