Rhodes, Greece

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Cruises from Rhodes

Rhodes — the island of knights and sunshine, the jewel of the Dodecanese and one of the most popular cruise ports in the Eastern Mediterranean. This is a city where three millennia of history meet the azure of the Mediterranean Sea and 300 sunny days a year. The largest island of the Dodecanese archipelago is located in the south-eastern part of the Aegean Sea, 18 kilometres from the Turkish coast, and has been a strategic crossroads of trade routes between East and West for thousands of years. Here the Gothic architecture of the Knights Hospitaller stands alongside the mosques of the Suleiman the Magnificent era, while the ancient ruins of the acropolis gaze over the crystal-clear bays of the Aegean Sea. 
For the cruise tourist, Rhodes offers above all a unique combination: the UNESCO-protected Medieval City just 10–15 minutes on foot from the pier, the whitewashed village of Lindos 50 kilometres to the south, and the Valley of the Butterflies nature reserve at the heart of the island. In 2024 the island welcomed a record 3.5 million tourists — 12–14% more than the previous year. During the same year the cruise port served more than 400,000 passengers: 264 liners docked here by the end of September alone. ๐Ÿšข

๐Ÿ“‹ Before setting off on a cruise to Rhodes or going ashore for a few hours, here are the key facts:
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ท Country:
Greece
๐Ÿ“ Region: South Aegean (ΝฯŒτιο Αιγαฮฏο), Dodecanese
๐Ÿ‘ฅ Population: approximately 115,000 island residents (city of Rhodes — approximately 50,000)
๐Ÿ“ Island area: 1,401 km²
๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ Language: Greek (official); English is spoken freely in the tourist area
๐Ÿ’ถ Currency: Euro (EUR)
๐Ÿ• Time zone: EET (UTC+2), in summer EEST (UTC+3) — matches Kyiv time
โ˜€๏ธ Climate: Mediterranean, with mild winters (+12…+15 °C) and hot summers (+28…+35 °C); approximately 3,400 hours of sunshine per year
โœˆ๏ธ Nearest airport: Diagoras International Airport (RHO) — 14 km from the city of Rhodes
โš“ Official cruise port name: Port of Rhodes (Λιμฮฌνι ΡฯŒδου)
๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Port structure: six harbours along the coastline of the city of Rhodes

๐Ÿ›๏ธ History of Rhodes — from the Colossus to the Knights' Fortress
โณ 3,000 Years of Maritime Glory
The history of Rhodes is above all the history of its harbours. Long before the city was founded, Minoan and Mycenaean settlers colonised this strategically located island at the crossroads of Mediterranean trade routes. In 408 BC, three ancient cities of the island — Lindos, Ialyssos and Kamiros — united to found a new capital: Rhodes, planned by the renowned urban planner Hippodamus of Miletus. Thanks to its advantageous location, the city rapidly became one of the wealthiest trading centres of the Hellenic world.
In 305–304 BC, Rhodes withstood the famous siege by the Macedonian general Demetrius Poliorcetes. To celebrate this victory, the sculptor Chares of Lindos erected the Colossus of Rhodes — a 33-metre bronze statue of the sun god Helios — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The statue stood for only 54 years: the earthquake of 226 BC destroyed it, yet the fame of Rhodes has remained in human memory forever. Today, at the entrance to the Mandraki harbour where the Colossus legendarily stood, visitors are greeted by two bronze deer on stone columns — the symbols of the island.
โš”๏ธ From a Knights' Bastion to an Island of Three Cultures
In 1309 the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem captured Rhodes and made the island their headquarters. Over 213 years they transformed the city into an impregnable fortress, building Gothic palaces, hospitals and churches. It was during this period that the brilliant urban ensemble took shape — one that has reached our day almost unchanged. The Knights twice repelled Ottoman sieges — in 1444 and 1480 — however in 1522 Suleiman the Magnificent, with an army of more than 100,000 warriors, finally broke the island's defences after a six-month siege. Thus began the Ottoman era, which left behind mosques, hammams and the pink Mosque of Suleiman right within the Knights' walls. From 1912 to 1943 the island was under Italian rule, which left its own architectural imprint on the New Town. In 1947 Rhodes officially reunited with Greece. ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Today the Medieval City of Rhodes is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.

โš“ Port of Rhodes — Gateway to the Dodecanese
๐Ÿ“Š Scale and Structure of the Port
The Port of Rhodes is not a single docking zone but an entire system of six harbours stretching along the city's coastline. The Tourist Port (Central Port) is located next to the medieval walls and is the main berth for cruise liners. This is where ships for international services to Turkey and the majority of cruise liners dock. The Port of Akandia — a commercial and passenger harbour to the south of the Central Port — receives large ferry vessels and some cruise liners. The Mandraki Harbour — a picturesque ancient Greek harbour in the heart of the New Town — receives small yachts and compact cruise vessels. The Kolona Port — a small harbour next to the Old Town walls — serves small inter-island ferries and yachts.

๐Ÿšข How Many Liners the Port Accommodates

In accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS), the Tourist Port and the Port of Akandia together can simultaneously receive up to five cruise liners and more than 10,000 passengers and crew members per day. The berths accommodate vessels up to 380 metres in length and with a draught of up to 10 metres. The entrance to the Old Town is a 10–15-minute walk from the cruise piers, making Rhodes one of the most convenient ports in the Mediterranean for independent travellers.

๐Ÿข Which Cruise Companies Call at Rhodes
Rhodes welcomes liners from virtually all of the world's leading cruise brands. These include MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Oceania Cruises, Silversea, Viking Ocean Cruises, Celestyal Cruises, Azamara, AIDA Cruises, TUI Cruises, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and Star Clippers. The island features on the itineraries of virtually all Eastern Mediterranean cruises in spring and summer — from April through October. ๐ŸŒ

๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts about Rhodes and Its Port
Getting to know the island is even richer with a few less obvious details:
๐Ÿ›๏ธ The Medieval City of Rhodes is the largest in the Mediterranean. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as far back as 1988 as an outstanding example of urban Gothic architecture with a unique blend of Knights', Byzantine, Ottoman and local elements.
๐Ÿ—ฟ The Colossus of Rhodes stood for only 54 years. The statue of the god Helios, erected around 280 BC, was destroyed by the earthquake of 226 BC. Despite numerous legends, modern researchers have yet to determine its exact location.
โ˜€๏ธ Rhodes is the sunniest island in Greece. More than 300 sunny days a year and approximately 3,400 hours of sunlight annually — more than anywhere else in Greece. This made the island a popular tourist destination long before beach tourism in the modern sense came into being.
๐ŸฆŒ The deer is the island's totem animal. According to an ancient legend, deer protected Rhodes from venomous snakes. Ever since, a pair of bronze deer has adorned the entrance to the Mandraki harbour — where, by tradition, the legs of the Colossus once stood.
๐Ÿฐ The Street of the Knights is the most intact Gothic street in the Mediterranean. It was paved with stone and covered with arcades as far back as the 14th century, and has retained its authentic appearance to this day almost without change.
๐ŸŒฟ The Valley of the Butterflies is unique in the world. Every summer, tens of thousands of butterflies of the species Panaxia Quadripunctaria — a rare variety listed in the IUCN Red List — gather in a moist gorge near the village of Theologos. No similar place exists anywhere else in the world.
โš“ The Port of Rhodes is 1,700 years older than the Knights. The Mandraki harbour has been in continuous operation since at least the 4th century BC and is one of the oldest working harbours in the Mediterranean Sea.
๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น Rhodes is an island of three architectural layers. Walking through the Old Town, one can literally read three great eras: the Gothic of the Knights (1309–1522), the Ottoman style (1522–1912) and Italian Neoclassicism (1912–1943) — all within the bounds of a single set of medieval walls.

๐Ÿ“ Top Sights of Rhodes — Must-See for the Cruise Tourist
A cruise liner's stay at Rhodes typically lasts from 8 to 12 hours. The entrance to the Old Town is a 10–15-minute walk from the piers, so even in a short time there is a great deal to see. A detailed list with photos, addresses and opening hours should be verified through official sources; below is a brief overview of the key locations.
๐Ÿฐ The Medieval City of Rhodes (Old Town) — the heart of the island and a UNESCO heritage site. Surrounded by 4-kilometre walls up to 12 metres thick, the Old Town preserves a unique interweaving of Gothic churches, pink mosques, medieval squares and narrow cobbled lanes. For the cruise tourist, this is the number-one stop.
๐Ÿ—ก๏ธ Palace of the Grand Master — a magnificent knights' fortress with 300 halls, drawbridges, towers and unique mosaic floors brought from the island of Kos. Located on a hill within the Old Town.
๐Ÿ›๏ธ Street of the Knights — the best-preserved Gothic street in the Mediterranean. Along it stand the Inns of the various "Tongues" (national sections) of the Order — French, Spanish, English, Provençal and others.
๐Ÿบ Archaeological Museum (Hospital of the Knights) — the Grand Hospital of the Knights from the 14th–15th centuries, now one of the most fascinating museums in Greece. It houses sculptures of the Venus of Rhodes, mosaics and artefacts from prehistoric times to the medieval era.
โ›ต Mandraki Harbour — the ancient harbour of the New Town with three medieval windmills, the Fortress of Saint Nicholas and bronze deer at the entrance. It is here, according to legend, that the Colossus of Rhodes once stood.
๐ŸŒธ Acropolis of Rhodes (Monte Smith) — the remains of the ancient Greek acropolis on a hill above the city, with restored columns of the Temple of Apollo, an ancient stadium and a panorama over the city and sea. An excellent viewpoint 10–15 minutes' drive from the port.
๐Ÿ˜๏ธ Acropolis and Village of Lindos — the island's most popular excursion destination, situated 50 km south of the port. Whitewashed houses cascading down to the crystal-clear Bay of Saint Paul, and an ancient acropolis with the remains of the Temple of Athena Lindia (4th century BC) perched atop the rock — arguably the most photogenic spot in Greece.
๐Ÿฆ‹ Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes) — a unique nature reserve 25 km from the port. From June to September, tens of thousands of rare butterflies gather in this moist gorge with waterfalls and a plane-tree forest. The perfect stop for nature lovers.
โ›ช Filerimos Monastery — an ancient monastery on the Filerimos hill (293 m) 14 km from the city, where the ruins of the ancient acropolis of Ialyssos, a medieval church and a cypress-lined avenue have been preserved. Magnificent views across both shores of the island.

โœจ Why Choose a Cruise to Rhodes
Rhodes is a rare port where everything falls perfectly into place for the cruise traveller.
First, the logistics are unique: the Old Town — a UNESCO site — is literally just a few minutes' walk from the pier, and the entire island can be covered in a single day ashore. โœˆ๏ธ
Second, the variety is exceptional: in 8–12 hours at anchor it is genuinely possible to combine a walk along the medieval walls, a visit to the Mandraki harbour and a trip out to Lindos or the Valley of the Butterflies. ๐ŸŒŠ
Third, Rhodes is the ideal city for an evening out: the narrow lanes of the Old Town with restaurants set in the courtyards of knights' houses, tavernas serving fresh fish on the Mandraki waterfront, and shops selling unique Rhodian ceramics and leather goods. ๐Ÿท

The cruise specialists of Four Gates Group will help you select the ideal liner, itinerary and cabin, take care of transfer details and Schengen visa processing, and offer exclusive fares from MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean and other leading brands with whom we work as a priority partner in Ukraine. ๐Ÿค

โ„น๏ธ Please note: the information on this page is for reference purposes and is current at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, itineraries and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please verify current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant attractions.

FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals

How to Get to the Cruise Terminal in Rhodes

Rhodes is one of the most convenient cruise ports in the Mediterranean: the Tourist Port (Central Port) is located in the very heart of the city, and the Medieval Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is literally just 5–10 minutes' walk from the ship's gangway. However, the journey from Diagoras Airport to your specific berth has its nuances depending on the transport option you choose. Below is a tried-and-tested step-by-step guide covering all transfer options, current prices, and tips from the cruise specialists at Four Gates Group. ๐ŸŽฏ

๐Ÿ“ Where exactly is the Rhodes cruise port
The city of Rhodes has several harbours, and there are two key ones for cruise passengers:

โš“ Tourist Port (Central Port / Commercial Harbour) — the island's main cruise hub, where the vast majority of large liners dock:
• Located directly next to the walls of the Medieval City
• 6 berths for vessels up to 380 m in length and 10 m draught
• At the port exit — a tourist information desk, taxi stand, and Hop-On Hop-Off bus stop
GPS address: Commercial Harbour, Rhodes Town, 85100, Greece
Distance to the Medieval City: 5–10 minutes on foot (approximately 400–500 m)

โš“ Mandraki Harbour — a picturesque ancient Greek harbour in the New Town:
• Used for small cruise ships, yachts and small island ferries
• Closer to the centre of the New Town and Elli Beach
GPS address: Mandraki Harbour, Rhodes Town, 85100, Greece

โ— Important: the exact harbour for your liner is always indicated on your cruise voucher. Confirm it 48–72 hours before departure — the assignment of ships to berths can change.

โœˆ๏ธ From Diagoras Airport (RHO) to the cruise terminal
Diagoras International Airport is located 14 km south-west of Rhodes City. It is the island's only commercial airport, serving all international flights, including those from Ukraine (via Warsaw, Istanbul, Vienna, Athens and other hubs). The journey to the port takes between 20 and 45 minutes depending on your chosen transport.

๐Ÿš• Taxi — the fastest and most convenient option
The official taxi rank is located right outside the arrivals terminal (exit No. 9). Since 1 January 2024, all taxis in Rhodes are required to have a card payment terminal.
Journey time: 20–25 minutes
Fare to Rhodes City / port: approximately EUR 27–36 (metered fare + airport surcharge EUR 4)
Night rate (00:00–05:00): higher coefficient applies
Payment: cash or card (mandatory in all taxis since 2024)
Uber: currently not operating in Rhodes — official taxis and licensed transfers are available
๐Ÿ’ก Tip from Four Gates: tell the driver "Tourist Port" or "Commercial Harbour" as soon as you get in the car to avoid any confusion.

๐Ÿš Private transfer — the most comfortable option
If you are travelling with family, a group, or with a lot of luggage — this is the optimal choice. Your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name board, help with your luggage, and take you directly to the correct berth at a fixed price.
Cost: from EUR 40–50 for a sedan (1–3 people), from EUR 70–80 for a minivan (4–8 people)
Journey time: 20–25 minutes
Advantages: fixed price, flight monitoring, no queuing or waiting
๐Ÿค Four Gates Group arranges private transfers for its clients — simply provide your flight number when booking your cruise.

๐ŸšŒ RODA Bus — the budget option
The bus stop is located approximately 300 metres to the left of the terminal exit. DES RODA buses connect the airport with Rhodes City centre (Nea Agora bus station on Averof Street).
Ticket price: EUR 2.50 one-way (paid on the bus, card only)
Frequency: approximately every 30 minutes, from 06:50 to 23:45
Journey time: approximately 40–45 minutes to the central bus station
From the bus station to the port: a further 10–15 minutes on foot or by taxi
โš ๏ธ Important: the timetable on weekends and outside the tourist season (October–April) is different. If your flight arrives late in the evening — a taxi or transfer is more reliable. Current timetable at roda.gr.

๐Ÿšข From other ports and islands to Rhodes
If you are joining the cruise not from the airport but travelling from another island or from Turkey, there are several options:

โ›ด๏ธ Ferry from mainland Greece and the islands
Major ferry operators Blue Star Ferries and ANEK Lines run regular services between Rhodes and Piraeus (Athens). Departures are usually in the evening, with arrival the following morning (approximately 14–16 hours sailing). Ferries arrive at the Akandi port, located 1–2 km from the Tourist Port.
Deck passage: from EUR 50–70 per person
Twin cabin: from EUR 120–160

๐Ÿšค High-speed catamarans from neighbouring islands
Dodekanisos Seaways operates regular services from Kos, Patmos, Samos and other Dodecanese islands. Vessels arrive at Kolona Harbour — right at the foot of the Old City walls.
Kos–Rhodes route: approximately 2.5–3 hours, from EUR 25–35
Symi–Rhodes route: approximately 50 minutes, from EUR 12–18

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท From Marmaris (Turkey)
In summer, daily ferry and catamaran services run between Rhodes and the Turkish port of Marmaris. Journey time is approximately 50–60 minutes. Important: Ukrainian citizens require a valid Schengen or Turkish visa to enter Turkey — please check the current requirements before travelling.

๐Ÿ™๏ธ From Rhodes City centre to the cruise terminal
If you have spent the night or a few days at a hotel in the city, getting to your liner is extremely simple — the port is right next to the Old Town.

๐Ÿšถ On foot — the most popular option for the majority of passengers:
• From the centre of the Old Town to the Tourist Port: 5–15 minutes along a flat road
• The route is well signposted and safe at any time of day
Not recommended with very heavy luggage on a hot day

๐Ÿš• Taxi from your hotel: EUR 6–12 depending on distance and time of day. Most convenient with heavy luggage. Taxi ranks are located at Plateia Rimini square near the Old Town and at the Nea Agora bus station.

๐ŸšŒ Hop-On Hop-Off Bus — popular among cruise passengers for sightseeing:
Stop: directly at the exit of the Tourist Port
Cost: approximately EUR 12 for a day ticket
Departures: every hour from 10:00 (more frequently in summer)
Useful for: Elli Beach, the Acropolis of Rhodes (Monte Smith), New Town
Tickets: available at the stop or online in advance

๐ŸšŒ RODA City Bus: from Nea Agora bus station (10–15 minutes' walk from the port) — convenient for independent trips to the Valley of the Butterflies and other locations on the west of the island. Ticket — EUR 2.50–3.50.

๐Ÿ›ด Bicycles and scooters: available for hire in the city, but access to the port area itself is restricted for them.

๐Ÿš— By private or rental car — car parks near the port
If you are travelling to the port by private or rental car, there are several parking options near the cruise berths. Please note: access to the interior of the Medieval City is prohibited for private vehicles — it is a protected UNESCO site.

๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธ Port Parking (Tourist Port) — closest to the cruise berths:
Location: next to the Commercial Port, a few minutes' walk to the Sea Gate of the Old City
Cost: from EUR 8–15 per day
Convenient for: passengers dropping off or picking up family members from the port

๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธ Mandraki Harbour Car Park — convenient for the New Town and Elli Beach:
Location: along the Mandraki waterfront, near Liberty Gate
Cost: from EUR 3–5 for a few hours, EUR 8–12 for a full day
Advantages: large capacity, directly adjacent to both New Town and Old Town

๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธ Municipal Car Park (South Gate):
Location: near Agia Ekaterini Gate
Cost: from EUR 5–10 per day
Advantages: less crowded, convenient access to the southern part of the Old City

๐Ÿ’ก Tip: if you are renting a car on the island to visit the sights and staying overnight before the cruise, consider hotels in the New Town that have their own or partner parking nearby.

โ™ฟ Accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility
The Rhodes Tourist Port has level access and ramps at the entrance:
โœ… The path from the Tourist Port to the Medieval City gate is flat and step-free, suitable for wheelchairs
โœ… The Hop-On Hop-Off bus is equipped with spaces for passengers with reduced mobility
โœ… The New Town and Mandraki waterfront are generally accessible by wheelchair
โš ๏ธ The streets inside the Medieval City are cobblestoned and have a significant number of steps — passengers with limited mobility are advised to notify their cruise company in advance and choose appropriate shore excursions
โœ… Taxis on request: most licensed companies provide vehicles capable of transporting passengers in wheelchairs — please confirm when booking
โœ… Elli Beach has special access and ramps for visitors with reduced mobility in summer

โฐ When to arrive at the cruise terminal
Most cruise companies open check-in desks 3–4 hours before the liner's departure. Optimal arrival time at the port:
๐Ÿ• MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises: 3–3.5 hours before departure
๐Ÿ• Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity: at your assigned check-in time (usually 30-minute windows)
๐Ÿ• Silversea, Seabourn, Oceania (luxury segment): any time after the terminal opens
โ— Boarding deadline: usually 60–90 minutes before departure — being late means you will only see the liner from the shore. All Four Gates Group vouchers include the exact boarding time for your specific cruise.

๐Ÿ’ก Expert tips from Four Gates Group
Over the years of working with Rhodes, our cruise specialists have gathered a set of tips that will save you time, money and stress:

๐ŸŒ… Arrive the day before your cruise. A flight delay of even 2 hours could cost you your entire cruise — the liner won't wait. Rhodes is well worth spending at least one night: in the evening the Old Town is virtually empty of tourists and looks magical.

๐Ÿ’ผ Book your transfer in advance. In summer, the taxi queue at Diagoras Airport can reach 30–40 minutes, especially when several flights arrive simultaneously. A pre-booked transfer means a guaranteed price and no waiting.

๐Ÿ’ถ Carry cash in EUR. Although since 2024 taxis are required to accept cards, small cafés, souvenir shops and some buses in the Old Town still prefer cash. It is handy to have EUR 20–30 in small denominations.

๐ŸŽ’ Leave your suitcases at the hotel until boarding. If you flew in the morning and boarding is only after lunch, most Rhodes hotels will store your luggage even after check-out. This lets you explore the Old Town freely with just a day bag.

๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Wear comfortable shoes. The streets of the Medieval City are paved with uneven cobblestones. Sandals with thin soles are a source of foot pain after the first hour of walking. Trainers or comfortable walking shoes are a must.

โ˜€๏ธ Pack sunscreen and a hat. Rhodes is the sunniest island in Greece. In July and August, the sun is merciless even in the shade of the walls. SPF 50, a hat and water are your best companions.

๐Ÿ“ฑ Download apps in advance: Google Maps with an offline map of Rhodes, Google Translate with the Greek language pack (most signs in the Old Town are in Greek only), and your cruise line's app with the exact boarding schedule.

๐Ÿจ Choose a hotel in the New Town near Mandraki. From there it is 10–15 minutes' walk to the Tourist Port, a stone's throw from the Old Town, Elli Beach and the bus station — the ideal base both before and after your cruise.

๐Ÿ“ž Useful contacts for Rhodes
Municipal Port Fund of the Southern Dodecanese: +30 22410 43514
RODA Bus Company (Rhodes–Airport): +30 22410 26300
Central Rhodes Taxi Stand (Plateia Rimini): +30 22410 27666
Tourist Information (near the Old City gate): +30 22410 35945
Greek Emergency Services: 112
Four Gates Group Cruise Specialists (24/7 for clients): +38 097 653 05 53

Cruise logistics through Rhodes are among the simplest in the Mediterranean. The port is located in the city centre, the Medieval City is just a few minutes' walk away, and most of the island's attractions can be reached without complicated connections. The cruise experts at Four Gates Group assist our clients at every stage: from choosing the optimal flight to Rhodes to arranging a private transfer with a name board in the arrivals hall. Get in touch with our manager — and your cruise from Rhodes will begin without a moment's stress. ๐Ÿ›ณ๏ธโœจ

โ„น๏ธ Please note: the information on this page is provided for reference purposes and is current at the time of publication. Prices, timetables, routes and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please confirm current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant services.

FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals

Attractions and Places of Rhodes: A Complete Guide for Cruise Tourists

Rhodes — an island where every street, every stone block, and every sea view tells a separate thousand-year-old story. Here lies the largest and best-preserved medieval city in the Mediterranean, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (though not in its original form), a unique natural butterfly reserve, and an acropolis ascent with a panoramic view of two seas. For a cruise passenger with 8–12 hours ashore, the key is choosing the right itinerary. Below is a tried-and-tested guide to the key attractions with up-to-date 2026 prices, opening hours, and precise directions from the Tourist Port to each site. ๐ŸŽฏ

๐Ÿฐ 1. Medieval City of Rhodes (Rhodes Old Town)
๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts and Useful Information:
The Medieval City of Rhodes is not just a quarter of old buildings, but a living city within a 4-kilometre ring of impenetrable walls up to 12 metres thick. People still live here today, shops open, and tourist and cultural life flourishes — all in the heart of 14th–15th century Gothic architecture.
๐Ÿ”น The Medieval City has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1988 as an outstanding example of a late medieval urban ensemble.
๐Ÿ”น The walls of the Old Town were built and continuously improved over 213 years of Knights' rule (1309–1522). Different “tongues” (national sections of the order) were responsible for their respective sections of the defence.
๐Ÿ”น Within the walls, three cultural layers are preserved: the Gothic architecture of the Knights Hospitaller, the pink-and-white mosques and hammams of the Ottoman era, and the neoclassicism of the Italian occupation of 1912–1943 — all within the same perimeter walls. ๐Ÿ•Œ
๐Ÿ”น The central trading street, Sokratous (Odos Sokratous), is a medieval bazaar that has been operating continuously since the Ottoman period. Today you can find jewellery, leather goods, ceramics, and aromatic spices here.
๐Ÿ”น At the Square of the Jewish Martyrs (Plateia Martyron Evreon) stands a memorial monument to the 1,604 Jews of Rhodes deported by the Nazis to Auschwitz in 1944. A symbol of human tragedy inscribed in the stone of the Old Town. ๐Ÿ•ฏ๏ธ

๐Ÿ“œ History:
The Knights Hospitaller of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem captured Rhodes in 1309–1310 and immediately set about turning the city into an impregnable fortress. They divided the city into two quarters: the Collachium — for the knights themselves, with a palace, hospital, and residences of various “tongues” — and the Burgo — the lower town for the civilian population. For two centuries, the knights repelled all sieges until 1522, when Suleiman the Magnificent, after a six-month assault, forced them to abandon the island. After that, the Old Town acquired its current appearance: mosques, minarets, and baths were added to the knights' architecture. After 1912, the Italians undertook large-scale restoration and developed tourist infrastructure that laid the foundation for what visitors see today.

๐Ÿšข How to Get Here from the Tourist Port:
On foot (easiest option): 5–10 minutes along a flat road from the port exit. Look for the visible medieval walls. Enter through the Gate of Saint Mary (Pyli Agias Marias) or the Marine Gate
Taxi: 5 minutes, EUR 6–8 (with luggage)
GPS address: Medieval City of Rhodes, 85100, Rhodes, Greece

๐Ÿ’ถ Prices and Opening Hours:
Entrance to the Old Town: free — it is a living urban district
Walk along the city walls: EUR 6 (ticket booth at Cannon Gate). Mon–Fri 12:00–15:00, Sat–Sun closed
Suleiman Mosque (Tzami Suleiman): open for exterior viewing, free of charge
Roloi Clock Tower: EUR 5–6, open daily 9:00–17:00. Excellent view of the Old Town from the top platform
โš ๏ธ Important: the streets of the Medieval City are paved with uneven cobblestones. Wear comfortable shoes with reliable soles. In August, temperatures here reach +35°C — bring water and sunscreen. โ˜€๏ธ

๐Ÿ—ก๏ธ 2. Palace of the Grand Master
๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts and Useful Information:
The Palace of the Grand Master is the grandest Gothic castle in the Mediterranean outside France. It dominates the Old Town from a hill where a Byzantine acropolis once stood, and in its time served as a fortified stronghold, an official residence, and a repository for the order's most valuable possessions.
๐Ÿ”น The palace contains 300 rooms, drawbridges, towers, an inner courtyard, and a unique collection of ancient mosaic floors transported from the island of Kos during the Italian occupation. Among them are “Medusa with Snakes,” “The 9 Muses,” and “Eros the Fisherman.” ๐Ÿงฉ
๐Ÿ”น The original 14th-century castle was almost completely destroyed by an accidental explosion and fire in 1856 — munitions stored in the basement of a neighbouring mosque exploded. Therefore, the current palace is a thorough reconstruction of the 1930s during the Italian occupation, based on surviving architectural drawings.
๐Ÿ”น After 1943, the palace was planned to become Mussolini's summer residence, but the plans were never realised. It is currently a state museum under the Greek Ministry of Culture.
๐Ÿ”น On the ground floor there are two permanent exhibitions: “Rhodes — 2,400 Years” and “Rhodes from the Early Middle Ages to 1522” — essentially the entire archive of the island's history in one building. ๐Ÿ›๏ธ

๐Ÿ“œ History:
The knights built the first palace on the site of a Byzantine fortification at the beginning of the 14th century. It served not only as the Grand Master's residence but also as the financial centre of the order — here were stored maps, documents, and the treasury. During the Ottoman period, the palace fell into disrepair and was partially used as a prison. The explosion of 1856 left only the outer walls. A large-scale reconstruction under Italian architects Vittorio Mesturino and Pietro Lombardi in 1937–1940 gave the palace its current appearance — by adding elements that never existed in the original (mosaics from Kos, some furniture). Despite debates about “authenticity,” the Palace of the Grand Master is unquestionably the main symbol of Rhodes.

๐Ÿšข How to Get Here from the Tourist Port:
On foot: 10–15 minutes from the port exit through the Marine Gate and then through the Old Town uphill
Taxi: 5–7 minutes, EUR 7–10. Address: Kleovoulou Square (Plateia Kleovoulou), Medieval Town, Rhodes

๐Ÿ’ถ Prices and Opening Hours (2026):
Admission (adults): EUR 20 (from 1 April 2025 — new pricing reform by the Ministry of Culture)
Concessions: EU citizens under 25 — free; non-EU citizens under 18 — free; 65+ — 50% discount
Free days: 6 March, 18 April, 18 May, last Saturday–Sunday of September
Summer season (1 April – 31 October): daily 08:00–20:00
Winter season (1 November – 31 March): Wednesday–Monday 08:30–15:30, Tuesday — closed
โš ๏ธ Important: tickets can be purchased online at hhticket.gr or at the on-site ticket office. During peak season (June–August) we recommend arriving before 10:00 or booking online in advance to avoid queues.

๐Ÿ›๏ธ 3. Street of the Knights & Archaeological Museum
๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts and Useful Information:
The Street of the Knights (Odos Ippoton) is the most intact Gothic street in the Mediterranean, connecting the Palace of the Grand Master with the former Grand Hospital, which now houses the Archaeological Museum. It is only 200 metres long, but these 200 metres have not changed in 700 years.
๐Ÿ”น Along the street stand the residences of the various “tongues” of the order: French, Provençal, Spanish, Aragonese, English, Italian, German, and Auvergnat. Each is decorated with the coat of arms of the respective Grand Master. ๐Ÿด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ฅ๓ ฎ๓ ง๓ ฟ
๐Ÿ”น The street is paved with original medieval stone and remains fully pedestrianised — vehicles are prohibited.
๐Ÿ”น The Archaeological Museum is located in the Grand Hospital of the Knights — a two-storey Gothic building from 1440–1489. Its inner courtyard is one of the most beautiful architectural spaces in Rhodes. ๐ŸŒฟ
๐Ÿ”น The museum's most valuable exhibit is the “Crouching Aphrodite of Rhodes” (1st century BC) — a marble sculpture of exceptional refinement. The museum also holds a marble head of Helios — a reminder of the Colossus.
๐Ÿ”น A copy of the famous Laocoön Group (the original is in the Vatican Museums) and evidence that the original sculpture was likely created on Rhodes. ๐Ÿ—ฟ

๐Ÿ“œ History:
Construction of the Grand Hospital lasted from 1440 to 1489 under the rule of several Grand Masters. The building served simultaneously as a military hospital (lower floor — stables and storerooms, upper floor — wards for the sick and wounded), a pharmacy, and a scientific institution. According to contemporary accounts, up to 100 knights and soldiers were treated here at the same time. After 1522, the building was used for various purposes until 1916, when it was opened as a museum following thorough restoration. Today it is one of the finest regional museums in Greece in terms of the quality and variety of its collections.

๐Ÿšข How to Get Here from the Tourist Port:
On foot: 10–15 minutes. Through the Gate of Saint Mary → up through the Old Town to Museum Square (Plateia Mousiou)
Taxi: 7 minutes, EUR 8–10. Museum address: Plateia Mousiou (Museum Square), Medieval City, Rhodes

๐Ÿ’ถ Prices and Opening Hours (2026):
Street of the Knights: free entry, open 24 hours
Archaeological Museum: EUR 10 (full price), EUR 5 (65+). Free for EU youth under 25 and non-EU youth under 18
Combined ticket (4 Old Town monuments together): EUR 10 — includes the Archaeological Museum, the Palace of the Grand Master, and others. Available at ticket offices
Summer season: daily 08:00–20:00
Winter season: Wednesday–Monday 08:30–15:30, Tuesday — closed
๐Ÿ’ก Pro tip: it is best to visit the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master on a single walking route — they are just 2 minutes apart on foot.

โ›ต 4. Mandraki Harbour
๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts and Useful Information:
Mandraki is the oldest working harbour of Rhodes, operational since at least the 4th century BC. It is here, according to legend, that the feet of the giant Colossus of Rhodes — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — once stood.
๐Ÿ”น At the harbour entrance stand two columns topped with bronze statues of a stag and a doe — the island's totemic animals. According to legend, it was between these columns that the Colossus of Rhodes could have stood. Scholars, however, still debate the exact location of the statue. ๐ŸฆŒ
๐Ÿ”น Along the breakwater, three medieval windmills from the 14th–15th centuries are preserved — they once ground grain for the Knights Hospitaller.
๐Ÿ”น Fort Saint Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos Fort) is a 15th-century lighthouse tower at the end of the breakwater — one of the earliest fortified lighthouse structures in the Mediterranean.
๐Ÿ”น Along the Mandraki waterfront stands the Church of the Annunciation — built in 1925 in the traditions of Laodicea and adorned with vibrant frescoes. ๐ŸŽจ
๐Ÿ”น A stroll along the Mandraki waterfront is free of charge and is essential for anyone going ashore on Rhodes. Here too — restaurants, cafés, a yacht marina, and boat tours.

๐Ÿ“œ History:
Mandraki Harbour served as the main “gateway” to Rhodes for three millennia. Ancient sailors entered here with cargoes of Egyptian grain and Cypriot copper. The Knights built the breakwater and Fort Saint Nicholas to protect against pirates and Turks. During the siege of 1480, it was here that the fleet of Mehmed II was halted. Today Mandraki Harbour is one of the most picturesque spots on Rhodes, where fishermen lay out their catch in the morning, tourists stroll at midday, and the lights of restaurant terraces come on in the evening.

๐Ÿšข How to Get Here from the Tourist Port:
On foot: 15–20 minutes from the Tourist Port exit along the coastline heading north
Taxi: 5 minutes, EUR 6–8
GPS address: Mandraki Harbour, Rhodes Town 85100, Greece

๐Ÿ’ถ Prices and Opening Hours:
Stroll along the Mandraki waterfront: free, accessible 24 hours
Fort Saint Nicholas: exterior viewing — free
Boat trips and catamaran tours: from EUR 20–35 per person (several operators on the waterfront)

๐Ÿ˜๏ธ 5. Lindos Acropolis & Village
๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts and Useful Information:
Lindos is the most popular excursion destination on the island and the third most visited archaeological site in Greece. It is the combination of an acropolis on a cliff, whitewashed houses at its foot, and two turquoise bays that makes it one of the most photogenic places in the entire Mediterranean. ๐Ÿ“ธ
๐Ÿ”น The Acropolis of Lindos stands at 116 metres above sea level and includes the ruins of the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia (4th century BC), a magnificent Hellenistic stoa with 42 columns (2nd century BC), and the Byzantine Church of Saint John (13th century). ๐Ÿ›๏ธ
๐Ÿ”น Nearby is Saint Paul's Bay, where, according to tradition, the Apostle Paul himself came ashore in 51 AD on his way to preach to the Greek islanders.
๐Ÿ”น To ascend to the Acropolis, you can hire a donkey — a tradition that has existed for several hundred years. A one-way ride costs EUR 10–15 and takes about 10 minutes. ๐Ÿด
๐Ÿ”น The narrow streets of Lindos are paved with sea pebbles in patterned mosaics — a characteristic tradition of island architecture from the 17th–19th centuries. Every house is a work of art. ๐ŸŒธ
๐Ÿ”น The view from the Acropolis takes in both sides of the island simultaneously: to the east — Saint Paul's Bay and the Aegean Sea, to the west — an endless horizon.

๐Ÿ“œ History:
The Acropolis of Lindos has been inhabited since the 4th millennium BC. The Dorians built the first temple to Athena as early as the 9th century BC. The current Doric temple was built in the 4th century BC and is one of the best-preserved examples of this architectural style outside Attica. The harbour of Lindos served as the island's most important trading port until the founding of the city of Rhodes in 408 BC, after which Lindos gradually became a purely religious site. The Knights Hospitaller built a fortress here over the Hellenistic ruins, enclosing ancient columns within their own walls. During the Second World War, during the German occupation, and as a result of the 1926 earthquake, some structures were damaged, but the main core survived. Since the 1950s, systematic excavations and restoration have continued.

๐Ÿšข How to Get Here from the Tourist Port:
Taxi directly: 55–65 minutes, EUR 80–110 one way per car (up to 4 people). It is best to book a taxi in advance or arrange for the driver to wait
KTEL bus: from the Nea Agora bus station (10–15 min walk from the port). Ticket EUR 5.50 one way. Journey time approximately 90 minutes
Organised shore excursion: the most convenient option for cruise passengers — the bus picks up directly from the port and guarantees return before the ship departs
GPS address: Acropolis of Lindos, Lindos 851 07, Greece

๐Ÿ’ถ Prices and Opening Hours (2026):
Entrance to the Acropolis of Lindos: EUR 20 (adults). Free for EU youth under 25 and non-EU youth under 18
Online booking (recommended in summer): hhticket.gr
Summer season: daily 08:00–20:00 (last entry 19:40)
Winter season: Wednesday–Monday 08:30–15:30
Entrance to Lindos village: free
Donkey to the Acropolis: EUR 10–15 one way (tourist season only)
โš ๏ธ IMPORTANT: the Acropolis of Lindos involves the steepest climb among Rhodes attractions. For passengers with limited mobility and those with orthopaedic problems, the ascent may be difficult. The Acropolis is not accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Bring water — there is almost no shade on the walking paths.

๐Ÿฆ‹ 6. Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes)
๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts and Useful Information:
The Valley of the Butterflies is a unique natural phenomenon with no equivalent anywhere in the world. Every summer, tens of thousands of butterflies of the species Panaxia Quadripunctaria (Jersey tiger moth) gather in a humid gorge near the village of Theologos, west of Rhodes, for mating and egg-laying.
๐Ÿ”น The butterflies are attracted by the scent of the oriental sweetgum tree (Liquidambar orientalis) — a rare tree that grows wild in the valley in only a few places in the Mediterranean. In Greece, these trees grow only here. ๐ŸŒณ
๐Ÿ”น The butterflies gather in the valley from late June to September. What makes them unique is that they do not feed throughout this entire time, surviving solely on the fat reserves accumulated at the caterpillar stage. This is precisely why visitors are strictly forbidden from clapping or making noise — startled butterflies take flight and waste precious energy. ๐Ÿ”‡
๐Ÿ”น The route through the valley is 1 km along shaded wooden walkways, stone paths, and picturesque waterfalls. The temperature in the valley in summer is 5–8°C lower than outside — a true haven on a hot day. ๐Ÿ’ง
๐Ÿ”น At the lower entrance there is a Museum of Natural History with a collection of rare species of the island. ๐ŸฆŽ

๐Ÿ“œ History:
The valley was opened to tourists in the 1930s during the Italian administration. It was then that the current route along paths and walkways was laid. By the end of the 20th century, the butterfly population in the valley had significantly declined due to over-visitation and noise from tourists. Strict behavioural rules have since been introduced, and the insect population is gradually recovering. In 2022–2024, the bridges and paths underwent major reconstruction. Today the valley receives around 100,000 visitors per season annually — and it is one of the most unforgettable natural experiences available from Rhodes.

๐Ÿšข How to Get Here from the Tourist Port:
Taxi or rental car: approximately 25–30 minutes (23 km west), EUR 35–45 one way by taxi per car
RODA bus: from the Nea Agora bus station to the “Petaloudes” stop. EUR 2.50–3.50. Journey time 40–45 minutes
Organised excursion: often combined with Filerimos and other attractions — departs directly from the port

๐Ÿ’ถ Prices and Opening Hours:
Ticket (June–September): EUR 5 for adults, free for children under 12
Ticket (October–May): EUR 3 for adults, free for children under 12
Opening hours: daily April–October (butterflies mainly from late June to September)
Museum of Natural History: included in the ticket price
โš ๏ธ Important: butterflies are active in the valley only from late June to September. At other times the valley is still beautiful, but the main spectacle will not be there. Silence is absolutely essential!

โ›ฐ๏ธ 7. Acropolis of Rhodes (Monte Smith)
๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts and Useful Information:
The Acropolis of Rhodes (Monte Smith hill, 111 m above sea level) is the site where the ancient Greek city of Rhodes stood, founded in 408 BC. From here opens one of the island's finest panoramic views: the Aegean Sea to the east, the walls of the Medieval City below, and a distant horizon in the direction of Turkey just 18 km away. ๐ŸŒ…
๐Ÿ”น The partially restored columns of the Temple of Apollo Pythios (2nd–3rd century BC) are the symbol of ancient Rhodes, as recognisable as the Parthenon is for Athens.
๐Ÿ”น On the hill there is a preserved ancient Greek stadium (2nd century BC) with marble stands — one of the best-preserved ancient stadiums in Greece — and an odeon (small theatre) for poetry readings and musical performances.
๐Ÿ”น The name “Monte Smith” comes from British Admiral Sidney Smith, who during the Napoleonic Wars in 1802 kept his observation post here. ๐Ÿ”ญ
๐Ÿ”น The hill is a favourite spot for local residents to stroll at sunset, when there are almost no tourists. Ideal for those who want to experience Rhodes authentically.

๐Ÿšข How to Get Here from the Tourist Port:
Taxi: 10 minutes, EUR 8–10. Address: Acropolis of Rhodes, Monte Smith Hill, Rhodes Town
On foot through the Old Town and New Town: approximately 30–40 minutes (3 km)
Hop-On Hop-Off bus: “Acropolis” stop — EUR 12 day ticket

๐Ÿ’ถ Prices and Opening Hours:
Entrance to the hill and gardens: free, open 24 hours
Stadium and odeon: free to view from outside; entrance to the stadium — EUR 4–6 (depending on season)
Best time to visit: morning before 10:00 or evening 1–1.5 hours before sunset

โ›ช 8. Filerimos Monastery
๐Ÿ’ก Interesting Facts and Useful Information:
Filerimos Hill (293 m), 14 km from the city of Rhodes, is one of the oldest sacred sites on the island. Gods were worshipped here as far back as Phoenician times; here stood the acropolis of one of the three ancient cities — Ialysus. Today Filerimos is a place of pilgrimage, nature walks, and scenic photography. ๐ŸŒฟ
๐Ÿ”น The main shrine of Filerimos is the miraculous icon of the Virgin of Filerimos, painted, according to tradition, by the Apostle Luke himself. The original is kept in Montenegro; a copy is in the monastery.
๐Ÿ”น The Via Dolorosa — a 250-metre cypress-lined avenue with 14 bas-relief Stations of the Cross, ending at a 17-metre iron cross with an observation platform. From here, both sides of the island are visible. โœ๏ธ
๐Ÿ”น Proud peacocks roam the hilltop — a wonderful sight for children and photographers. ๐Ÿฆš
๐Ÿ”น The ruins of the acropolis of Ialysus from the 6th–5th centuries BC, with the remains of ancient Greek and Byzantine structures — this is where a 3,000-year unbroken sacred tradition of the place begins.

๐Ÿšข How to Get Here from the Tourist Port:
Taxi: 20–25 minutes, EUR 25–35 one way per car
RODA bus: to the “Ialysos” or “Filerimos” stop, approximately 30 minutes
Often combined with the Valley of the Butterflies as part of a day excursion

๐Ÿ’ถ Prices and Opening Hours:
Entrance to the monastery and ruins of the acropolis of Ialysus: EUR 6 (adults), free for children under 18
Summer season: daily 08:00–20:00
Winter season: daily 08:30–15:30

๐ŸŽจ 9. Other Attractions Worth Seeing
• ๐Ÿ  Rhodes Aquarium (Hydrobiological Station) — located on the northernmost tip of the island. One of the oldest aquariums in Greece (1934). Small but atmospheric — perfect for families with children. Admission EUR 6, adults; EUR 3, children 5–12. Daily 9:00–20:00 (summer).
• ๐Ÿ’ง Kallithea Springs (Thermes Kallithea) — a remarkable ensemble of 1920s Italian architecture in a picturesque seaside park 10 km from the city. Filming location for “The Spy Who Loved Me.” Admission EUR 4. Perfectly combined with a swim at Kallithea Beach. ๐ŸŽฌ
• โ›ต Symi — Day Trip by Sea — a fairytale little island with colourful neoclassical houses and the Monastery of Archangel Michael. Catamarans from Mandraki twice daily, journey time 50 min, EUR 20–30 return. Ideal for longer port calls. โ›ช
• ๐Ÿบ Ancient Kamiros — well-preserved ruins of an ancient Greek city from the 5th century BC on the west of the island (33 km from Rhodes). Admission EUR 6. Far less visited than Lindos — and for that very reason, more atmospheric. ๐Ÿ›๏ธ
• ๐Ÿ–๏ธ Elli Beach — the city beach of the New Town of Rhodes, just 10 minutes on foot from the Tourist Port along the waterfront. Free, well-maintained, with sun loungers and cafés. Ideal for those who want a swim without a long journey. ๐ŸŒŠ


๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Three Self-Guided Rhodes Itineraries for 9–10 Hours
A cruise stopover in Rhodes usually lasts 8–12 hours. Realistically, you can see 3–5 top attractions — if you plan your itinerary correctly. Below are three options depending on budget and preferences.

๐Ÿฅ‰ Itinerary No. 1. Budget — up to EUR 20 per person
โฑ๏ธ Total time: 9 hours | ๐Ÿ’ฐ Estimated budget: EUR 20–25 + food

๐Ÿ•˜ 08:30 — Depart from the Tourist Port
Walk to the Medieval City gates — 5–10 minutes.

๐Ÿ•˜ 08:45–10:30 — Walk through the Medieval City
Full free circuit: Marine Gate → Sokratous Street → Hippokrates Square → Jewish Quarter → Square of the Jewish Martyrs → Street of the Knights (exterior viewing — free) → Palace of the Grand Master (exterior viewing — free).

๐Ÿ•š 10:30–12:00 — Mandraki Harbour and the New Town
Walk from the Old Town (15 min). Bronze deer statues, medieval windmills, Fort Saint Nicholas — all free. Coffee with a view of the Aegean Sea at one of the harbour cafés. โ˜•

๐Ÿ•ง 12:00–13:00 — Lunch in the Old or New Town
Business lunch at a Greek taverna: mezedes (appetisers), grilled fish, fresh bread, kalamata olives, and a carafe of local wine — EUR 12–20 per person.

๐Ÿ• 13:00–14:00 — Acropolis of Rhodes (Monte Smith)
Taxi EUR 8–10 or 30 minutes on foot. Ruins of the Temple of Apollo, ancient stadium, panoramic views — free.

๐Ÿ• 14:00–15:00 — Return to the Tourist Port
Taxi EUR 8–10 back, or on foot along the New Town and waterfront (30–40 minutes).

๐Ÿ•’ 15:00–16:00 — Buffer time and boarding the ship

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost Breakdown:
• Attraction entry fees: EUR 0 (all exterior viewing)
• Taxi to/from Monte Smith: EUR 16–20
• Lunch: EUR 12–20
• Coffee/snacks: EUR 5–8
๐Ÿ’ธ TOTAL: EUR 33–48 per person (excluding museum tickets)

๐Ÿฅˆ Itinerary No. 2. Optimal — EUR 60–80 per person
โฑ๏ธ Total time: 10 hours | ๐Ÿ’ฐ Estimated budget: EUR 70–80 + food

๐Ÿ•— 07:30 — Depart from the port, walk to the Old Town
The advantage of an early start — nearly empty streets, cool temperatures, golden morning light. ๐ŸŒ…

๐Ÿ•— 07:45–09:30 — Palace of the Grand Master (skip-the-line)
Purchase ticket online in advance at hhticket.gr. EUR 20. Full tour — mosaics, armoury, exhibitions. Two permanent museums on the ground floor.

๐Ÿ•ค 09:30–10:00 — Street of the Knights and the Archaeological Museum
Street — free. Museum — EUR 10. Statues of the Aphrodite of Rhodes and the Head of Helios.

๐Ÿ•š 10:15–11:00 — Mandraki Harbour with coffee
10-minute walk from the Old Town. Bronze deer, windmills, Fort Saint Nicholas.

๐Ÿ•š 11:00–13:30 — Trip to Lindos
Taxi or KTEL bus. EUR 5.50 (bus) or EUR 80–100 (taxi per car, return trip with 1.5–2 hours' wait). Acropolis entry EUR 20. Stroll through the alleys, coffee on a covered terrace with bay views.

๐Ÿ• 13:30–14:30 — Lunch in Lindos or after returning
Tavernas in Lindos with view terraces — EUR 15–25 per person. Fresh red mullet, octopus, Greek salad with local cheese.

๐Ÿ• 15:00–16:30 — Return to Rhodes and to the port
Bus or taxi. Arrival at the port — 60–90 minutes before departure.

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost Breakdown:
• Palace of the Grand Master: EUR 20
• Archaeological Museum: EUR 10
• Acropolis of Lindos: EUR 20
• Bus return: EUR 11
• Lunch: EUR 15–25
• Coffee and snacks: EUR 8–10
๐Ÿ’ธ TOTAL: EUR 84–96 per person
๐Ÿ’ก Replacing the taxi with the bus to Lindos saves EUR 35–50, but adds 1.5 hours of travel in each direction.

๐Ÿฅ‡ Itinerary No. 3. Premium — private excursion from EUR 250 per person
โฑ๏ธ Total time: 10 hours | ๐Ÿ’ฐ Estimated budget: EUR 250–400 + tickets

๐Ÿ† What's included:
• โœ… Private driver meet & greet with a sign at the gangway
• โœ… Comfortable air-conditioned car/minivan for the full day
• โœ… Licensed English-speaking guide
• โœ… Online tickets to all attractions, queue-free
• โœ… Flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences
• โœ… Guaranteed return to port on time

You can book through your cruise manager or contact us via any convenient method:

Phone numbers:
• Office: +38 (044) 337 82 01
• Mobile (LifeCell): +380 93 653 05 53
• Mobile (Vodafone): +380 66 653 05 53
• Mobile (Kyivstar): +380 97 653 05 53

๐Ÿ•— 07:30 — Meet driver and guide at the terminal

๐Ÿ•— 08:00–10:00 — Medieval City with guide (private tour)
Walk along the Street of the Knights, Palace of the Grand Master, Jewish Quarter, and Hippokrates Square with in-depth explanations from the guide. No rush, no crowds — you arrive first, before opening time.

๐Ÿ•š 10:15–11:00 — Acropolis of Rhodes (Monte Smith)
Transfer by car (10 min). Private tour of the hill with panoramic photos.

๐Ÿ•š 11:15–13:30 — Lindos (skip-the-line + acropolis + free time in the village)
Transfer 55–60 min. Acropolis EUR 20 — with guide. After descending — free time: narrow alleyways with mosaic floors, views of Saint Paul's Bay, shopping in local shops.

๐Ÿ• 13:30–14:30 — Lunch in Lindos (reserved table with a view)
EUR 25–40 per person — fresh sea fish, Greek salad, local wine.

๐Ÿ• 15:00–16:00 — Valley of the Butterflies (June–September)
Transfer 40 min. Ticket EUR 5. A quiet walk through the humid gorge among thousands of butterflies.

๐Ÿ•“ 17:00 — Return to port by comfortable car

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost Breakdown:
• Private guide (10 hrs): from EUR 200
• Driver with car (10 hrs): from EUR 150
• Tickets (Palace + Museum + Lindos + Butterflies): EUR 55
• Lunch: EUR 25–40
๐Ÿ’ธ TOTAL: from EUR 430 per group (2–4 people); for larger groups — calculated per group, not per person

๐Ÿค Four Gates Group organises private excursions around Rhodes with licensed guides, transfers from the ship's gangway, and guaranteed return on board. Contact your cruise specialist — and your day on the island will be perfectly planned to suit your tastes. ๐Ÿ›ณ๏ธโœจ

โš ๏ธ Essential Information Before Going Ashore
๐Ÿ• All aboard rule: you must be back on the ship 60 minutes before departure. If you are late — the ship will not wait, and you will have to make your own way to the next port at your own expense.
๐Ÿชช Documents: carry a photocopy of your passport and your Ship Card.
๐Ÿ’ถ Cash: have EUR 30–50 in cash for small expenses (coffee, bus, small shops, taxis).
๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Footwear: the streets of the Medieval City and the ascent to the Acropolis of Lindos require comfortable shoes with non-slip soles. Sandals are not suitable for walking around the Old Town.
โ˜€๏ธ Sun protection: Rhodes is the sunniest island in Greece. In June–August temperatures reach +32–35°C. A hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50 sunscreen are essential.
๐Ÿ’ง Water: always carry a bottle with you. There are no free water sources in the Old Town or on the ascent to Lindos.
๐Ÿ“ฑ Apps: Google Maps with an offline map of Rhodes, Google Translate with the Greek language pack, and your cruise line's app with the exact boarding time.
๐Ÿ” Safety: petty theft does occur in the tourist areas of the Old Town. Keep valuables in closed pockets or an anti-theft bag, especially on Sokratous Street.

โ„น๏ธ Please note: the information on this page is for guidance purposes only and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and conditions of admission are subject to change without notice. Please verify current details with your Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant attractions.

FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises from Professionals