Best Of Rhodes – Lindos – Private Shore Excursion

Planning a trip to Rhodes? This private tour promises a personalized, hassle-free way to explore the island’s highlights in about five hours. With a knowledgeable driver-guide at the wheel, you’ll get to see ancient ruins, picturesque villages, and stunning beaches at your own pace. The flexible itinerary, combined with door-to-door service from your cruise port, hotel, or airport, makes this a very convenient choice for travelers looking to maximize their time and experience.

What really sets this tour apart is its customizable nature. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the personal touch, want to avoid the chaos of big groups, and like having a guide who can adapt to your interests. We especially love the way it combines historical sites with scenic stops, but a potential consideration is that it’s primarily driven by a driver-guide rather than a licensed guide, which might matter if you’re looking for deep historical narration.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic look at Rhodes that balances sightseeing with leisure, this tour will suit you well. It’s perfect for cruise passengers or visitors staying nearby who want to see the highlights without the stress of self-driving or rigid schedules.

Key Points

• Highly flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences
• Door-to-door private service from port, hotel, or airport
• Expert driver-guide providing local insights and assistance
• Excellent value for a personalized half-day experience
• Stunning visuals of Rhodes Old Town, Lindos, and Anthony Quinn Bay
• Good for all fitness levels with minimal walking required

A Practical Look at the Private Rhodes Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of cultural, scenic, and relaxing experiences. It’s crafted for those who want to see Rhodes without the typical tourist crowds or long bus rides. You’ll be chauffeured in a comfortable Mercedes sedan, which feels both luxurious and intimate—perfect for small groups of up to four travelers, which keeps things cozy and personalized.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point & Old Town Entrance
Your journey kicks off from your location in Rhodes—be it cruise port, hotel, or airport. The driver takes you directly to the Medieval City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since traffic regulations only permit pedestrians inside, the driver will drop you at the gates for some fantastic photo opportunities outside. Reviewers note that this setup saves both time and money, as you can explore independently after the driver leaves you at the gate, which is just a five-minute walk back to the cruise port or your hotel.

Mandraki Harbour & The Colossus
Next, you’ll drive out of the Old Town to Mandraki Harbour, famously believed to be the site of the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The stop is brief—about 15 minutes—and free of charge, but the iconic harbor views and the chance to stand where history unfolded make it well worth the visit. Travelers like William praised the experience, noting it as a “great experience exploring the traditional villages.”

The Church of the Annunciation
A short drive takes you to this beautiful gothic-style basilica. Built with wooden beams and decorated with stunning paintings, it’s the current town cathedral and offers a quick but impressive peek into Rhodes’ religious art. Visitors often mention how the church’s chandeliers and artwork add to its charm, making it a meaningful stop in just five minutes.

Elli Beach & Scenic Coastal Views
Guests can enjoy a quick pass by Elli Beach, Rhodes’ lively stretch of sand. It’s the place to soak in some local sun or simply admire the vibrant seaside atmosphere before heading inland.

The Acropolis of Rhodes & Monte Smith Hill
A scenic drive up Monte Smith Hill brings you to the Acropolis, offering panoramic vistas of Rhodes Town, the coastlines, and the sea meeting point—an ideal spot for photos. The driver stops at a vantage point for sweeping views, and from there, you can see the Temple of Apollo and the ancient stadium from afar, all free of charge. Reviewers like Lak appreciated the “wonderful scenery” and the “breathtaking views” from this spot.

Anthony Quinn Bay & Lindos
Moving south along the coast, you’ll pause at Anthony Quinn Bay—famous for its cinematic scenery and crystal-clear waters. It’s a scenic location perfect for swimming or snorkeling, with sun loungers available. Reviewers consistently mention its “beautiful landscape” and the fact that Anthony Quinn himself owns property nearby adds a fun celebrity touch to the experience.

Continuing toward Lindos, there’s a brief stop at a panoramic viewpoint of Lindos Beach, with its striking white sands and calm waters. This is a favorite among travelers who love Instagram-worthy shots or just want to soak in the beauty from a distance.

Lindos Village & Acropolis
The highlight for many: Lindos Village. With a full hour here, you can choose to explore the alleyways of the whitewashed village or climb up to the Acropolis—an optional activity with an entrance fee of 20 euros. The driver can share vantage points of the Acropolis from below, allowing you to skip the crowds and save time. Several reviews note that this approach helps avoid the busy tourist throngs and gives more time to enjoy the village’s charm. If you opt to climb the Acropolis, you’ll walk through narrow steps and uphill paths, but the panoramic view from the top makes the effort worthwhile.

St. Paul’s Bay & Scenic Drive Back
On the return, you’ll visit St. Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle Paul is believed to have landed, and the nearby cave featured in the film “The Guns of Navarone”—a fun tidbit for movie buffs. The drive back along the coast passes Kallithea Spa, known for its spectacular landscapes and film appearances, before returning to Rhodes Old Town.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Travelers love the personalized approach—your driver isn’t just a driver but a local guide who speaks fluent English, with many reviews praising their knowledge and friendliness. The flexibility of the itinerary is a major plus, allowing you to skip less appealing stops or extend at favorite spots if time permits.

The comfort of private transportation in a high-quality Mercedes sedan makes the experience smooth and relaxing, especially compared to crowded bus tours. Plus, the door-to-door service simplifies logistics, whether you’re arriving on a cruise or staying in a hotel.

The Value of the Experience

At $372.71 for a group of up to four, this tour offers excellent value considering the personalized service, private vehicle, and multiple scenic and cultural stops. The cost also covers the convenience of customizing your day and avoiding the hassle of renting a car or navigating public transport. Reviewers frequently mention that the tour is well-organized and that the driver’s insights add to the experience.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers noted that the guide isn’t a licensed guide for historic sites, which might matter if you’re looking for detailed historical commentary. However, many reviews emphasize the driver’s local knowledge and the ability to tailor the tour, compensating for this aspect. Plus, the entrance fee for Lindos Acropolis is not included, but the driver can help coordinate your visit.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized day exploring Rhodes’ highlights, this private tour is a stellar choice. It’s particularly suited for small groups or families who want to avoid crowded buses and keep things flexible. The combination of scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and beach stops makes it ideal for those who appreciate a mix of culture and leisure.

Travelers who enjoy authentic local insights, beautiful landscapes, and the opportunity to customize their experience will find this tour very satisfying. For cruise passengers, the door-to-door service ensures you won’t have to worry about timing or logistics—just sit back, enjoy the ride, and soak in Rhodes’ charm.

FAQ

Is the tour flexible in terms of timing and stops?
Yes, the tour is 100% flexible. You can customize the itinerary with your driver, adding or skipping stops based on your interests.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers a knowledgeable, English-speaking driver, private Mercedes sedan, and door-to-door service. Entrance fees for Lindos Acropolis and meals are not included.

Can I visit the Old Town on my own?
Absolutely. The tour can end at a gate of Rhodes Old Town for you to explore independently, which saves time and money since you can walk back to your cruise or hotel.

How long do I have in Lindos Village?
You’ll have around an hour to explore the village and see the Acropolis from below, with an optional climb to the top if you wish.

Is there any walking involved?
Minimal walking—most stops are scenic viewpoints or drive-bys. If you choose to climb the Lindos Acropolis, expect a walk uphill with steps.

What about beach visits?
Anthony Quinn Bay is a scenic stop ideal for swimming or relaxing. Sun loungers and beach facilities are available, making it a perfect break from sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and short walks make it family-friendly. The driver can show you scenic points and help tailor the experience for kids.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 54 days ahead, so it’s best to plan early, especially during peak season.

What if I need to cancel or change my booking?
Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Changes less than 24 hours before are not accepted, so plan ahead.

Final Verdict

This private Rhodes tour offers a well-balanced, flexible, and comfortable way to experience some of the island’s most beautiful and historic highlights. With expert drivers, scenic views, and the ability to customize, it delivers great value for those who want a personalized adventure without the fuss. Perfect for cruise passengers, small groups, or anyone eager to enjoy Rhodes at a relaxed pace and with local insights. Whether you’re after history, stunning beaches, or charming villages, this tour makes it easy to see the best of Rhodes on your own terms.