Private Group Culinary Delights of Rhodes

After meeting your professionally trained guide on the pier, depart on a scenic drive through the modern areas of Rhodes. As you pass by the Mandraki Esplanade, you will see the government buildings, Church of Annunciation built in 1925, a replica of the Old Church of the Knights of St. John and the Deer Statues at the entrance of Mandraki Port. It is believed that this was where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. Your drive will then continue up to Monte Smith for panoramic views and photo opportunities over Rhodes and the Aegean Sea. On clear days, you can see the coast of Turkey.

Next, you will continue along the walls of Rhodes' Old City to reach the upper Gate d'Amboise. Here, you will leave your transportation and begin a walking tour of the Old Town. Entering through the massive gates, the first thing you see is the imposing Palace of the Grand Masters. After a brief explanation outside, you will proceed to the Palace for a guided walking tour of many of the major rooms located on the second floor. The Palace was built in the 14th century A.D., destroyed in 1856 and rebuilt in 1939 by the Italians in order to accommodate the King of Italy, Emmanuel II and Mussolini.

Departing the palace, you will find yourself at the top of the Street of the Knights. As you walk down the street with your guide, they will point out the facades of the many inns once occupied by the crusaders. At the end of the street, you will see the outside of the Knight's Hospital which is now an impressive Archaeological Museum. The hospital was built in 1440 A.D., and is the most spectacular and well-preserved building in the Old City.

You will then walk to a nearby Greek taverna where you will watch the chef prepare the dish of the day. You will be shown how to prepare classic Greek dishes such as tzatziki, fried meatballs and many others. You will have the chance to talk with the chef and learn all the tricks of the trade so that you can impress your friends back home with your new creations.

After the demonstration, you will be sampling the foods you will have helped prepare along with Greek wine. When you are finished, your guide will lead you to nearby Socrates Square which is the main square of the old town. The tour will end here after your guide answers questions about additional sightseeing, shopping and points out the city gate which will lead you back to the cruise pier, a casual 10 - 15 minute walk from the gate.

Please Note: This tour offers customized departure times between 7:30 AM and 7:00 PM. If your preferred departure time is not listed, please contact us to place your request.