Rhodes:Kamiros,Kritinia,Embona,Mt Profitis Ilias & Kallithea tour

Exploring Rhodes in a single day is made simple and engaging with this full-day tour that costs $59.29 per person. Covering key sights like Ancient Kamiros, Kritinia Castle, and Kallithea Springs, the tour offers a mix of history, panoramic views, and relaxation. With hotel pickup and drop-off included in popular areas such as Rhodes Town, Ixia, and Ialysos, travelers can enjoy a seamless experience without the hassle of renting a vehicle.

The tour is guided by a professional, knowledgeable guide and features air-conditioned transportation to keep the journey comfortable. While the itinerary includes wine tasting at Embonas, a visit to a Byzantine church, and a swim at Kallithea Springs, it balances sightseeing with free time for exploration. The only notable consideration is the entrance fees—Ancient Kamiros and Kallithea Springs cost extra, so planning for those additional costs is recommended.

This experience suits those eager for a comprehensive look at Rhodes’s highlights without the need for self-driving, especially since it caters to most travelers with comfortable footwear and sun protection. The tour’s balance of cultural, scenic, and leisure stops makes it an attractive option for a full summer day on the island.

Key Points

• Full-day exploration of Rhodes, covering major sites and scenic spots
• Guided tour with a local expert providing detailed commentary
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in key resort areas
• Visit Ancient Kamiros, Kritinia Castle, Embonas wine cellar, Profitis Ilias, and Kallithea Springs
• Additional entrance fees apply for Kamiros and Kallithea Springs
• Wine tasting and local products at Embonas are highlights

From Ancient Kamiros to the Aegean Coast

The tour begins at Ancient Kamiros, an archaeological site on the northwest coast. This city was built on three levels, with the Acropolis at the top, featuring a temple complex of Athena and a stoa. The middle terrace reveals a grid of streets and residential buildings, while the lower terrace includes a Doric temple, likely dedicated to Apollo, the Fountain House, and the Agora. The site was inhabited during prehistoric times by Mycenaean Greeks and founded by the Dorians. Visitors should note that the admission fee is 6 euros.

Kritinia Castle’s Panoramic Views

Next, the journey continues to Kritinia Castle, a 16th-century medieval fortress perched about 131 meters above the village of Kritinia. This site offers some of the best views of the Aegean Sea, including the island of Chalki and nearby deserted islands. The admission is free, making it an accessible highlight with photo opportunities at every turn.

Tasting Local Wines & Olive Oils in Embonas

A major feature of this tour is the wine tasting experience at a historic winery in Embona village. The wine cellar produces wines from locally sourced grapes, and visitors can sample a variety of embona wines, along with liqueurs, ouzo, souma with honey, masticha, and pomegranate. These tastings are complemented by free nuts and fresh fruits.

At the same stop, guests can explore local souvlaki shops and handmade crafts. The olive oil produced here is also available for tasting, along with local honey and herbal cosmetics. The tour includes about 1 hour 30 minutes at this site, giving ample time to enjoy the products and soak in the village atmosphere.

Hiking to Profitis Ilias for Mountain Views

The tour then moves to Profitis Ilias, a 798-meter-high mountain and former summer resort. This spot was developed by Italians in 1929 and is surrounded by Aleppo pines, cedars, and cypress trees. It’s an ideal place for photos, a brief coffee break, or simply taking in the panoramic views of Rhodes and the sea. The admission is free, and the stop lasts approximately 20 minutes.

Visiting the Byzantine Church of Saint Nikolaos

Continuing inland, the group visits the Fountouklis area to see a 14th-15th-century Byzantine church, dedicated to Saint Nikolaos. The church features a central square structure with a dome and frescoes in the apse, notably a triple fresco composition. This stop offers a peaceful insight into the island’s religious architecture and historical art.

Relaxing at Kallithea Springs

Driving eastward, the tour concludes at Kallithea Springs, a site famous since ancient times for its healing waters. The complex has been restored and tastefully refurbished, showcasing monumental architecture and mosaics. Visitors can walk along the sea-front coves, swim in the clear waters, or enjoy refreshments at the café. The admission fee is 3 euros, not included in the tour price, and visitors should plan for roughly 1 hour at this tranquil spot.

Practical Details and Group Size

This tour operates with a maximum of 19 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, intimate experience. Pickup and drop-off are available from major resort areas like Rhodes Town, Ixia, and Ialysos. The tour departs at 8:30 am, with a duration of approximately 8 hours.

The tour includes a professional guide and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and bring a camera or swimwear if they wish to swim at Kallithea Springs.

Cost and Additional Fees

While the main cost is $59.29, visitors should budget extra for entrance fees: 6 euros at Ancient Kamiros and 3 euros at Kallithea Springs. Food and drinks are not included, but the tour offers plenty of opportunities to try local specialties during free time at Embonas.

Tour Experience and Reviews

The tour consistently earns a top rating of 5.0 out of 5 from 24 reviews, with 92% recommending it. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide, particularly praising Nina for her storytelling and care. The scenic stops at Kamiros and Kritinia Castle are especially appreciated, along with the wine tasting and Kalithea Springs.

Some reviewers mention that last stops can feel brief, and crowds at Kallithea Springs can be busy, but overall the experience offers excellent value and a well-paced day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on the Rhodes Full-Day Tour

This well-rounded tour provides an affordable opportunity to see Rhodes’s archaeological sites, scenic vistas, and cultural highlights. The guided commentary enriches each stop, offering background and context you might miss traveling alone.

The balance of history, nature, and relaxation makes this a great choice for those wanting a rundown of the island in one day. While entrance fees and optional purchases add to the cost, the all-inclusive nature of transportation and guiding delivers strong value.

Ideal for most travelers, especially those who prefer organized tours with insightful guides, this trip suits those with comfortable shoes and an interest in local culture and scenic views. The small group size and professional guide ensure a personal, engaging experience of Rhodes’s diverse facets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in several key resort areas around Rhodes.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Ancient Kamiros (6 euros) and Kallithea Springs (3 euros) are paid separately.

What is the tour price?
The main cost is $59.29 per person, covering transportation, a guide, and wine tasting.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities to buy local food during free time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable smart casual attire, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sun protection are recommended.

Can children join this tour?
Most travelers can participate, though specific age restrictions are not detailed.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
There is no specific information about accessibility, so travelers should be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time, with a full refund.

Who operates this tour?
It is provided by Kariba Travel, contactable at +30 2241 024650 or via email at [email protected].