Rethymno Old Town Guided Segway Tour

If you’re visiting Crete and want to get a real feel for Rethymno’s vibrant streets and storied past without the exhausting walk, a guided Segway tour might just be your best bet. This tour offers a compact yet comprehensive glimpse of the city’s most iconic sights, perfect for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see a lot in a relaxed way.

What really makes this experience shine are the knowledgeable guides who bring history to life, the scenic stops that give you picture-perfect moments, and the flexibility of a private tour that tailors the route to your interests. While the cost of around $77 per person might seem steep for three hours, the level of personalized attention and convenience often makes it feel like excellent value—especially when compared to more traditional walking tours.

One thing to keep in mind is that tickets to enter certain sites, like the Venetian Fortezza, are not included. If you’re eager to explore the fortress up close, plan ahead. This experience suits travelers who want to cover a lot of ground with ease, enjoy some fun in the sun, and learn interesting tidbits about Rethymno’s history — all with the bonus of a few laughs along the way.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience allows you to focus on what interests you most.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and friendly conversation.
• Scenic stops offer perfect photo opportunities and a sense of the city’s history.
• Short, manageable duration suits travelers with tight schedules.
• Good value considering the inclusion of a Segway, helmet, vest, and soft drinks.
• Accessible for most travelers, with reviews highlighting guidance suitable even for first-time Segway users.

The Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

This guided Segway tour covers approximately 3 hours, giving you a wonderful snapshot of Rethymno’s top sights without the fatigue of walking. Starting at Sofokli Venizelou 4, near public transportation, the experience begins with a quick safety briefing and introduction to the Segway. Many reviewers mention that even first-timers quickly feel comfortable, thanks to the patient guides like Ioanna, Yannis, or Nanetta, who possess a talent for making everyone feel at ease.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Why It Matters

Venetian Fortezza: Your first stop takes you to the imposing fortress, offering a commanding view of the city and sea. Although admission tickets are not included, the photo ops from the surrounding stations are priceless. Reviewers appreciated the “magical sense” of history here, with one noting it as a “special view of the hill where the castle is.” Be prepared to spend about 10 minutes for photos and a quick chat about its history.

Rimondi Fountain: Just a short stop, but a picturesque one. This fountain isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a local landmark with a “secret of magical water,” according to some visitors. Expect about 5 minutes here, perfect for snapshots.

Moschea Neratze: The city’s tallest minaret makes this mosque-turned-conservatory a striking sight. It’s free to admire from the outside, and many travelers find it fascinating to see such a religious building that also echoes the city’s diverse cultural influences. A quick 5-minute stop allows for appreciation and photos.

Rethymno Old Town: As you weave through the narrow streets and market squares, the charm of the old town becomes evident. Reviewers highlight the “beautiful mini streets” and bustling marketplace, which is “full of shops of every kind.” Spending about 7 minutes here gives you a taste of daily life and some great photo angles.

Old Venetian Harbour: The breeze here brings a sense of maritime history. Many guests enjoy capturing the harbor’s views, with the “Venetian air” adding a romantic touch. About 5 minutes is enough to soak in the scenery.

Four Martyrs Church: Another quick stop, but one that offers cultural insight with its religious architecture and a wonderful view. It’s free to explore and about 5 minutes to enjoy.

Paralia (Beachfront): The scenic coastline is a highlight, with many reviewers noting how relaxing it is to glide along the waterfront and take in the beach view. This 10-minute stop is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick photo session.

Guora Gate: This historic gateway marks the division between the old and new parts of town. Guests say it’s a “center of the town,” and it’s a quick 4-minute stop to marvel at its architecture.

Prefectural Directorate & Loggia Veneziana: These elegant buildings showcase Venetian architecture and are ideal for snapping some photos. Guests mention the Loggia as a “brilliant 16th-century building,” and a 3-5 minute stop allows for quick admiration.

Port Rethymno: The lively port area wraps up your tour, with visitors describing it as a “place to feel comfortable” and enjoy the scenic views. About 6 minutes here gives you time to relax before heading back.

Archaeological Museum & Unknown Soldier Square: Wrapping up with a glimpse of the city’s history and memorials, this short stop is about 3-5 minutes. Many reviewers enjoyed the visit and the nearby shopping street, Arkadiou.

Guides and Personalization: What Sets This Tour Apart?

Based on reviews, guides like Ioanna, Nanetta, and Nick excel at making the experience enjoyable. They are praised for their patience—especially with first-time Segway users—and their wealth of local knowledge. Guests appreciated the personalized touches, with one mentioning how their guide “showed us some wonderful areas” and tailored the trip to their interests.

Several reviews mention that the guides’ humor and approachable manner made the tour feel more like a friendly exploration than a formal lesson, which is especially important for those new to Segways. The inclusion of soft drinks during the tour adds a nice relaxing element, making the experience feel like a fun, casual outing.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Pricing at $77.02 per person might seem a little high, but when you consider the all-inclusion of a Segway, helmet, vest, and soft drinks, it offers decent value. Plus, the private aspect means no crowded groups, and the route can be customized to suit your interests, which many travelers loved.

The short duration makes it ideal for those with limited time or a packed schedule, and the flexibility of multiple start times helps fit it into your day. Since tickets to some sites like the fortress are not included, you might want to plan for additional visits or entrance fees if that interests you.

Accessibility and Group Size: The tour typically accommodates small groups or private parties, making for a relaxed, intimate experience. Reviewers with a range of ages, from 12 to 78, found it manageable—and fun.

The Sum Up

The Rethymno Old Town Guided Segway Tour offers a lively, efficient way to see the city’s highlights while learning about its history and culture. The combination of scenic stops, engaging guides, and the novelty of riding a Segway makes it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Rethymno without the physical strain of walking.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, those short on time, or anyone eager to explore with a dash of fun and humor. The personalized nature of the tour and the positive vibe from guides like Ioanna and Nick mean you’ll leave feeling both informed and entertained.

While the entry fees for certain sites are not included, the overall experience delivers a memorable, authentic glimpse into Rethymno’s past and present. Whether you’re seeking a quick overview or a unique adventure, this tour balances value, comfort, and a sprinkle of local charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for first-time Segway users?
Yes, many reviewers mentioned that guides are patient and provide clear instructions, making it accessible even for beginners.

How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time to see major sights without feeling rushed.

Are tickets to attractions like Fortezza Castel included?
No, admission tickets for sites like the fortress are not included in the tour price, so plan to purchase those separately if interested.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and shoes, plus sunscreen or a hat, are recommended. Helmets and reflective vests are provided.

Can I customize the route?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are happy to tailor the itinerary based on your interests or time constraints.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At around $77 per person, the price covers the Segway, guide, soft drinks, and safety gear. Many reviews say it’s a worthwhile investment for a comprehensive and fun overview of Rethymno.

This guided Segway tour in Rethymno balances fun, history, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to explore Crete’s charming old town with ease and a touch of adventure.