Rhodes, Grand Masters Palace & Mt. Philerimos (Guided in Mandarin)

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

You'll board an air-conditioned motorcoach at the pier and drive 35 minutes past the Old Town walls that make Rhodes one of the biggest living medieval towns in the world. You'll see Mandraki Harbor where the Colossus of Rhodes-one of the seven wonders of the ancient world-once stood. Drive along the west coast with its famed resorts before venturing inland to Mt. Philerimos. Pass through the fertile landscape filled with cypress, maritime pines and oaks.

Our first stop is Mt. Philerimos. The mountain's plateau rises 1,000-feet above sea level and offers superb views of the surrounding valleys. Its summit is crowned by the Church of Our Lady, which was built over the ancient Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and early Christian catacombs. You'll have 50 minutes for photo opportunities and to explore. Notice the unique barrel-vaulted Chapel of St. George that dates from the 15th century.

Afterwards, we'll drive 35 minutes to Palace of the Grand Masters. Its fortress was built in the 14th century to dominate the harbor and town. It was destroyed in 1856 and rebuilt in 1939. Today this impressive palace is still imposing in its majesty. You'll have 60 minutes at this venue. Climb the grand marble staircase up approximately 25 steps to the upper floor where you can take in a panoramic view of the city. The palace is home to an unrivaled collection of ancient mosaics from the neighboring island of Kos.

From the palace, we'll head to Rhodes Old Town for a 40-minute guided walking tour of the walled medieval city, which takes you along pebble-paved lanes past impressive medieval structures, each recalling the Knights of St. John. Hear the stories as your knowledgeable guide takes you down the Street of Knights, one of the oldest existing streets on Rhodes-since 408 B.C. Afterwards, you'll have 40 minutes of free time before returning to the pier.

Special Notes:

The tour involves some walking over uneven ground. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Passengers with physical limitations are requested to take this into consideration.

Flash photography is not permitted inside the Palace of the Grand Masters. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.