Private Day Trip to Rethymno City and Argyroupoli Waterfalls

If you’re planning a trip to Crete and looking for a way to see some of the island’s best spots without the hassle of navigating yourself, this private day trip from Chania could be just what you need. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it seems like a pretty flexible and scenic way to experience two very different sides of Crete — the charming old town of Rethymno and the lush, refreshing waterfalls of Argyroupoli.

What we really like is that it’s a customizable experience with your own driver-guide, offering a relaxed pace and plenty of photo stops. Plus, the comfort of a private SUV makes the day more enjoyable, especially when you’re on the move for around 8 hours.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that this tour doesn’t include meals or entrance fees, so you’ll want to budget extra for food or any additional costs. Also, since it’s a private tour, the price might be on the higher side if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, but it could be good value for small groups wanting a personalized experience.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want to combine cultural exploration with natural beauty — ideal for those who enjoy a flexible itinerary and the comfort of private transportation.

Key Points

• Flexibility is key: The tour adapts to your interests, with the driver-guide tailoring stops.
• Comfortable transport: Traveling in a premium SUV makes long drives easier and more enjoyable.
• Cultural and natural highlights: Experience the essence of Rethymno’s old town and the refreshing waterfalls of Argyroupoli.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off: No need to worry about logistics in the Chania area.
• Cost considerations: Meals, entrance fees, and personal expenses are extra, so plan accordingly.
• Ideal for small groups or couples: The private format offers intimacy and personalized attention.

This private day trip offers a well-rounded look at some of Crete’s most appealing sights, balanced between historical charm and natural serenity. We’ll walk through what you can expect at each stop to help you decide if it suits your travel style.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Off: Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Chania or one of six other nearby locations like Kalyves or Georgioupoli. From there, you’ll hop into your private SUV, and the relaxed journey into the countryside starts. The drive itself is part of the pleasure — Cretan scenery rolling past, giving you a glimpse of local life beyond the tourist spots.

The driver-guide isn’t just a chauffeur but also a storyteller, sharing insights into Crete’s history and culture. You can expect a comfortable ride, bottled water at hand, and plenty of opportunities for photos along the way.

Exploring Rethymno’s Old Town

The highlight for many is the stop in Rethymno’s Old Town, a place where Venetian architecture, Ottoman influences, and lively alleyways come together. We love the idea of wandering narrow cobbled streets, checking out the artisan shops, and taking a break at a traditional cafe.

The Venetian harbor offers a scenic backdrop perfect for photos, and the Fortezza fortress provides a commanding view of the city and the sea. While some reviews mention the guided tour lasting about an hour, this is enough time to get a feel for the streets, enjoy a coffee, and maybe pick up a few souvenirs.

Travelers have noted the charming atmosphere of the old town and the chance to soak in local life away from larger tourist crowds. It’s a good spot for those who enjoy history and culture at a relaxed pace.

The Refreshing Beauty of Argyroupoli Waterfalls

After soaking in Rethymno’s vibe, you’ll head to Argyroupoli, a village famous for its lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. This part of the trip is all about nature’s refreshing side. It’s a peaceful oasis where you can walk along shaded paths, listen to the sound of water, and really unwind.

The waterfalls feed into natural springs, making this a cool, invigorating stop. The environment lends itself to casual strolling, and you’ll find plenty of spots for photos or just to enjoy the tranquil surroundings. If you’re into outdoor experiences, this really stands out as a highlight.

You might want to bring a bathing suit or comfortable shoes to better enjoy the area — some reviews mention walking along natural paths and even savoring a traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna (though this isn’t included in the tour).

Flexibility and Personalization

One of the biggest advantages here is the custom itinerary. If you’re interested in spending more time at one location or skipping another, your driver-guide can adjust accordingly. This is perfect if you have particular interests — say, more time for shopping, photography, or relaxing.

The tour’s flexibility allows you to make the most of your day without feeling rushed, which is something many travelers appreciate for a full eight hours exploring Crete at a comfortable pace.

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Practical Details

Since it’s a private tour, the small group size (just you and your companions and your driver-guide) means your experience will be tailored more to your pace and interests. The cost might be a consideration, especially if you’re traveling solo, but for couples or small groups, it could be a worthwhile investment for a personalized adventure.

The duration of about 8 hours includes time for stops, driving, and exploration, so don’t expect a hurried day. Starting times are flexible depending on availability, so you can plan around your schedule.

What’s Not Included

As with many tours, meals and entrance fees are extra. While the tour includes bottled water and hotel pickup/drop-off, you’ll want to budget for food, drinks, and any optional activities like a regional tasting or entrance to attractions.

If you’re a foodie or love to indulge in local wines and tapas, you might find that adding a meal enhances your experience, but keep in mind it’s not part of the package.

What Reviewers Say

While specific reviews aren’t provided in detail, the overall impression is positive — especially regarding the personalized nature of the tour and the scenic stops. Travelers seem to enjoy the combination of culture and natural beauty, with some noting the excellent wine and regional foods available in other similar experiences (though not explicitly on this tour).

Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates a flexible day with personalized attention, this tour is a solid choice. It’s suitable for small groups or couples who want to explore Crete in a comfortable, relaxed manner. If you’re keen on discovering both historic sites and scenic spots, and enjoy having a guide to share local insights, this could be a good fit.

However, if you prefer an all-inclusive experience with meals included or have a tight budget, you might want to explore other options. Also, the tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users, so keep accessibility needs in mind.

This private day trip offers a balanced mix of culture, history, and nature, wrapped in a comfortable, flexible package. We see it as a good choice for travelers who want to avoid large tour groups and prefer a more intimate experience. While it’s not a bargain, the personalized touch and scenic stops could make it well worth the extra cost, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or a partner.

The combination of exploring Rethymno’s old town and cooling down in Argyroupoli’s waterfalls offers a charming window into what makes Crete special. You’ll get a taste of local life, history, and natural splendor — all done at your own pace.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including travel time, stops, and exploration. Exact start times depend on availability, so you can coordinate a suitable schedule.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
Yes, the experience offers hotel pick-up and drop-off within the Chania area, making logistics simple.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You can choose to bring snacks, or plan to enjoy a meal at your own expense during the day.

Are there entrance fees to visit the attractions?
Entrance fees are not included, so if you want to visit specific sites or museums, you should budget extra.

Is the tour suitable for families?
The tour is ideal for couples or small groups wanting a private experience. It’s not specified as family-friendly or suitable for children, but the outdoor nature of the waterfalls could appeal to older kids.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the driver-guide offers a flexible itinerary and photo stops, so you can tailor your day according to your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with a camera for capturing the scenery. Don’t forget sun protection and water.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the live guide speaks English, Dutch, Greek, and Romanian, among other languages.

In the end, this private Crete trip balances cultural exploration with natural beauty, offering a personal touch that can make your day memorable. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and customizable adventure, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: