Heraklion:Day trip to Chania old Town,Kournas Lake& Rethymno

Traveling around Crete can feel a bit overwhelming with so many beautiful spots, but if you’re after a well-rounded day that hits some of the island’s most photogenic and culturally rich places, this tour offers a lot. It’s perfect if you want to see Chania’s Venetian charm, enjoy some peaceful time at Kournas Lake, and wander through Rethymno’s old town without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Two things we really appreciate about this trip: First, it’s a great way to see a bit of everything—history, stunning scenery, and local life—all in one day. Second, the price is pretty reasonable considering transportation and guided insights are included. That said, a possible downside is the long day’s travel time—up to 11 hours—so it’s not for anyone who prefers a more relaxed pace or traveling with very young kids who might tire easily.

This tour is a solid pick for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of western Crete’s highlights but don’t want the stress of organizing multiple trips or transportation themselves. If you’re okay with a full schedule and a busload of fellow travelers, it can make for a memorable, value-packed experience.

Key Points

• Inclusive transportation and guides make logistics simple, especially for first-timers.
• A well-rounded itinerary offers a taste of history, nature, and local culture.
• Time on your own in Chania and Rethymno allows for independent exploration and photos.
• Affordable price point makes it accessible for most budgets.
• Long day, so prepare for a full schedule.
• Scenic stops like Kournas Lake provide relaxing moments and beautiful views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Crete Day Tour

If you’re considering this tour, here’s what you can expect, broken down step by step. We’ll walk through each stop, sharing what makes it worth your while—and what you might want to keep in mind.

Starting Your Day: Pickup and Early Morale

The tour begins with hotel pickup from over 18 options, including popular spots like Heraklion, Malia, and Stalida. The convenience of hotel pickup is a big plus—no need to worry about finding your way to a meeting point, especially in a place like Crete where transportation options can sometimes be tricky. You’ll be driven in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, which is essential for comfort during long hours.

The pickup times vary, so it’s important to confirm your specific slot in advance. Expect to be on the bus for around 1.5 hours to reach your first major stop, so bringing snacks and water can help pass the time.

First Stop: Exploring Rethymno’s Old Town

Rethymno is the first major stop after a brief drive. This town is a charming hybrid of different cultures—think winding alleys, Ottoman minarets, and Venetian fortresses all in one place. You’ll get about 75 minutes here, enough to wander the streets, snap photos of the fortress, or sip a coffee at a local café.

From reviews, travelers seem to appreciate the mix of ancient and more recent sights. Some mention the Turkish minarets and Venetian architecture as highlights, offering a tangible glimpse into Crete’s layered past. Others find the time sufficient for a quick exploration or a relaxed stroll. If you’re someone who loves wandering, this stop offers a relaxed window into local life and history.

Journey to Chania: The Venetian Port and Old Town

Next, the bus takes you about 1.5 hours west to Chania, arguably the star of this tour. Once there, you’ll have around two hours to soak in the sights—plenty of time for a leisurely exploration.

Chania’s Old Town is famed for its Venetian harbor, colorful buildings, and lively market scenes. You can stroll along the waterfront, admire the famous Venetian Lighthouse, or duck into small shops and cafes. Many travelers mention the picturesque waterfront as a highlight, offering countless photo opportunities. If you’re craving a good meal or snack, the harbor area is dotted with tavernas serving fresh seafood and traditional Greek fare.

A trip highlight is the Old Port, where dockyards, fountains, arches, and mansions tell stories of the city’s historic importance. The town’s blend of civilizations—Venetian, Turkish, and Greek—creates a unique atmosphere that’s both charming and layered.

More Great Tours Nearby

Optional Activities and Free Time

While the guided tour suggests visiting the Agora or just relaxing at the harbor, you’ll have some freedom to wander or shop. Some travelers enjoy browsing arts and crafts markets or taking a moment to sit and watch the sunset over the harbor, which can be quite magical.

Midday at Kournas Lake: Nature and Relaxation

From Chania, it’s about 75 minutes by bus to your next highlight: Lake Kournas. This is the only freshwater lake on the island, and it’s a peaceful contrast to the bustling towns. The scenery here is lovely—lush greenery, steep hills, and the calm waters of the lake.

You’ll have about an hour and a half to enjoy this stop, which is enough time for a quick swim, a walk along the shoreline, or a simple photo session of the surrounding landscape. The lake is home to some interesting wildlife—two-color turtles, eels, moorhens—and the setting is ideal for a relaxing break.

Many find the lake’s tranquility a perfect way to recharge during the busy day. Just be aware, it’s a popular spot, so it might be busier during peak hours, but still worth the visit.

Returning to Rethymno and Final Exploration

After Kournas, the bus heads back east for about 75 minutes to Rethymno for a second visit, giving you an extra opportunity to explore or shop. If you missed something earlier, this is your chance to get a quick look at the Venetian fortress or stroll through the alleys once more.

Alternatively, you can simply relax at the old port and soak in the lively atmosphere. Many reviews mention how vibrant and scenic Rethymno’s harbor is, perfect for a late-afternoon coffee or some last-minute photos.

End of the Day: Return to Your Hotel

Finally, after about an hour’s drive, you’ll be back at your hotel. The full day’s schedule makes for a long but rewarding experience—covering a broad swath of Crete’s highlights in one go.

Practical Details and Value

At just over $36 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided experience in multiple languages, and comfortable transportation. You won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or booking separate tours—everything is organized for you.

While lunch isn’t included, the stops at towns and the harbor are perfect for grabbing some local food or snacks independently. The free time in each location gives you flexibility to tailor your visit, whether you want to explore history, take photos, or just relax with a coffee.

Ponder This

The long day is a consideration—up to 11 hours means you’ll be on the bus for significant stretches. If you’re not used to full-day tours or traveling with very young children, this might feel a bit packed. But if you’re eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning, it’s a solid option.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip suits travelers who want an efficient way to see Crete’s western highlights without the stress of organizing multiple trips. It’s perfect for those interested in a mix of history, scenery, and local culture, and who are comfortable with a full, busy schedule.

If you love snapping photos of charming towns, enjoy a blend of cultural sights and nature, or are on a tight schedule and want to maximize your sightseeing, this tour hits the mark. It’s less ideal if you prefer a slow-paced day or are traveling with very young children who might find the long hours challenging.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is included from many locations including Heraklion, Malia, Stalida, and more. You just need to provide your hotel details when booking.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, depending on traffic and timings, so be prepared for a full day.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in an air-conditioned bus, a professional multilingual guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off. Lunch isn’t included.

Can I explore on my own at each stop?
Yes, you’ll have free time at Chania and Rethymno to walk around, shop, or relax. The schedule is flexible enough for independent exploration.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak English, German, French, and Polish, with specific days dedicated to different languages.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed for children, families comfortable with long days and bus travel should find it manageable. Always check with the provider if you have special needs.

Do I need to pay extra for attractions?
No, entrance fees aren’t included, but most stops are mainly sightseeing and walking. If you choose to visit specific sites or shops, those are paid independently.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. If you plan to swim at Lake Kournas, bring your swimsuit and towel.

Is the price good for what I get?
Absolutely. For around $36, you get guided transport, multiple stops, and the chance to see some of Crete’s most beloved sights—making it a strong value for a full day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This Heraklion day trip to Chania, Kournas Lake, and Rethymno offers a balanced mix of cultural discovery, scenic beauty, and leisure. It’s especially suitable if you’re looking to tick off several must-see destinations without the fuss of organizing logistics yourself. The views, the history, and the relaxed lake setting make it a memorable way to spend a day in Crete, even if the schedule is tight.

While the long hours may not suit everyone, many travelers find the experience worth the effort, especially given the affordability and the chance to see some of the island’s most photogenic spots. It’s a good option whether you’re visiting for a short stay or want a rundown of western Crete in one go.

If you love exploring diverse sights in a single day and appreciate historical and natural beauty, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: