Rethymno Old Town Guided Segway Tour

Exploring Rethymno on a Guided Segway Tour: An Honest Look

If you’re thinking about getting a taste of Rethymno’s charm without spending all day walking, a private Segway tour might be just what you need. This particular experience offers a quick yet comprehensive way to see many of the city’s most notable sights in around three hours. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on plenty of glowing reviews and the thoughtful itinerary, it seems like a solid choice for first-time visitors eager for an overview—and for those who enjoy a bit of fun on wheels.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the flexibility of a private guide, which means you can customize your experience and spend more time on what interests you most. Plus, with a small group or just your own party, the attention from the guide is personal and friendly. That said, it’s worth noting that the cost, at around $77 per person, is a fair investment considering the number of sights covered and the ease of transportation.

One thing to keep in mind: since the tour is designed for a quick city overview, if you’re someone who prefers unpacking history at a slower pace, this may feel a bit rushed. Still, for a first encounter with Rethymno, it hits a good balance. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a lively, guided introduction and don’t mind a bit of adventure on a Segway. Families, couples, or solo explorers who like a mix of sightseeing and fun should find this experience appealing.

Key Points

• Fast, scenic overview of Rethymno perfect for first-timers or those on a tight schedule
• Private, customizable tour offers personal attention and flexibility
• Expert guides like Ioanna, Theo, and Nanetta receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness
• Multiple start times allow for easy planning within your day
• Stops at iconic landmarks like the Venetian Fortezza, old town streets, and the harbor, with photo opportunities
• Price offers good value considering the length, guides, and accessibility

Why Try the Rethymno Old Town Segway Tour?

This tour is an energetic way to see Rethymno’s highlights without tiring yourself out. We loved the convenience of zipping through historic streets and scenic spots instead of walking for hours. It’s a fantastic way to get a lay of the land, especially if your time in Crete is limited or if you’re traveling with a group who appreciates the novelty of riding a Segway.

The beauty of a private tour like this is the tailored experience. Unlike large group excursions, you’ll have your own guide focused solely on your party’s interests. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, patience, and ability to make everyone comfortable—even first-time Segway riders.

The cost is reasonable for what you get: around $77 per person, which covers the use of the Segway, safety gear, and some perks like a soft drink or coffee at the station. Keep in mind, admission tickets to certain sites like the Venetian Fortezza are not included, so you might want to budget a little extra if you plan to explore further.

The Itinerary in Detail

Let’s walk through what you can expect. The tour kicks off at Sofokli Venizelou, where the guide will give you a quick safety briefing and a brief practice session, which most people find helpful—even first-timers. Once ready, you’ll be off, zipping through some of the city’s most iconic sights.

The Venetian Fortezza

Your first stop is the Venetian Fortezza, which isn’t just a fortress but a symbol of Rethymno’s past. The guide may set up a photo station here, giving you a chance to snap pictures of the stunning hilltop castle and surrounding views. While entry isn’t included, the exterior alone is worth the visit. Many reviews mention the “magical sense” of history you get from this spot.

Rimondi Fountain

Next, you’ll glide over to the Rimondi Fountain, a popular photo spot. The fountain is renowned for its beauty, and the secret of its “magical water” might pique your curiosity. It’s a quick stop, but one that’s often highlighted for its picturesque appeal.

Moschea Neratze

A short ride brings you to the Neratze Mosque (today’s Conservatory). This site is notable for its towering minaret—an impressive piece of architecture that embodies the city’s multicultural past. The guide will share insights into its history, making the stop both visual and educational.

Rethymno Old Town & Market

Meandering through the narrow streets of Old Town is a highlight. You’ll see quaint alleyways, lively shops, and the bustling marketplace. Many reviewers appreciate how the Segway allows you to cover more ground while still soaking in the local vibe. It’s a lively spot full of shops and cafes, perfect for quick photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.

Old Venetian Harbour & Waterfront

Next, the tour takes you to the Venetian Harbour, where the sea breeze and scenic views make for excellent photo opportunities. The harbor’s charm is undeniable, with boats bobbing in the water and the old town framing the scene.

Cultural & Architectural Stops

Further stops include Four Martyrs Church, with its religious and cultural significance, and the Prefectural Directorate, both offering more insights into the city’s past and present. The Loggia Veneziana is a brief but beautiful glimpse into the city’s Venetian era, while the Port Rethymno area is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the seaside vibe.

Final Highlights

The tour wraps up near the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, with a quick look at the Catholic church of St. Francis, and then a charming square featuring the monument of the unknown soldier. The last stop on the itinerary is the shopping street Arkadiou, a lively area to explore or grab a bite before ending the tour back at the starting point.

What It Feels Like to Ride a Segway in Rethymno

Most reviewers agree that even beginners have no trouble mastering the Segway after a brief practice. As one guest said, “Despite being a bit scared at first, we really mastered the Segway quickly,” thanks to the helpful guides and simple instructions.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy the breeze and the smooth ride, which makes exploring both the busy streets and scenic waterfronts enjoyable. The guides are praised for their patience and sense of humor, making the experience relaxing and fun rather than nerve-wracking.

Many travelers mention that the Segway is an excellent way to see the city efficiently, especially because walking might limit how much ground you can cover in a limited time. Plus, the inclusion of soft drinks or coffee at a station adds a little extra touch of hospitality.

Authentic Experiences & Feedback from Travelers

Guests often highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness—many mention specific guides like Ioanna, Theo, Nanetta, and Nick as the highlights of their trip. Their enthusiasm and ability to personalize the experience shine through in reviews.

One guest shared, “Our guide Nick was very helpful and kind, showing us hidden lanes and the best spots for photos, especially during sunset,” emphasizing how the tour offers more than just a sightseeing route but a personal touch.

Another noted, “This was our high point in Crete. The staff was fabulous, making us feel comfortable and showing us the city’s best-kept secrets,” underscoring how the tour can reveal parts of Rethymno you might not discover on your own.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Rethymno Segway tour is a fun, efficient way to get a snapshot of the city’s character. It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided experience with a bit of adventure, without the physical toll of extensive walking or the expense of private vehicle rentals. If you’re curious about the city’s landmarks and enjoy meeting friendly guides, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding.

While it might not cater to those seeking in-depth historical lessons or large group activities, its personal approach and scenic stops make it appealing for most visitors. Keep in mind the cost covers only the essentials—entry fees to certain sites aren’t included—so plan accordingly.

If you enjoy a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and a bit of excitement on two wheels, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors wanting a quick orientation, families with older kids who can balance on a Segway, or anyone who appreciates a lively, friendly atmosphere with a dash of sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers find the Segway easy to learn with a brief practice session. The guides are patient and helpful, making it accessible for first-timers.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, covering many key points of Rethymno’s old town and scenic spots.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the use of the Segway, a helmet, reflective vest, and a soft drink or coffee at the station.

Are tickets to the sites included?
No, tickets for entries such as the Fortezza castle are not included, so you might need some extra cash if you plan to visit those.

Can I choose a start time?
Yes, multiple start times are available, offering flexibility to fit into your travel plans.

Is the tour private?
Absolutely, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a tailored experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In the end, this guided Segway tour of Rethymno offers a lively, efficient, and personal way to see the city’s highlights. Perfect for those short on time but eager to get a good sense of the place, it combines fun, history, and scenic views into one neat package. If you enjoy guided adventures and don’t mind a small group or private experience, it’s worth considering for your trip to Crete.