Rhodes

The South Aegean is one of Greece's 13 administrative regions, stretching across the Cyclades and Dodecanese island groups in the central and southeastern Aegean Sea. Its capital is Ermoupoli on Syros, but the region is best known for iconic islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Kos, Naxos and Paros.\n\nThe region's history spans ancient Greek sanctuaries, medieval fortresses and later Venetian and Ottoman influences. UNESCO-listed sites include the sacred island of Delos, the medieval city of Rhodes and the Monastery of Saint John and Cave of the Apocalypse on Patmos.\n\nEach island has a distinct character. Santorini draws visitors to its caldera villages and Oia sunsets, Mykonos combines beaches with nightlife, and Rhodes offers a walled medieval Old Town, the Palace of the Grand Master and the acropolis of Lindos. Kos, Naxos, Paros and Syros add archaeological sites, beaches, mountain villages and neoclassical architecture.\n\nTourism drives the regional economy, supported by wine, olive oil, honey and local crafts, while Syros has a long commercial and shipping tradition. Ferries and catamarans link the islands, and airports on Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos and Kos bring direct international flights in summer.\n\nThe South Aegean works well for both leisure and business travel, with beach holidays, cultural sightseeing, yachting and food experiences alongside meetings, events and conferences on larger islands such as Rhodes.