Full day tour to Arkadi-Margarites-Melidoni Cave-Axos

If you’re visiting Rethymnon and looking to get a genuine taste of Crete’s inland charm, this full-day tour promises a mix of history, local craftsmanship, and scenic views. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it’s a solid option for those wanting a taste of traditional Crete beyond the beaches.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines cultural heritage with authentic local experiences. Visiting the iconic Arkadi Monastery gives you a sense of resilience and history, while the pottery workshop in Margarites offers a hands-on craft experience. Plus, the chance to explore Melidoni Cave and taste fresh cheese in Axos adds to the sense of discovery.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost, which is around $47.89 per person, not including entrance fees. For a full day of sightseeing with snacks and transportation included, it’s reasonable, but some might find the extra costs for entry a bit of a surprise. The tour’s pace is quite full, so if you prefer a laid-back day or want to explore at your own tempo, this might not be ideal.

This tour will suit travelers who enjoy cultural insights, scenic drives, and local food, especially those curious about traditional crafts and historic sites. Families with older children often find it engaging, but younger kids should be prepared for a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete experience with visits to key villages and historic sites
• Hands-on activities like pottery making in Margarites
• Scenic drives through the Rethymnon mountains with impressive views
• Cultural and historical insights at Arkadi Monastery and Melidoni Cave
• Local culinary experiences in Axos, including cheese tasting
• Cost includes snacks and transport, but entrance fees are extra

The Itinerary in Detail

Monastery of Arkadi: A Symbol of Resilience

Your day begins early with pickup from your hotel in Rethymnon, setting the tone for a meaningful exploration of Crete’s past. The Arkadi Monastery is the highlight here. Known for its role in resisting Ottoman rule, it’s more than just a religious site—it’s a symbol of Cretan resistance and independence. As you walk through the grounds, you’ll see the historic buildings and learn about their significance. The guide’s commentary (if you get a knowledgeable one, as some reviews suggest) can really bring this place alive.

A quick note: entrance fees aren’t included, so plan for a small extra if you want to explore inside thoroughly. But even from the outside, the atmosphere is powerful.

Scenic Drive to Archea Eleftherna

Next, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Eleutherna, a small village with a view worth pausing for. The short stop here isn’t about extensive sightseeing but taking in the landscape—rolling hills, olive groves, and mountains. It’s a nice breather amid a busy day, giving you a chance to stretch and digest the morning’s history.

Margarites: Pottery and Local Art

Margarites is a real highlight for many. This hilltop village is famous for its traditional pottery. Here you can see artisans at work, demonstrating their craft, which has been passed down through generations. The tour offers a chance to get hands-on and create your own ceramic piece—an authentic souvenir of your trip.

We loved the way this stop combines history, craftsmanship, and a chance to connect with local artisans. One reviewer called it a “demonstration” with a personal touch, which adds value to the experience. Expect about 1.5 hours here, plenty of time to watch, learn, and maybe even try your hand at shaping clay.

Melidoni Cave: A Natural Wonder and Historic Site

After Margarites, the journey continues to Melidoni Cave, also called Gerodospilios. If you’re into geology or natural formations, you’ll find stalactites and stalagmites fascinating. The cave’s location at 220 meters altitude means you’ll get a bit of a walk and some cool interior views.

The cave isn’t just a natural marvel—it’s also historically significant as a place of worship for ancient Greeks and later, for its role in local history. Keep in mind that entrance fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly.

Axos Village: Cheese Making and Local Flavors

The last stop takes you to Axos, a mountain village where the tour truly shines for food lovers. Here, you can observe how fresh cheese is produced, and if you’re lucky, even participate in the process. It’s a genuine chance to see local food production up close, not just a quick taste.

The highlight for many here is the meal—local cheeses, possibly some tapas, and the chance to chat with villagers. One review specifically praised the “delicious” lunch and the “wonderful” wine, making this a satisfying end to your adventure.

The Practicalities

This tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Group sizes are capped at 50, which is pretty standard and usually manageable for a more personal experience. The pickup service adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in Rethymnon.

While the tour includes snacks and transfers, remember that entrance fees aren’t included—so budget for those if you want full access. The cost of $47.89 per person is fair given the length and scope, but always factor in extra for admissions and optional activities.

The tour runs most days, and you can book about 12 days in advance on average. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, which adds some peace of mind if your plans are flexible.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers tend to praise the knowledgeable guide and the authentic experiences, especially the pottery demonstration and the food. One reviewer said, “Such a knowledgeable tour guide. Truly covered some of the best of Crete history and traditional gems,” which suggests that the guiding quality can make a big difference.

Others appreciated the scenic drive and the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path villages. The popularity of Margarites for its craft demonstration and Axos for its cheese is clear—these are the parts that resonate most.

A minor downside mentioned is that some entrance fees are extra, which could be a surprise if you’re expecting everything to be included. The full schedule is packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed day or shorter visits, you might find it a little rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers interested in history, craftsmanship, natural beauty, and local food. It offers a broad look at inland Crete’s cultural landscape, making it ideal for those wanting more than just beach time.

It’s also good for those who enjoy guided tours that combine storytelling with hands-on activities, like pottery-making. Families with older children will find it engaging, but younger kids should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded cultural day that mixes history, local artisans, natural caves, and mountain scenery, this Crete tour offers a lot for a reasonable price. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to give you a sense of the local way of life and historic resilience.

While it’s not perfect—some entrance fees aren’t included, and the pace is busy—the experience provides meaningful insights and memorable moments. The guides’ knowledge and the authentic stops like Margarites and Axos stand out as real highlights.

This tour is best for travelers who want a meaningful inland adventure rather than just sightseeing, and who are comfortable with a structured day that hits multiple highlights. If you love discovering hidden gems, tasting local foods, and learning from local artisans, this could be a great fit.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the tour price? No, the price does not include entrance fees for sites like Arkadi Monastery and Melidoni Cave.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s most suitable for travelers who are okay with a full day of sightseeing. Children interested in history and crafts will enjoy it, but very young kids might find it too busy.

How long is the tour? Approximately 9 hours, including transportation and visits.

What’s included in the tour? Snacks and air-conditioned transportation are included. Entrance fees are extra.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, up to 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund.

Is pickup offered? Yes, pickup from your hotel in Rethymnon is included.

What are the highlights? Visiting Arkadi Monastery, participating in pottery in Margarites, exploring Melidoni Cave, and cheese tasting in Axos.

Will I get free time at any stops? The stops are scheduled for specific durations, giving you time to explore and enjoy each site.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, the group size is capped at 50, so it’s manageable for solo travelers wanting a guided experience.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, water, and maybe some cash for extra entrance fees or souvenirs.

If you’re looking to see some of Crete’s traditional side in a guided, organized day, this tour offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and local craftsmanship that’s worth considering. Keep your expectations balanced, but be ready for a day packed with interesting stops and authentic experiences.