From Heraklion: Chania Town, Kournas Lake, and Rethymno Tour

The ‘From Heraklion: Chania Town, Kournas Lake, and Rethymno Tour‘ offers an enriching exploration of Crete’s renowned landmarks. Guests embark on a journey through the island’s picturesque towns, serene lakes, and historic sites, seeing the vibrant cultural tapestry of this Mediterranean gem. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and thoughtful inclusions, the tour promises a delightful day of discovery. Whether you’re captivated by the charming ambiance of Chania, mesmerized by the tranquility of Kournas Lake, or enthralled by the rich history of Rethymno, this comprehensive experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This full-day tour departs from Heraklion and visits the historic Chania Town, the picturesque Kournas Lake, and the charming Rethymno.
• Highlights of the tour include exploring the Venetian streets and local markets in Chania, enjoying water activities at Kournas Lake, and strolling through Rethymno’s old town.
• The tour duration is approximately 11 to 13.5 hours, with pickup available from various locations in the Heraklion area.
• The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the cost of pedal boat rental at Kournas Lake.
• The tour has an overall customer rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the guides, transportation, and value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour, titled ‘From Heraklion: Chania Town, Kournas Lake, and Rethymno Tour,’ offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s picturesque destinations, with a price tag of $52.28 per person and a duration ranging from 11 to 13.5 hours.

Visitors can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as tour guides fluent in English, German, French, and Polish.

Pickup is available from designated areas in Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Agia Pelagia, and central Heraklion.

The itinerary includes visits to the Venetian streets of Chania Town, the scenic Kournas Lake, and the historic old port of Rethymno, providing a well-rounded experience of Crete’s cultural and natural attractions.

Itinerary

The tour begins with participants being collected from designated pickup points in the morning.

Visitors then spend 2 hours and 30 minutes exploring the Venetian streets, local shops, markets, and restaurants of Chania Town.

Next, the group travels to Kournas Lake, where they have 1 hour and 20 minutes to rent pedal boats, swim, and enjoy meals at local taverns (not included).

The tour then continues to Rethymno, where participants spend 1 hour and 30 minutes visiting the old port and beach road.

Chania Town

Visitors spend 2 hours and 30 minutes exploring the charming Venetian streets, browsing local shops, perusing vibrant markets, and sampling delectable cuisine at the restaurants in Chania Town. This historic port city boasts a captivating blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. Strolling along the picturesque Old Venetian Harbor, guests marvel at the colorful buildings, quaint cafes, and bustling fishing boats. Nearby, the Old Town invites exploration, with its narrow alleyways, traditional shops, and lively central market. From handcrafted souvenirs to local delicacies, Chania offers a wealth of shopping and dining opportunities that immerse visitors in the authentic Cretan culture.

Highlights of Chania Town
Venetian Architecture	Explore the historic Old Town
Local Markets	Browse unique shops and boutiques
Waterfront Dining	Savor traditional Cretan cuisine
Old Venetian Harbor	Admire the picturesque harbor views
Lively Atmosphere	Soak in the vibrant local culture

Kournas Lake

After exploring the historic charm of Chania Town, the tour takes participants to Kournas Lake, where they can spend approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes enjoying the serene natural setting.

Visitors can rent pedal boats and take a leisurely ride across the lake, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the White Mountains.

Plus, guests have the opportunity to relax at the local taverns, savoring traditional Cretan cuisine while admiring the picturesque views.

The lake is the largest freshwater lake on the island of Crete, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling towns.

Whether it’s taking in the serene landscape or indulging in the local fare, Kournas Lake provides a memorable experience on this comprehensive tour.

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Rethymno

Following the visit to Kournas Lake, the tour then takes participants to the historic city of Rethymno, where they spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the old port and beach road.

Rethymno is known for its Venetian and Ottoman architecture, and the tour provides an opportunity to wander through the charming streets and admire the colorful buildings.

Visitors can stroll along the picturesque harbor, taking in the views of the old lighthouse and the Venetian fortress. The beach road offers a chance to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere, with its cafes, restaurants, and shops.

This portion of the tour allows participants to experience the unique blend of cultures that has shaped Rethymno’s character over the centuries.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour includes air-conditioned bus transportation with a professional driver to transport participants between the various destinations on the itinerary.

The price includes a tour guide who’ll accompany the group throughout the day and provide commentary on the sights. All taxes and liability insurance coverage are also included.

At Kournas Lake, the cost of renting a pedal boat is covered, allowing visitors to explore the scenic lake.

While museum entrances are included, any food or drinks during the tour will need to be purchased separately by the participants.

Recommendations

Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and loose, comfortable clothing are recommended for participants to bring on the tour.

The tour involves walking through historic Venetian streets, exploring local markets, and spending time outdoors at Kournas Lake. Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the cobblestone paths and uneven terrain.

A hat and sunscreen will help protect against the Mediterranean sun, while water is recommended to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Loose, breathable clothing will ensure participants remain comfortable during the tour’s duration, which can last up to 13.5 hours.

Customer Reviews

According to the customer reviews, the overall rating for this tour is 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 123 reviews. Travelers have positively commented on the beauty of the towns visited and the knowledgeable tour guides. However, some reviewers have expressed concerns about the length of the tour and the logistics of the pickup and drop-off process.

Ratings Breakdown	Score
Guide	5/5
Transportation	4.6/5
Value for Money	4.5/5

Despite these minor issues, the majority of customers seem to have thoroughly enjoyed their experience, with many praising the tour’s overall value and the opportunity to explore the picturesque Chania, Kournas Lake, and Rethymno.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The information provided does not mention any discounts for children or seniors on this tour. It’s likely the tour price is the same for all adult participants, with no special pricing for younger or older travelers.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific language for the tour guide. The tour offers English, German, French, and Polish guides, so you can select the language that best suits your needs when booking the excursion.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention wheelchair accessibility. However, visitors with mobility needs should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss accommodations, as the itinerary includes walking and navigating uneven terrain in historic towns.

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

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not include meals, so bringing a packed lunch or snacks is allowed and recommended to save money and have more flexibility during the day.

Do I Need to Pre-Book the Tour or Can I Purchase on Arrival?

You can purchase this tour on arrival, though pre-booking is recommended to secure availability, especially during peak seasons. Pre-booking allows you to lock in the price and ensures a guaranteed spot on the tour.

Recap

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Crete’s highlights.

Visitors can enjoy the charming atmosphere of Chania Town, the serene beauty of Kournas Lake, and the historic allure of Rethymno.

With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the convenience of included pedal boat rentals, this tour provides a delightful way to experience Crete’s natural and cultural wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: