Rhodes isn’t just about lounging on beaches or exploring ancient ruins. It’s also a fantastic place for interactive workshops and classes that give you a taste of local craftsmanship, culinary delights, and adventure. We particularly love experiences like the Rhodes Wine & Food Tour because it combines vineyard visits, a cooking class, and a 10-course Greek lunch — all with unlimited wine. It’s the kind of half-day experience that leaves you with new skills and full belly, plus a deeper appreciation for local flavors.
Rhodes offers a wide variety of hands-on activities — from wine tasting and Greek cooking to stained glass making and water sports. Whether you’re interested in learning traditional recipes, creating your own souvenir, or trying your hand at water skiing, there’s something to suit most interests. Below, we’ve rounded up the best workshops and classes to help you make the most of your trip, with detailed insights to guide your choice.
1. Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class
At number 1, this comprehensive half-day experience offers a perfect introduction to Rhodes’ rich wine and culinary culture. The tour begins with a visit to a local vineyard and distillery, where you can see how wines, souma, and tsipouro are made. A certified sommelier guides you through tastings of onsite wines, giving you insight into the vinification process. Then, you’ll move into a hands-on cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Greek dishes, such as spanakopita or moussaka.
What makes this tour stand out is its all-in-one format: vineyard tour, distillery visit, wine tastings, cooking lesson, and a 10-course Greek lunch with unlimited wine. It’s priced at $90.56 per person for about four hours, and the reviews show a 5-star rating with lots of enthusiasm. Guests rave about the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to taste authentic local wines like none other. It’s perfect for foodies and wine lovers who want a deep dive into Rhodes’ flavors, plus a memorable cooking experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers the best value for those wanting a complete taste of Rhodian wine, food, and culture in a single, well-organized half-day.
2. Tasting Rhodes: Cooking Class, Wine Tasting & more in an Authentic Greek village
Number 2 on our list takes you into a genuine mountain village on the foothills of Mount Profitis Ilias. This small-group experience combines cultural exploration with hands-on cooking. You’ll visit a women’s agricultural cooperative and a local winery, gaining a real sense of rural life and traditional practices. The highlight is learning to prepare classic dishes like tzatziki, dolmadakia, and other Rhodesian specialties with a warm local host.
The tour costs about $108.91 and lasts around four hours. Reviewers emphasize the small-group intimacy, the authentic village atmosphere, and the delightful sample of local fruits and wines. Panos, the guide, combines friendliness with deep knowledge, making it an engaging experience. The focus on local ingredients, farm-to-table elements, and hands-on cooking makes it stand out from typical touristic offerings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an authentic glimpse into Rhodesian rural life combined with a personalized cooking class and wine tasting.
3. Stained Glass Workshop
Next up is a creative, hands-on activity that results in a beautiful souvenir. In this stained glass workshop, Linda, the host, guides you through the process of making your own sun catcher. The class takes about 4 hours and 45 minutes, and you’ll work at your own pace to create a unique piece using colorful glass.
This workshop is all about learning a new craft in a relaxed, encouraging environment. Linda supplies a colorful selection of glass, and her passion makes the experience extra special. Reviews highlight how enjoyable and approachable the class is, with many saying they leave with a personal masterpiece and a new appreciation for stained glass art.
Bottom Line: Ideal for craft enthusiasts or those looking for a memorable, artistic experience that produces a tangible keepsake of Rhodes.
4. Wakeboard-Water Ski Lessons
If adventure is your thing, the Wakeboard-Water Ski Lessons are a fun way to get moving on the water. For around $75.17, in approximately 50 minutes, you’ll learn the basics of water skiing or wakeboarding in a safe, controlled environment. The lessons are suitable for beginners, making them perfect for families or first-timers.
The instructor emphasizes core strength, muscle tone, and calorie burning, making it a healthy, active choice. Although brief, the experience is intensive and tailored, with a focus on fast learning in a relaxed setting. The reviews are positive, with many praising the instructor’s patience and the fun atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Great for newcomers to water sports who want a quick, affordable taste of wakeboarding or water skiing.
5. Private windsurf lesson in Lardos/Rhodes
Number 5 offers a personalized windsurfing experience for absolute beginners. For just over $63, you get a one-hour private lesson designed specifically for up to two people, ensuring individual attention. The surf area is ideal for novices, making this a safe and effective way to try windsurfing.
The instructor provides step-by-step coaching, helping you gain confidence on the water quickly. It’s perfect if you want a focused, tailored lesson rather than a large group class. While reviews are limited, those that exist are highly positive, citing the professional guidance and a fun, supportive environment.
Bottom Line: Excellent for beginners seeking private, hands-on instruction in a manageable, friendly setting.
6. Photo Tour Around Rhodes Island with Photography Class
For those with a camera (film or digital), this photo-focused tour offers a full day of capturing Rhodes’ best sights. Starting from your hotel, you’ll visit scenic spots like Anthony Quinn Bay, Lindos, and the Medieval City, with a professional photographer guiding you.
The tour includes film photography, providing a nostalgic experience, plus digital images sent via a link afterward. The 6-8 hour trip costs about $370.18 for up to 2 people. Reviewers mention the expert guidance, the opportunity to learn composition and technique, and the chance to snap stunning photos of iconic sites. It’s ideal for photography enthusiasts or travelers wanting a personalized photo keepsake.
Bottom Line: Perfect for photography lovers who want professional tips while exploring the most picture-worthy spots of Rhodes.
7. Traditional Greek COOKING class and Wine Tasting in Rhodes
This small-group cooking and wine experience offers an immersive taste of Greek cuisine. For about $79.10, you’ll learn to prepare dishes like saganaki, feta with honey, and dolmadakia in a cozy restaurant in Maritsa village. The class emphasizes hands-on cooking with local ingredients, followed by enjoying your creations with local wine.
While some reviews note it leans more toward wine tasting than full cooking, the focus remains on traditional recipes and regional flavors. The instructor’s knowledge and the relaxed village setting make it a delightful choice for foodies and wine lovers alike. The price reflects the quality ingredients and personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a relaxed, intimate introduction to Greek cuisine with the bonus of wine tasting.
8. Meet My Grandma: Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Rhodes
Closing out our list is an experience that brings you into a local grandmother’s kitchen. This 2-hour class offers a warm, home-style atmosphere where you learn to cook traditional Greek dishes, enjoy your meal, and take home a recipe card.
Although details about reviews are sparse, the concept appeals to those wanting an authentic, local experience. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer intimate, culture, and love the idea of cooking with a real Greek grandma.
Bottom Line: Great for food lovers seeking a cozy, authentic, and personal culinary experience.
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class in Rhodes
When picking your perfect experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want an all-in-one adventure that combines wine, food, and learning, the Rhodes Wine & Food Tour offers unbeatable value. For those interested in authentic rural life, the Tasting Rhodes provides a genuine connection to local traditions.
If you’re craving something creative and memorable, the Stained Glass Workshop allows you to craft a unique keepsake. For active travelers, the wakeboarding or windsurfing lessons are quick ways to try water sports, especially suitable for families or beginners.
Choosing the right activity depends on your interest in food, craft, adventure, or photography. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure spots in popular classes.
Final Thoughts
Rhodes offers a surprising range of interactive experiences that go beyond sightseeing. Whether you want to learn how to cook Greek dishes, make stained glass art, or try water sports, there’s an option for you. For families, the wakeboard or windsurf lessons provide active fun, while couples and solo travelers might enjoy the wine and food tours or photography excursions.
Our top picks include the Rhodes Wine & Food Tour for its full culinary immersion and the Tasting Rhodes experience for those seeking authentic village life. Remember, these workshops fill up quickly — so plan ahead and reserve your spot early for a truly engaging and memorable Rhodes experience.
