Rethymno & Gems of Central-West Crete (Private Tour)

If you’re thinking about a day out in Crete that lets you pick what you see, this private tour covering Rethymno’s old town plus your choice of local sights might just be what you’re after. It’s designed to give you the freedom to craft your perfect day—whether you’re into history, nature, beaches, or food—while traveling comfortably in a sleek Mercedes minivan.

What we really like about this experience is how flexible it is. You tell the driver what interests you most, and they help shape your itinerary. Plus, the idea of combining the charm of Rethymno with other handpicked spots sounds like a good way to make the most of your limited time on the island. But, on the flip side, keep in mind that this isn’t a guided tour with a professional guide, so if you want in-depth historical commentary or expert insights, you’ll need to organize that separately.

Overall, if you’re comfortable with a self-directed adventure and want to avoid the usual cookie-cutter tours, this private experience could be a standout choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who value convenience, control, and a personalized touch.

This experience made our article of 7 Fantastic Tours In Preveli.

Key Points

• Customization: You choose the destinations, making each trip unique.
• Comfort: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes minivan.
• Flexibility: Decide on the go where to go next during the day.
• Value: Private group up to 8 people at $709 offers personalized attention.
• No guided tour included: You’ll need to arrange a guide if desired.
• Includes essentials: Bottled water, WiFi, and insurance are covered.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Might Catch Your Eye

This experience is all about personalization. Instead of following a fixed itinerary, you’re the one steering the day, choosing from a wide range of spots—from historical sites like Arkadi Monastery to natural wonders like Lake Kournas or beaches like Preveli. If you’re someone who prefers a tailored trip that aligns with your interests, this format is pretty appealing.

The transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes Mini Van is another plus. It signals a smooth, stress-free ride—especially important in Crete’s sometimes unpredictable heat and busy roads. Plus, with WiFi on board and unlimited bottled water, you stay refreshed and connected, making the journey more enjoyable.

On the downside, keep in mind that the tour does not include attraction tickets or a guide. If you want detailed historical insights, you’ll need to book a guide separately, which can add to your costs and planning. Also, at 7 hours, it’s a full day but not overly long, so it suits those who want a quality experience without feeling exhausted.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate independence and flexibility—whether you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or even a family comfortable with a self-guided adventure. If you prefer fixed group tours with strict schedules, this might not be your best fit.

Starting Point: Rethymno’s Old Town

Your adventure kicks off in Rethymno, a city that marries Venetian elegance with Ottoman charm. Walking through its labyrinth of narrow streets, you’ll notice the colorful doorways, detailed balconies, and buildings that seem to whisper stories of times gone by. The Fortezza Fortress is a must-see, offering sweeping panoramic views over the city and harbor, and a peek into Crete’s layered past.

Many reviews highlight how special it is to wander freely through the old town’s maze-like streets. One traveler mentioned, “The old town is like stepping into a living postcard—every corner has a new surprise.” You can explore at your own pace, stopping for coffee or shopping, and soaking in the atmosphere.

Pick Your Own Destinations

What sets this tour apart is the ability to incorporate places beyond Rethymno, based on your preferences. Here are some options and what they bring:

History & Peace: Arkadi Monastery

A symbol of resilience, this monastery is humble but powerful. You might find it’s a quiet spot to contemplate history and spirituality. It’s known for its role in Cretan resistance, and many visitors feel an emotional connection here.

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Adventure: Melidoni Cave

For those craving a bit of thrill, this cave offers natural chambers and legends. Some reviews say it’s an immersive experience, with the cave’s natural formations adding to its mystique.

Nature & Food: Argyroupoli Springs

This peaceful oasis is perfect for relaxing and sampling authentic Cretan cuisine. The waterfalls and traditional dishes like antikristo lamb or fresh trout make it a delicious stop.

Wildlife & Scenery: Lake Kournas

Spotting turtles and birds, this lake provides a calm setting for pedal boating or just soaking in the scenery. It’s an ideal break if you want some nature and tranquility.

Thrill & Adventure: Kourtaliotiko Gorge

For the more adventurous, a short hike and a dip in the icy waters of the gorge waterfall can be exhilarating. The scenery is stunning and makes for memorable photos.

Village Charm: Margarites & Spili

These villages showcase local crafts and warm hospitality. Margarites is known for its pottery, while Spili offers a picturesque setting with a lively town square and a traditional coffee experience.

Beach Vibes: Kalypso or Preveli Beach

Depending on your mood, you might want to unwind on peaceful Kalypso Beach with its turquoise waters and cliffs, or indulge in the tropical beauty of Preveli, with palm trees and natural pools.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $709 for a group of up to 8, you get private transportation in a luxury minivan, unlimited bottled water, WiFi, and liability insurance—pretty good value considering the flexibility. Plus, your driver is an English speaker, which helps with questions and suggestions.

However, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan where you’ll eat. Entrance fees to sites aren’t covered either, so if you’re keen on visiting specific attractions like Arkadi Monastery, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

You can also extend the tour at a rate of $55 per additional hour if you find yourself wanting to linger longer at certain spots.

The Practicalities

Pickup is included from your accommodation in Preveli, simplifying logistics. The tour starts from 7 hours, but you can extend it if you want more time to explore or relax. Remember to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a towel if you plan on swimming or relaxing outdoors.

Since the tour is private, it’s suitable for small groups looking for a personalized experience. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a flexible itinerary, this setup works well—though families with very young children should consider whether they’re comfortable with the active, outdoor stops.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews praise the stunning views and delicious food—an indication of how well this tour can satisfy both the visual and culinary senses. A reviewer shared, “The stops were perfect, and the food at Argyroupoli was incredible—fresh, local, and plentiful.” Others appreciated the ability to personalize the day, with one pointing out, “We loved being able to choose what to see and do, instead of sticking to a rigid schedule.”

Some noted that since the tour is self-guided, having a bit of knowledge or doing some research beforehand enhances the experience. If you’re not into planning every detail yourself, hiring a guide might be a worthwhile extra.

This private experience is ideal if you value control over your day, want to avoid crowds, and are comfortable organizing your sightseeing. It’s a good fit for those who want to combine sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavors at their own pace. If you’re traveling with a small group or family and prefer a more exclusive, tailored outing, this setup offers great flexibility.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a guided commentary or a fixed schedule, you might want to look elsewhere or add a guide to this experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for you to choose your preferred destinations before or during the day, so you can tailor it to your interests.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation in a premium minivan, unlimited bottled water, WiFi, liability insurance, and pickup from your Preveli accommodation.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, tickets for attractions like Arkadi Monastery or Melidoni Cave are not included, so plan to buy them separately if you wish to visit those sites.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s suitable for small groups and those comfortable with outdoor stops and walking. Families with very young children should consider the pace and nature of the stops.

Can I extend the tour?
Yes, at $55 per hour, you can add extra time if you want to explore certain spots more leisurely.

How long does the tour last?
The standard experience is 7 hours, but you can extend it if desired.

Do I need to bring anything?
Sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, and a towel are recommended, especially if you plan on swimming or spending time outdoors.

Is a guide available?
You can organize a professional licensed guide in your language by contacting the provider in advance; additional costs may apply.

If you’re after a personalized, flexible day exploring Crete, this private tour ticks many boxes. It combines the charm of Rethymno’s old town with the freedom to visit other sites that match your mood—whether that’s historical, natural, or simply relaxing by the water. The comfort of private transport, modern amenities, and the ability to craft your own itinerary make it stand out from more rigid group tours.

While it’s not a guided tour with expert commentary, it offers a level of personalization that appeals to savvy travelers who enjoy shaping their own adventures. The price tag is reasonable for the level of exclusivity and flexibility, and the reviews suggest many find it well worth the cost.

This experience suits curious explorers who want to make the most of their day in Crete on their own terms, with a touch of comfort and convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here: