Private Rhodes tour: Old City, Mount Smith, beach time

Medieval Rhodes and the sea in one afternoon, with a driver who knows the island

A private tour of Rhodes combines the medieval Old City, Mandraki harbor and Mount Smith's Hellenistic Acropolis with beach time you choose. Your English-speaking driver navigates the cobblestone Street of Knights and the Grand Masters Palace, explains the Colossus legend at the ancient port, then takes you to a pottery workshop before dropping you at the beach of your choice for a leisurely swim.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time spent at each

1. Acropolis of Rhodes30m
2. Anthony Quinn Bay15m
3. Kallithea Springs15m

Explore Rhodes landmarks and beach time

• Enter Old City via Amboise Gate
• Visit Grand Masters Palace and Street of Knights
• See Mandraki harbor and bronze deer statues
• Learn about the Colossus and Annunciation church
• Ascend Mount Smith for views
• Explore Hellenistic Acropolis of Rhodes
• Visit traditional pottery workshop
• Relax at Anthony Quinn Bay or alternative viewpoint
• Enjoy Faliraki beach and waterfront
• Experience Kallithea Springs and snorkeling

The experience

The tour starts in the Old City through the Amboise Gate, where the medieval alleyways and the Grand Masters Palace anchor Rhodes' crusader past. You walk the cobblestone Street of Knights, then head to Mandraki, one of three ancient harbors, where bronze deer statues mark the spot where the Colossus (one of the seven wonders of antiquity) once stood. The Annunciation church sits at the harbor's edge.

Mount Smith is the highest point in Rhodes city, and the drive up gives you views across the Aegean and the surrounding islands. At the summit sits the 3rd-century Hellenistic Acropolis, which you explore on foot. A traditional pottery workshop comes next: you watch a potter at the wheel and browse ceramic pieces that show the vibrant colors and artistry of Rhodian work.

The afternoon is yours to choose. Anthony Quinn Bay, named after the Hollywood actor who once owned the cove, offers stunning scenery and clear water. During peak season the guide may suggest an alternative viewpoint if crowds are heavy. Faliraki has a long stretch of white sand backed by hotels and beach clubs. Kallithea Springs, known for its historic Italian baths and thermal waters, is excellent for snorkeling. Your driver handles the route. You decide where to spend the time.

What’s included

• An air-conditioned Mercedes Benz with WiFi on board.
• bottled water throughout the day.
• an English-speaking driver with extensive knowledge of Rhodian history.
• pickup included.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 4 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Paid on site€ 5

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Rhodes Leisure - Private Tours

Is this one for you?The tour runs 4 to 5 hours total, so it fits a half-day slot without rushing the Old City or cutting the beach time short. Your driver speaks English fluently and steers the commentary to what interests you most, which works well if you want history and context without a large group or a fixed script.

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Top questions

What is the Street of Knights and why does it matter in Rhodes?

The Street of Knights is a cobblestone lane in the medieval Old City lined with the former residences and administrative buildings of the crusading Order of St. John, who ruled Rhodes for centuries. Walking it puts you inside the physical layout of their rule, with the Grand Masters Palace anchoring one end.

Can I really see where the Colossus stood?

Mandraki harbor is where the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of antiquity, once stood at the harbor entrance. The statue no longer exists, but standing at the port and learning its history from your driver gives you the scale and location of what was once there.

How much time do I get at the beach?

The afternoon portion of the tour is dedicated to beach time at the location you choose. The exact duration depends on your preferences and the total pacing of the day, which your driver can adjust with you.

Do I need to pay extra to enter Kallithea Springs or the Acropolis?

Entrance fees at Kallithea Springs are not included in the tour price. Entry to the Acropolis of Rhodes on Mount Smith is included as part of the guided stop.

What beaches are actually available to choose from?

Anthony Quinn Bay, Faliraki and Kallithea Springs are the main options your driver will present. Each has different character: Anthony Quinn Bay is a scenic cove, Faliraki is a long sandy beach with waterfront dining, and Kallithea offers thermal springs and snorkeling. Your driver can advise based on conditions and your interests.