Rhodes Shore Excursion: Private Lindos and Rhodes Old Town Tour

If you’re cruising into Rhodes and considering a day out that combines iconic ruins, charming streets, and personalized attention, this private Lindos and Rhodes Old Town tour might just be worth your while. With a focus on history, scenic views, and local culture, it promises a full day of exploration—minus the crowds and with the comfort of your own guide.

What really appeals here? First, the intimacy of a private guide means your experience is tailored to your interests and pace. Second, the chance to see both Lindos’ ancient Acropolis and the storied streets of Rhodes Old Town, all in one day, provides a well-rounded snapshot of this Greek island. But, a point to keep in mind is that entrance fees aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget a bit extra for those. This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, scenic vistas, and a bit of flexibility—and who prefer a more personalized touch compared to large group excursions.

Key Points

• Private guide and vehicle offer a customizable and relaxed experience.
• Highlights include Lindos Acropolis and Rhodes Old Town, both packed with history and beautiful views.
• Walking up steep stairs at Lindos may be challenging for some, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Cost is approximately $993.54 for up to 15 people, offering good value considering the private nature.
• Timing is roughly 7 hours, ensuring a full but manageable day ashore.
• Entrance fees are separate, so budget about 6–12 euros per site.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

From the moment your ship docks at Rhodes Port, this tour is designed to make things seamless. The pickup is included, so you won’t have to worry about finding your guide or navigating unfamiliar streets. A private, air-conditioned minivan will whisk you along the island’s scenic east coast—an area dotted with beautiful beaches and quiet villages.

Traveling in a small group (up to 15 people) means you’ll get a more personalized vibe—and the chance to ask your guide plenty of questions. The drive itself is part of the attraction, with your guide pointing out local spots and sharing tidbits about the island’s history and culture.

Lindos: The Ancient Village and Acropolis

Your first major stop is Lindos, perhaps Rhodes’ most famous village. Its striking white cube houses and narrow cobblestone streets instantly draw you in. But what makes Lindos special is the 4,000-year-old Acropolis, perched high above the town. We loved the way the guide gently led us through the ruins, revealing centuries of history with engaging stories.

The walk up the winding streets can be steep and uneven, so comfortable shoes are essential. The views of the Bay of St. Paul from the top are breathtaking—expect plenty of photo ops. You’ll see the Byzantine fortress ruins, an ancient Greek temple, and perhaps get a glimpse of the small church in the village.

As one reviewer put it, “It was a great day spent in Rhodes! Our guide and van picked us up right by our ship with our name clearly displayed. We had a fantastic experience at Lindos ruins and a beautiful lunch.” That easy start, combined with the chance to explore at your own pace, really adds to the appeal.

Lunch Break in Haraki

After Lindos, you’ll head to the nearby village of Haraki for a Greek-style lunch. While the meal isn’t included in the tour cost, your guide will recommend a good local restaurant, offering a chance to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine away from touristy spots. It’s a relaxed break where you can take your time to soak in the scenery and chat with fellow travelers.

Rhodes Old Town: History and Charm

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to Rhodes Old Town—an absolute must-see for history lovers. The Acropolis of Rhodes, without fortifications, offers a look at Hellenistic ruins like the stadium and Temple of Apollo. Walking through these ancient sites, you can imagine how life was centuries ago.

Next, your guide will take you on a leisurely drive along the ancient city walls to Porte d’Amboise, one of the historic gates. Then, it’s time for a walking tour of the Old Town’s highlights. The Street of Knights with its medieval architecture is a highlight, as is the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes.

Able to explore freely for a bit, you’ll have the option to visit the palace and museum—own expense—and learn about the medieval atmosphere. The reviews consistently mention how knowledgeable guides make a difference, with one traveler saying, “Maria had so much knowledge and made the trip extra special.”

Practicalities and Considerations

This tour runs from 8:30 am and lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but not overwhelming day. The timing allows a good balance of sightseeing and downtime. You’ll need to be prepared for some walking and stairs, especially at Lindos—something to keep in mind if mobility is a concern.

While the cost of about $993.54 per group might seem steep at first glance, it’s quite reasonable considering the private, tailored experience. Remember, entrance fees are extra—around 6 euros for the Palace and approximately 12 euros for Lindos Acropolis—so plan accordingly.

What We Loved and What to Watch Out For

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a standout feature—knowledgeable, friendly, and flexible, they often go above and beyond to make the experience memorable. The views from Lindos are routinely praised as stunning, and the balance of guided tours with free time gives a nice mix of structure and independence.

On the flip side, the walk up stairs at Lindos can be demanding, so this might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or young children. Also, since entrance fees are not included, you’ll need to factor in extra costs if you want full access to sites like the palace or Lindos Acropolis.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is perfect for those who want a more personal, relaxed experience with knowledgeable guides. It suits history buffs, photography enthusiasts, or anyone looking to see Rhodes’ top sights without the crowds. The flexibility of a private guide means you can spend more time at the places that interest you most, making it a good choice for couples, small groups, or travelers who value comfort and customization.

If you’re someone who prefers a straightforward, well-organized day out with a local touch, this tour could be a great fit. But if you’re on a tight budget or prefer large, budget-friendly group excursions, there may be other options that are less costly, albeit less personalized.

The Sum Up

This private Lindos and Rhodes Old Town tour offers a thoughtful way to see some of Rhodes’ most iconic sights without the chaos of large groups. The private guide ensures a tailored experience, packed with insightful stories and local tips. The scenic drives, ancient ruins, and medieval streets all combine to give a comprehensive glimpse of the island’s history and charm.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and the flexibility to shape their day. The modest extra costs for entrance fees and optional meals are manageable and understandable given the level of personal attention provided. For those who love history, stunning vistas, and a taste of authentic Greek culture, this tour hits the right notes.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, intimate experience that balances sightseeing with leisure, this could be the perfect way to spend your day in Rhodes. Just be prepared for some walking and stairs at Lindos, and consider your budget for extras. All in all, it’s a thoughtful choice for a memorable day on this beautiful island.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it can be suitable for older children who are comfortable walking and climbing stairs. Keep in mind the walk up to Lindos Acropolis involves steep, uneven steps, which may be challenging for some.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
Entrance fees are not included in the tour price. You might find that Lindos Acropolis costs around 12 euros, and the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes costs about 6 euros.

What’s included in the tour?
Your tour includes port pickup and drop-off, a local guide, transportation by an air-conditioned minivan, and a worry-free guarantee. It does not include entrance fees or meals.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, covering Lindos, lunch, and Rhodes Old Town.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor some parts, like how long you spend at each site or which sites to prioritize, depending on your interests.

This private tour strikes a good balance between guided structure and personal freedom—ideal if you want to see Rhodes’ highlights without the hassle of big groups. Keep your walking shoes handy, and prepare for a day full of history, views, and local charm.