Best Rhodes Tour with Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting & Free Time

Planning to explore Rhodes? If you’re considering a guided tour that hits the highlights while offering some unique local experiences, this Best Rhodes Tour might be what you’re after. It’s designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse of the island—combining iconic sights with lesser-known spots, all wrapped in a relaxed 6-hour package.

What really makes this tour shine are two things: first, the knowledgeable guides who bring the island’s stories to life, and second, the wine tasting experience that taps into Rhodes’s ancient reputation as a major wine exporter. That said, a small potential hiccup is the transport seating, which some taller travelers might find tight, so keep that in mind if you’re over 6 feet.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day that mixes sightseeing, cultural insights, and tasty local products. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or just looking to see a lot without the stress of planning, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering Rhodes’s top spots and hidden gems
• Excellent value for money at around $67, including transport and tastings
• Highly praised guides make the experience engaging and informative
• Flexible free time in Lindos and Old Town lets you explore at your own pace
• Tastings of local wine, olive oil, and pottery highlight Rhodes’s artisanal culture
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, although seating may be tight for tall travelers

A Well-Rounded Day to Discover Rhodes

If you’re short on time but want to get a true feel for Rhodes, this tour packs in much of what makes the island special. You’ll visit lively Lindos, with its ancient acropolis and picturesque alleyways, and then meander through the UNESCO-protected Old Town, where history and Greek island charm collide.

The overall experience is designed to balance sightseeing with authentic tastes of Rhodes. For just over $67 per person, you get a lot—guided insights, scenic views, and opportunities for both relaxation and exploration. It’s priced to be accessible, especially considering the included transportation, guide support, and free time in some of the most popular spots.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Lindos

No trip to Rhodes is complete without a visit to Lindos. This charming village is famous for its ancient acropolis, perched high above the bay, offering spectacular views. As you walk through the village’s narrow, sugar-cube streets, you’ll see shops, cafes, and a labyrinth of alleys that feel almost untouched by time.

The highlight here is the stunning vista of St Paul’s Bay and the surrounding Mediterranean. The view from the acropolis is particularly inspiring, as it’s the same scene that once captivated ancient builders and knights alike. Visitors often spend about an hour and a half here, enough to soak in the scenery and explore the archaeological site.

One reviewer loved the experience, saying, “The Acropolis and Lindos are beautiful and the wine tasting was delicious! Highly recommend this tour!” This spot is perfect if you want a taste of Greece’s ancient sites combined with a lively village atmosphere.

Kalathos and Pottery Workshop

The tour then takes you inland to a cozy pottery workshop in Kalathos. Here, pottery is more than just craft—it’s a link to Greece’s ancient past, where clay and fire create functional art. You’ll get to see how the artisans transform raw clay into beautiful pieces right in front of you. It’s a short stop, about 30 minutes, but one that many find surprisingly fascinating.

The workshop owner also invites you to taste local products like olive oil and honey, giving you a flavor of authentic Greek artisanal goods. A reviewer mentioned that “the pottery demonstration was very interesting,” and that the pieces are “beautiful,” making it a nice chance to pick up a unique souvenir.

Mandraki Harbour

Next, you’ll visit Rhodes’s historic Mandraki Harbour, which has been significant since ancient times. It used to be a military port protected by chains and a formidable fortress. Today, it’s a lively marina where luxury yachts sit beside fishing boats and tour vessels.

While it’s a quick stop—roughly 30 minutes—the harbor offers scenic views and a feel of the island’s maritime heritage. Many travelers enjoy strolling along the waterfront, watching boats, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Rhodes Old Town

The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rhodes Old Town, is a highlight for many. Its well-preserved medieval streets, castle walls, and Ottoman and Jewish districts create a unique mosaic of cultures. You’ll have about an hour and a half here, enough time to wander around central Hippokratous Square, peek into quaint alleyways, and perhaps grab a coffee or browse shops.

Guide reviews praise the lively, almost car-free atmosphere, and many mention how the town feels like stepping back in time. As one traveler put it, “The guide was full of energy, which made the tour that much more enjoyable.” The Old Town remains a favorite for travelers who love history, architecture, and vibrant street life.

Medieval City and Wine Tasting

The tour culminates with an introduction to Rhodes’s ancient wine-making tradition. As the biggest wine exporter in Ancient Greece, Rhodes has a long-standing viticultural heritage. You’ll learn about local grape varieties, vinification processes, and sample some of the island’s iconic wines.

While the wine tasting is a popular highlight, some reviews note that the selection and presentation can be hit or miss—one person found the wines “underwhelming,” though others enjoyed them. It’s a nice touch to end the day, offering a taste of Rhodes’s historic reputation as a wine hub.

What You Can Expect in Terms of Logistics

This tour runs for about 6 hours, a good balance of sightseeing and free time. The included hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle means no fuss trying to navigate public transport or taxis. The group size can be large—up to 999 travelers—but most reviews suggest it’s well-managed, with friendly guides and drivers making the experience smooth.

The transport is comfortable, although some taller travelers might find the van seating a little tight. One review specifically mentioned that at 6’3″, the seating felt cramped, so if you’re tall, pack some patience or arrive early to sit strategically.

The cost of around $67 per person offers a solid value considering the transportation, guide, and multiple stops. The tour also provides free time in Lindos and the Old Town, granting flexibility to explore further or relax.

Additional Details

• Tour operates with a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and climbing are involved.
• The itinerary may change due to traffic or crowds, but all major sites are included.
• Optional acropolis admission fee is 20 EUR, so if you want to go inside, bring some cash.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, especially highlighting Ioanna (or Johanna) as a standout. Many mention how she shares stories that make the history come alive, adding humor and personal touches that elevate the experience.

The scenic views, especially from Lindos and the Old Town, receive frequent compliments. Visitors also appreciate the local tastings—not just the wine, but the olive oil, honey, and pottery demonstrations—finding these authentic and memorable.

Of course, there are some critiques. A few guests found the timing in Lindos a bit rushed, with some wishing for longer to swim or relax. Others noted that the wine tasting might be underwhelming for serious connoisseurs, but most agree it’s a fun, local experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you want a rundown of Rhodes in a day, without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. It’s perfect for history lovers eager to see Lindos and the Old Town, wine enthusiasts curious about local traditions, and curious travelers who enjoy sampling Greek products. While families can likely enjoy the tour, those with very young children or mobility issues should be mindful of walking and the pace.

If you’re arriving on a cruise, the hotel pickup and guaranteed return make it a stress-free option, especially since most reviews highlight the smooth, friendly guidance.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship travelers?
Yes. The tour offers pickup and drop-off directly at your port, with a guaranteed timely return to your ship. Many reviews mention how seamless and stress-free it is for cruise passengers.

How much free time do I get?
You’ll have free time in Lindos (around 1.5 hours) and in Rhodes Old Town, where you can explore the streets at your own pace after the guided parts.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a comfortable vehicle, a knowledgeable guide, tastings of local wine, olive oil, honey, and pottery demonstrations. Optional acropolis entry costs an extra 20 EUR.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions?
The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Expect some walking and climbing, especially in Lindos and the Old Town.

Can I join if I don’t want to do the wine tasting?
While the tour includes wine tasting as a highlight, it’s part of the full experience. If you prefer to skip it, inform your guide, though most participate.

What if my ship doesn’t call at Rhodes?
The tour offers a full refund if your ship bypasses Rhodes or cancels the port visit.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes tour offers a well-rounded day packed with history, culture, and local flavor. You’ll love the expert guides who bring the stories to life, the stunning views from Lindos and the Old Town, and the chance to enjoy authentic Greek wine and products. It’s a great choice if you want to see a lot without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

While the transport seating might be cramped for taller travelers, most guests find the overall value and experience worthwhile. The mix of guided tours and free time makes it flexible enough to suit different travel styles.

If you’re after a balanced, engaging day trip that hits the highlights and offers some true local flavor, this tour could be just what you need for your Rhodes visit.