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Rhodes enjoys an early boom in tourism from Türkiye thanks to Greece's expanded visa-on-arrival policy for 12 Aegean islands.
According to Patronlar Dunyasi, Greece’s decision to expand its express visa scheme for Turkish citizens to 12 Aegean islands has resulted in a tourism surge, especially in Rhodes, where more than 72,000 people traveled to and from the island via Marmaris in the first four months of 2025.
Turkish holidaymakers are showing growing interest in the Greek islands following the new policy, which became effective on April 30, allowing easier access to more destinations with simplified documentation.
Previously available only on five islands—Kos (Istankoy), Lesvos (Midilli), Rhodes, Samos (Sisam), and Chios (Sakiz)—the express visa policy now includes Leros (Ileryoz), Limnos, Kalymnos (Kelemez), Kastellorizo (Meis), and Symi (Sombeki).
To benefit from the program, Turkish citizens must submit the required documents along with an application form either directly at border checkpoints or, preferably, in advance via travel agencies managing ferry services between Türkiye and the islands.
Each visa costs €60, is valid for one to seven days, and is restricted to the island of issue—not valid for entry into mainland Greece or other EU countries.
Known for its medieval charm and white-washed houses, Rhodes has become a favorite among Turkish tourists. According to local authorities, 60,000 of the 72,000 crossings between Marmaris and Rhodes were made via ferries.
During peak periods, long queues form at Turkish ports as visitors make their way to the island. Popular tourist attractions for Turkish visitors include the Old Town (Eski Sehir), Hippocrates Square, Lindos Acropolis, Butterfly Valley, and Mandraki Harbour.
Rhodes was under Ottoman rule for nearly 400 years after being conquered by Suleiman the Magnificent in 1522. Today, Ottoman-era mosques, libraries, tombs, and baths stand as enduring symbols of this heritage.
Turkish visitors Emel and Muharrem Kebiz, arriving from Fethiye, described their emotional experience: "It is amazing to see our ancestors’ legacy. Seeing Ottoman mosques and libraries left us deeply touched. Some have been turned into shops, which saddened us."
Greek shopkeepers in Rhodes are expressing joy over the influx of Turkish tourists, noting that they are keen spenders, particularly on local cuisine and souvenirs. The shared history and close proximity between the islands and Türkiye continue to foster cross-cultural travel and economic benefits for both nations.
Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese Islands in the Aegean Sea, is just 11 nautical miles from Türkiye’s Bozburun Peninsula. It is accessible via regular ferry services from Bodrum, Marmaris, and Fethiye, with a travel time of about one hour.
The Rhodes Castle and the historic city inside, once governed by the Knights of Rhodes, are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attracting history lovers from across the region.
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