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Rethymnon Old Town, Arkadi , Eleutherna, Margarites | Private

Heraklion, Greece 8h 5.0 · 24 reviews EN 484854P7
Instant confirmation Private tour Free cancellation (24h) Mobile ticket Hotel pickup Adults 3–100
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Rethymnon Old Town, Arkadi , Eleutherna, Margarites | Private - photo 1 484854P7
Rethymnon Old Town, Arkadi , Eleutherna, Margarites | Private - photo 2 484854P7
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Rethymnon Old Town, Arkadi , Eleutherna, Margarites | Private - photo 6 484854P7
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Rethymnon Old Town, Arkadi , Eleutherna, Margarites | Private - photo 8 484854P7
Rethymnon Old Town, Arkadi , Eleutherna, Margarites | Private - photo 9 484854P7
Tour route
8 stops ~30 km
Loading map…
Route drawn automatically from the supplier's itinerary; lines are straight-line estimates, the actual road may differ.

Overview

Private experience • Flexible itinerary • Local insight

Experience Crete’s history, culture, and local craftsmanship on this carefully curated private tour, led by a local host.

• Walk through the charming Old Town of Rethymno, with its Venetian harbor, colorful alleys, and hidden churches.

• Visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, a powerful symbol of Cretan freedom and resilience.

• Continue to Margarites Pottery Village, where centuries-old ceramic traditions come alive in local workshops.

Depending on your interests and time, we may enrich your experience with one additional stop, such as:
• A traditional Olive Mill
• Melidoni Cave
• The Ancient Eleutherna Museum (Closed Tuesday)
• A local Honey Museum
• A local Winery

Ideal for travelers who value authenticity, flexibility, and culture.

You deserve the high standards of SunSud Tours

Shore Excursion • Cruise Friendly • Ports of Call Tours • Full Day Tour From Heraklion Port • Crete • Rethimno • Noon • Afternoon

Tour at a glance

Duration
8h
01
Tour type
Private tour
up to 8 travellers per booking
02
Languages
EN
live guide
03
Pickup
Hotel pickup
04
Operates
Every day
Starts 07:30, 08:00, 08:30, 09:00 +3
05
Confirmation
Instant
e-ticket by e-mail
06
Cancellation
Free up to 24h before
07
Traveller ages
Adults 3–100
08
Rating
5.0 / 5
24 verified reviews
09
Ticket
Mobile ticket
show it on your phone
10

What's included

  • Bottled water
  • Fuel, Tolls, Taxes, & Fees
  • Olive Mill Visit & Tasting Fee
  • Onboard Wi-Fi & Fast Charger
  • Knowledgeable Local Driver-Host Fluent in English
  • Planning & Organization of your Personalized Tour
  • Liability Insurance
  • Private Transportation in a Comfortable Van
  • Hygiene Amenities & First Aid Kit
  • Hotel, Harbor, or Meeting Point Pickup & Drop-Off

Not included

  • Licensed Guide (multi-language, optional, extra charge)
  • Arkadi Entrance Fee
  • Personal expenses, Tips & Gratuities
  • Lunch is an Optional Experience
  • Museum of Ancient Eleutherna Entry Fee: €10/person (optional)

Itinerary

  1. 1
    Old Venetian Harbour of Rethymno

    The Old Venetian Harbour of Rethymno is a charming, historic waterfront featuring colorful Venetian architecture, a picturesque lighthouse, and vibrant tavernas. Its scenic beauty and rich history create a captivating atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in Crete.

    20 min Admission free
  2. 2
    Rethymnon Old Town

    Rethymno Old Town is a captivating tapestry of history and charm, where centuries-old cobblestone streets wind through a labyrinth of Venetian and Ottoman architecture. As you wander its enchanting alleys, vibrant bougainvillea spills over colorful balconies, and the scent of Cretan delicacies drifts from hidden tavernas. Every corner reveals a new story, from ancient fortresses to quaint squares alive with local life. It’s a place where time slows down, and the soul of Crete comes alive, inviting you to lose yourself in its magic.

    1h 30m Admission free
  3. 3
    The Venetian Fortezza

    We will pass by the Fortezza, admiring its grandeur from the car. If you'd like, you can use some of your free time in Rethymno's Old Town to climb up and enjoy the stunning view of the city from above.

    Pass by (no stop) Admission free
  4. 4
    Monastery of Arkadi

    A stunning 16th-century landmark set in the Cretan mountains, known for its rich history and role in Crete’s fight for independence. With Venetian-inspired architecture, tranquil courtyards, and stunning views, it stands as a symbol of resistance and sacrifice. Visitors can explore its historic church and learn about its pivotal place in Cretan history, making it a must-visit destination.

    50 min Admission not included
  5. 5
    Museum of Ancient Eleutherna

    If time permits, we can arrange an extra 30' stop at the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna to further explore the area's fascinating past! (Closed on Tuesdays)

    Pass by (no stop) Admission free
  6. 6
    Margarites

    Stroll through quaint streets and explore local workshops, gaining a glimpse into Crete's traditional pottery-making as artisans craft handmade ceramics. Afterward, enjoy an optional lunch at one of the village's cozy tavernas, savoring authentic Cretan cuisine in a charming atmosphere.

    1h 30m Admission free
  7. 7
    Melidoni Cave

    Explore Melidoni Cave, an impressive natural monument filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about its powerful historical significance. Optional additional stop, included only if time, interest, and itinerary allow during your private tour. €4/Person

    30 min Admission not included
  8. 8
    Apithano Honey Museum-Tasting & Tours

    Visit the Apithano Honey Museum, where you’ll learn about Cretan beekeeping, the Bee social structure &Organization, and traditional honey production. Optional additional stop with free entry—the family owners kindly hope you may choose to purchase local honey or products if you wish.

    20 min Admission free

Meeting & pickup

Hotel pickup is included for all travellers.

Pick-Up Point: Outside your Hotel Reception. -For Cruise Passengers: Outside the main Heraklion Port Passenger Terminal Building Pick-ups outside the designated area -Available upon request (extra fee may apply)

Schedule

From: Heraklion + Rethymno Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 07:30, 08:00, 08:30, 09:00, 09:30, 10:00
Once Mon 23:30 Available until 2 Nov 2026

Good to know

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Your Driver-Host provides historical background, local context, and logistics throughout the day outside archaeological sites. Greek law requires a Licensed Guide for tours inside sites and museums; these can be arranged upon request for an in-depth visit.
  • Travelers from cruise ships should take the earliest possible option!
  • Travelers should wear suitable shoes & clothes
  • We can accommodate big groups. For groups of 9 or more, please contact us directly.
  • Pick-ups outside the designated area -Available upon request (extra fee may apply)

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveller reviews

5.024 reviews
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24
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susies862 Aug 2026 · Tripadvisor
A personalized tour in Crete

A memorable day with a personalized trip to the countryside of Crete.

sreevaid Jun 2026 · Tripadvisor
Exploring Crete

George contacted us the day before and was willing to come even earlier than the scheduled time and show us everything and more. He had a great grasp on history. Great day!

48wn Jun 2026 · Tripadvisor
Best tour in Rethymno

Outstanding experience! Our tour was customized to our desired destinations. We learned so much about Crete and its history. We visited Melidoni caves, the Monastery of Arkadi, Margarites, the honey museum, an olive mill and the Old Town. We would have never done so much on our own nor would we have learned so much. George was an excellent guide who is passionate about sharing his love of Crete. It was truly a spectacular experience!

Nancy_Y Jun 2026 · Viator
The best tour in Rethymno!

George gave us a fantastic day filled with the history of Crete. We were able to customize our tour which allowed us to see and do what we wanted. My three teenagers had a wonderful time experiencing various sights including the Melidoni caves, the honey museum, an olive mill, Margarites village, the Monastery of Arkadi and Rethymno Old Town. At every stop, George gave excellent commentary on each place. We would have never learned so much going on our own nor would we have seen so much. Crete is large and you really need a knowledgeable person who can guide your trip. George is that person! He even sent a detailed history of our day complete with the names of every place and shop we visited! It was amazing!!

762avaa Jun 2026 · Tripadvisor
Best tour

George is such an amazing tour guide. My family and I did the full day tour. Even though the tour was from 9am-4pm, it did not feel like this. George took us to local places such as the Honey and Olivia Factory. George also showed us the Old Town, taking us to places that are not the generic tourist trap. George’s expertise led my family to amazing Ceramic shops and to learn about the history of Crete. George’s knowledge and contagious laughter made this tour one of the best!!!!

Christopher_B May 2026 · Viator
A Great Day of Fun

Our host was incredibly knowledgeable, considerate, and fun! The tour destinations were perfect and customized to us. We will definitely recommend our host to friends back home.

TrailBlazer532335 May 2026 · Tripadvisor
Lovely Way to See Crete

George was a great resource and at a fair price as well. He recommended and took us to very interesting places and you can customize as you see fit. Was very nice having someone familiar with area! Great pottery shops, viewpoints, monastery visit, olive oil farm and honey! We got a lot of our souvenirs during this tour!

154jacobt Mar 2026 · Tripadvisor
This Tour Was So Much Fun – Felt Like Hanging Out with a Friend

This is one of those tours that make you want to come back to Crete. George was more then a tour guide. He treated us like new friends and he wanted to show us his home. He asked what are interests are and curated a wonderful day of history, food. And to finish? This laid-back wine tasting with some great Cretan wines. We were all laughing and chatting like old pals by the end.. If you are looking for a upstanding tour with fun, learning and friends this is the tour to choose. George, if you see this, thanks for an amazing day. You made the whole trip!

Reviews are collected by Viator and Tripadvisor from verified travellers.

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