Old town: Tours and Guided Visits

If you're looking for a glimpse into the past and an immersive cultural experience, Old Town tours in Rhodes should be high on the Greek bucket list. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a rich history and cultural significance dating back to ancient times.

And what better way to discover this magnificent destination than with one of the locally-led Old Town tours in Rhodes? Take a step back in time and explore the winding cobblestone streets, medieval architecture and traditional shops and restaurants.

From the impressive Palace of the Grand Master to the stunning Street of the Knights, the Old Town of Rhodes is a treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be discovered.

Here's all you need to know about Old Town tours, one of the most exhilarating sightseeing tours in Rhodes.

Where is Old Town located?

The Old Town is located in the heart of Rhodes, the capital city of the Greek island of Rhodes. The Old Town is situated on the northern tip of the island and is surrounded by a medieval wall that was built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century. The location makes it easy to explore other nearby attractions such as the Acropolis of Rhodes and the Mandraki Harbor.

What are the best things to do in Old Town?

Visit the Palace of the Grand Master

This impressive castle was built in the 14th century and served as the headquarters of the Knights of St. John. Inside, you can explore the medieval architecture and see exhibits of ancient Greek and Byzantine artifacts.

Walk along the Street of the Knights

This picturesque street is lined with medieval buildings and leads to the Palace of the Grand Master. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets and imagine what life was like for the Knights of St. John.

Visit the Archaeological Museum (Hospital of the Knights)

Dating back to the 15th century, this location is another example of the fine medieval architecture for which this town is so famous. Check out the ancient Greek artifacts, dive into the Hellenistic period and observe the Roman mosaics as you wander its ancient halls.

Shop for souvenirs

The Old Town is filled with traditional shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to olive oil soap. Take a break from sightseeing and browse the shops for unique souvenirs to bring home.

Explore the Byzantine churches

The Old Town is home to several stunning churches, including the Church of Our Lady of the Castle (which dates back to the 11th century) and the 14th-century Church of St. John the Evangelist. Admire the beautiful Byzantine frescoes and architecture.

What are the best tours to visit Old Town?

There are several guided tours that offer the perfect itinerary to visit Old Town. Each of these is different in length and highlights, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. Some of the most popular Old Town tours are listed in more detail below.

Trike/scooter tour of Rhodes New and Old Town

Explore Rhodes in a unique way on a trike tour of both the New and Medieval City. These three-wheeled electric scooters are a fun and eco-friendly way to see the city, allowing you to cover more ground than you would on foot.

Led by an in-the-know local, you'll be escorted through the winding streets of the Old Town and the modern city, stopping at historic sites like the Temple of Aphrodite ruins and the Castellania building, as well as more modern attractions like the Archeological museum.

Medieval City Segway tour

Segway tours are a fun and exciting way to glide through the narrow streets and discover the ancient history of this UNESCO-listed city. You'll visit historical sites such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the Clock Tower, all while enjoying the scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea — the view from the Lighthouse of Saint Nicholas is second to none.

Guided tour of Lindos, Rhodes and Kallithea

A comprehensive 7-hour trip, this excursion allows you to explore the rich history and stunning beauty of contrasting areas on Rhodes Island. You'll visit the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, stroll through the charming streets of Rhodes City and top it off by relaxing at Kallithea's famous therapeutic hot springs. With a knowledgeable guide to lead the way, you'll learn about the fascinating stories and legends behind these iconic locations.

Walking tour of Rhodes Old Town

Discover the captivating beauty of Rhodes' Old Town on a small-group walking tour. With a local guide, you'll wander through the medieval streets, admire the impressive architecture and visit historical sites such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the Street of the Knights.

This intimate and immersive experience of the city's rich history and culture is perfect for those who want to get a closer look at the Old Town, as well as burn a few calories. Some Old Town tours in Rhodes also include wine-tasting.

Private Tour of Old Town in Rhodes

For a more personalized experience, consider booking a private tour. A knowledgeable guide will take you on a journey through the streets and squares of Old Town, sharing stories and facts about the area's past.

You'll explore hidden alleyways that most tourists don't know about, while learning all there is to know about the city's history, culture and architecture. Private tours allow greater flexibility to customize your itinerary and visit the sites that interest you most.

What are the prices of Old Town tours?

The cost of an Old Town tour in Rhodes can vary greatly depending on the type of experience you're looking for but starts at around €30 per person.

A guided tour that combines Lindos, Rhodes and Kallithea costs around €30 per person, while a Rhodes trike tour ranges between €45 and €65. Segway tours usually cost around €65 per person too.

Walking tours of the Old Town are a great option for first-time visitors and are usually priced between €70 and €80 per person.

Private tours are more expensive and start at around €200 per group. If you're traveling with a larger group, it may be the most affordable option.

Where do Old Town tours start?

The starting point of Old Town tours in Rhodes may vary depending on the specific tour provider, but most tours usually start at the Mandraki Harbor or the entrance of the Old Town, near the Gate d'Amboise or Saint Athanasios Gate. Many tour operators offer hotel pickup and drop-off services, so make sure to check beforehand if this is included.

When is the best time to visit Old Town?

The best time to visit the Old Town in Rhodes is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). The weather is warm, but not too hot, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer season.

However, if you don't mind the heat and larger crowds, the summer months (June to August) can also be a great time to visit.

Travel tips

• Old Town tours involve a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so wear comfortable shoes.
• The Mediterranean sun can be intense, so bring sunscreen and a water bottle.
• Book your Rhodes Old Town tour in advance to make sure that you get a spot on your preferred day.