Rhodes is a place that practically begs to be explored—whether by car, boat, or foot. Its rich mix of ancient ruins, lively harbors, and scenic coastlines makes it a prime destination for cruise travelers. Among the many ways to experience the island, the shore excursions outlined here stand out for their personalized touches, insider access, and variety of interests. One of our favorites is the Best Of Rhodes – Lindos – Private Shore Excursion, which combines the charm of Lindos with a flexible, hassle-free approach. Another top pick is the Best of Rhodes Island – Private Tour, offering a full-day adventure for those who want to see as much as possible without rushing. If you’re after a quick but comprehensive outing, the Rhodes Private Shore Excursion provides a smooth, guided introduction to the island’s highlights. Lastly, for nature lovers, the Rhodes: Shore Excursion, Valley of the Butterflies & Lindos offers a peaceful walk through lush surroundings topped with ancient ruins. Whether you want history, scenery, or a little of both, this list has you covered.
Quick Overview
This list spotlights four outstanding shore excursions, each with its own flavor and focus. The Best Of Rhodes – Lindos – Private Shore Excursion offers a flexible half-day tour that covers Rhodes Old Town, Lindos, and Anthony Quinn Bay, perfect for travelers who want a taste of different sights at their own pace. [] For those who prefer a full-day adventure with personalized attention, the Best of Rhodes Island – Private Tour includes Lindos, Rhodes Old Town, and Haraki Beach, ideal for small groups wanting maximum flexibility. [] If you’re after a guided, comprehensive experience, the Rhodes Private Shore Excursion covers the key sites with an expert guide and comfortable transport. [] Finally, nature lovers will appreciate the Valley of the Butterflies & Lindos tour, combining natural beauty with ancient ruins. []
1. Best Of Rhodes – Lindos – Private Shore Excursion
Rating: 5.0/5 (83 reviews)
This customizable private tour is perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a personalized experience. For around $372.71 per group (up to 4), you get a luxury private sedan, a driver-guide, and about five hours to explore. The tour kicks off with door-to-door service from the cruise port, airport, or your hotel, easing the often awkward logistics of sightseeing in a foreign country. It includes visits to Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where your driver can show you the gates and suggest a walk through the labyrinth of streets on your own. Then you’ll head out to Lindos, a small whitewashed village with an ancient acropolis offering breathtaking views of the sea.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You can decide how long to stay at each site and even add a pottery demonstration if you wish. The driver is also knowledgeable about local spots like Anthony Quinn Bay, which is perfect for a quick swim or a photo stop. The reviews highlight how well-organized and personable the drivers are, with travelers commenting that Manuel and Alex made their day memorable and tailored to their preferences.
Bottom line: This private tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized experience with the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
2. Best of Rhodes Island – Private Tour – Shore Excursion – Full Day – 4 People
Rating: 5.0/5 (62 reviews)
If your time in Rhodes is limited but you want to see as much as possible, this full-day private tour is a smart option. For $502.44, up to four people enjoy a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle and a personal driver-guide who takes care of all route planning and timing. The day begins with a pickup from your cruise or hotel, then takes you to Rhodes Old Town—where you can photograph the historic gates—and to the Colossus of Rhodes site at Mandraki Harbor, a true bucket-list photo op. The tour also includes a visit to the Church of the Annunciation, and a scenic drive to the Acropolis of Rhodes, where you can soak in sweeping views of the city and sea.
What makes this tour special is its tailor-made itinerary. Your driver can suggest stops like Haraki Beach or other hidden spots, making sure your experience matches your interests. The reviews rave about the driver’s knowledge and flexibility, with guests noting how much they enjoyed the personalized touches. One reviewer mentions that “Micheal A. was amazing,” showing how dedicated the guides are to creating a memorable day.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for small groups seeking a comprehensive, flexible day around Rhodes’ highlights, especially if comfort and personalization matter most.
3. Rhodes Private Shore Excursion
Rating: 5.0/5 (22 reviews)
For travelers who want a professional, guided experience without the hassle, this 7.5-hour private tour offers an in-depth look at Rhodes’ top sights. Starting at about $534.07 for up to 3 people, it includes visits to Rhodes Old Town, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the site of the Colossus of Rhodes at Mandraki. Your driver-guide also takes you to the Church of Annunciation, a stunning gothic basilica, and the Rhodes Aquarium, where marine life can fascinate kids and adults alike.
What makes this tour appealing is its comprehensive nature. The guide’s 35+ years of experience ensures a smooth, informative trip with personalized narration. The guide’s ability to customize the stops based on your interests means you’ll get a good mix of history, culture, and scenic views. Reviewers mention guides like Manos and Stergos, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want a detailed, guided overview of Rhodes with the comfort of private transport and expert commentary.
4. Rhodes: Shore Excursion, Valley of the Butterflies & Lindos
Rating: 5/5 (3 reviews)
Ideal for nature lovers, this 6-hour private tour combines the Valley of the Butterflies with a visit to Lindos. For around $621, your driver takes you through lush green surroundings where thousands of butterflies flutter in season—an enchanting sight for all ages. The valley is a peaceful place for walking, learning about local flora, and spotting the insects in their natural habitat. Afterward, you’ll explore Lindos’ narrow streets, admire the ancient acropolis, and enjoy spectacular views over the Aegean.
This tour stands out because it blends nature and history in a relaxed pace, perfect for travelers who want a break from more crowded historical sites. The reviews note how accommodating Michael, the driver, was, always providing cold water and making sure everyone was comfortable. The combination of the butterfly sanctuary with Lindos makes for a diverse day out.
Bottom line: This tour offers a quieter, scenic alternative for those interested in both natural beauty and ancient ruins, with a friendly, flexible guide.
How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, timing, and interests. If you prefer a personalized half-day adventure, the Best Of Rhodes – Lindos tour offers a relaxed pace with flexibility. For a full-day exploration that covers the major highlights, the Full Day Private Tour is excellent—especially for small groups wanting comfort and customization. If you want a guided overview with a focus on history and sights, the Rhodes Private Shore Excursion fits well. Finally, if nature and scenic landscapes appeal most, the Valley of the Butterflies & Lindos provides a peaceful, picturesque experience.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and vehicle. Think about what appeals most—whether it’s history, scenery, or a mix—and choose the tour that best fits your style.
Final Thoughts
Rhodes offers a range of shore excursions, from private, flexible tours to comprehensive guided adventures and nature walks. For travelers who want the most personalized experience, the Best Of Rhodes – Lindos tour delivers a relaxed, customizable half-day. If your time is limited, but you want to see the highlights, the Full Day Private Tour maximizes your day with a tailored route. Nature lovers should consider the Valley of the Butterflies & Lindos, which combines stunning landscapes with ancient ruins.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead and communicating your preferences will ensure you get the most out of your visit. Rhodes is a place where history, scenery, and culture come together beautifully—making it well worth a well-planned shore excursion.