Crete: Arkadi Monastery and Rethymno With Private Transfer

Crete, the captivating Greek island, beckons travelers to uncover its rich history and cultural gems. One such odyssey is the private tour that showcases the iconic Arkadi Monastery and the charming city of Rethymno. From the revered monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance, to the ancient site of Eleutherna and the picturesque streets of Rethymno, this immersive experience promises to transport visitors through time and enchant them with the island’s timeless allure. With private transportation and a wealth of insights, this tour invites travelers to delve deeper into Crete’s captivating narrative, leaving them eager to explore more of this Mediterranean wonder.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Private Car With Driver Services In Rethymno.

Key Points

• This comprehensive 10-hour private tour explores Crete’s historical and cultural highlights, including the Monastery of Arkadi and the city of Rethymno.
• The tour is priced at €600 for up to 3 participants and includes hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and a licensed guide.
• The Monastery of Arkadi is a UNESCO European Freedom Monument with rich historical significance, and visitors can spend 45 minutes exploring the site.
• The ancient site of Eleutherna offers insights into Crete’s rich heritage, with excavations dating back to prehistoric times and significant burial sites.
• The tour also includes a visit to the pottery town of Margarites, where visitors can explore local crafts and culture, and taste the signature Cretan spirit, tsikoudia.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s historical and cultural highlights, including a visit to the iconic Arkadi Monastery and the charming coastal town of Rethymno.

Priced at €600 for up to 3 participants, the 10-hour private tour provides a flexible and personalized experience.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, along with all transportation, entrance fees, and a licensed guide included, the tour is an efficient way to discover Crete’s top attractions.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a well-rounded cultural experience, this tour promises an enriching and memorable journey.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour takes visitors on a journey through Crete’s rich history and cultural heritage, with stops at the iconic Monastery of Arkadi, the ancient site of Eleutherna, the traditional pottery town of Margarites, and the charming coastal city of Rethymno.

At the Monastery of Arkadi, guests explore the symbol of Cretan resistance and a UNESCO European Freedom Monument.

In Eleutherna, they discover excavations dating back to prehistoric times and significant burial sites.

The tour then moves to Margarites, known for its traditional pottery and picturesque streets, before heading to a distillery to taste authentic tsikoudia.

Transportation and Logistics

A private air-conditioned van is included for the duration of the tour, with an English and Greek-speaking driver to ensure a comfortable and seamless experience.

The driver will pick you up from your hotel in Heraklion and accompany you throughout the day’s itinerary. If you need to be picked up from a different location, simply contact the tour provider to make the necessary arrangements.

The cost of fuel, tolls, taxes, and fees are all covered, so you don’t have to worry about any additional expenses during the trip.

With the private transportation, you can explore Crete’s highlights at your own pace and enjoy the journey in comfort.

Monastery of Arkadi

After the comfortable private transport, the first stop on the tour is the Monastery of Arkadi, a revered symbol of Cretan resistance and a UNESCO European Freedom Monument.

Visitors can spend around 45 minutes exploring this historic site, which played a crucial role in the island’s fight for independence.

The monastery’s magnificent 16th-century architecture and stunning natural setting make it a must-see for anyone interested in Crete’s rich history.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate Byzantine frescoes and learn about the monastery’s pivotal role in the 1866 Cretan Revolt, when hundreds of Cretans sought refuge there and chose to die rather than surrender to the Ottoman forces.

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Ancient Eleutherna

Next, the tour makes a stop at the Ancient Eleutherna, an excavation site that dates back to prehistoric times and features significant burial sites.

Spanning over 30 minutes, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the site’s historical importance as a key location from Crete’s ancient past.

The site’s excavations have uncovered artifacts and structures that provide insights into the lives and customs of the people who inhabited this region centuries ago.

From tombs and dwellings to religious structures, the Ancient Eleutherna offers a fascinating glimpse into Crete’s rich heritage.

Guests will have the opportunity to wander through the site, admire the ancient architecture, and gain a deeper appreciation for Crete’s storied history.

Margarites and Distillery

The tour then moves on to the charming village of Margarites, known for its traditional pottery and quaint streets. Visitors can spend around 45 minutes exploring the local shops and observing the artisans at work, gaining insights into Crete’s rich cultural heritage.

Following the stop in Margarites, the tour includes a visit to a local distillery, where guests can spend an hour tasting the authentic tsikoudia, a traditional Cretan spirit. This clear tsikoudia, also known as raki, is a signature drink of the island, and the distillery visit allows travelers to learn about its production and savor its distinctive flavor.

The tour’s diverse itinerary combines culture, historical exploration, and culinary experiences, providing a well-rounded introduction to the wonders of Crete.

Rethymno Exploration

The tour then explores the historic city of Rethymno, where visitors spend around 2 hours seeing the city’s Venetian and Ottoman architectural heritage and visiting notable landmarks like the Rimondi Fountain and Neratze Mosque.

Rethymno’s charming old town is a delightful blend of Mediterranean influences, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and bustling market squares.

Visitors can wander through the Venetian Harbor, admire the impressive Fortezza Castle, and stroll along the picturesque seaside promenade.

The city offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich history and culture, providing a fitting end to this comprehensive tour of the island’s treasures.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the tour price are hotel pickup and drop-off, a licensed guide, and entrance fees to the Monastery of Arkadi and the Eleutherna Archaeological Site. Complimentary bottled water is also provided.

The tour, however, excludes personal expenses, tips and gratuities, as well as any meals, beverages, or alcohol. Guests will need to cover these additional costs on their own.

The experience is ideal for history and culture enthusiasts interested in exploring Crete’s rich past and captivating architecture.

Key highlights include:

• Viewing the Monastery of Arkadi, a symbol of Cretan resistance and a UNESCO European Freedom Monument

• Discovering the ancient excavations of Eleutherna dating back to prehistoric times

• Visiting the traditional pottery town of Margarites and a local distillery

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

This tour may not be the most suitable for children. While it includes historical and cultural sites, the long duration and lack of child-friendly activities could make it challenging for younger travelers. Parents should consider the child’s interests and attention span before booking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator does not provide meals, but complimentary water is included. It’s best to check with the operator regarding any restrictions on outside food and beverages.

Is the Tour Guide Able to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour guide can accommodate dietary restrictions, but guests should notify the tour operator in advance. They’ll work to ensure participants with special dietary needs can fully enjoy the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour provider offers the option to extend the duration of the tour. Customers can discuss their preferences with the driver and guide to customize the itinerary and length of the experience.

Do We Get to Interact With the Local Artisans?

Yes, the tour includes a stop at Margarites, a pottery-making village. Visitors can interact with local artisans and watch them demonstrate their traditional pottery-making techniques. This allows for a deeper appreciation of Crete’s rich cultural heritage.

Recap

This private tour of Crete offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s rich history and culture.

From the iconic Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance, to the charming city of Rethymno with its Venetian architecture, this experience provides a well-rounded glimpse into the captivating heritage of this Mediterranean gem.

With private transportation and expert guidance, travelers can enjoy Crete’s captivating past and present.

You can check if your dates are available here: