Chania Old Town – Lake Kournas – Rethymno

Chania’s Old Town, a captivating fusion of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek influences, beckons visitors to explore its charming streets. Beyond this historic gem lies Lake Kournas, Crete’s largest freshwater lake, offering serene strolls and pedal boat rentals amidst breathtaking mountain views. Further east, Rethymno enchants with its Venetian architecture, picturesque harbor, and the impressive Fortezza Fortress, blending culture and history. This tour promises to immerse travelers in the diverse wonders of Crete’s central region, leaving them eager to uncover more.

About Your Stay

• The tour itinerary includes visits to Chania Old Town, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno, showcasing the diverse cultural and natural attractions of Crete.
• Chania Old Town offers a captivating blend of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architectural influences, creating a vibrant and charming atmosphere.
• Lake Kournas, the largest freshwater lake in Crete, provides a scenic experience with opportunities for shoreline strolls and pedal boat rentals.
• Rethymno, a historic city, features a blend of Venetian architecture and a charming old town, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
• The tour is generally positively reviewed, offering air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a provided lunch, providing a cost-effective way to explore these Cretan destinations.

Overview of the Tour

The tour itinerary covers a diverse range of Crete’s highlights, including the historic Chania Old Town, the scenic Lake Kournas, and the charming city of Rethymno.

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious lunch.

While the tour has received generally positive reviews, some feedback suggests issues with organization, excessive travel times, and vehicle concerns.

Exploring Chania Old Town

Chania Old Town stands as a captivating jewel in Crete’s cultural crown. This vibrant hub boasts a harmonious blend of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architectural influences, creating a unique and picturesque ambiance.

Visitors can wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets, discovering charming shops, bustling cafes, and the iconic Venetian harbor. The old town’s focal point is the stunning Venetian lighthouse, a photographer’s delight.

Strolling along the harbor promenade offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the glistening Mediterranean Sea. From the lively market square to the tranquil alleyways, Chania Old Town captivates with its timeless elegance and invites travelers to enjoy Crete’s rich cultural tapestry.

Discovering Lake Kournas

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Crete’s northern landscape, Lake Kournas beckons visitors with its serene charm. The largest freshwater lake on the island, Kournas is a tranquil oasis surrounded by towering mountains and olive groves.

Visitors can stroll along the shoreline, rent a pedal boat, or simply admire the striking reflections of the landscape on the calm, crystal-clear waters. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including terrapins and waterfowl, adding to the captivating natural experience.

While some tour participants found the stop at Lake Kournas too lengthy, the opportunity to take in this peaceful setting remains a highlight of the day’s itinerary.

Visiting Rethymno

After exploring the serene beauty of Lake Kournas, the tour’s journey continues eastward, guiding visitors to the historic city of Rethymno.

Renowned for its Venetian architecture and charming old town, Rethymno offers a captivating blend of past and present.

Visitors can stroll along the picturesque harbor, marvel at the 16th-century Fortezza Fortress, and enjoy the lively shops and restaurants that line the narrow streets.

The tour provides an opportunity to discover Rethymno’s rich history and vibrant culture, leaving a lasting impression on those who explore this enchanting city.

Pickup and Transportation

For the convenience of travelers, the tour offers pickup services from a variety of locations across Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and other nearby areas. The exact pickup details are provided after booking. The start time and duration of the tour depend on the selected option.

Pickup Points	Tour Language
Hotels/main roads in Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, Heraklion, Ammoudara	Tuesday: EN-GE Friday: EN-GE-FR

The tour operates with an air-conditioned vehicle and an experienced driver, ensuring a comfortable and safe travel experience. Travelers can expect confirmation at the time of booking, with infants allowed to sit on laps and strollers accommodated.

Tour Participation Details

Travelers can expect to receive confirmation of their booking upon completing their reservation.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The tour is stroller accessible, accommodating families.

Groups can be up to 99 travelers in size. Specific tour options are available in English and French on select days (Tuesday: EN-GE, Friday: EN-GE-FR).

It’s important to note that the tour’s start time and duration depend on the selected tour option.

Value and Comparison

Compared to the estimated 350 Euros for a taxi transfer without a guided experience, the tour’s cost of 50 Euros per person represents a compelling value proposition.

For this price, guests enjoy visits to three notable sights – Chania Old Town, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno – covering a total distance of 340 km.

The tour is led by experienced drivers in insured vehicles, providing a worry-free and efficient transportation solution.

While the tour has received some feedback regarding disorganization and long travel times, the overall value comparison indicates that this tour offers a cost-effective way to explore these iconic Cretan destinations with the guidance of a knowledgeable tour.

Questions About Staying Here

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 99 travelers. The tour overview states that the "Maximum of 99 travelers" can participate in the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour provider doesn’t seem to offer any discounts or special offers based on the information provided. The tour costs 50 euros per person, which appears to be the standard rate for this multi-destination experience.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Customers can’t customize the tour itinerary, but they can express their preferences to the tour operator. The tour’s set locations, duration, and schedule are fixed, though the operator may consider feedback to improve future experiences.

How Experienced Are the Tour Guides in the Local Area?

The tour guides for this experience are highly experienced in the local area. They’re knowledgeable about the history, culture, and attractions of Chania, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno, ensuring participants get an in-depth and engaging tour.

Is There an Option to Book Private Transportation Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for private transportation instead of the group tour. The tour cost is 50 Euros per person, while a private taxi transfer without the guided experience would cost an estimated 350 Euros.

Worth The Stay

This tour showcases the captivating blend of cultures and history in western Crete. Visitors can explore Chania’s charming old town, marvel at the serene beauty of Lake Kournas, and enjoy Rethymno’s Venetian architecture and the Fortezza Fortress. With pickup and transportation, this comprehensive day trip offers an enriching experience for those seeking to discover the enchanting sights of this remarkable region.