Rhodes: Old Town and Grand Master Palace Shore Excursion

Explore the charm and history of Rhodes on a 4-hour shore excursion offered by Your Shore Time for $79 per person. This guided tour balances scenic drives, archaeological sites, and the medieval allure of Rhodes’ Old Town. With a detailed itinerary, it’s an ideal option for cruise passengers seeking a well-rounded taste of the island’s most iconic sights. The tour includes entrance fees to the Grand Master Palace and features a professional English-speaking guide, making it both informative and engaging.

This experience is perfect for those who want to enjoy a structured exploration without the hassle of planning. However, it’s worth noting that not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to some uneven ground and steps. With a focus on key landmarks and plenty of photo opportunities, this tour offers a practical way to see Rhodes’ highlights in a manageable timeframe.

Key Points

• Duration: The tour lasts 4 hours, with a flexible starting time based on availability.
• Price: Tickets are priced at $79 per person, including entrance fees to the Grand Master Palace.
• Main sights: Visit Mandraki Harbour, Monte Smith hill, the Acropolis, and the Grand Master Palace.
• Highlights: Marvel at the statues of Elafos and Elafina and stroll along the Street of the Knights.
• Transport: Travel is by air-conditioned coach with a professional guide.
• Additional info: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and book now, pay later options offer flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

From Mandraki Harbour to the Windmills and Waterfront

The tour begins at Rhodes Tourist Port (Cruise Terminal), making it highly convenient for cruise ship passengers. After a brief 10-minute bus/coach transfer, you arrive at Mandraki Harbour, which once served as the military port of ancient Rhodes. Here, two iconic statues of Elafos and Elafina stand at the entrance, symbolizing the island’s historical grandeur and marking the spot where the Colossus of Rhodes once welcomed visitors.

At the waterfront, you’ll see historic windmills and Public Administration buildings, providing a glimpse of Rhodes’ maritime past. Opposite the harbor, the New Market Hall (Nea Agora) stands out with its white facade, housing a lively mix of coffee shops, snack bars, and local produce stalls. This area offers a lively atmosphere and great photo opportunities, perfect for soaking in the waterfront charm.

Visiting Monte Smith Hill and the Ancient Acropolis

A scenic 45-minute drive takes you to Monte Smith hill, where the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes once dominated the skyline. Here, the tour allows for a photo stop to appreciate the panoramic views of the city and coastline. Visitors can explore remnants of classical Greek architecture, including the Temple of Athena, Temple of Apollo, and the Diagoras Stadium.

This archaeological site provides a tangible link to Rhodes’ ancient past, with ruins that highlight the island’s historical significance. The guide shares insights into the importance of these structures, offering a deeper understanding of Rhodes’ ancient culture and religious practices.

Exploring the Acropolis of Rhodes in Detail

Next, the tour includes a guided visit of the Acropolis of Rhodes, covering its key monuments over about one hour. Visitors walk through the remaining ruins, learning how this site once served as a major religious and social center. The Temple of Athena and Temple of Apollo are central highlights, illustrating Greece’s architectural and spiritual legacy.

While exploring, travelers get a sense of the scale and grandeur of the ancient structures. The Diagoras Stadium, once used for athletic events, offers additional historical context. The guide’s explanations bring the site to life, making this stop both educational and engaging without requiring strenuous walking.

Inside the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights

The Grand Master Palace of Rhodes is a highlight of the tour, with a 45-minute guided visit included in the package. The Gothic architecture of this fortress is a rare sight in Greece, and the interiors are filled with medieval details that impress visitors.

The palace’s elegant halls and courtyards reveal the grandeur of Rhodes’ medieval period when the Knights Hospitaller ruled the island. The guide helps visitors appreciate the palace’s history, architecture, and role as a defensive stronghold. It’s a prime spot for photos and a chance to understand Rhodes’ medieval importance.

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Walking Through the Old Town’s Fortifications and Streets

The tour continues into Rhodes’ Old Town, Europe’s oldest inhabited medieval city. Enter through the D’Amboise Gate, a well-preserved medieval entrance that opens into a maze of narrow streets and towers. The highlight here is the 600-meter-long Street of the Knights, lined with medieval towers and historical buildings.

Guests have one hour of free time to wander the quaint shops, offering handmade jewelry, leather goods, and unique souvenirs. The atmospheric streets are ideal for photos and casual exploration, giving a real sense of the city’s medieval character. The guide offers suggestions for local spots to enjoy a coffee or browse for souvenirs.

Practical Details and Transportation Logistics

The entire tour begins with pickup from the cruise port and ends back at the same location. The air-conditioned coach ensures comfort during transfers, and the professional English-speaking guide provides informative commentary throughout. After the 45-minute drive from the port to the various sites, the walking segments are manageable but include some uneven ground, steps, and inclines.

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and stay hydrated due to possible high temperatures during peak season. The tour’s pace balances sightseeing with enough free time for personal exploration, especially in the Old Town.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes all entrance fees for the Grand Master Palace and transportation, along with a professional guide. However, food and drinks are not included, so visitors might want to bring water or purchase refreshments during the stops.

The offering provides a flexible end, with options to remain in the Old Town and explore further or return to the cruise port on your own, allowing for personalized pacing.

Suitability and Accessibility

This tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to uneven surfaces and steps at some sites. It’s best suited for those comfortable walking and standing for periods. The small group size and guided format make for an engaging experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn about Rhodes’ sights.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reserving your spot is straightforward with “Reserve & Pay Later” options, offering flexibility to adjust travel plans. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly.

Rhodes: Old Town and Grand Master Palace Shore Excursion

This tour from Your Shore Time offers a balanced and insightful look at Rhodes’ most famous sites in just 4 hours. With a mix of scenic drives, archaeological exploration, and medieval street wandering, it suits passengers who want a rundown without spending the entire day ashore.

The highlight attractions include the statues of Elafos and Elafina, the Monte Smith ruins, and the imposing Grand Master Palace. The tour’s professional guide and entrance fees included add value, making it a reliable choice for cruise visitors.

While the tour is well-paced and covers key sites efficiently, travelers should be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain. Overall, it’s a strong option for those interested in history, architecture, and the medieval charm of Rhodes’ Old Town.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.

What sites are included in the tour?
The tour covers Mandraki Harbour, Monte Smith hill, the Acropolis of Rhodes, the Grand Master Palace, and the Old Town of Rhodes.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, air-conditioned transportation is included for all transfers during the tour.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance to the Grand Master Palace is included, while other sites are viewed from outside or via guided explanations.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for a comfortable visit.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and steps at some locations.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby