Exploring the Best of Rhodes on a Full-Day Tour with Free Wine Tasting
Rhodes is a captivating island packed with stunning landscapes, historic sites, and delicious food. While many visitors stick to the main attractions, this tour promises a more intimate, varied experience—covering the top highlights, from panoramic viewpoints to authentic local villages, with a special focus on wine tasting. We look at what makes this tour a worthwhile choice, and who it’s best suited for.
What immediately grabs attention about this experience is the promise of free wine tasting combined with visits to notable landmarks and hidden gems. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it convenient, while the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path spots adds a sense of discovery. The price point at $59 per person offers a solid entry into Rhodes’ cultural and scenic richness—especially considering the variety of experiences packed into a single day.
However, be aware that this isn’t a guided tour with a licensed historian leading you through each site. Instead, it’s a driver-led excursion, which means the focus is on sightseeing and local flavor rather than detailed storytelling. For those who enjoy flexible, self-guided explorations with knowledgeable drivers, this setup works well. It’s ideal for travelers who value authentic experiences, scenic views, and good value over formal guided commentary.
If you’re after a day filled with beautiful sights, local flavors, and memorable photos, and you’re comfortable exploring largely independently, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for wine lovers, scenery seekers, and those curious about Rhodes’ religious and cultural traditions.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary covering Rhodes’ top sights and hidden corners.
- Includes free wine tasting at local wineries, adding a flavorful local touch.
- Photo opportunities at panoramic viewpoints and scenic spots.
- Visits to historical and religious sites offering insight into Rhodes’ traditions.
- Tavern lunch provides a taste of authentic Greek cuisine.
- Flexible pickup and drop-off from your hotel.
- No licensed guide for site explanations but driver-led with insights.
- Cost-effective at $59 per person for a full day of exploration.
Looking for more options in Embonas? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
This tour spans a full day, beginning with a pickup from your hotel, which simplifies logistics and allows you to relax from the start. The first stop is Anthony Quinn Bay, known for its stunning turquoise waters and rugged coastline—perfect for scenic photos and just soaking in the view. While there’s no mention of swimming, the photo opportunities here are excellent, making it a favorite among past travelers.
Next, you’ll visit Prophet Elias Church, situated atop a mountain overlooking Faliraki Bay and Anthony Quinn Bay. This panoramic viewpoint is a highlight, offering sweeping vistas that make for memorable photos. Expect the driver to give you some context about the church’s significance, even if it’s not a guided lecture.
From there, the group heads to Faliraki Port, where you’ll get a quick glimpse of the vibrant harbor and enjoy some stunning shots from the bridge. The port area is lively, and the short walk allows you to soak in the maritime atmosphere.
The tour then ventures inland to the Seven Springs, a lush oasis loved by locals. You’ll have a chance to relax with a coffee and snack amidst greenery, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you might walk through the tunnel, but remember to bring sandals for the river crossing. The manmade waterfalls and ponds are picturesque, and they’re a favorite spot for capturing nature’s serenity.
Continuing on, the next stop is St Nectarios Monastery, known for its architecture and natural spring water—an important religious site that highlights Rhodes’ spiritual side. The monastery’s rich design and peaceful ambiance make it more than just a photo stop; it’s a moment to reflect on local religious traditions.
Afterward, you visit the Italian Village, notable for its early 20th-century sanatorium of Campo Chiaro and the intriguing cistern filled with Gizani fish. The Italian influence is evident here, and the architecture adds a unique flavor to the island’s diverse history.
Nicolas Medieval Chapel follows, built by Italian knights in the 14th century, adding a medieval touch to the day’s exploration. It’s a reminder of Rhodes’ strategic importance through the ages.
Next, you’ll discover the Elafos Hotel, constructed around 100 years ago by the Italian government, featuring Alpine-style architecture reminiscent of northern Italy. The nearby Villa Cesare de Vecchi, a historic residence of a former governor, rounds out this segment, offering a glimpse into Rhodes’ colonial past.
The tour culminates in Embona Village, a favorite among locals for its fresh food and excellent wines. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional tavern meal—think freshly cut salads, grilled spare ribs, or steaks—paired with free wine tastings from local wineries. The opportunity to purchase bottles and have them shipped home adds a nice bonus for wine enthusiasts.
If time allows, your driver might stop at scenic viewpoints or catch a beautiful sunset, providing one last chance for memorable photos before heading back to your hotel.
What We Love About This Tour
Variety of Destinations: From panoramic mountain views and scenic inland springs to medieval chapels and Italian architecture, this tour covers a broad spectrum of Rhodes’ highlights. It’s like a condensed island history and landscape lesson.
Wine Tasting and Food: The inclusion of free local wine tastings and a hearty lunch enhances the experience. You get a taste of Rhodes’ rich wine culture and authentic cuisine without breaking the bank—a real value for the price.
Photo Opportunities: If you’re a shutterbug or just love capturing beautiful moments, the stops at Anthony Quinn Bay, Prophet Elias, and Embona Village offer picture-perfect vistas.
Authentic Local Experience: Visiting a traditional tavern in Embona gives you a genuine taste of Rhodian hospitality and cuisine, far from touristy spots.
Ease and Convenience: The hotel pickup and drop-off, plus the relaxed pace, mean you don’t have to worry about logistics or rushing—ideal for a stress-free day.
What to Keep in Mind
No Licensed Guide for Site Narration: While the driver provides some insights, this isn’t a guided historical tour. If you’re craving detailed stories or historical context, you might find yourself wishing for more expert narration.
Limited Time at Each Site: The day’s packed, so some stops might feel brief. If you love lingering at places or exploring in depth, this tour might be a bit rushed.
Walks and Footwear: Some stops, like the tunnel at Seven Springs, require walking and sandals. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially since high heels and bulky footwear aren’t allowed.
Price versus Value: For $59, you get a full day of sightseeing, wine tasting, and local food. Considering the diverse stops and included tastings, many travelers find this to be good value, especially since it covers several key sites without extra entrance fees.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits travelers eager to see a mix of Rhodes’ highlights without the commitment of guided tours or expensive entrance fees. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, scenic photographers, nature lovers, and those interested in local architecture and traditions. If you prefer structured guided storytelling or detailed historical commentary, you might want to look at more specialized options.
It’s also a good choice for independent spirits who enjoy exploring at their own pace but appreciate the convenience of a well-planned route with included tastings and meals. Just remember, if you have mobility issues or require special accommodations, the tour’s physical demands and setup might not be suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making it easy to start and end the day comfortably.
What should I bring? Pack a camera, hiking shoes, a towel, and sandals for the tunnel walk in Seven Springs. Since high heels aren’t allowed, comfortable footwear is essential.
Are food and drinks included? Lunch is included, featuring local dishes at a traditional taverna. The free wine tasting happens after the meal, but additional drinks or snacks are not included in the price.
Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers? The tour isn’t recommended for non-swimmers or very young children, especially considering walks through tunnels and uneven terrain.
Can I customize the experience? Since this is driver-led without a licensed guide, customization options are limited. However, the driver may be able to tailor some parts based on your preferences.
How long is the tour? The full-day tour generally lasts several hours, covering multiple sites with some time for photos and meals.
Are there any restrictions I should be aware of? Shoes indoors aren’t allowed at some sites, and you’ll need to avoid bringing weapons, sharp objects, or large luggage.
Is there a refund policy? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Final Thoughts
This Rhodes tour offers a unique blend of scenic views, historical sites, and authentic local flavors—especially with its included free wine tasting. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a well-rounded day that combines sightseeing with culinary delights, all at an accessible price point.
While it’s not a guided historical lecture, the driver’s insights, combined with the variety of stops, make for a satisfying experience that captures Rhodes’ diverse charm. Perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace, capturing beautiful photos, and indulging in regional wines and food.
Overall, if you’re seeking a value-packed, scenic, and tasty day out on Rhodes, this tour ticks many boxes—especially if you’re eager to experience local culture and stunning vistas without overspending or overcommitting.
Remember, booking with flexibility and preparing for a full day of discovery can turn this into one of your favorite memories from Rhodes. Don’t forget to bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and an appetite for local flavors!
You can check availability for your dates here: