Rethymno is a gem on Crete, combining Venetian architecture, a lively old town, and nearby natural beauty. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your days wandering ancient alleys, sampling local cuisine, or exploring historic sites—often all in one afternoon. And the good news? Rethymno’s location makes it a perfect hub for day trips and guided tours that reveal both its rich past and stunning surroundings. We especially love that some tours, like the Day Trip to Knossos Palace & Heraklion, let you combine archaeological exploration with city strolling, giving you a well-rounded experience. Meanwhile, a Chania City Day Trip offers a chance to admire a picturesque Venetian harbor—perfect for sunset photos. For those wanting a more active exploration, the E-Bike Tour on the Old City provides a fun way to see hidden corners of Rethymno without breaking a sweat.
In this article, we’ve gathered the top-ranked tours that showcase Rethymno’s diverse appeal. From immersive archaeological visits to scenic lakeside excursions and private city explorations, these options balance history, culture, and natural beauty, helping you pick the perfect itinerary.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, highlighting what makes them unique, the experiences they include, and who they’re best suited for.
1. From Rethymnon: Day Trip to Knossos Palace & Heraklion City
This popular full-day excursion is a fantastic way to explore Crete’s most celebrated archaeological site—Knossos Palace—and the bustling capital, Heraklion. For just $26 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Crete’s largest city. The tour kicks off with a comfortable coach ride from Rethymno, taking roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the ancient Minoan site. Once there, you’re free to wander the Knossos ruins, while the guide shares tales of its history and significance.
After exploring the palace, the tour continues to Heraklion Archaeological Museum, where the collection of Minoan artifacts offers a deeper understanding of this ancient civilization. The museum visit is optional but highly recommended for history enthusiasts. Following this, your tour gives you three hours of free time in Heraklion—perfect for sampling local snacks, browsing shops, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere. The return trip includes stops at eight pickup and drop-off locations, making it highly convenient.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of guided storytelling and free exploration, plus the inclusion of a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. It appeals especially to those keen on archaeology and history but who also want time to wander independently.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history lovers and first-time visitors wanting a full introduction to Crete’s ancient roots and vibrant city life.
2. From Rethymno: Chania City Day Trip
If you’re after picture-perfect scenery and charming streets, the Chania City Day Trip is a standout. With a near-perfect rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 59 reviews, this trip offers about 7 hours exploring Chania’s highlights, including its renowned Venetian harbor. The trip is led by a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories about Chania’s fascinating history and architecture.
You’ll visit the iconic Venetian lighthouse and stroll through the colorful alleys of the old town, soaking in the lively cafés and artisan shops. The guide’s explanations are offered in multiple languages, making it easy for everyone to follow along. The tour’s timing is flexible enough to allow for ample photo opportunities and a relaxed lunch at a scenic waterfront tavern.
What makes this trip special is its focus on photography and local ambiance. Guests often comment on the stunning views and the ease of wandering the picturesque streets. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience a quintessential Crete town without the hassle of organizing transport or guided commentary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for lovers of stunning scenery, relaxed exploration, and authentic local atmosphere. It’s a well-balanced tour that captures Chania’s charm.
3. Rethymno: E-Bike Tour on the Old City
For those who enjoy active sightseeing, the E-Bike Tour on the Old City offers a fresh way to see Rethymno’s winding streets and hidden corners. This 2.5-hour excursion costs around $45 per person and includes all necessary equipment, making it accessible even for beginners. The tour starts at Sofokli Venizelou 4, where your guide introduces you to the route.
During the ride, you’ll pass through traditional streets and uncover local secrets that might be missed on foot. The guide shares insights into Rethymno’s architecture and culture, while the pace allows for stops and photos. This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with some physical activity—no strenuous mountain climbs, just a comfortable cruise through history and neighborhoods.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to see parts of the city that are less crowded. The small group size means you’ll get tips tailored to your interests. The tour also emphasizes safety, with guides providing clear instructions and support.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers or those wanting a more intimate, hands-on experience of Rethymno’s old town.
4. Chania Areas: Day Trip to Arkadi – Margarites & Rethymno City
This comprehensive 10-hour tour covers a lot of ground, perfect for those eager to see historic, cultural, and scenic highlights. The trip begins with a visit to the Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resilience and one of the island’s most significant Venetian-era landmarks. From there, you’ll head to the pottery village of Margarites, renowned for its artisan ceramics and traditional architecture.
The tour provides four hours of free time in Rethymno’s charming old town, where you can wander cobblestone streets, explore the Fortezza Fortress, or relax at nearby palm beaches. The itinerary balances guided visits with ample free time, giving you flexibility. For swimming or just soaking up the sun, the beaches close to Rethymno offer a refreshing break.
This trip is suited for travelers interested in history, craftsmanship, and coastal scenery. The included visits to Arkadi and Margarites add depth to your understanding of Crete’s diverse cultural influences. The long day is well-paced, though some may find the 50-minute drive between sites a bit tiring.
Bottom Line: A rich, varied day that combines culture, history, and leisure—great for active, curious travelers.
5. From Rethymno: Private 4 or 5 Hour Trip to Chania City
If you prefer a personalized experience, the Private Trip to Chania is tailored just for you. For around $282, up to four people can enjoy a 4- to 5-hour custom tour, designed around your specific interests. The highlight: a private Mercedes minivan and a professional driver, ensuring comfort and flexibility.
This tour is perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking an intimate look at Chania’s historic neighborhoods, museums, and the Venetian Port. The guide can customize the route, focusing on art, architecture, or culinary spots, depending on your preferences. Plus, you have the chance to relax and enjoy a Greek coffee or a meal during the day.
What sets this apart is its flexibility. You can decide on the pace, places to linger, and skip anything you’re not interested in. However, it’s less suitable if you want a structured, guided experience with fixed stops. This is best for travelers who value privacy and tailored itineraries.
Bottom Line: A top choice for couples or small groups wanting a customized, relaxed visit to Chania.
6. Rethymno City & Kournas Lake Tour from Chania
For a full day filled with history, lakeside nature, and scenic views, this tour is a solid pick. Starting from Chania, it combines a walk through Rethymno’s streets—featuring the Fortezza Fortress and its bustling harbor—with a relaxing stop at Lake Kournas, Crete’s only natural freshwater lake.
The day begins with a visit to Rethymno, where you get about three hours to explore on your own, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy snacks. Then, you’ll head to Lake Kournas for two hours of lakeside leisure—swimming, renting a pedal boat, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The return drive is about 2 hours, making it a manageable day trip.
Ideal for families and outdoor lovers, the combo of urban exploration and natural beauty provides variety. The tour’s flexibility and the opportunity to relax at the lake make it a well-rounded day. Be aware that this tour involves some walking and the option to swim, so it’s best suited for active travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a mix of culture and outdoor leisure in one day.
7. Rethymno City: Open Market (From Rethymno Bali and Panormo)
If experiencing local market life and authentic flavors appeals to you, this 5-hour tour delivers. Starting from Bali and Panormo, the tour includes a visit to Rethymno’s vibrant open market, where you can browse stalls full of fresh produce, spices, and handmade souvenirs.
You’ll have about 3.5 hours of free time in Rethymno’s lively old town, perfect for wandering at your own pace, trying Cretan delicacies, or shopping for unique crafts. The tour’s focus on shopping and cultural exploration makes it ideal for foodies and those wanting a taste of local life.
The tour also includes scenic drives along the coast, giving you glimpses of Rethymno’s historic and modern sides. The shorter duration and emphasis on market experience make it a flexible option for travelers short on time but wanting a genuine taste of Crete.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious shoppers and those eager to enjoy local markets and culture.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting the best Rethymno city tour, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re passionate about archaeology, the Knossos & Heraklion offers a comprehensive, well-organized day. For scenic photography and leisurely strolling, the Chania Day Trip is hard to beat.
Active travelers may prefer the E-Bike Tour, while those seeking a personalized experience should look at the Private Chania trip. For a blend of history and natural scenery, the Rethymno & Kournas Lake Tour is ideal. If you want to dive into local markets, the Open Market tour offers an authentic taste of Crete’s daily life.
Practical tips: book early for popular tours like Chania, especially in high season. Consider your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to dedicate to each experience. Many tours include hotel pickup, but it’s worth confirming.
Final Thoughts
Rethymno offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you want to walk in ancient footsteps at Knossos, capture sunset views in Chania, cycle through historic streets, or relax by lakeside, there’s a tour to match. We recommend booking well in advance during peak months to secure your preferred time slot and ensure a smooth trip.
For history lovers, the combination of archaeological sites and old town strolls makes for a fulfilling visit. Active explorers will enjoy biking or scenic lakeside retreats, while those craving culture can’t go wrong with market visits or private tours. Whichever you choose, Rethymno’s diverse tours promise memorable experiences—so pick one that aligns with your interests, and enjoy all that Crete has to offer.
