Rethymno Old Town, Arkadi, Eleutherna, Margarites | Private

Planning a day out on Crete that balances history, culture, and a little bit of scenic beauty can be tricky. This private tour offers just that—eight hours of discovering some of the island’s most captivating spots, all tailored to suit your pace. From the vibrant streets of Rethymno’s Old Town to the timeless charm of Margarites pottery village, this experience aims to give you a well-rounded glimpse of Crete’s soul.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s customizable and private, which means you won’t be on a crowded bus. Second, the guides are highly praised—full of knowledge and warmth, making the day informative without feeling rushed. But, a small consideration is that you’ll need to be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with some walking involved. This experience suits travelers who want a hands-on, personalized look at Crete’s history and lifestyle, especially if you appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos.

Key Points

• Flexible, private experience tailored to your interests and schedule
• Expert local guides with glowing reviews for their warmth and knowledge
• Includes visits to iconic sites like Rethymno Old Town, Arkadi Monastery, and Margarites Village
• Focus on authentic culture—pottery workshops, local food tastings, scenic drives
• Cost-effective at $93 per person considering private transportation, guided insights, and activities
• Offers optional visits like the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna for deeper historical understanding

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Crete Tour

This tour is designed as a balanced exploration of Crete’s diverse attractions, blending lively towns, historic monasteries, and charming villages. It is perfect if you’re looking for a full, engaging day that touches on many aspects of the island’s identity but without the hassle of organizing multiple transport links or group tours.

Starting with Rethymno’s Old Town

Your day kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation or designated meeting points in areas like Heraklion, Hersonissos, or even Georgioupoli. From there, a comfortable private van whisks you to Rethymno, a city that feels like a living postcard. Its narrow alleys, Venetian architecture, and bustling harbor make it easy to see why many travelers fall for its charm.

Here, you’ll enjoy roughly 70 minutes of free time to wander, shop, or simply soak in the atmosphere. The highlight for most is the Fortezza of Rethymno, a fortress that offers sweeping views of the city and sea, and a chance to walk through history in a pretty setting. The Port of Rethymno adds a lively touch, with shops and cafes lining the waterfront—great for a quick stroll or coffee break.

Visiting Arkadi Monastery

Next, you’ll head to Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of resilience and faith in Crete’s history. Set amidst mountains, this site isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a place where history and emotion come together. You’ll spend about 50 minutes exploring the monastery, which played a pivotal role in the island’s resistance against Ottoman rule.

The reviews highlight that guides do a good job balancing storytelling and free time here. The site’s historic and spiritual significance makes it a meaningful stop, especially for those interested in the island’s past struggles and triumphs.

Scenic Drive and Margarites Village

The drive through the island’s scenic landscapes is a treat itself—olive groves, rolling hills, and traditional villages pass by, giving you a taste of rural Crete. After roughly 25 minutes, you arrive at Margarites, a village renowned for its pottery tradition. This is where you can really get a feel for local craftsmanship.

Margarites isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s a chance to see artisans at work and even try your hand at pottery in a workshop (included in the fee). You’ll also have time to explore arts and crafts markets, enjoy a meal or snack at a traditional taverna, and soak in the village’s relaxed vibe. The reviews praise the authenticity of Margarites, with one mentioning how they enjoyed watching artisans and visiting the arts & crafts market.

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Optional Visit to Eleutherna

The tour includes a drive through Ancient Eleutherna, an archaeological site rich in relics from different periods. While the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna is a wonderful addition, it’s closed on Tuesdays, so check your schedule accordingly. If open, it’s an excellent way to deepen your understanding of Cretan history, but even from the outside, the ruins offer a peek into the past.

End of the Day

The trip wraps up with a scenic drive back to your starting point, with a few more views along the way. You’ll be dropped off at one of the original pickup locations, leaving you with a full day of memorable sights and stories.

The Practicalities and Value

This private tour, costing $93 per person, includes everything from hotel pickup and drop-off to private transportation, a knowledgeable driver-guide, and some activities like the pottery workshop and local product tastings. The most significant value here is the personalized attention and flexibility—you won’t be on a packed bus, and your guide can tailor the experience a little based on your interests.

You’ll appreciate that the vehicle is described as “exceptionally clean and maintained” with amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and bottled water, making the day comfortable. The tour duration of about 8 hours means you’re getting a thorough exploration without rushing, though be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Considerations

A key point for travelers is that guides are not licensed to escort visitors inside archaeological sites—they provide background info from outside or during transit. If you want an in-depth, inside look at sites like Arkadi or Eleutherna, you might consider adding a licensed guide for an extra fee.

Also, note that some sites like the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna are optional and might be closed depending on the day, so plan accordingly.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially George, for their warm personalities and extensive knowledge. One mentions, “George’s knowledge, warm personality, and safe driving made the entire experience smooth and engaging.” Another highlights how the trip was “professionally run with great communication beforehand,” emphasizing the reliability of this experience.

Several reviewers also mention the stunning scenery and quality of food and wine—a testament to the leisurely, authentic feeling of the day. The pottery village, in particular, receives high marks for its charm and artisanal craft demonstrations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates a personalized, flexible experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty, this tour is a winner. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see a variety of sites in one day without the hassle of organizing transport, and who enjoy engaging guides with local insights.

While not specifically aimed at families, it’s generally suitable for most travelers who can handle a full day on their feet and enjoy a mix of walking and scenic drives. Those interested in Cretan crafts, local food, and historical sites will find plenty to love.

Final Thoughts

For anyone seeking an authentic, well-organized glimpse into Crete’s diverse character, this private tour offers an excellent value. The combination of lively towns, serene villages, and historic landmarks provides a well-rounded day that balances sightseeing with culture.

The experienced guides, comfortable transportation, and thoughtfully planned stops make this a compelling choice—especially if you prefer a more intimate, flexible experience over larger group excursions. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful day exploring the heart of Crete at their own pace.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it generally involves walking and scenic drives, so older children and teenagers who enjoy history and culture should be fine. Always consider your kids’ stamina for a full day of sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, your driver-guide can tailor certain aspects to your interests or needs, within the limits of the scheduled stops. It’s best to discuss your preferences beforehand.

Is there a lunch included?
Lunch is optional and not included in the tour price. However, there will be opportunities to try local food at Margarites or nearby tavernas, which you can decide on the spot.

Are entrance fees included?
Some sites, like Arkadi Monastery, have small entry fees ($4), which are paid separately. The Museum of Ancient Eleutherna’s entrance fee ($10) is optional and not included—check the schedule if you want to visit.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Bottled water is provided, but bringing extra snacks or small cash for souvenirs might be handy.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drives vary from about 20 to 70 minutes, depending on the segment. The scenic drives are an integral part of experiencing Crete’s landscape, so sit back and enjoy the views.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is described as wheelchair accessible, making it a suitable option for travelers with mobility needs.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to see some of Crete’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether you’re into history, crafts, or simply soaking up the local vibe, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day on the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: