Visit the 10 best places in Rhodes with free Wine Tasting

Planning a day to uncover Rhodes’ highlights can feel overwhelming—there’s a lot to see, do, and taste. This tour promises a comprehensive experience, hitting some of the most photogenic spots, historic sites, and local flavors—all bundled into 7.5 hours. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and culinary delights, without the hassle of planning every step.

What we love about this tour is the way it combines iconic viewpoints with lesser-known gems, giving you genuine glimpses into local life. Plus, the inclusion of free wine tasting and a traditional lunch makes it feel like true value for money. On the flip side, it’s quite packed, so if you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced day, this might feel a bit rushed.

This experience is ideal for those eager to see Rhodes beyond the usual tourist spots, especially if you’re into scenic views, history, and local food. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate guided insights but don’t need a full-blown guided tour with commentary—drivers are knowledgeable but not licensed guides, so it’s more about the experience than expert narration.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary combines natural beauty, history, and local culture.
• Scenic photo stops at Anthony Quinn Bay, Prophet Elias, and Embona.
• Authentic culinary experience with free wine tasting and a traditional Greek lunch.
• Lesser-known sites like the Italian village, Cistern, and medieval chapel offer authentic glimpses into Rhodes’ past.
• Value for money given the all-inclusive stops, tastings, and scenic views.
• Flexible timing with pick-up from various hotels and options for private or small groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Start with the Iconic Views from Anthony Quinn Bay

The day kicks off with a trip to Anthony Quinn Bay, famous for its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. The tour not only allows for some memorable photos but also sets a relaxed, scenic tone for the day. Though it’s mostly a photo stop, you’ll appreciate the chance to breathe in the fresh air and get a sense of Rhodes’ rugged beauty early on.

Prophet Elias and Panoramic Overlooks

Next, the journey takes you up to Prophet Elias Church, perched atop a mountain overlooking Faliraki Bay and Anthony Quinn Bay. Here, panoramic vistas are the star attraction—perfect for snapping those Instagram-worthy shots of the coast and the lush landscape. The walk around the site is brief but rewarding, giving you a taste of Rhodes’ spiritual and scenic appeal.

The Refreshing Seven Springs

Later, it’s time to cool off at Seven Springs—a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This spot is a genuine oasis, complete with flowing waters, waterfalls, and a peaceful atmosphere. You can enjoy a short coffee break or snack here, and if you’re feeling adventurous, bring your sandals for a walk through the tunnel where water runs beneath your feet. The natural beauty of the springs offers a lovely contrast to the earlier coastal views.

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St. Nectarios and Religious Heritage

The next stop is St. Nectarios Monastery, where impressive architecture and a famous natural spring make for a peaceful visit. It’s an important religious site for locals, and the fresh spring water supplies the monastery—an authentic peek into the spiritual life of Rhodes residents.

Exploring Italian Heritage

The tour then ventures inland to Campochiaro, an Italian village from a century ago. Here, the Sanatorium of Campo Chiaro and a historic cistern with Gizani fish tell stories of Rhodes’ Italian influence. The manmade structures and preserved architecture give a tangible sense of the island’s past foreign connections.

The Alpine-Inspired Elafos Hotel

Continuing the journey, you’ll see the Elafos Hotel, built by the Italian government with Alpine architecture reminiscent of northern Italy. Overlooking Villa Maria Cesare de Vecchi, a former governor’s villa, this stop is an architectural highlight and offers more fantastic photo opportunities.

Embona Village and Authentic Greek Tastes

The highlight for many travelers is the picturesque Embona village, a hub for local food and wine. Here, you’ll visit a traditional taverna, where a freshly prepared Greek lunch awaits—think grilled spare ribs, local salads, and regional specialties. The free wine tasting from local wineries is a true treat, offering a chance to savor some of Rhodes’ best vintages. If you wish, you can even arrange for your favorite bottle to be shipped home, which many travelers find convenient and memorable.

Hidden Gems and Scenic Views

If time allows, the tour includes stops at additional scenic spots or “hidden gems,” where you can capture more photos and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Sometimes, the sunset view from Embona or another vantage point makes the day even more special, especially if you’re lucky with the timing.

Practical Details and What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Transportation and Group Size

With hotel pickup and drop-off included, the day starts smoothly. You have the option of small or private groups, which tends to foster a more personalized experience—without the big bus crowd. The transportation is comfortable, and the planned stops are well spaced out, balancing travel time with sightseeing.

Duration and Pace

At 7.5 hours, this tour packs in a lot, but it’s quite full-on. Expect a mix of walking, photo-taking, and brief visits. The itinerary is designed to maximize your time, but if you prefer a slow, lingering exploration of each site, you might find it a bit hurried.

Cost versus Value

For $59 per person, the value is generally solid. The price includes multiple scenic stops, a traditional lunch, free wine tastings, and the convenience of organized transport. You won’t need to worry about entrance fees or planning, which is a big plus. However, remember that food and drinks in the village are paid separately, and sandals are your best bet for the tunnel walk at Seven Springs.

Guides and Authentic Experiences

While drivers are knowledgeable about the stops, they aren’t licensed guides, so the experience leans more toward self-guided exploration with local insights rather than in-depth historical narration. According to one reviewer, “Our guide, Peter, gave us an amazing tour of the lesser-visited spots,” highlighting that guides can add a lot of local flavor—if you’re fortunate to have one like Peter.

What Travelers Say

One review from Sara (Denmark) mentions that her guide “tailored the tour to our specific wishes,” which suggests flexibility is possible if communicated. She also highlighted the quality of the scenic viewpoints and local eateries—key parts of the experience that made her trip memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a well-rounded day with a good mix of scenery, history, and food without the hassle of organizing each stop independently. Ideal for first-time visitors who want to see Rhodes’ highlights, as well as those interested in local culture and wine. It suits travelers who are comfortable with a busy schedule and enjoy photo opportunities and authentic regional flavors.

It’s less suitable if you’re after a very relaxed or slow-paced day, or if mobility is an issue—some walking and a tunnel walk are involved. Also, if you prefer guided tours with detailed commentary, this might not fully meet those expectations.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent way to experience Rhodes’ top sights in one day, blending natural beauty, history, and culinary delights. The free wine tastings and authentic Greek lunch add real value, especially for wine lovers. The stops at iconic spots like Anthony Quinn Bay and the panoramic Prophet Elias are complemented by hidden treasures like the Italian village and springs, making it a well-balanced itinerary.

Given the flexible timing, hotel pickup, and small group options, it’s a practical choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free, all-in-one day adventure. The combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and delicious food makes it a memorable introduction to Rhodes.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s fun, authentic, and offers great photo moments—all at a reasonable price—this tour ticks many boxes. Just be ready for a busy, action-packed day that leaves you with plenty of stories and a full stomach of regional flavors.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off from a selection of hotels in Faliraki, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 7.5 hours, starting with pickup and ending back at your hotel.

Are there options for private or small groups?
Yes, both private and small group options are available, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, hiking shoes, a towel, and sandals (for the tunnel walk). High heels, sharp objects, and large luggage are not permitted.

Is food included in the price?
The tour includes a traditional Greek lunch and free wine tastings. Additional food or drinks are paid separately.

Are there any restrictions or things not allowed?
Yes—no high heels, smoking inside the vehicle, or carrying large luggage, baby strollers, or non-folding wheelchairs. Also, no alcohol or drugs onboard.

Can I ship wine home?
Yes, you can arrange to have your favorite wine shipped from Embona to your house, typically for an extra fee.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best suited for those who enjoy walking, scenic views, and wine tasting. It’s not recommended for non-swimmers, mobility-impaired visitors, or those afraid of heights.

Rhodes’ best sights, combined with local flavors and scenic views, await on this thoughtfully curated day tour. Whether you’re after memorable photos, cultural insights, or just a fun way to explore the island, this experience delivers on many fronts—just be ready for a lively day full of surprises.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby