Rhodes Shore Excursion: Rhodes City Tour

Explore the captivating island of Rhodes through a comprehensive city tour that showcases its rich history and cultural legacy. Set out on a 3.5-hour journey, where you’ll wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town, marvel at the iconic Palace of the Grand Master, and discover the medieval charm of the Street of the Knights. With transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, this tour offers a seamless experience, blending the ancient with the modern. But what secrets lie behind the grand facades and winding streets of this Mediterranean gem? Uncover the answers as you delve deeper into the heart of Rhodes.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best City Tours In Rhodes.

Good To Know

• A 3.5-hour shore excursion in Rhodes, exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town and modern New Town with a local guide and air-conditioned minivan transport.

• Visit the Palace of the Grand Master, an example of Gothic architecture with free time for exploration, and enjoy panoramic views from Monte Smith.

• Discover the historic Porte d’Amboise and stroll along the Street of the Knights, a preserved medieval thoroughfare in the Old Town.

• Experience the modern landmarks of the Mandraki Esplanade and Port, showcasing the blend of old and new in Rhodes’ cultural heritage.

• Includes port pickup and drop-off, with the option for direct meeting at the location or requesting pickup, and a shore excursion guarantee.

Tour Overview

The private, 3.5-hour shore excursion in Rhodes meets guests at the Port of Rhodes upon cruise ship arrival.

Guests will explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town and the modern New Town of Rhodes. The tour includes a visit to the iconic Palace of the Grand Master, with free time for independent exploration.

While entrance fees to the palace aren’t included, the shore excursion provides a rundown of the island’s rich history and culture.

With a local guide and transport by air-conditioned minivan, this tour offers a worry-free experience for guests looking to make the most of their time in Rhodes.

Itinerary Highlights

Guests on the Rhodes City Tour can admire the modern landmarks at the Mandraki Esplanade and Port, which showcase the island’s architectural evolution.

The tour also provides an opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the island from Monte Smith.

Plus, the itinerary highlights include:

• Exploring the Porte d’Amboise, a historical gateway to the UNESCO-listed Old Town.
• Strolling along the Street of the Knights, a well-preserved medieval thoroughfare.
• Discovering the Palace of the Grand Master, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.

Throughout the tour, you will have the chance to enjoy the rich history and culture of Rhodes.

Inclusions and Logistics

During the Rhodes City Tour, guests can expect a comprehensive shore excursion that includes port pickup and drop-off.

A local guide and air-conditioned minivan transport visitors, ensuring a worry-free experience. The tour also comes with a Shore Excursion Guarantee, providing peace of mind.

While entrance fees to the Palace of the Grand Master aren’t included (8 euros), gratuities and lunch are also not part of the package.

Guests have the flexibility to either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The tour ends back at the original meeting location in Rhodes, Dodecanese, South Aegean.

Guests should dress comfortably and be moderately physically fit, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Meeting and Pickup

For the Rhodes City Tour, guests have two options for meeting up with the group. They can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup.

The meeting point is located in Rhodes, Dodecanese, South Aegean. The activity will end back at the same meeting point.

Guests have the following options:

• Option to head directly to the meeting point
• Option to request pickup
• Activity ends back at the meeting point

The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and transportation by air-conditioned minivan.

Guests can enjoy the worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee, but gratuities and lunch aren’t included.

Palace of the Grand Master

At the heart of Rhodes Old Town lies the majestic Palace of the Grand Master, a testament to the island’s rich history.

This impressive medieval fortress was once the seat of the Knights Hospitaller, who ruled Rhodes from the 14th to 16th centuries. Visitors can explore the grand halls, ornate courtyards, and stunning Byzantine mosaics that adorn the palace’s interiors.

The entrance fee is 8 euros, providing access to the palace’s impressive collections and exhibits.

As a highlight of the Rhodes City Tour, the Palace of the Grand Master offers a glimpse into the island’s captivating past and its role as a strategic outpost in the Mediterranean.

Mandraki Esplanade and Port

The Mandraki Esplanade and Port serve as the modern face of Rhodes, offering visitors a striking contrast to the island’s ancient wonders.

Admire the impressive landmarks that dot the area, including:

• The iconic deer statues that stand guard at the entrance of the harbor, a symbol of the island’s rich history.
• The stunning Mandraki Marina, home to a thriving yachting community and picturesque cafes and shops.
• The bustling Mandraki Esplanade, a lively promenade that provides panoramic views of the harbor and the surrounding landscape.

These sites showcase Rhodes’ seamless blend of old and new, inviting visitors to experience the full breadth of the island’s cultural heritage.

Monte Smith

Perched atop a commanding hill, Monte Smith offers visitors panoramic views that showcase the natural beauty and historic significance of Rhodes. From this vantage point, one can admire the island’s rolling hills, the sparkling Aegean Sea, and the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Rhodes.

This ancient site was once home to the Temple of Athena and a stadium dating back to the 3rd century BC. Today, the ruins of these Hellenistic structures stand as a testament to Rhodes’ rich past, allowing visitors to connect with the island’s storied heritage.

Exploring Monte Smith provides a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the stunning natural landscape and gain insights into Rhodes’ illustrious history.

Porte D’amboise and Street of the Knights

Entering the Old Town of Rhodes through the impressive Porte d’Amboise, visitors find themselves on the renowned Street of the Knights.

This UNESCO-listed medieval street is lined with historic inns and the former headquarters of the Knights Hospitaller. The street’s distinctive stone-paved walkway and grand buildings create a captivating atmosphere, transporting travelers back in time.

Highlights along this stretch include:

• The Palace of the Grand Master, a magnificent fortress-like structure that once housed the leader of the Knights Hospitaller.
• The Hospital of the Knights, a well-preserved medieval hospital that now houses a museum.
• Numerous historic inns and houses that showcase the architectural heritage of Rhodes’ medieval past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

This tour may not be suitable for young children. It requires moderate physical fitness and is not wheelchair accessible. The tour focuses on historical sites and sightseeing, which may not appeal to all children.

What Languages Does the Guide Speak?

The tour guide speaks in multiple languages, including English, to accommodate all participants. Their multilingual abilities ensure clear communication and a seamless experience throughout the privately guided shore excursion.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary is pre-set, but customers can request minor adjustments. However, the guide may not be able to accommodate significant changes on the day of the tour. It’s best to discuss any customization needs when booking the excursion.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts specifically for seniors or students. However, they may be willing to consider special requests. It’s best to inquire directly with them about any potential discounts or group pricing.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there aren’t any facilities provided for storing or consuming them during the excursion. The tour’s logistics don’t include catering services.

The Sum Up

The Rhodes Shore Excursion: Rhodes City Tour offers an immersive experience, showcasing the island’s rich history and culture. Guests are guided through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, admiring iconic landmarks like the Palace of the Grand Master and the medieval Street of the Knights. With stunning panoramic views and a blend of old and new, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the enchanting island of Rhodes.