From Lindos: Rhodes Old Town and Speedboat Trip to Symi

From Lindos: Rhodes Old Town and Speedboat Trip to Symi — A Detailed Review

If you’re staying in Lindos and want to explore beyond the beach, this combined day trip to Rhodes Old Town and Symi offers a tempting mix of history, scenery, and relaxed island life. For about $53 per person, you get a full 12 hours of adventure—starting with a comfortable hotel pickup, followed by free time to wander Rhodes’ UNESCO-listed Old Town, and an afternoon on the picturesque island of Symi, accessible via a lively speedboat ride.

What we love about this tour is how flexible it makes your day. You’re free to explore at your own pace in Rhodes’ historic heart, giving you the chance to visit the Castle of the Knights and other landmarks without a rigid schedule. Then, the boat ride to Symi provides a scenic and fun transition from mainland history to island relaxation. Plus, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Lindos, which is a huge convenience if you’re staying outside Rhodes’ busy city center.

One minor consideration is the timing—reviews mention that some travelers found the schedule a little rushed, especially with waiting times and boat boarding. If you’re someone who values a leisurely pace or detailed guided commentary, this might not be the ideal tour. Still, for those who enjoy independence and spontaneity, it’s a flexible, well-organized option that suits many travelers.

This experience is best suited for visitors who want a taste of Rhodes’ historic core and the charm of Symi without dedicating multiple days. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate free exploration, scenic boat rides, and authentic local sights rather than guided tours with constant commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible Independent Time: You have several hours in Rhodes Old Town and Symi to explore at your leisure.
• Scenic Boat Ride: The speedboat to Symi offers striking views and a fun way to travel between islands.
• Hotel Convenience: Pickup and drop-off from Lindos hotels make logistics simple.
• Cost-Effective: At $53, you get a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and free time.
• Authentic Experience: You can enjoy genuine local sights, food, and atmosphere without a guided tour’s rigidity.
• Potential for Rushed Feel: Some reviews mention tight schedules and waiting times, so if a relaxed trip is your goal, this might be a consideration.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Transit

The trip begins with pickup from a convenient list of Lindos hotels, including popular options like Lindos Mare, Lindos Princess, and Gennadi Grand Resort. The bus ride to Rhodes Old Town takes around an hour, during which you can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive. The key here is punctuality—many reviewers appreciated that the pickups and transfers were smooth and timely, with drivers like Ivan earning praise for their helpfulness and info. You’ll want to be ready in the hotel lobby about 10 minutes early to ensure a prompt departure.

Exploring Rhodes Old Town

Once in Rhodes, you’re given about 3.5 hours to explore on your own. This gives you enough time to stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, admire medieval walls, and visit highlights like the Castle of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Magister. The freedom to wander is a major plus, as it allows you to tailor your visit—whether you want to climb the fortress walls, browse local shops, or simply soak in the atmosphere.

Several reviewers appreciated having this free time, calling it “perfect” because it allowed them to visit sights at their own pace. One noted, “We had enough time for breakfast and a wander around the old city,” which suggests that the schedule leaves room for a relaxed visit.

However, some travelers found the schedule a tad tight, with the total time in Rhodes Town being shorter than anticipated. A common point in reviews is that the boat boarding process can be crowded or confusing—so patience and early queuing are advised.

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The Speedboat to Symi

After your exploration, the group moves to the port for an 80-minute speedboat ride to Symi. While some might expect a “speedboat” to be a high-adrenaline vessel, reviews mention that the boat more closely resembled a ferry—still, the ride is enjoyable with good views of the coastline and sea. The boat’s capacity can get crowded, with at least one reviewer mentioning standing on the return trip due to the size of the vessel. Still, the experience of crossing the sparkling blue water is undeniably pleasant.

Symi: The Island of Charm

Upon arrival in Symi, you’re again free to explore for about 3.5 hours. This island is famed for its colorful houses, narrow alleys, and tranquil atmosphere. Many travelers describe it as a “delightful place,” perfect for wandering, relaxing by the quay, or even grabbing a local meal. One reviewer remembered a “delicious quayside meal in the afternoon sunshine”—a real highlight.

The island’s relaxed vibe and scenic beauty seem to be what many consider the most memorable part of the trip. You can enjoy a swim if you wish, as the waters around Symi are clear and inviting, as noted by those who took a quick dip.

Return Journey

The return trip mirrors the morning: an 80-minute boat ride back to Rhodes, followed by a bus transfer to Lindos. The overall timing tends to work well, although, again, some reviews suggest that waiting for the boat or delays at hotels can slightly cut into your free time.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation & Timing

The tour’s logistics are designed for convenience, with hotel pickups at multiple Lindos locations, including resorts and main hotels. The entire day lasts around 12 hours, with variations depending on the starting time you select. The schedule is packed, but the free periods allow spontaneous discoveries—like popping into a local café or browsing souvenirs.

Cost & Value

At $53, this trip offers a good value for the amount of ground covered. It includes all transportation—bus and boat—and hotel pickup/drop-off, which simplifies planning. Not included are entry tickets, food, or guides, so you’ll want to budget separately if you want to visit specific attractions or dine extensively.

What’s Not Included

The absence of a guide means you’ll be exploring largely on your own, which is ideal if you prefer independence but less so if you want detailed historical commentary. Entry tickets to attractions aren’t included, so if you plan to visit specific sights, factor that into your budget.

Accessibility & Flexibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, a plus for mobility-challenged travelers. Cancellation is flexible—full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance—perfect for spontaneous plans or uncertain weather.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the timeliness, friendly drivers, and the beauty of the locations. The highlight for many is the “delightful” Symi and the freedom to explore Rhodes Old Town without a guide. Several mention the boat ride as a fun, scenic highlight, though some note it’s more ferry-like than a high-speed thrill.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day—not too rushed but packed with sights. It suits those who enjoy independent exploration and scenic boat rides, rather than guided commentary. If you’re comfortable with a somewhat packed schedule and value flexibility, you’ll find this tour offers a satisfying taste of Rhodes’ history and Symi’s charm.

It’s less suited for travelers looking for a leisurely, guided experience or those who prefer more time at each site. Also, if punctuality or waiting times are a concern, be aware that some reviews mention delays.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Lindos manages to combine historical exploration with scenic island visits at a reasonable price. With free time in Rhodes Old Town, you get the chance to soak in the atmosphere, shop, or take photos without a guide rushing you along. The boat ride to Symi adds a delightful touch of adventure, and the colorful island itself offers plenty of chances for relaxing walks or seaside meals.

While the schedule can feel slightly rushed at times and boat capacity may be tight, the overall experience delivers authentic sights, scenic views, and convenient logistics. It’s a great choice if you value independent discovery and want to see a bit of both the mainland and island life in one day.

FAQ

How long is the entire trip?
The whole day lasts around 12 hours, including pickup, travel, free time, and boat rides.

Is this tour suitable for all hotel locations in Lindos?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at multiple Lindos hotels, making it convenient regardless of where you stay.

Do I need to pay for entry tickets separately?
Yes, entrance fees to attractions like Rhodes Castle are not included, so budget for those if you plan to visit specific sites.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Most reviews say the boat ride is scenic and enjoyable, though some mention it’s more ferry-like than a high-speed vessel, and capacity can be tight.

Can I bring food or drinks?
Food and drinks are not included in the tour price. You might find options available on Symi, or bring snacks for the day.

Is there enough time to explore Symi?
Yes, about 3.5 hours give you time to wander, relax, or enjoy a meal, though some travelers consider it a little rushed.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, according to the provider.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended; bring cash for extras like souvenirs or snacks.

Is it suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the trip, especially with the scenic boat ride and free exploration time.

This comprehensive day trip offers a practical way to experience Rhodes’ historic beauty and the charm of Symi without fuss. Whether you’re looking to soak in the sights or just relax by the water, this tour balances adventure and leisure effectively.

You can check availability for your dates here: