Full Day Rethimno Area

Explore Crete’s Rugged Landscapes on a Full-Day Rethymno Area Tour

This full-day private tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Crete’s most captivating natural and historic sites. For $747.49 per group of up to 8 people, you’ll spend approximately 12 hours exploring the region’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving. The private transportation with Wi-Fi onboard ensures a comfortable, connected journey from Heraklion, whether from the port, airport, or hotels in the area.

The tour is designed for those who enjoy a mix of cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. It’s perfect for larger groups looking for a well-organized, flexible day out. While entrance fees and guide services at archaeological sites are not included, the itinerary provides a rich variety of experiences that showcase Crete’s diverse charm.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive transportation for groups up to 8 people
• 12-hour tour that covers top attractions in the Rethymno area
• Visit Margarites pottery village, Arkadi Monastery, Lake Kournas, and more
• Wi-Fi onboard allows you to stay connected and share moments easily
• Flexible stops including outdoor hikes, old towns, waterfalls, and natural lakes
• Entrance fees and guide services at archaeological sites are not included

Starting the Day in the Village of Margarites

The tour begins with a visit to the charming village of Margarites, famous for its pottery tradition. Here, you can see artisans still practicing ancient techniques to craft ceramics, offering a glimpse into local craftsmanship. This stop lasts about an hour and is admission-free, making it an engaging start that introduces you to Crete’s artistic heritage.

Expect to see pottery being made and possibly purchase handcrafted souvenirs. The village’s narrow streets and authentic atmosphere make it an ideal spot for photos and soaking in traditional Cretan life.

Discovering the Ancient Ruins of Archea Eleftherna

Next, the tour takes you to Archea Eleftherna, an ongoing excavation site set amidst wild, rural scenery in Crete’s inland areas. This archaeological site reveals the remains of an ancient city from a mysterious period in history. While exploring the ruins, you can learn about the site’s significance and its connection to earlier civilizations.

A nearby museum showcases unique findings from the excavations, adding context to the uncovered structures. The visit lasts approximately an hour and is admission-free, making it an accessible window into Crete’s ancient past.

Visiting the Historic Arkadi Monastery

In a lush, green landscape, the Arkadi Monastery stands as a powerful symbol of resistance and freedom. This historic site is an essential stop to understand Crete’s fight for independence. Although entrance fees are not included, the monastery’s architecture and solemn atmosphere leave a lasting impression.

The visit lasts about an hour, during which you can appreciate the important role Arkadi played in Cretan history. The scenic surroundings also make this a peaceful and reflective part of the day.

Refreshing the Senses in Spili

The journey continues to Spili, a small mountain village known for its fountain of cold spring water amid vast olive groves. Here, you can experience the authentic flavor of Crete by relaxing with a drink from the spring and wandering through the village’s narrow streets.

Spili offers an authentic taste of rural Crete, with a tranquil atmosphere and traditional architecture. This stop is approximately an hour, providing a moment to unwind before heading into more outdoor adventures.

Hiking Through St. Anthony Gorge

A highlight of this tour is a moderate hike through St. Anthony Gorge (also called the Gorge of Patsos). The walk involves comfortable footwear and takes you to St. Anthony Cave, a site known for its natural beauty and tranquility.

The approximately one-hour trek offers stunning scenery and a memorable outdoor experience. The natural surroundings of the gorge are ideal for photography, and the moderate effort involved makes this suitable for most fitness levels.

Exploring Rethymno Old Town’s Atmosphere

The tour includes a one-hour stroll through Rethymno Old Town, a lively area blending history and modern life. You’ll find narrow, paved alleys lined with cafes, shops, and artistic venues, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

This stop offers opportunities for photography, relaxation, and enjoying local cafes. The area’s unique architecture, combined with its modern vibrancy, makes it a perfect place to soak in the essence of Crete’s cultural scene.

Relaxing in Argyroupoli’s Water-Rich Setting

Next, the group visits Argyroupoli, a serene village famed for its small waterfalls and old mills. Here, you can relax by the flowing waters, reminiscent of Roman baths once enjoyed by ancient visitors.

This peaceful stop lasts about an hour, providing a tranquil environment to unwind, take photos, and enjoy the lush surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for a quick refresh and appreciation of Crete’s natural beauty.

Enjoying the Unique Lake Kournas

The tour concludes at Lake Kournas, Crete’s only freshwater lake, famous for its legends and scenic beauty. Visitors can walk along the lakeshore, swim, or rent a pedalo for a leisurely ride on the calm waters.

Spending about an hour here, travelers can take in the peaceful landscape, enjoy the outdoors, and perhaps snap a few last photos to remember their day. The lake’s gentle setting offers a fitting finale to the touring experience.

Practical Details and Logistics

The round-trip transfers from Heraklion port, airport, or hotels are included, making this a seamless day trip. The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, with Wi-Fi on board so you can share your experience or catch up on messages during breaks.

The tour operates every day from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, giving you plenty of options to fit your schedule. The meeting point is in Heraklion, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, as long as they are comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This tour’s private setup and group size limit of 8 make for an intimate experience without the crowds. The inclusion of Wi-Fi allows for connectivity throughout the day, which is often missing in other excursions. The diverse stops—from archaeological sites to natural wonders—offer a well-rounded look at Crete’s cultural and scenic richness.

While entrance fees and guide services are not included, the flexible schedule and variety of stops compensate fully. The professional organization is praised for punctuality, cleanliness, and efficient communication, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a hassle-free day.

Full-Day Crete Experience Summary

This full-day private tour provides a comfortable, well-organized way to explore Crete’s diverse landscapes and history. From the pottery village of Margarites to the natural beauty of Lake Kournas, each stop offers a different perspective on the island’s charm.

Despite the absence of included entrance fees, the overall value lies in the curated selection of sites and the convenience of private transport with Wi-Fi. It suits travelers eager to see a broad range of Crete’s highlights in one day, especially larger groups seeking a personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour involves outdoor walking and sightseeing, making it appropriate for most children comfortable with a full day of activity.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for archaeological sites and museums are not included. It’s advisable to budget separately for these.

Will we have Wi-Fi during the trip?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available onboard the private vehicle, helping you stay connected and share your experiences.

What should I wear for the outdoor activities?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the hike through St. Anthony Gorge. Sun protection and water are also advisable.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most outdoor stops, including the hike, are moderate in difficulty. Travelers should be comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration.

How long is each stop?
Most stops last around an hour, providing enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The entire day runs approximately 12 hours.