Rethymno’s lunch options perfectly blend local cuisine with authentic Cretan experiences. A standout tour combines a morning hike through the peaceful Mili Gorge with quick stops at the Military Museum and a local café. We love the comprehensive day trip visiting Potamon Dam, Melidoni Cave, Arkadi Monastery, and Preveli Palms – it wraps up with a satisfying traditional lunch.
For foodies, two tours stand above the rest: The olive oil and honey production tour offers an intimate look at Cretan staples, paired with a home-cooked meal. Meanwhile, the herbs and wine tasting experience provides a true taste of the island’s flavors alongside a memorable lunch.
These top-rated tours showcase the best of Rethymno’s food culture:
Key Points
- Explore the Potamon Dam and Cultural Tour, which includes a scenic lunch stop at Preveli Palms, a coastal oasis in Rethymno.
- Immerse in the Olive Oil & Honey Tasting Tour, which culminates in an authentic Cretan lunch at a traditional taverna in Asteri village.
- Indulge in the Cretan Herbs and Wine Tasting Experience, which offers an authentic Cretan meal with wine and raki in the village of Armenoi.
- Opt for the Mili Gorge and Military Museum Tour, which includes a refreshing coffee break during the hike.
- Consider making reservations for tours with limited group sizes to ensure the best lunch experiences in Rethymno.
Rethymno: Mili Gorge and Military Museum Day Trip W/ Lunch
Embarking on a captivating day trip from Rethymno, visitors can explore the Mili Gorge and the Military Museum of Rethymno. This 7-hour tour, limited to just 8 participants, offers a guided hike through the diverse flora and fauna of the Mili Gorge, followed by a visit to the Military Museum in Chromonastiri.
During the gorge hike, adventurers can observe rare plant species and diverse wildlife while admiring the ruins of old watermills and abandoned villages. After a refreshing coffee break, the tour continues with a guided exploration of the Military Museum, housed in a traditional Venetian mansion.
Visitors will learn about Crete’s military history and see exhibits featuring uniforms, documents, weapons, and photographs.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver and guide, air-conditioned transportation, lunch, and photos. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, camera, and water.
This experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Read our full review: Rethymno: Mili Gorge and Military Museum Day Trip W/ Lunch Review
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Potamon Dam, Arcadian Monastery, Three Gorges, Preveli Palms, Lunch
For an invigorating day of adventure and culture, visitors to Rethymno can embark on a captivating tour that encompasses the Potamon Dam, Arcadian Monastery, Three Gorges, and the lush Preveli Palms.
This full-day excursion, priced at $26.42 per person, offers a glimpse into Crete’s breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
Guests will first explore the Melidoni Cave and the historic Arkadi Monastery, a poignant symbol of the island’s resistance against Ottoman rule.
The journey then continues to the stunning Potamon Dam and the awe-inspiring Three Gorges, where towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a dramatic natural setting.
The tour culminates at the serene Preveli Palms, a lush oasis nestled along the coast, providing an idyllic spot for a well-deserved lunch.
With a duration of 3.5 to 6 hours and a rating of 4.4, this immersive experience allows travelers to explore Crete’s natural wonders and cultural legacy, offering a comprehensive and enriching day trip from Rethymno.
Read our full review: Potamon Dam, Arcadian Monastery, Three Gorges, Preveli Palms, Lunch Review
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Rethymno: Private Olive Oil & Honey Tasting Tour With Lunch
Travelers to Rethymno can enjoy the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Crete through the private Olive Oil & Honey Tasting Tour with Lunch.
This 5-hour experience offers an in-depth exploration of the island’s renowned olive oil and honey production. Guests will visit the Olive Oil Museum, taste olive oil samples, and tour a family-owned olive oil press in Melidoni village.
They’ll then discover the Honey Museum, learn about bee and honey production, and sample Cretan honey varieties. The tour culminates with an authentic Cretan lunch at a traditional taverna in Asteri village.
Included in the $147.96 per person price are pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, olive oil and honey tastings, Greek coffee/tea, and a full Cretan lunch with wine.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with mobility impairments, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Read our full review: Rethymno: Private Olive Oil & Honey Tasting Tour With Lunch Review
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Rethymno: Cretan Herbs and Wine Tasting With Lunch
Visitors to Rethymno can dive into the essence of Cretan culture through the captivating Cretan Herbs and Wine Tasting with Lunch experience. This 5-hour tour provides an authentic glimpse into the island’s traditional lifestyle, with visits to an olive oil museum, organic farm, and local winery.
The experience begins in Rethymno and travels to the Armenoi village for an olive oil tasting. Next, visitors explore the Agkouseliana region, where they can sample Cretan herbs and tea.
The highlight is a visit to the Zouberakis family winery in Kali Sykia for a wine tasting of four varieties.
The tour culminates with an authentic Cretan meal, complete with wine and raki, in the Armenoi village.
The all-inclusive experience covers pickup, transportation, a local guide, and all tastings and samples. Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring necessary personal items. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Read our full review: Rethymno: Cretan Herbs and Wine Tasting With Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Experience?
The dress code for the lunch experience is typically casual and comfortable. Most establishments encourage guests to wear relaxed and informal attire, allowing them to enjoy the meal without the formality of a strict dress code.
Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available for the Lunch?
Many restaurants in Rethymno offer vegetarian and gluten-free options for lunch. Diners can inquire about the availability of these dietary accommodations when making reservations or upon arrival. Restaurants are typically happy to accommodate special dietary needs.
Can I Request a Private Table or Seating Arrangement for the Lunch?
Many restaurants in Rethymno offer private dining options or can accommodate special seating requests. Guests can typically request a private table, secluded area, or customized seating arrangement to suit their needs for a more intimate lunch experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Lunch Experience?
The cancellation policy typically allows flexibility, with the option to cancel or modify reservations within a certain timeframe, often 24-48 hours, without penalty. Specific policies may vary by the lunch experience provider.
Is There an Age Limit or Restriction for the Lunch Tour?
There’s generally no age limit or restriction for the lunch tour, but it’s best to check with the tour operator. They may have guidelines in place to ensure the experience is enjoyable for all participants.
Recap
Rethymno offers a variety of lunch experiences. Visitors can explore the Mili Gorge and Military Museum, or discover Potamon Dam, Arcadian Monastery, and Preveli Palms. They can also indulge in Cretan olive oil, honey, herbs, and wine tastings, all accompanied by delicious local cuisine. With so many options, travelers are sure to find the best lunch experience to suit their tastes in Rethymno.