Rhodes & Lindos & Butterfly Valley – Private Half-day Excursion

Experience Rhodes in a Private Half-Day Tour for Cruise Visitors

This private half-day excursion offers an engaging way to explore Rhodes, Greece, especially suited for cruise passengers wanting a comprehensive glimpse of the island’s most iconic sites. For $581.78 per group (up to 4 people), travelers enjoy a 5 to 7-hour journey that covers historic landmarks, scenic views, and natural beauty. The tour includes pickup, WiFi, snacks, bottled water, and the services of a knowledgeable English-speaking driver.

What makes this tour stand out is its careful curation of Rhodes’ highlights—from the Old Town walls to Lindos’ Acropolis—alongside unique stops like the Butterfly Valley and a local pottery factory. While it’s designed to fit within a half-day timeframe, it allows enough flexibility for exploration and plenty of photo opportunities. This tour is ideal for those who want a personalized, rundown without the hassle of organizing transportation or guiding themselves.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive experience tailored for cruise ship passengers
• Visits to Rhodes Old Town, Mandraki Harbour, and the Colossus of Rhodes
• Time at Butterfly Valley or Filerimos Hill depending on season
• Exploration of Lindos Village and its Acropolis with over an hour for sightseeing
• Stops at pottery factory and Saint Paul’s Bay for cultural insight and scenic views
• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and snacks included

Starting the Tour: Rhodes Old Town Walls and Gates

The tour begins with a scenic drive around the walls of Rhodes Old Town, known as the largest inhabited medieval town in Europe. Built in the 1300s by the Knights of St. John, the town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status guarantees impressive medieval architecture.

Due to local traffic regulations, no vehicles are allowed inside the Old Town, so the tour concludes at one of the gates, giving guests the option to explore on foot or return to the ship easily. The walk from the Old Town to the cruise port takes about 5 minutes, making this a convenient start and end point for cruise travelers.

Mandraki Harbour and the Iconic Statue of Rhodes

Next, the tour stops at Mandraki Harbour, the modern part of the city where monumental Italian architecture lines the waterfront. This harbor is believed to be where the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood.

Guests can take photographs of the harbor area and enter the Church of the Annunciation, built during the Italian occupation in the 1920s. This famous church is a notable stop, especially since it still hosts a large religious festival on March 25th. The harbor’s historical significance and architectural beauty make it a compelling photo spot.

Discovering the Colossus of Rhodes Statue

The Colossus of Rhodes remains one of the most famous ancient symbols of the island. This gigantic statue of Helios, erected between 292 BC and 280 BC, was about 30 feet tall and represented a giant holding a bow and torch.

Built to commemorate Rhodes’ victory over the Roman Army, the statue once stood at the port entrance, with ships passing underneath it. An earthquake in 226 BC toppled the statue, leaving only the historical legend behind. The free 10-minute stop at this site offers a glimpse into Rhodes’ legendary past.

Exploring the Acropolis of Rhodes and Monte Smith Hill

From historical monuments, the tour advances to the Acropolis of Rhodes at Monte Smith Hill. This location provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the Aegean Sea.

Here, visitors can see the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the ancient Stadium, and the Amphitheatre. At the northern tip of the island, the meeting point of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas offers a perfect photo opportunity. The free access to these ancient ruins makes it a highlight for history enthusiasts.

Butterfly Valley or Filerimos Hill in Summer

Depending on the season, the tour swaps the Filerimos Hill stop with the Valley of Butterflies during summer months (end of June to mid-September). The Valley of the Butterflies is a natural reserve where the coolness, flowing waters, and the shade of trees create a relaxing environment.

Visitors have approximately an hour to enjoy this peaceful site, walk across wooden bridges, and visit the Monastery of Panagia Kalopetra. This stop offers a unique natural experience and a chance to unwind amid lush surroundings.

Visiting a Traditional Pottery Factory

A pottery factory stop is available upon request, where Rhodes’ ceramic art is on display. The island’s long history of pottery—dating back to ancient cities—continues today with both replicas of ancient designs and modern styles.

Guests can observe the ceramic-making process during a 20-minute visit, gaining insight into Rhodes’ artistic traditions. Entry to the pottery factory is free, making it a practical addition to the tour for art and craft fans.

Saint Paul’s Bay and the Village of Lindos

Before reaching Lindos, the tour makes a stop at Saint Paul’s Bay, famous for the legend that St. Paul landed here in 51 AD to preach Christianity. The small church at this bay remains a significant historical site, and guests have a brief 10-minute window for photos of the stunning bay and village.

The Lindos stop is the most extended part of the tour, with over an hour and a half to explore the charming village. Visitors can wander narrow streets, visit the Lindos Acropolis, and enjoy the picturesque setting of one of Greece’s most popular sites. The entrance fee of 12 Euro for the Acropolis is not included, but the visit offers ample opportunity for photos and sightseeing.

Coastal Drive Past Faliraki and Kallithea

On the return journey, the bus follows the coastal road along Faliraki and Kallithea. Faliraki is noted for its sandy beaches and vibrant summer scene, while Kallithea is known for its natural beauty and the filming of movies like Escape to Athena and The Guns of Navarone.

This scenic drive offers a last glimpse of Rhodes’ coastal landscape before heading back to Rhodes old town or the cruise port for independent exploration or departure.

Practical Details and Customer Experience

The tour is operated with a private vehicle, ensuring a personalized experience. It includes WiFi, snacks, bottled water, and the services of a friendly, knowledgeable driver. The duration is flexible, typically lasting 5 to 7 hours, with most stops lasting from 10 minutes up to an hour and a half.

A notable advantage is the ability to customize the experience—for example, requesting a stop at the pottery factory or choosing between Butterfly Valley and Filerimos Hill based on the season. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option for cruise travelers.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This private excursion appeals to those who want a comprehensive yet flexible overview of Rhodes’ highlights. It suits history buffs, culture lovers, and natural scenery enthusiasts alike. It’s ideal for cruise passengers seeking a timely, well-organized tour that covers both ancient sites and beautiful landscapes.

However, travelers should be prepared for up to 1.5 hours of walking at Lindos and the Acropolis, and the entrance fee at Lindos Acropolis is not included. The seasonal change at Butterfly Valley or Filerimos Hill adds variety but requires some scheduling flexibility.

Final Thoughts on the Rhodes & Lindos & Butterfly Valley Tour

This private half-day tour delivers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture. The expert driver and well-thought-out itinerary make it a convenient choice for cruise travelers eager to see Rhodes’ most iconic sites without feeling rushed.

While it offers excellent value for a personalized experience, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and with an interest in ancient ruins and scenic spots. The inclusion of optional stops and the short walking distances make it accessible for most, with ample opportunity for memorable photos and relaxed exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s focus on walking and sightseeing makes it suitable for most ages, though children should be prepared for some walking at Lindos and the Acropolis.

What is not included in the tour price?
The entrance fee of 12 Euro at Lindos Acropolis and the admission to Butterfly Valley are not included. Food expenses are also separate.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, you can request stops like the pottery factory or choose between Butterfly Valley and Filerimos Hill, depending on your interests and the season.

How long is the visit at Lindos?
Guests have more than an hour to explore Lindos village and visit its Acropolis.

What amenities are offered during the tour?
The tour includes WiFi, bottled water, snacks, and air-conditioned transportation with a professional driver.

Is this tour good for a full-day experience?
No, it’s designed as a half-day excursion, typically lasting 5 to 7 hours, making it ideal for cruise schedules or those wanting a shorter yet comprehensive tour.