The Dodecanese islands serve up my favorite kind of Mediterranean travel experiences through well-crafted guided tours. Skip-the-line cultural tours of Rhodes Old Town get you straight to the medieval highlights, while rugged ATV adventures let you discover hidden beaches and mountain trails. I’m especially fond of the Salakos to Profitis Ilias trek – it’s challenging but rewards hikers with spectacular island views. The combination history-and-wine tours are particularly engaging, pairing ancient sites with local vintages in a way that brings the islands’ heritage to life.
For first-timers, I recommend the full-island circuits covering Kamiros and the Valley of Butterflies. The local guides are passionate experts, and most tours offer hassle-free cancellation.
Check out these top-rated Dodecanese tours that I’ve personally tested and approved.
Key Points
- Comprehensive guided tours of Rhodes’ top attractions, including ancient sites, natural wonders, and cultural landmarks, with high customer satisfaction ratings.
- Challenging guided hikes offering stunning views from the peaks of Salakos and Profitis Ilias, suitable for experienced hikers.
- Immersive evening city tours of Rhodes Town, featuring a 9D cinema experience and all-inclusive packages.
- Thrilling ATV quad tours with off-road driving and beach visits, accommodating up to 10 participants for a personalized experience.
- Guided tours focusing on the history, culture, and local gastronomy of Rhodes Island, including visits to architectural sites and tastings of regional products.
Discover Rhodes: Filerimos, Butterflies, Kameiros, Prof Guide
This guided tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Rhodes’ top attractions.
Travelers can discover the ancient city of Kamiros, enjoy the serene Valley of Butterflies, and visit a local winery – all while escaping the daytime heat in air-conditioned comfort.
Led by a knowledgeable professional guide, the tour provides insight into Rhodes’ rich history, culture, and food.
Highlights include the historic Filerimos site and the opportunity to capture unique photos at the church of Agios Nektarios.
During a lunch break, guests can savor an excellent value meal in one of the island’s highest villages.
With 57 reviews and a 4.6 overall rating, this tour is a favorite among travelers seeking an engaging and well-rounded experience.
Special assistance is available for those requiring pushchairs or wheelchairs, ensuring accessibility.
Read our full review: Discover Rhodes: Filerimos, Butterflies, Kameiros, Prof Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Rhodes: Salakos to Profitis Ilias 4 Hours Guided Hike
Seeking a more active way to explore Rhodes’ natural beauty? Consider the 4-5 hour guided hike from Salakos to Profitis Ilias. Covering 14 km, this small group experience showcases the island’s wild vegetation and Aleppo pines.
Along the way, you’ll visit historical sites like Villa De Vecchi and Elafos Hotel, as well as the chapel of the Archangel Michael. The highlight? Breathtaking views from the 798m peak.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, and traditional snacks. However, it’s not suitable for all – children under 12, pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with low fitness levels should avoid this hike.
Participants must sign a waiver and health declaration. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early, wear closed-toe shoes, and bring sun protection and water.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this guided hike offers an active and scenic way to discover the natural wonders of Rhodes.
Read our full review: Rhodes: Salakos to Profitis Ilias 4 Hours Guided Hike Review
Book now: Check availability
Rhodes: Evening City Tour With Guide+ Throne of Helios 9D Cinema
Travelers exploring the Dodecanese can enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of Rhodes during this 3-hour evening city tour. The tour starts at 4:00 PM and can accommodate up to 20 travelers. An air-conditioned vehicle will transport participants, and they’ll be provided with headphones for audio during the tour.
The tour includes a visit to the Throne of Helios, a 9D cinema experience that transports viewers to the ancient world. Travelers will also enjoy all fees and taxes, as well as food and drinks, as part of the inclusive package.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, this tour is a highly-rated way to explore the city of Rhodes in the evening. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including infants who can sit on laps.
Read our full review: Rhodes: Evening City Tour With Guide+ Throne of Helios 9D Cinema Review
Book now: Check availability
South Rhodes: ATV Quad Guided Tour With Hotel Transfers
Embarking on an unforgettable off-road adventure, travelers can explore the rugged landscapes of South Rhodes on a guided ATV quad tour. Priced at $83.33 per person, the 3.5-hour tour transports participants from various locations across the island to embark on an exhilarating ride.
Limited to 10 participants, the English-guided experience offers a personalized touch, with a comprehensive safety briefing and full equipment provided, including helmets and dust protection.
The itinerary blends sightseeing, off-road driving, and a refreshing swim at Agios Georgios Beach. Riders will traverse traditional villages and enjoy panoramic countryside views before cooling off in the crystal-clear waters.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 87 reviews, the tour earns praise for its friendly staff, engaging guides, and well-planned routes. Travelers are advised to wear appropriate attire and footwear to manage the dusty conditions.
Guests can reserve their spots without upfront payment, making this South Rhodes adventure an enticing option for those seeking an active and memorable experience.
Read our full review: South Rhodes: ATV Quad Guided Tour With Hotel Transfers Review
Book now: Check availability
Rhodes Island Guided History & Culture Tour With Wine Tasting – Dodecanese
Offering an immersive exploration of Rhodes Island’s rich history and vibrant culture, this guided tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through picturesque villages and scenic landscapes.
Visitors will discover the island’s architectural gems, including the 14th-century Fountoukis church and the impressive Kritinia Castle. The tour also includes a visit to the Profitis Ilias resort and the Agios Nektarios monastery, providing insight into the island’s religious heritage.
Beyond the historical sites, the tour offers a taste of local gastronomy, with a wine and olive oil tasting in the charming village of Embona. Guests can also indulge in a refreshing swim at the thermal springs of Kalithea beach.
With a small group size, this tour promises a personalized experience led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Boasting an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on over 7 reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for history enthusiasts and those seeking a unique cultural experience in the Dodecanese.
Read our full review: Rhodes Island Guided History & Culture Tour With Wine Tasting – Dodecanese Review
Book now: Check availability
Rhodos-Vip: Guided Tour to Lindos Village + Butterflies Valley
Showcasing the captivating landscapes of Rhodes, the Rhodos-Vip: Guided Tour to Lindos Village + Butterflies Valley promises an immersive exploration of the island’s natural and cultural treasures. Priced at £38.65 per person, this guided excursion accommodates up to 19 travelers and boasts a rating of 4.8 based on 6 reviews.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and whispers for communication. Visitors can look forward to admission to the Acropolis in Lindos and the Valley of Butterflies, both of which showcase the region’s captivating attractions.
The pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless experience, with the exact time and location provided a day in advance. While the bus may feel slightly cramped, reviewers praise the tour guide’s expertise and the overall beauty of the destinations.
With a start time of 9:00 am and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this guided tour offers a convenient and enriching way to discover the wonders of Rhodes.
Read our full review: Rhodos-Vip: Guided Tour to Lindos Village + Butterflies Valley Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Walk in the Karpathian Highlands
What better way to explore the Karpathian Highlands than with a guided walk? This 5-star tour takes visitors on a walking adventure through the stunning Dodecanese region of Greece.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for pickup and drop-off, walking poles, and complimentary coffee or tea.
The guided walk starts at 8 AM from the pickup point of Auto Tour Karpathos. Travelers should look for the operator’s van at the designated location.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions are advised against joining. A strong fitness level is required.
With a maximum group size of 6 travelers, the Guided Walk in the Karpathian Highlands is priced at $66.02 per person.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour also offers a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, making it a convenient choice for adventurous travelers.
Read our full review: Guided Walk in the Karpathian Highlands Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
The Dodecanese islands offer a wide range of guided tours to suit different interests. From exploring the historic sites of Rhodes to hiking in the Karpathian Highlands, these tours provide visitors with an in-depth and personalized experience of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, nature, or local traditions, there’s a guided tour to suit your needs.