Private Tour West Crete: Chania & Rethymno Town and Kournas Lake

Tucked away in the heart of the Mediterranean, West Crete beckons with its captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Set out on a private tour that unveils the region’s hidden gems, from the enchanting streets of Chania Old Town to the serene waters of Kournas Lake. Discover the historic allure of Rethymno, where the past and present converge, leaving you eager to uncover more of this captivating corner of the world.

Key Points

• This private tour offers a personalized sightseeing experience of Chania Old Town, Kournas Lake, and Rethymnon in West Crete.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional driver, and a local travel guide to provide a stress-free and immersive experience.
• Scenic views of the Cretan countryside and the option to tailor the itinerary according to personal preferences are key highlights of this tour.
• Participants can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and bottled water during the tour, while entrance fees and other personal expenses are excluded.
• This highly-rated tour offers excellent value for money, with flexible cancellation and payment options available.

Tour Overview

The private sightseeing tour covers the historical Chania Old Town, the serene Kournas Lake, and the charming city of Rethymnon, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences while enjoying the stunning Cretan countryside views along the way.

Stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless experience.

Whether you’re admiring the Venetian architecture, strolling along the tranquil lakeside, or exploring the vibrant streets of Rethymnon, this tour offers a personalized and immersive way to discover the best of western Crete at your own pace.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This private tour includes a comfortable vehicle with a professional driver, allowing you to explore the region at your own pace.

You’ll enjoy Wi-Fi onboard and bottled water from the White Mountains, along with the accompaniment of a local travel guide.

The tour also provides hotel pickup and drop-off for a stress-free experience.

However, personal expenses, drinks, lunch/dinner, and entrance fees to museums and archaeological sites are excluded.

Personal expenses, drinks, lunch/dinner, and entrance fees to museums and archaeological sites are not included in the tour package.

Travelers should also be aware that tips for drivers, guides, and escorts aren’t included in the tour price.

Pickup Details

Flexible pickup from hotel, villa, cruise, or other locations in Chania & Rethymno can be arranged for this private tour.

The pickup time will be confirmed upon booking. Additional charges may apply for pickups from Heraklion and other cities on Crete.

This allows you to start your sightseeing tour with ease and convenience. The local travel guide and professional driver will ensure a stress-free experience as you explore the western region of Crete.

With the flexibility of the pickup, you can tailor the itinerary to match your preferences and interests.

Participant Information

Not wheelchair accessible, but the tour is stroller accessible and near public transportation.

Comfortable shoes, clothing, sunglasses, and a hat are essential for the day’s activities. Participants should also bring some money for souvenirs.

Comfortable shoes, clothing, sunglasses, and a hat are essential for the day’s activities. Participants should also bring some money for souvenirs.

If anyone has severe allergies or health issues, inform the guide in advance. Health and travel insurance are recommended before visiting Crete.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available. Guests can look forward to scenic countryside views, memorable experiences, and the opportunity to sample local Cretan cuisine.

Reviews and Pricing

How does the tour fare in terms of reviews and pricing?

With a stellar 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews from trusted platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor, this private tour of West Crete showcases its popularity.

Priced at $704.14 per group of up to 6 people, it offers excellent value for the comprehensive sightseeing experience that covers Chania’s Old Town, Kournas Lake, and Rethymnon.

Customers praise the memorable experiences, scenic countryside views, and enjoyable local cuisine.

Flexible cancellation and payment options further enhance the appeal.

Chania Old Town Exploration

What better way to start the West Crete tour than by exploring the charming Chania Old Town?

Wander through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways, surrounded by Venetian architecture and the aroma of freshly baked pastries.

1. Admire the iconic Venetian Harbor, a picturesque waterfront lined with restaurants, boutiques, and fishing boats.

2. Stroll along the elegant Splanzia neighborhood, featuring restored townhouses, artisan workshops, and lively cafes.

3. Visit the iconic Mosque of the Janissaries, a stunning 16th-century Ottoman monument nestled in the heart of the old town.

4. Enjoy the bustling Central Market, a hub of local produce, spices, and handicrafts.

Kournas Lake – Crete’s Freshwater Lake

Kournas Lake, Crete’s only natural freshwater lake, beckons visitors with its serene beauty.

Located in the gorgeous Apokoronas region, this tranquil oasis offers a peaceful respite from the bustling towns.

In the stunning Apokoronas region, this serene lake provides a tranquil escape from the surrounding bustling towns.

Visitors can stroll around the lake’s perimeter, admiring the stunning mountain backdrop and watching for the diverse array of waterfowl.

Adventurous travelers can even rent pedal boats to explore the lake up close.

After working up an appetite, the nearby tavernas serve up delicious Cretan specialties, perfectly complementing the lakeside ambiance.

This scenic stop is a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Crete’s natural wonders.

Historic Rethymno Town

Rethymno Town, the historic heart of central Crete, enchants visitors with its enchanting Venetian-era architecture and labyrinthine old quarter.

As you wander its narrow streets, you’ll discover:

1. The iconic Venetian Loggia, a 16th-century masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

2. The imposing Fortezza, a 16th-century citadel with sweeping views of the harbor.

3. The charming Old Town, where local artisans showcase their crafts in quaint shops and cafes.

4. The bustling Agora, a vibrant marketplace brimming with the sights, sounds, and aromas of Cretan culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. The itinerary is flexible, allowing guests to tailor the experience and explore the Cretan countryside at their own pace.

What Languages Does the Local Guide Speak?

The local guide speaks both English and Greek fluently, allowing them to provide detailed commentary on the tour and effectively communicate with travelers from various backgrounds. Their language skills enhance the personalized experience of the private tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts, but travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve the tour now with the ‘pay later’ option to secure their spot without upfront payment.

How Long Does the Entire Tour Typically Last?

The full-day private tour typically lasts around 7-8 hours, providing ample time to explore Chania Old Town, Kournas Lake, and Rethymnon while enjoying Cretan countryside views at a leisurely pace with the help of a local guide.

Can We Stop for a Traditional Cretan Meal During the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows time for you to stop and enjoy a traditional Cretan meal. Your driver-guide can recommend the best local spots to savor authentic Cretan cuisine and get a taste of the island’s rich culinary heritage.

The Sum Up

Explore the captivating landscapes and charming towns of West Crete on this private tour. From the vibrant Chania Old Town to the serene Kournas Lake and the historic Rethymno, this immersive journey showcases the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. With a local guide, comfortable transportation, and the flexibility to tailor the experience, you’ll create unforgettable memories in this picturesque corner of Greece.