Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery, Margarites Village & Melidoni Cave.

1. Chania Prefecture
   1h 30m
   Pickup from your location in Chania region.
   
   Your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel, villa, or cruise ship. Sit back and enjoy the journey through the scenic Cretan countryside.
2. Monastery of Arkadi
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Arkadi Monastery (Visit – approx. 1 hour).
   
   Explore one of Crete’s most sacred landmarks, a symbol of freedom and resistance. Learn the powerful story of the 1866 rebellion against the Ottoman Empire and admire the monastery’s impressive Baroque architecture, bell tower, and peaceful surroundings.
3. Archea Eleftherna
   Pass by
   Eleutherna (Drive-by storytelling stop – no visit).
   
   On the way to Margarites, your guide will tell the fascinating story of ancient Eleutherna — once a thriving city-state with Homeric connections. Although we won’t stop at the archaeological site, you’ll gain an insightful overview of its historical importance, recent discoveries, and connection to nearby villages.
4. 1h
   Margarites Village (Stop – approx. 1 hour).
   
   Discover the charming village of Margarites, famous for its traditional pottery and artistic spirit. Walk through narrow stone alleys adorned with bougainvillea, visit local ceramic workshops, and maybe take home a handmade souvenir.
5. Melidoni Cave
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Melidoni Cave (Visit – approx. 45 min).
   
   Venture into the dramatic Melidoni Cave, filled with natural beauty and poignant history. This atmospheric site was once a place of worship and later the scene of a tragic event during the Ottoman occupation. Explore the cavern’s chamber, admire the stalactites, and feel the reverence of this sacred place.
6. Rethymnon Old Town
   2h
   Rethymno Old Town (Free time – approx. 1.5–2 hours).
   
   Conclude your tour in one of Greece’s best-preserved medieval cities. Enjoy free time to explore Venetian and Ottoman architecture, cozy cafés, boutique shops, and hidden alleyways. Optional lunch at a local taverna (at your own expense).
7. Chania Prefecture
   1h
   Return to Chania.
   
   Relax during your comfortable drive back to the Chania region.

Pickup details

Enjoy the convenience of private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other location in the Chania or Rethymno region. We offer flexible pick-up times tailored to your schedule, ensuring a stress-free and personalized experience. Simply confirm your preferred pick-up time, and our professional team will handle the rest.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other point in the region of Chania and Rethymno. Pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation.
• To visit the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – a skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders. For men – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
• Important to have: Comfortable shoes, Comfortable clothes, Sunglasses, and Hat Money for souvenirs, drinks, lunch/dinner.
• Health issues: If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated, and we exercise all discretion.
• HealthInsurance: Our company is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before traveling to Crete.