Rethymno Old Town, Arkadi Monastery & Old Villages | Private

Discover the captivating blend of Venetian and Ottoman influences in Rethymno’s Old Town. Venture to the historic Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance. Explore picturesque villages, indulge in local products, and learn about Crete’s rich cultural tapestry. This private tour offers an opportunity to uncover the island’s treasures at your own pace, with the guidance of an expert. Where will this journey take you?

Key Points

• Explore the Venetian and Ottoman architecture of Rethymno’s Old Town during a 70-minute guided walking tour.
• Visit the Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Crete’s resilience, for a 50-minute guided experience.
• Discover the traditional pottery-making in the charming village of Margarites with a 1.5-hour exploration.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through ancient Eleutherna and picturesque villages, including a stop at an olive mill.
• Participate in a pottery workshop as part of the immersive cultural experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour takes visitors on an 8-hour exploration of Rethymno’s Old Town, the historic Arkadi Monastery, and charming local villages.

Priced from $86.29 per person, the tour includes pickup from 9 locations across Crete.

Priced from $86.29 per person, the tour offers pickup from 9 locations across Crete.

Highlights include 70 minutes in Rethymno’s Venetian and Ottoman-influenced old town, 50 minutes at the Arkadi Monastery, and 1.5 hours in the pottery-making village of Margarites.

Comfortable private transportation, an English-speaking driver-guide, and amenities like Wi-Fi and bottled water are provided.

Visitors can opt for a traditional Cretan lunch or entrance to the Arkadi Monastery for an additional fee.

Itinerary Highlights

Rethymno’s charming Old Town offers 70 minutes to explore its Venetian and Ottoman architectural influences, and picturesque harbor.

Next, the tour visits the historic Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Crete’s resilience, for 50 minutes.

Travelers then spend 1.5 hours in Margarites Village, known for traditional pottery, artisans, and local cuisine.

The tour includes a scenic drive through ancient Eleutherna and charming villages. Along the way, guests visit an olive mill for a tasting of local products.

A pottery workshop is also part of the itinerary.

Optional add-ons include a Cretan lunch and entry to Arkadi Monastery.

Transportation and Accessibility

Private transportation in a comfortable van takes guests throughout the tour. An English-speaking local driver-guide accompanies the group, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

The tour is designed with accessibility in mind, catering to wheelchair users.

• Pickup and drop-off at hotel or designated meeting points provide convenience and flexibility.

• Onboard Wi-Fi and fast charger allow guests to stay connected and powered up during the journey.

• Bottled water and a first aid kit are provided, prioritizing guest comfort and safety.

Inclusions

Along With the private transportation and accessibility features, the tour includes several other amenities and experiences.

Guests can enjoy an olive mill visit and local products tasting, as well as a pottery workshop.

The van is equipped with onboard Wi-Fi and fast chargers, ensuring travelers can stay connected.

Bottled water is provided, and a hygiene amenities and first aid kit are available.

The tour price also covers fuel, tolls, taxes, and fees.

For an additional cost, travelers can opt for a Cretan lunch at a traditional taverna or pay the entrance fee to the Arkadi Monastery.

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Optional Experiences

Though the tour’s base price includes a comprehensive set of amenities, travelers can choose to enhance their experience with optional add-ons.

These include:

• Enjoying a traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna, seeing the region’s vibrant culinary culture.

• Visiting the Arkadi Monastery and exploring its historic significance, with an entrance fee of €4 for full-price admission.

• Booking a licensed tourist guide in multiple languages, elevating the tour’s educational and cultural components.

These optional experiences allow travelers to personalize their journey, delving deeper into the rich heritage and traditions of Rethymno and its surroundings.

Rethymno City

The tour’s first stop is Rethymno City, where visitors can explore the Venetian and Ottoman influences that have shaped its rich history.

They’ll stroll through the picturesque harbor, admiring the blend of architectural styles and the lively atmosphere.

The old town’s narrow streets, lined with traditional houses, shops, and cafes, offer a glimpse into the city’s past.

Visitors can wander through the Venetian Loggia, the Rimondi Fountain, and the Fortezza, a well-preserved Renaissance fortress that dominates the skyline.

This 70-minute exploration showcases Rethymno’s unique character and its enduring cultural heritage.

Arkadi Monastery

After exploring the vibrant Rethymno City, the tour proceeds to the historic Arkadi Monastery, a powerful symbol of Crete’s resilience.

This 16th-century Eastern Orthodox monastery played a crucial role in the Cretan resistance against Ottoman rule. Visitors can marvel at its impressive architectural features, including the ornate Catholic-style basilica and the fortified walls that once sheltered local revolutionaries.

The monastery’s legacy is a poignant reminder of the island’s storied past and its enduring spirit of independence:

• A testament to Crete’s rich cultural heritage

• A powerful symbol of resistance against oppression

• A revered pilgrimage site for both religious and historical significance

Margarites Village

Following the scenic drive through ancient Eleutherna, the tour arrives at the charming village of Margarites. Known for its traditional pottery and artisanal crafts, the village offers visitors a glimpse into Crete’s rich cultural heritage. Guests have the opportunity to visit a pottery workshop, where they can observe skilled artisans at work and even try their hand at the potter’s wheel. The village also boasts a variety of local cuisine, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of Crete.

| Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| Traditional Pottery | Visitors can observe and participate in pottery making |

| Artisanal Crafts | The village is renowned for its handcrafted products |

| Local Cuisine | Guests can enjoy the flavors of Cretan cuisine |

| Cultural Heritage | Margarites offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich history |

Since You Asked

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit your preferences. You can discuss changes to the itinerary with the tour provider, who’ll aim to accommodate your requests within the tour’s structure and duration.

Are There Any Additional Services Available for a Fee?

Yes, there are optional experiences available for an additional fee. Customers can add a traditional Cretan lunch and pay the entrance fee for Arkadi Monastery. Pick-ups outside the designated area may also incur extra fees.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it’s a private tour, so the group size is likely flexible and tailored to each customer’s needs. The tour can accommodate wheelchair users as well.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Attire?

No special equipment is required for this tour, but comfy walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour includes visits to historic sites, so modest attire is advised.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour can be extended for an additional cost, though the duration is typically 8 hours. Customers should check with the tour operator about extending the tour if they’d like more time to explore the sights.

Final Words

This private tour offers a captivating glimpse into Crete’s rich history and culture. Exploring Rethymno’s enchanting Old Town, visiting the significant Arkadi Monastery, and discovering picturesque villages provide an immersive experience. With private transportation and an English-speaking guide, travelers can enjoy a comfortable and informative journey through Crete’s scenic landscapes and learn about its local traditions and products.

You can check availability for your dates here: