Heraklion:Rethymno City the Venetian Crete

Crete’s enduring Venetian legacy is showcased in the captivating cities of Heraklion and Rethymno. Visitors can enjoy the blend of architectural styles, from the imposing Venetian Fortezza fortress to the charming old harbor and its iconic lighthouse. These destinations offer a unique opportunity to uncover the rich cultural tapestry that has shaped Crete’s identity over the centuries. Delving into their streets and landmarks provides a glimpse into the island’s tumultuous past and its enduring spirit.

Key Points

• The tour explores the historic cities of Heraklion and Rethymno, showcasing the Venetian influence that shaped the architecture and culture of Crete.
• Rethymno’s Old Town is the main highlight, allowing visitors to witness the coexistence of Ottoman, Greek, and Venetian civilizations through its narrow streets and historic landmarks.
• Guests will have the opportunity to visit the iconic Venetian Lighthouse in Chania, a symbol of the Venetian legacy on the island.
• The tour includes transportation via air-conditioned luxury buses with convenient pickup and drop-off locations across Crete.
• The tour is an immersive 7-8 hour experience, with a live guide providing commentary in multiple languages during the journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers an immersive 7-8 hour experience to explore the historic cities of Heraklion and Rethymno in Crete.

Priced at $37.14 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Pickup and drop-off are provided from various locations across the island.

Highlights include visiting Rethymno’s Old Town and Chania’s Venetian Lighthouse, as well as experiencing the blend of Ottoman, Greek, and Venetian influences.

Transportation is via air-conditioned luxury buses, and a live tour guide is available in multiple languages.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from a variety of designated locations across Crete, including Agia Pelagia, Lygaria, Analipsi, and others.

The main stop is Rethymno Old Town, where guests have 4 hours of free time to explore. Highlights include seeing the coexistence of Ottoman, Greek, and Venetian civilizations.

Guests have 4 hours to explore Rethymno Old Town and witness the coexistence of Ottoman, Greek, and Venetian civilizations.

Guests will also visit Chania and see the iconic Venetian Lighthouse. During the scenic 1.5-hour bus/coach travel, a live tour guide provides commentary in English, German, and French.

Dropoff locations mirror the pickup options, ensuring convenient start and end points across Crete.

Tour Details

For the tour, pickup from the hotel or the closest accessible point is included. Specific pickup information is sent via email.

The tour features a live guide available in English, German, and French, providing insights along the scenic bus journey of 1.5 hours. Transfers are via air-conditioned luxurious buses, and drop-off locations mirror the pickup options.

Visitors should provide their hotel name and location at booking and check their spam folder for the pickup information email. Personal expenses and lunch aren’t included in the tour price.

Transportation and Logistics

Transfers for the tour are via air-conditioned luxurious buses. Pickup and drop-off locations mirror each other, allowing for convenient transportation. The tour includes stops at Ammoudara, Agia Pelagia, Limenas Chersonisou, Stalida, Analipsi, Kato Gouves, Bali, Gazi, Ligaria, Heraklion, Anissaras, Paralia Fodele, and Malia.

| Pickup Locations | Main Stop | Drop-Off Locations |

|—————–|———–|——————-|

| Agia Pelagia | Rethymno | Ammoudara |

| Lygaria | Old Town | Agia Pelagia |

| Analipsi | (4 hrs) | Limenas Chersonisou|

| Limenas Chersonisou| | Stalida|

| Ammoudara | | Analipsi|

| Heraklion | | Kato Gouves|

| Paralia Fodele | | Bali|

| Malia | | Gazi|

| Anissaras | | Ligaria|

| Gazi | | Heraklion|

| Bali | | Anissaras|

| Kato Gouves | | Paralia Fodele|

| Stalida | | Malia|

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Important Information

Guests should provide their hotel name and location at the time of booking to ensure accurate pickup arrangements.

An email with the specific pickup information will be sent prior to the tour. It’s important to check the spam folder if the email doesn’t arrive in the main inbox.

The tour price doesn’t cover personal expenses or lunch, so guests should budget accordingly.

Exploring Rethymnon Old Town

As visitors wander through Rethymnon Old Town, they’ll be enchanted by the coexistence of Ottoman, Greek, and Venetian influences that have shaped its charming character.

Narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, historic landmarks, and bustling markets create a captivating atmosphere. Explore the Venetian Loggia, a 16th-century architectural gem, and the Fortezza, a magnificent hilltop fortress.

Meander through the old harbor area, dominated by the Venetian lighthouse, and discover traditional shops, quaint cafes, and lively tavernas.

This well-preserved Old Town offers a true glimpse into Crete’s rich cultural heritage and invites visitors to enjoy its timeless ambiance.

Visiting Chania and the Venetian Lighthouse

After exploring the charming old town of Rethymnon, the tour then takes visitors to the historic city of Chania, where they’ll marvel at the iconic Venetian Lighthouse.

This lighthouse, built in the 16th century, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Crete. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque Venetian harbor, lined with cafes and shops, and admire the lighthouse’s striking white and red facade.

The tour also provides time to discover the city’s blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences, making Chania a unique and captivating destination.

Coexistence of Civilizations

The coexistence of Ottoman, Greek, and Venetian civilizations in Crete is a captivating aspect of the destination.

Visitors can explore:

• Ottoman architecture and mosques

• Greek Orthodox churches and monasteries

• Venetian fortresses, harbors, and historical sites

This unique cultural fusion is evident throughout the island, particularly in the charming Old Town of Rethymno.

Here, narrow alleyways, colorful buildings, and a lively market showcase the blending of these diverse influences over centuries.

Exploring Crete’s living history allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s rich heritage and multicultural identity.

Things To Know

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Group Size?

Yes, you can book the tour for a different group size. The tour allows for flexible booking options to accommodate your specific needs. Just indicate the desired group size when reserving your spot.

Does the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Special Needs?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accommodating dietary restrictions or special needs. However, it’s best to contact the tour provider directly to inquire about any customizations or arrangements they can make to ensure a comfortable experience.

Are There Any Additional Discounts or Promotions Available?

The tour provider doesn’t currently offer any additional discounts or promotions. However, they do provide free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers flexibility with their plans.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Optional Activities?

The tour’s itinerary and stops are fixed, but you can’t customize it. However, there may be optional add-on activities available at additional cost. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any customization or activity options.

How Does the Tour Handle Inclement Weather or Unexpected Changes?

The tour accommodates changes in weather by adjusting the itinerary as needed. If a site is closed or inaccessible, the guide will substitute an alternate activity. Travelers are notified of any revisions prior to departure.

Sum Up

Heraklion and Rethymno offer a captivating glimpse into Crete’s rich Venetian heritage. Visitors can explore the charming old towns, historic landmarks, and the blend of Ottoman, Greek, and Venetian influences. These cities provide a unique opportunity to take in the cultural tapestry that makes Venetian Crete a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the heart of this remarkable island.

You can check availability for your dates here: