Preveli Beach and Rethymno Old Town Tour

Exploring Crete: A Day at Preveli Beach and Rethymno Old Town

If you’re thinking about a day trip in Crete that combines natural beauty, history, and relaxing beach time, this tour to Preveli Beach and Rethymno Old Town might catch your eye. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it offers a taste of the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural charm, all within a roughly 9 to 10-hour window.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances different sides of Crete — from the stunning Kourtaliotiko Gorge to the tranquil Preveli Palm Forest and the lively, history-filled streets of Rethymno’s old town. Plus, the boat trip from Damnoni Beach to Preveli Beach is a highlight, adding a bit of adventure to the day. Still, it’s worth noting that the overall rating is around 3 out of 5, mainly due to some logistical hiccups and the long bus rides.

This tour is well-suited for those who love nature, scenic drives, and exploring local towns. If you’re after a laid-back day with a variety of sights, it could be a good fit. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less bus-heavy experience, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for some travel fatigue.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Diverse itinerary offers a mix of natural landscapes, beaches, and historic streets.
• Boat trip to Preveli adds a fun, unique element to the day.
• Long bus rides might be tiring but are part of the scenic journey.
• Free time at beaches and old town allows for personal exploration and relaxation.
• Excellent views and photo opportunities throughout the route.
• Some reviews mention logistical issues such as pick-up delays and bus size concerns.

The Journey Begins: Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Our adventure kicks off with a stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge, a place that immediately impresses with its steep cliffs and lush greenery. This spot is perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the scale of Crete’s rugged terrain. It’s a brief stop — just 30 minutes — but enough for a quick walk and to appreciate nature’s artistry.

A few travelers have noted the natural beauty here, calling out the unique rock formations and the overall peaceful vibe. It’s an ideal start for those who love outdoor scenery. However, keep in mind that this is a free stop with no entrance fee, so don’t expect any guided tours here, just a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Relaxing at Damnoni Beach

Next is Damnoni Beach, which offers a peaceful break from the bus. Surrounded by cliffs and hills, this is a place where you can truly unwind. With around two hours allocated, you’ll have enough time to dip your toes in the water, soak up the sun, and maybe grab a snack or drink at a nearby café.

The reviews highlight its natural, untouched beauty — a great spot for those seeking tranquility. The setting is rugged but inviting, making it a perfect backdrop for some laid-back beach time. Remember, there are no entrance fees here either, so bring your own towel and essentials. Just prepare for the possibility that it can get busy, especially during peak season.

The Highlight: Preveli Palm Forest

From Damnoni, the tour moves to Preveli Beach, famed for its palm forest and the river that runs into the sea. This part of the tour is truly a visual treat. The palm grove, with Phoenix theophrasti trees, creates a lush, tropical feeling that’s not so common in the Mediterranean. It’s a striking contrast to the rocky gorges and rugged coastlines you’ve seen so far.

The walk to the beach might be short, but it’s enough to enjoy the scenery and take photos. The boat trip from Damnoni to Preveli is a highlight — a fun way to experience the landscape from a different perspective. It’s a relaxing ride that adds a sense of adventure to your day.

You’ll have about two hours here, giving enough time to explore the palm forest, swim in the clear waters, and have lunch at one of the traditional taverns nearby. The combination of turquoise waters and green palms offers a kind of tropical vibe that’s quite special for Crete.

Exploring Rethymno Old Town

Later in the afternoon, the tour guides you into Rethymno’s Old Town, a place full of charm and character. Narrow streets, Venetian architecture, decorative facades, and lively cafes make this an enjoyable place for a stroll. It’s a chance to soak in the atmosphere, browse local shops, or just wander and soak up the historic vibe.

With around an hour and a half allocated, it’s enough time to see the main sights and maybe grab a coffee or ice cream. Some reviews praise the beauty of the streets and buildings, describing the area as a “charming and well-preserved historic district.” It’s a lovely way to end the day, especially if you’re interested in history and architecture.

Transport and Logistics

One thing that stands out in reviews is the length of the bus rides. The journey to and from the different sites can be quite long — up to two hours each way — especially because pick-up points are spread across the wider Heraklion area. Some travelers found that the buses were larger and the routes were extensive, leading to a bit of fatigue, as one reviewer pointed out, “the 2-hour bus ride each way was ridiculous,” but also appreciated the driver’s skill in navigating the tricky roads.

The fact that pickup is offered from multiple locations is a plus, making it more convenient than arranging everything yourself. However, keep in mind that if you don’t provide your pickup details 24 hours in advance, you might risk missing the ride.

What’s the Cost Worth?

At around $71.84 per person, this tour is a decent value considering the variety of sites, the boat trip, and the guided commentary. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but if you’re looking for a comprehensive day that covers nature, beaches, and a historic town, it offers a lot in one package. The free time at each stop is a plus, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

While many travelers enjoy the stunning views, pleasant boat ride, and the charm of Rethymno, some have expressed frustrations. The main concern seems to be the long bus ride and logistical issues with pick-up arrangements. One review mentioned, “the driver did an amazing job of negotiating the curvy roads,” which is reassuring, but it’s something to consider if you’re prone to seasickness or long rides.

Another review noted that the buffet-style meal was typical but nothing special, which might be a letdown if you’re expecting a gourmet experience. Still, for many, the scenic stops and opportunity to relax at beautiful beaches outweigh this.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love scenery, photo opportunities, and variety, this tour checks many boxes. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see multiple facets of Crete on one day without the hassle of planning multiple trips. Nature lovers will appreciate the gorge, beaches, and palm forest, while history buffs get a taste of Rethymno’s old streets.

However, if the idea of sitting on a bus for hours isn’t appealing, or if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less structured experience, you might want to explore other options. This tour’s pace and structure suit those who enjoy a busy day with a mix of activities.

Final Thoughts

This Preveli Beach and Rethymno Old Town tour offers a solid way to see some of Crete’s most picturesque and culturally rich sites. It’s a good pick if you’re after a full day of scenic views, a boat ride, and strolling historic streets. The experience is enhanced by the natural beauty of the gorge, the peacefulness of Damnoni, and the tropical feel of Preveli’s palms.

While the long bus rides and logistical issues are worth considering, many travelers find the day worthwhile — especially if they’re prepared for a full schedule. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a bit of travel time in exchange for a comprehensive glimpse of what makes Crete special.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from several locations, and you’ll be contacted after booking to arrange your exact pickup point.

How long are the bus rides?
The bus rides can be up to 2 hours each way, which some travelers find tiring but are part of the scenic journey.

What should I bring for the beach stops?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and some snacks or drinks if you like. There are no entrance fees at the beaches, but facilities are basic.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, each location includes free time: about 30 minutes at Kourtaliotiko Gorge, 2 hours at Damnoni Beach, 2 hours at Preveli, and 1 hour 30 minutes in Rethymno Old Town.

Are meals included?
The tour mentions a buffet-style meal, but reviews suggest it’s typical and not gourmet. You might want to bring some snacks or plan to buy food at the beach or town.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The experience is generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the long bus rides and walking involved, which might be tiring for very young children.

What is the overall value of this tour?
Considering the variety of sites, boat trip, and guidance, it offers good value for those wanting a packed day. However, the long transportation times may reduce your overall enjoyment.

What is the weather requirement?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re looking for a day in Crete that showcases the island’s scenic diversity and historic charm — with a splash of adventure — this tour could be just what you need. Just be prepared for some travel time, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of photos and memories.