Islands of the Aegean

Fly to the island of Rhodes and stay four nights at the 4-star Sun Beach Resort (4Q), approximately five miles from the airport.

Located in the resort of Ialyssos, the large and popular resort has two restaurants, two snack bars, entertainment venue, lounge bar, private beach, two outdoor pools, plus leisure pursuits such as tennis, table tennis, mini-golf, gym and archery. All guest rooms have a balcony or terrace, climate control, satellite television, mini fridge, hairdryer and bath with overhead shower. D

Rhodes Town was founded in 408 BC and has a fascinating history, which you can discover on an included excursion today.

Said to be the oldest inhabited medieval town in Europe, many of the historic buildings in the old town were built in the 14th and 15th centuries, whilst the new town features much Italianate architecture. You'll see the mighty walls and grand gates which encircle the town, and stroll along the long, cobbled 'Street of the Knights' where, in the 16th century, knights and visiting dignitaries could find a home-from-home and speak their native language in the Inns of the Tongues. B, L, D

Spend the day at leisure in Rhodes. An optional excursion heads along the coast to the picturesque ancient village of Lindos. B, L, D

Spend another day at leisure in Rhodes. Alternatively, an optional trip ventures into the heart of Rhodes to reveal traditional village life. B, L, D

After breakfast travel by catamaran ferry across the Aegean Sea (approximately four hours) to the unspoilt island of Leros (four hours).

Spend the next three nights at the 4-star Crithoni's Paradise (3Q). The hotel is located a short distance from the beach and facilities include a restaurant, bar, gym and sauna. All 132 air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a television, telephone, minibar (extra charge) and hairdryer. B, L, D

The unspoilt island of Leros is characterised by an indented coastline, lush landscapes and protected harbours. A full-day included tour highlights some of its historic sights including the Franco Byzantine Fort and Byzantine Castle on Mount Kastelli. B, L, D

Spend the day at leisure amid your tranquil surroundings. B, L, D.

This morning you'll travel by catamaran ferry to Symi (approximately three hours). Spend the next four nights at the 3-star Pedi Beach Hotel (2Q) which overlooks tranquil Pedi Bay.

This small and friendly hotel is set beside a pebble beach, sheltered by a small mountain. There is a dining room which serves buffet breakfasts, a bar, television lounge and restaurant. All 56 simple, but comfortable guest rooms have a balcony, air conditioning, television, radio, bath and shower. B, L, D

Today's included boat trip uncovers Symi's heritage which has barely been touched by modernisation. See the sights of one of the smallest of the Dodecanese archipelago which lies very close to Turkey – just six miles away, in fact.

Today you’ll travel from by boat along the east coastline of Symi island to the southern tip and then into the bay of Panormitis. Here we visit the 18th century monastery of Taxiarchis Michael Panaormitis, with a chance to visit the two museums.

The tour continues with a short cruise to the tiny islet of Sesklia where you'll enjoy a barbeque lunch on the beach and if you wish, a swim in the crystal clear water of the bay. B, L, D

Spend the next two days at leisure. Perhaps you might like to wander around the main town, known as both Yialos and Symi Town. Because of its elegant neoclassical buildings it's been architecturally protected since the 1970s. There is a local bus service around the island. Yialos Harbour offers a range of cafes and restaurants, where you might like to stop for a drink and watch the world go by… B, L, D

Sail back to Rhodes by catamaran ferry (approximately one hour), and spend the final three nights of your holiday back at the 4-star Sun Beach Resort (4Q). B, L, D

Visit Mandraki Harbour during an included scenic tour of the island today.

When the Italians occupied the island from 1913-43 they built an elaborate spa in Kalithea, an area known for its thermal, therapeutic springs, along with various other Belle Epoch architecture. From here you’ll travel through scenery that may look familiar, as several movies have been filmed in this area, including scenes from the film ‘The Guns of Navarone’. On the cliffs above the town is the ancient acropolis of the city of Rhodes – now a park – where you will have the chance to explore ruins from the theatre, stadium and Temple of Apollo. B, L, D

Today you can explore the medieval Old Town independently or perhaps join an optional excursion to Butterfly Valley and Filérimos. A farewell dinner is included this evening. B, L, D

Enjoy some time at leisure. Travel to the airport for your return flight to the UK. B