Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna

5.0 (3 reviews) Heraklion, Greece
  1. Home
  2. Activities
  3. Heraklion
Duration10h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

The Soul of Crete Unveiled
Experience the extraordinary depth of Crete on an exclusive 10-hour private journey through the heart of Rethymno. Departing from Chania or Heraklion in a premium vehicle, this bespoke tour bridges the gap between ancient myths and living traditions.

A Journey Through Time & Art
Your day unfolds across four iconic landmarks: the heroic Arkadi Monastery, a global symbol of freedom; Ancient Eleutherna, where the "Homeric Crete" comes to life through unique museum and archaeological site; and the artisan village of Margarites, famous for its centuries-old pottery tradition. The adventure culminates in the romantic, UNESCO-listed Rethymno Old Town, where Venetian fortifications and Ottoman architecture create a timeless atmosphere of beauty.

The Ultimate Private Experience
Designed for those who demand the highest standards, this tour is 100% customizable. Your professional driver tailors every stop to your interests, ensuring a seamless flow from door-to-door.

Options

Private VAN

Pickup included

Private Custom Tour

We can pick you up from:: Souda,Chania,Stalos,Galatas,Agia Marina,Platanias,Heraklion,Stalida,Malia, Hersonissos,Gouves,Rethymno,Ammoudara,Agia Pelagia
Private Custom Tour
Duration: 10 hours: Up to 10 hours
Mercedes-Benz Vito or Similar
Pickup included

What's included

  • Onboard Amenities: Stay refreshed and connected with bottled water and USB charging ports.
  • Private Luxury Transport: Modern AC vehicle for your group
  • Expert Driver-Guide: Personalized history and local insights from an English-speaking Cretan expert.
  • Door-to-Door Service: Fully flexible pick-up and drop-off from any location in Chania or Heraklion.
  • Entrance Fees: Arkadi, Eleutherna Museum, and Fortezza (paid locally).
  • Licensed Guide: Driver provides history but cannot tour inside sites/museums.
  • Meals: Lunch and personal drinks are at your own expense.
  • Gratuities: Optional tips for your driver-guide.

What to expect

  1. Margarites
    2h
    Margarites is a picturesque "hidden gem" famous for its pottery workshops. You will visit local artisans who use ancient techniques to create beautiful ceramic art. Wander through the floral-decorated streets, snap photos of the Venetian doorways, and perhaps try your hand at the potter's wheel. It is the most Instagrammable village in the Rethymno region.
  2. Museum of Ancient Eleutherna
    2h · Admission ticket not included
    Discover the secrets of one of the most significant ancient cities in Crete. You have the flexibility to choose how you want to experience Eleutherna:
    The Archaeological Site: Walk through the rugged landscape to see the ancient fortifications, the Hellenistic cisterns, and the necropolis that brought Homer's verses to life.
    The Museum: Visit the ultra-modern, award-winning museum to admire the stunning artifacts, jewelry, and sculptures found on-site. Bespoke Choice: Since this is a private tour, you can choose to visit both or focus on the one that fascinates you most. Note: Entrance fees are separate and depend on your choice to visit the site, the museum, or both.
  3. Arkadi Monastery
    1h · Admission ticket not included
    Step into the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery, an architectural masterpiece and a global symbol of the Cretan struggle for independence. Admire the unique Baroque facade of the church and walk through the tranquil courtyards and the tragic gunpowder room. It is a place of profound energy, history, and architectural beauty that every visitor to Crete must experience.
  4. Rethymnon
    3h
    Conclude your day in the most romantic city in Crete. Rethymno’s Old Town is a mosaic of Minoan, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. Explore the massive Fortezza castle, walk by the Egyptian Lighthouse, and get lost in the narrow streets filled with shops and aromas. Flexible Stop: This is your time for a premium lunch at a seaside taverna or a coffee break in the heart of the historic center.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Pick-up from Heraklion port, Souda port, Chania Port, Rethymno Port is included for
free. The driver will be waiting outside of the hotel or the location you have chosen holding a sign with your name.

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

5.0 (3)
From
€235.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Crete Wanderer · Booked through Viator
More activities in Heraklion
From
€235.00 per person
Check availability