Rhodes Deluxe Tour Designed for Cruise Passengers & Air Visitors

Explore the Big Highlights and Hidden Corners of Rhodes

Rhodes Deluxe Tour offers an engaging six-hour journey across the island’s most celebrated sights and lesser-known treasures. Priced at $68.30 per person, this tour is tailored for cruise passengers and air visitors wanting a comprehensive experience. It includes port or hotel pickup and drop-off, a fully licensed guide, and air-conditioned transportation. With an average booking lead time of 82 days, this tour promises a well-organized, hassle-free day exploring Rhodes’ historic streets, scenic views, and local wine history.

While the tour covers many key spots, the duration of around 6 hours means some stops have ample free time, but it can feel a bit long, especially if climbing the Acropolis. Yet, the professional guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude shine through, making the experience both enjoyable and informative. This tour is particularly suited for those eager to see both popular sights and off-the-beaten-path spots, with a special focus on wine tasting and local crafts.

Key Points

• Price of $68.30 per person for a full-day guided tour
• Duration of roughly 6 hours, including breaks and free time
• Includes pickup and drop-off at port or hotel, with comfortable air-conditioned transport
• Visit Rhodes Old Town and Lindos with optional free time for exploration
• Taste Rhodes’ historic wines at a dedicated wine tasting stop
• Visit a ceramics workshop to see pottery being made and sample local products
• Tour features a knowledgeable, licensed guide with high praise from previous reviews
• Aimed at cruise and air visitors, ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local culture

Discover Rhodes’ UNESCO World Heritage Old Town

The tour begins in the Old Town of Rhodes, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. We like how the well-preserved medieval streets make you feel like stepping back in time, with virtually no cars inside the walls. The central Hippokratous Square buzzes with shops and restaurants, while quiet alleyways offer peaceful corners to wander. Although it’s a popular site, the authentic atmosphere and the mix of Greek, Ottoman, and Jewish districts give the Old Town its distinctive character.

Expect about one hour of free time here to explore, shop, or simply take in the historic ambiance. The guide leads you through, sharing stories that bring the streets to life. The main draw remains the authentic charm of the medieval architecture, making it a highlight for history and culture enthusiasts.

Lindos and Its Iconic Acropolis Views

A core highlight of the tour is Lindos, a picturesque town famed for its third-century BC acropolis. The views of St Paul’s Bay from the acropolis are truly breathtaking, and the labyrinth of narrow streets lined with white sugar-cube houses offers a charming stroll. The archeological site is free to visit, and the scenic outlooks from the temple reward those who venture up.

Travelers appreciate that they follow the same routes as ancient inhabitants and knights, feeling connected to history at every turn. The two hours allocated give enough time to walk the streets and enjoy the views, although climbing the acropolis involves around 300 steps, which is worth considering if mobility is an issue. Many find the panoramic vistas and quaint town atmosphere to be the most memorable part of Lindos.

The Ceramic Workshop: Art in Action and Tasting

The tour includes a 30-minute stop at Savvas Ceramics, where pottery is crafted in front of visitors. The Greek origin of the word ‘ceramic’ hints at the magic of clay, earth, fire, and water coming together. The workshop owner invites guests to observe the pottery-making process, highlighting the myth and symbolism behind clay as a creative medium.

Post-ceramics, visitors are offered tastings of local products such as oil and honey, adding a sensory layer to the experience. The cozy setting and personal touch of this stop make it stand out as a genuine glimpse into Rhodes’ artisanal traditions.

Rhodes’ Ancient Wine Heritage Comes Alive

A unique aspect of this tour is the wine tasting session, linked to Rhodes’ history as the largest wine exporter in Ancient Greece. The guide shares insights into the island’s native grape varieties, vinification processes, and the history of wine on Rhodes.

The 30-minute tasting offers an opportunity to sample some of the best local wines, which are highly praised by past participants. Many enjoy the chance to learn about the island’s wine-making legacy while savoring flavors that have been part of Rhodes’ culture for centuries. This stop sets the tour apart for wine enthusiasts and those interested in local culinary traditions.

Comfortable Transportation and Guided Expertise

Throughout the day, travelers benefit from air-conditioned transportation with a friendly, professional driver. The fully licensed guide ensures that each stop is informative and engaging. Reviews frequently mention guides like Joanna and Demtria, known for their knowledgeable, personable approaches and fun stories about the island’s history and daily life.

The tour guarantees timely return to the ship or hotel, with port or hotel pickup and drop-off included. It’s designed to accommodate travelers with moderate physical fitness levels, although some stops—such as the Acropolis—require climbing stairs. The small group sizes (up to 999 travelers, but usually smaller) help maintain a comfortable, personal atmosphere.

Pacing and Flexibility of the Itinerary

The tour’s well-paced nature offers a balance of guided walking, free time, and cultural stops, but some reviews note that it can be longer than six hours, especially with the 1+ hour bus ride to Lindos. Some guests recommend bringing own food and drink, as there is limited time for a sit-down lunch after the long morning. The optional Acropolis visit allows flexibility—those who prefer not to climb can relax or explore Lindos at their own pace.

The itinerary’s order may vary slightly due to traffic or crowd conditions, but all key sites are visited. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with walking and climbing, with adequate free time to enjoy the sights.

Honest Insights: Strengths and Considerations

The guides’ expertise receives high praise, often described as knowledgeable and personable. Many reviews highlight the quality of the wine tasting and the charm of Lindos’ streets. The local ceramics stop adds a handcrafted touch to the day, and the overall pace is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation.

However, some guests note that the tour length can extend beyond six hours, especially if climbing the Acropolis. The transport can be long—about an hour each way to Lindos—and food options are limited, so bringing snacks is wise. A few reviewers mention that signage for the guide could improve, especially for first-time visitors.

Who Will Appreciate This Rhodes Tour Most

This tour is ideal for cruise ship passengers and air visitors seeking a full-day experience that combines history, scenic views, and local traditions. It suits those with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable walking and climbing stairs. The inclusion of wine tasting and ceramics makes it particularly appealing for culture and food lovers.

Travelers who value a knowledgeable guide and organized logistics will find this tour dependable. It provides a rundown of Rhodes within a manageable timeframe, making it a practical choice for those wanting a balanced, enriching day.

Final Thoughts on the Rhodes Deluxe Tour

The Rhodes Deluxe Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the island’s most iconic sites, combined with unique stops like pottery and wine tasting. Its competitive price of $68.30 and full logistical support make it a good value, especially considering the expert guidance and comfortable transportation.

While the tour’s length and physical demands warrant some planning—especially for climbing the Acropolis or managing long bus rides—the rich content and personalized local insights often outweigh these considerations. This tour suits active, curious travelers eager to see both the main sights and hidden corners of Rhodes, gaining a deeper appreciation for the island’s history, craft, and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at port or hotel are included, ensuring a smooth start and finish to the day.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including stops, free time, and transportation.

Can I visit the Acropolis in Lindos?
Yes, the visiting the acropolis is optional. Climbing involves around 300 steps, so consider your comfort level.

What is included in the wine tasting?
The tour features an in-depth wine tasting, highlighting local varieties and Rhodes’ history as a major wine exporter.

Are refreshments available during the tour?
The tour does not include lunch, so bringing own food and drink is advisable due to limited free time for meals.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but climbing stairs and walking over uneven streets may be challenging for some.

How large are the group sizes?
The tour can accommodate up to 999 travelers, but most groups are smaller, ensuring a personal experience.

What if my ship doesn’t arrive on time?
The tour offers a full refund if the ship bypasses the port or if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour flexible in its itinerary?
Yes, the order of stops may vary due to traffic or crowds, but all key sites are guaranteed to be visited.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.