Heraklion Areas:Rethymno,Chania & Lake Kournas Full-Day Tour

Discover the charming towns of Rethymno and Chania, along with the tranquil waters of Lake Kournas, on this full-day Crete tour lasting approximately 11.5 hours. Priced with a pick-up and drop-off service from multiple locations, the tour is designed to offer a comprehensive experience of Crete’s most celebrated sites, with the convenience of expert guides and comfortable transportation.

You’ll explore historic streets, visit lively markets, enjoy scenic lake views, and learn about local culture from guides fluent in several languages including English, Greek, German, French, and Polish. While the tour provides a rich overview, note that stops are relatively short—around two hours at Rethymno and Chania—making it ideal for travelers eager to see the highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Full-day experience covering Rethymno, Chania, and Lake Kournas with 11.5 hours of activities.
• Expert guides lead you through historic streets, markets, and scenic spots.
• Includes transportation in a comfortable vehicle with pick-up and drop-off from numerous locations.
• Visits to Rethymno Old Town, Chania Old Town, and Lake Kournas, with free time for sightseeing, shopping, and relaxation.
• Activities at Lake Kournas feature pedal boat rentals and wildlife viewing, with options to swim or walk around the lake.
• Lunch is included, with a prepacked Lunch Box and vegetarian options available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full-Day Crete Tour: Rethymno, Chania, and Lake Kournas

This tour starts early, with pick-up from over 75 locations across Heraklion and surrounding areas, ensuring convenient access for many travelers. The journey begins with a scenic drive across the island, passing the Ida mountain range which includes Psiloritis, Greece’s highest peak.

The first major stop is Rethymno Old Town, a place famed for its cobbled streets, historic architecture, and picturesque old port. Here, a guided walk takes you through the narrow alleys and hidden corners, providing ample time for shopping and local sightseeing. The two-hour stop allows for a relaxed exploration, with options to enjoy coffee or take photos along the waterfront.

Exploring Rethymno’s Historic Charm

The Rethymno Old Town offers a glimpse of Crete’s blend of Venetian and Ottoman influences. The old port is lively and ideal for observing local life, while the Marketplace and Leather Market Street showcase local crafts and delicacies. The guide shares stories and facts that enrich the experience, making the walk both educational and enjoyable.

The tour then departs for Chania, Greece’s second-largest city in Crete, with a 1.5-hour drive along scenic northern coast. The Chania Old Town is famous for its Venetian walls, harbor, and narrow streets lined with old buildings. Visitors have two hours here for sightseeing, shopping, or enjoying a coffee by the harbor, where the small fishing boats add to the charming atmosphere.

Discovering Chania’s Historic Harbor and Markets

The Chania Old Town features highlights such as the cross-shaped Marketplace and Leather Market Street, where commerce and history intertwine. The guided tour helps visitors appreciate the architecture and stories behind the city’s past, while the free time allows for personal exploration or relaxing at local cafes.

Next, the group travels to Lake Kournas, known as the only natural freshwater lake outside of Chania on Crete. The 50-minute drive is scenic, passing through countryside and hills. At Lake Kournas, a lunch break is provided, with a prepacked Lunch Box including a bottle of water, orange juice, praline croissant, and toast. Vegetarian options are available and can be customized upon request.

Enjoying Kournas Lake’s Peaceful Environment

The lake is a highlight of the tour, offering scenic views, wildlife, and the chance to rent pedal boats, with local turtles often spotted in the water. Visitors can choose to walk around the lake, swim, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful scenery during the 50-minute stop.

Afterward, the group departs for the return journey, with a 45-minute drive leading to a brief photo stop at a scenic point, offering great views to capture. The final stretch takes about 1.5 hours back to Heraklion, with comfortable transportation and drop-off at numerous locations to suit travelers’ needs.

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Practical Details of the Tour

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from locations close to many hotels and accommodations across Heraklion, with specific meeting points listed in the data. Transportation is in a comfortable vehicle, and the tour is led by a live guide fluent in multiple languages, ensuring clear and engaging narration throughout.

A Lunch Box with water, juice, croissants, and toast is provided, with vegetarian options available. The tour also offers free time at each major stop for personal exploration or shopping, making it flexible for individual preferences.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and cameras. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or certain health issues like motion sickness or lactose intolerance.

The Guide and Customer Experience

Based on reviews, the guides are praised for their friendly, energetic, and multilingual approach. Guests appreciate the stories and facts shared, which add depth to the sightseeing. The driver’s professionalism also receives positive remarks. Stops are well-organized, although some mention that the timing can feel a bit rushed, especially in Rethymno and Chania.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day Crete tour suits travelers who want a rundown of the island’s highlights in one day. It’s particularly good for those interested in historic towns, local markets, and scenic lakes, with the convenience of transportation and guided commentary. It is ideal for people who enjoy walking but may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges or who prefer longer, unstructured visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a live guide, transportation, and a Lunch Box with drinks and snacks.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops at Rethymno and Chania are about two hours each, while the Lake Kournas stop lasts around 50 minutes. There’s also a shorter photo stop before returning.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available and can be requested upon booking. The prepacked Lunch Box can be customized with two croissants instead of toast upon request.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and sunscreen. Pack light, as there are plenty of opportunities to walk and explore.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers, and is not recommended for those with motion sickness or lactose intolerance.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This full-day tour of Rethymno, Chania, and Lake Kournas offers a well-organized and engaging way to discover Crete’s scenic and historic treasures, perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive experience in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby