Private Rethymno Tour of Arkadi, Eleutherna, and Margarites

10 hours • Free CancellationMeet on location or pickupInstant confirmationPrivate tourGuided • Operated by Crete Wanderer • 5.0 from 2 reviews

Why we love it?

The Private Rethymno Tour offers an immersive exploration of Crete's rich history and culture over a 10-hour journey. Ideal for families and history enthusiasts, the tour includes visits to the ancient city of Eleutherna, the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery, and the charming village of Margarites, known for its pottery. Distinctive features include door-to-door service, complimentary tastings of local Cretan products, and the provision of infant and booster seats for safety. This personalized experience allows travelers to delve into the island's heritage while enjoying the convenience of private transportation and expert guidance.
Private Rethymno Tour of Arkadi, Eleutherna, and MargaritesPrivate Rethymno Tour of Arkadi, Eleutherna, and MargaritesPrivate Rethymno Tour of Arkadi, Eleutherna, and MargaritesPrivate Rethymno Tour of Arkadi, Eleutherna, and MargaritesPrivate Rethymno Tour of Arkadi, Eleutherna, and Margarites View all (17)

Inclusions

  • Door-to-Door Service: Stress-free, private pickup and drop-off from your hotel, villa, or the Chania/Heraklion/Rethymno Port.
  • Premium Refreshments: Chilled bottled water provided throughout the journey.
  • Local Culinary Treats: Complimentary tasting of authentic Cretan products (Olive oil, honey, and traditional Raki) at selected stops.
  • Expert Logistics: All fuel, tolls, and parking fees are fully covered—no hidden costs.
  • Safety First: Professional-grade infant and booster seats available upon request to ensure a safe journey for the whole family.
  • Bespoke Flexibility: The ability to adjust the time spent at each location or add spontaneous photo stops at your guide's "hidden gems."

Exclusions

  • Entrance Fees: Tickets for the Arkadi Monastery, Ancient Eleutherna (Site and/or Museum), and the Fortezza Castle are not included.
  • Professional Licensed Guide: While your driver is an English-speaking expert and will provide local insights, they are not licensed to lead you inside archaeological sites or museums.
  • Food & Beverages: The cost of lunch and any snacks or drinks (beyond the provided bottled water and tastings) is the responsibility of the guest.
  • Gratuities: Tips for your driver-guide are not included and are entirely at your discretion as a gesture of appreciation for excellent service.
  • Personal Expenses: Any souvenirs or personal shopping during our stops at Margarites or Rethymno.

Itinerary

Margarites Village: The Pottery Center of Crete

Margarites is a picturesque "hidden gem" famous for its pottery workshops. You will visit local artisans who use ancient techniques to create beautiful ceramic art. Wander through the floral-decorated streets, snap photos of the Venetian doorways, and perhaps try your hand at the potter's wheel. It is the most Instagrammable village in the Rethymno region.

Ancient Eleutherna: Site & Museum Exploration

Discover the secrets of one of the most significant ancient cities in Crete. You have the flexibility to choose how you want to experience Eleutherna:The Archaeological Site: Walk through the rugged landscape to see the ancient fortifications, the Hellenistic cisterns, and the necropolis that brought Homer's verses to life.

The Museum: Visit the ultra-modern, award-winning museum to admire the stunning artifacts, jewelry, and sculptures found on-site. Bespoke Choice: Since this is a private tour, you can choose to visit both or focus on the one that fascinates you most. Note: Entrance fees are separate and depend on your choice to visit the site, the museum, or both.

Arkadi Monastery: A Sacred Monument to Freedom

Step into the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery, an architectural masterpiece and a global symbol of the Cretan struggle for independence. Admire the unique Baroque facade of the church and walk through the tranquil courtyards and the tragic gunpowder room. It is a place of profound energy, history, and architectural beauty that every visitor to Crete must experience.

Rethymno Old Town: A Journey Through Time

Conclude your day in the most romantic city in Crete. Rethymno’s Old Town is a mosaic of Minoan, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. Explore the massive Fortezza castle, walk by the Egyptian Lighthouse, and get lost in the narrow streets filled with shops and aromas. Flexible Stop: This is your time for a premium lunch at a seaside taverna or a coffee break in the heart of the historic center.

Please Note

  • Limited mobility accessible
  • For Guests based in Rethymno: If your accommodation is already in Rethymno or you have explored the Old Town, we don't let a minute of your 10-hour tour go to waste! We offer a Fully Alternative Route to fill the remaining time with hidden gems. Depending on your interests, we can include:
  • Patsos Spiritual Gorge: A lush, shaded natural escape.
  • Potamon Dam: For the most scenic lake views in Crete.
  • Argiroupoli Waterfalls: For a traditional lunch by the springs.
  • Melidoni Cave: A journey into Crete’s prehistoric and heroic past.
  • Bespoke Nature: This is a private experience. The starting time and the duration spent at each stop are flexible and can be adjusted on the spot with your guide to match your energy and interests.
  • Physical Requirements: This tour involves walking on cobblestone streets (Rethymno), uneven paths (Arkadi), and potentially rugged terrain if you visit the Eleutherna archaeological site. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
  • Accessibility: This experience is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for strollers due to the historic nature of the sites.
  • Infant Seats: Available upon request. Please inform us at the time of booking to ensure the correct seat is installed for your child’s safety.

Know Before You Go

  • Public transportation nearby
  • Infant seats available

Cancellation Policy

Fully refundable until 1 day before start

Non-refundable after 1 day before start

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