Private Island Tour

Planning a trip to Rhodes and wondering how to make the most of your day? We’ve come across a highly-rated Private Island Tour that promises a well-rounded experience, taking you through some of the island’s most captivating spots in a single day. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and the detailed itinerary give us plenty of insight into what you can expect.

What we love about this experience is its personalized approach—it’s a private tour, so you’re not stuck in a giant crowd. Plus, the tour covers a great mix of history, nature, and stunning views. One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those. This tour seems ideal for travelers craving a flexible, comprehensive day around Rhodes without the hassle of organizing multiple transport connections.

It’s probably best suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, history, and scenic drives, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or a small group. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day that hits a variety of highlights, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group is involved, offering a more flexible and intimate experience.
• Diverse Stops: From monasteries and forests to castles and charming villages, the itinerary balances history and nature.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in air-conditioned vehicles that make long drives easy and relaxing.
• Guided Experience: Your driver also acts as a guide, sharing tips to help you better appreciate each stop.
• Flexible Schedule: The approximately 8-hour day allows for a full but manageable exploration.
• Cost-Effective for Small Groups: At $415.16 for up to 2 people, the price covers a full day of sightseeing, making it good value for a private tour.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Filerimos Monastery

Our journey begins at Filerimos Monastery, perched on Filerimos Hill. Here, you get sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, with the added historical bonus of being on the site of the ancient acropolis of Ialysos. The monastery, built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century, offers a glimpse into medieval life, and the 48-foot cross at the hill’s edge is a striking sight.

The highlight is the panoramic view at the end of a short walk along the pathway, which makes for a perfect photo op. While the admission isn’t included, the scenic and historical value makes this a worthwhile start, especially if you’re into history and sweeping vistas.

Stop 2: Valley of the Butterflies

Next, we head to Valley of the Butterflies—a tranquil spot that’s genuinely unique. This natural park hosts the Panaxia Quadripunctaria butterfly, which appears from mid-June to late September, making timing important if you want to see the fluttering chaos.

Arriving early helps avoid the crowds and allows you to enjoy the peaceful pine-clad landscape, crossing streams, and walking along shady pathways. The ponds, waterfalls, and wooden bridges add to the almost fairy-tale vibe. Admission fees aren’t included, but the natural beauty and chance to see butterflies in their habitat are a big draw.

Stop 3: Campochiaro, the Ghost Village

A short drive takes us to Aghia Eleousa, a ghost village on Profitis Ilias mountain. Originally created for Italian lumberjacks during WWII, it later served as a sanatorium for the chronically ill. Now, the abandoned buildings and main square offer a haunting but fascinating glimpse into Rhodes’ past.

You only spend about 15 minutes here, but it’s enough to get a sense of the quiet decay and history. No entrance fee, which makes it an easy quick stop for history buffs or those interested in abandoned sites.

Stop 4: Agios Nikolaos Fountoukli & Local Tastes

The next stop is the chapel of St. Nikolas Fountoukli, set beside one of the island’s cleanest water sources. You can taste the fresh, natural water and visit the small church, where lighting a candle adds a spiritual touch. The scenery around here is lush, and it’s a refreshing break from driving.

From there, the tour takes you to Apollona, a village nestled on the mountain. Here, you can opt to visit a family-run tavern, tasting local foods and products—a lovely way to connect with the island’s culinary traditions.

Stop 5: Monolithos Castle

Driving south-westward, you arrive at Monolithos Castle, dating back to 1480. Built by the Knights of Saint John, it served as a defensive fortress. Today, it offers breathtaking views over the sea and the nearby islets—perfect for photo lovers.

Inside the castle, there’s a small chapel, adding a quaint religious touch. The drive here is about 45 minutes from the previous stops, so be prepared for some scenic mountain views along the way.

Stop 6: Village of Lindos

Finally, your journey brings you to Lindos, one of Greece’s most famous archaeological sites. The village is packed with whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and ancient ruins that create a picturesque setting. The quick stop for photos offers a taste of Lindos’ charm before heading back.

The stop here is brief—just enough for some snapshots and to soak in the vibe before returning to your hotel.

What Does the Experience Offer?

This tour provides a rich mix of sights: historical sites, natural parks, mountain villages, and a legendary seaside village. The comfort of air-conditioned transport makes for an easy day, especially considering the distances covered.

The guide’s role extends beyond driving—they share tips, enhancing your understanding of each location, which many reviewers, like John_W, praised highly. His or her insights can turn a simple sightseeing trip into an engaging learning experience.

While the admission fees are not included, the savings come from the convenience of having everything arranged, plus the small group size and personalized attention. The value here depends on how much you prioritize guided insights and comfort over independent exploring.

Considerations

The tour’s 8-hour duration is pretty standard for full-day excursions, but keep in mind that it involves some walking and sightseeing at each stop. Not suitable for those with limited mobility, especially with some uneven terrains like at the castle or butterfly valley.

Also, since the butterfly habitat is seasonal, timing your visit to mid-summer will enhance your chances of seeing the butterflies. If you’re visiting outside that window, you might find the valley less lively.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys a well-organized day that covers varied scenery and history without the stress of planning each detail, this experience is ideal. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples who appreciate personalized attention, scenic drives, and a balance of nature and culture.

Travelers interested in photography, history, or local food will find plenty to enjoy. However, those seeking more adrenaline or adventure might want a more active or specialized tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, the walking involved at some stops and the nature of sightseeing suggest it’s more suited for older children or teenagers. Always check with the provider if you’re traveling with younger kids.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient whether you’re staying in Rhodes town or nearby.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 15 minutes to about 1.5 hours, giving ample time to explore without feeling rushed, depending on your interests.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets are not included in the price, so you should budget extra for any site-specific fees.

What’s the vehicle like?
The tour uses comfortable, air-conditioned mini-buses or vans, suitable for small groups.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
On average, it’s booked about 18 days in advance, so last-minute bookings might be possible but are riskier, especially in peak season.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Some stops involve walking and uneven terrain, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

What is the total cost and is it worth it?
At $415.16 for up to 2 people, it offers a full day of private sightseeing. Given the personalized guide and hassle-free transport, many find it good value, especially if you prefer a relaxing, curated experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes private island tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances history, nature, and local charm. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of independent planning but still enjoy a flexible, tailored experience. The combination of scenic stops, small group intimacy, and expert guidance makes it a solid choice for those eager to soak in Rhodes’ best without feeling overwhelmed.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the convenience and variety justify the price for those who value comfort and insight. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a relaxed but comprehensive day on the island. Just be prepared for some walking and to pay for any extra site entrances, and you’ll likely come away with many memorable moments.

Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or simply in need of a day to take in Rhodes at leisure, this tour seems well-equipped to deliver a meaningful experience. Happy travels!