The Best of Rhodes – Private Beach Excursion

The Best of Rhodes – Private Beach Excursion offers a flexible, intimate way to explore the island’s most iconic sights and relax at its best beaches. For $296.46 per group of up to four people, this tour provides a personalized experience tailored to your interests, with pick-up services and a private vehicle. It lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, making it ideal for travelers seeking a balance of sightseeing and leisure during their cruise stop.

This tour excels at avoiding crowds by offering a private guide and your own group. You’ll visit Rhodes Old Town, explore the Mandraki Harbour, and enjoy several of the island’s top beaches, including Anthony Quinn Bay. The guided walks, panoramic viewpoints, and relaxed beach time combine to create a comprehensive, stress-free way to see Rhodes. One consideration is that the tour does not include lunch, and some stops, like Kallithea Springs, require an additional entry fee.

This private excursion caters well to those who value customization, flexibility, and intimate exploration. It suits visitors who want a thorough yet relaxed day with knowledgeable guides and stunning coastal scenery, though it may not be ideal for travelers seeking a more structured or all-inclusive experience.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour for up to 4 people at $296.46
• Duration of 4-6 hours, flexible based on your interests
• Visit Rhodes Old Town and Mandraki Harbour, including a walk around the UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Enjoy panoramic views from Monte Smith hill and explore the Temple of Apollo ruins
• Relax at top beaches like Anthony Quinn Bay, Faliraki Beach, and Kallithea Springs
• Includes snacks, bottled water, WiFi, and a knowledgeable driver-guide

Starting with Rhodes Old Town and its Medieval Walls

This tour kicks off with a drive around Rhodes Old Town, the largest inhabited medieval town in Europe, built in the 1300s by the Knights of St. John. You’ll see the main gates from outside, perfect for photos without the crowds, thanks to recent traffic regulations that restrict vehicle access inside the Old Town. The tour ends at an Old Town gate, allowing you to stroll back to your ship or continue exploring on your own.

The walk back from the Old Town is only about 5 minutes, saving time and transportation costs, and your driver can advise on the best way to revisit your favorite spots. This flexibility appeals especially to cruise travelers who need to return to their ship on time but still want a rich experience of Rhodes’ historic core.

Visiting Mandraki Harbour and the Colossus Statue

Next, the guide takes you to Mandraki Harbour, where you see impressive Italian-built buildings and the harbor’s entrance believed to have hosted the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although the statue no longer stands, the site remains iconic for photos.

You also get to explore the Church of the Annunciation, built during the Italian occupation in the 1920s, which is still active today and hosts a large religious festival every March 25th. Entrance to the church is free, and it offers a glimpse into Rhodes’ more recent history alongside its ancient past.

The Legend of the Colossus of Rhodes

Though the Colossus of Rhodes no longer exists, the guide shares the story of this gigantic statue of Helios, erected between 292 BC and 280 BC. It was once considered the tallest building of its time, standing at 30 feet tall. Built as a memorial of Rhodes’ victory over the Romans, the statue was positioned at the port entrance, with ships passing beneath it.

Unfortunately, in 226 BC, an earthquake toppled the statue after only 56 years, leaving behind broken fragments on land. The story of the Colossus adds a fascinating layer of history to your sightseeing, making the ruins and the harbor’s atmosphere even more meaningful.

Panoramic Views from Monte Smith Hill and the Acropolis

Your guide takes you to Monte Smith Hill, where panoramic views of Rhodes city and the Aegean Sea unfold. Here, you can photograph the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the ancient Stadium, and the Amphitheatre—all open-air sites that hint at Rhodes’ long history of entertainment and religion.

This stop offers a chance to appreciate the island’s natural beauty and architectural heritage in one view. The drive up is smooth, and the views are often praised as spectacular, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Relaxing at Anthony Quinn Bay

One of the tour’s highlights is Anthony Quinn Bay, famous for its emerald waters, rocky outcrops, and pine trees that reach down to the shoreline. Named after actor Anthony Quinn, who loved this spot during filming of The Guns of Navarone, the bay offers excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

The beach provides sun beds, umbrellas, and a nearby restaurant, making it easy to relax for about 10 minutes before moving on. During peak summer months, this beach tends to get crowded, so early visits or private arrangements can enhance the experience.

Extensive Beach Options: Faliraki and Kallithea Springs

Next, the tour visits Faliraki Beach, a 4-kilometer-long stretch of golden sand with water sports, cafes, and nightlife options. It’s perfect for those wanting a lively beach atmosphere with plenty of amenities.

Then, you’ll stop at Kallithea Springs, known historically for its thermal springs and Italian baths. The Santa Marina area nearby offers a relaxing, exotic setting with boho decor, wooden and bamboo accents, and padded sunbeds. This stop includes about 3 hours at the site, ideal for unwinding or enjoying a light snack and swim.

Entry to Kallithea Springs is not included, so visitors wishing to explore further should be prepared for an additional fee.

Personalized Service and Comfortable Transportation

The private vehicle, equipped with WiFi, ensures a smooth ride throughout the day. The knowledgeable driver-guide provides personalized attention, tailoring stops based on your interests. Many reviews highlight the friendly demeanor, local knowledge, and flexibility that make this tour stand out.

Plus, the tour includes snacks, bottled water, and timely return to your cruise ship, making it a worry-free experience even during a tight schedule.

A Well-Reviewed Experience with High Satisfaction

With a 4.5/5 rating based on 30 reviews (and a 90% recommendation rate), this tour consistently receives praise for its friendly guides, stunning views, and good value. Travelers appreciate the customized approach, expert explanations, and timely return to their ship.

Some reviews mention the long experience with guides like Michael, who has 29 years’ experience, and Giannis, valued for his storytelling. Many reviewers note that the beach time is well-organized, relaxing, and a highlight of the day.

Considerations and Potential Limitations

While most reviews are highly positive, there are some critiques. A few mention guides who were less engaging or felt the beach visits were limited to only one beach. The additional entry fee for Kallithea Springs might be an extra cost to consider.

The tour is best suited for those who appreciate flexibility and a laid-back pace; travelers seeking a strict itinerary or all-inclusive package may find this less suitable. Also, physical mobility should be considered, especially at sites with uneven terrain or stairs.

Final Thoughts on the Rhodes Private Beach Tour

This private tour combines historical sightseeing with relaxing beach time in Rhodes, making it perfect for cruise passengers or day trippers who want a personalized and flexible experience. The knowledgeable guides, panoramic views, and beautiful beaches are its main strengths.

While not the cheapest option, the private nature and customizable itinerary offer a value that many travelers appreciate. It’s especially recommended for those who want a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and leisure without the large crowds.

If you enjoy guided exploration complemented by time to unwind at beautiful beaches, this tour delivers a thoughtfully curated day on Rhodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi.

Can I customize the stops?
The tour is private, and the driver-guide can suggest adjustments; additional fees may apply for extensions or changes.

How long is the beach time?
Beach stops like Anthony Quinn Bay and Kallithea Springs typically allow for about 10 minutes to 3 hours of relaxing, depending on your preferences.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 4 people per group.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but snacks and bottled water are provided on the vehicle.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Some stops, such as Kallithea Springs, require an additional entrance fee, which is not included in the tour price.

How do I get back to the cruise ship?
The tour ends with a short walk or the driver can guide you on the best route back, ensuring timely arrival at your ship.

What if I want to extend the tour?
Extensions are possible for an additional fee; you should speak with your driver or guide during the tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are made through the provider YourTaxi Rhodes, with options for mobile tickets and pickup service.