Full-Day West Crete Tour: Chania & Rethymnon Old Town and Kournas Lake

The Full-Day West Crete Tour offers travelers an enriching opportunity to explore the picturesque towns of Chania and Rethymnon, as well as the serene Kournas Lake. Guests can wander through the enchanting Venetian streets of Chania, discover the medieval charm of Rethymnon’s old town, and even rent pedal boats to enjoy the tranquil waters of Kournas Lake. With convenient hotel pickups, breakfast, and lunch included, this tour provides a hassle-free way to experience the highlights of western Crete. Those seeking an immersive journey through the region’s history, architecture, and natural beauty won’t want to miss this captivating excursion.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day tour exploring the highlights of West Crete, including the charming Venetian streets of Chania and the historic Rethymnon Old Town.
• Flexible exploration time in each location with the option to rent pedal boats at the serene Kournas Lake.
• Convenient hotel pickups from multiple locations and an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort.
• Knowledgeable tour guide providing an informative experience, along with included breakfast and lunch.
• Mixed reviews on the tour, with some criticism regarding time constraints and food quality at Kournas Lake.

Tour Overview

The Full-Day West Crete Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the western region, encompassing the charming towns of Chania and Rethymnon, as well as the picturesque Kournas Lake.

This cost-effective group tour offers travelers the opportunity to discover the area at their own pace, with ample time to wander the Venetian streets, browse the shops, and savor local cuisine.

The tour includes optional pedal boat rentals at Kournas Lake, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the scenic surroundings.

With convenient hotel pickup from multiple locations, this comprehensive tour is an efficient way to experience the highlights of west Crete.

Itinerary and Logistics

This full-day tour kicks off with convenient hotel pickups from multiple locations, including Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Heraklion town. The approximate bus trip duration to Chania is 3 hours, allowing 2.5 hours to explore the Venetian streets, shops, and restaurants. Lunch is included, with potential adjustments based on timing.

Location	Duration
Chania	2.5 hrs
Rethymnon	N/A
Kournas Lake	N/A

The tour then continues to Rethymnon Old Town and Kournas Lake, where optional pedal boats are available. Throughout the day, travelers are guided by a professional driver and tour guide in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Tour Inclusions

Included in the cost of this full-day West Crete Tour are an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable tour guide, and a professional driver to ensure a comfortable and informative journey.

Breakfast and lunch are also provided for your convenience.

Plus, the tour includes the option to rent pedal boats at the picturesque Kournas Lake, allowing you to explore the serene natural setting at your own pace.

This comprehensive package is designed to offer a cost-effective way to discover the highlights of Western Crete, from the charming Venetian streets of Chania to the historical old town of Rethymnon.

Additional Information

Maximum group size for this tour is 50 travelers, accommodating a range of participants. However, the tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Infant seats are available for those traveling with young children. Travelers should also be aware that there is no free cancellation on this tour, with a 24-hour cutoff period in place.

Accessibility	Physical Fitness	Infant Seating	Cancellation Policy
Not Wheelchair Accessible	Moderate Level Required	Available	No Free Cancellation (24-Hour Cutoff)

This comprehensive day trip to West Crete provides an informative and engaging experience, though participants should be prepared for some time constraints and potential adjustments to the lunch schedule.

Reviews and Experiences

The tour has received an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars from 26 reviews. Passengers have provided positive feedback, highlighting the picturesque towns and informative guides.

However, some have expressed criticism regarding the time constraints in each location and the quality of the food at Kournas Lake. There are mixed opinions on the necessity of visiting Kournas Lake, with some preferring to spend more time in the towns.

Key review highlights include:

• Stunning scenery and culture in Chania and Rethymnon
• Knowledgeable and engaging tour guides
• Concerns about rushed sightseeing and subpar lunch
• Debates over the value of the Kournas Lake stopover

Exploring Chania’s Venetian Streets

One of the highlights of the West Crete Tour is the opportunity to explore the enchanting Venetian streets of Chania.

Visitors are captivated by the charming alleyways, lined with colorful buildings, traditional shops, and bustling cafes. The town’s Venetian heritage is palpable, with the picturesque harbor and historic lighthouse serving as iconic backdrops.

Guests can meander through the quaint streets, stopping to browse artisan boutiques, sample local delicacies, and admire the blend of architectural styles.

The guided tour allows ample time to take in the vibrant atmosphere and capture the essence of Chania’s well-preserved Venetian character.

Discovering Rethymnon Old Town

After exploring the captivating Venetian streets of Chania, the tour continues its journey to the old town of Rethymnon.

This charming medieval town boasts a rich history and well-preserved architecture. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleys, admire the Venetian and Ottoman influences, and discover:

• The iconic Venetian Loggia, a 16th-century renaissance building
• The Fortezza, a massive 16th-century fortress that dominates the skyline
• Numerous boutiques, cafes, and restaurants offering a taste of local culture
• The picturesque harbor, where fishing boats and yachts dot the waters
• The vibrant market, brimming with handmade crafts, local produce, and inviting aromas.

Experiencing Kournas Lake

After exploring the historic towns of Chania and Rethymnon, the tour group heads off to the picturesque Kournas Lake.

Located just a short drive from the previous stops, Kournas Lake offers a tranquil respite from the bustling cities. Visitors can opt to rent pedal boats and glide across the serene waters, taking in the stunning mountain backdrop.

The tour also includes time to stroll along the lakeshore, where local vendors sell traditional crafts and refreshments.

While some guests found the visit to Kournas Lake unnecessary, others appreciated the chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region before heading back.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Departure Times for the Tour?

The tour offers hotel pickup from multiple locations, including Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Heraklion town. The approximate bus trip duration to Chania is 3 hours, though the exact departure times aren’t specified in the provided information.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?

The tour operator does not seem to explicitly offer discounts for senior citizens. However, it’s worth contacting them to inquire if any age-based discounts are available or if there are any other promotions that could apply.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s worth checking with the tour operator beforehand, as some tours may have specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour duration. However, travelers can inquire about this possibility when booking, as the operator may be able to accommodate requests for a longer tour upon availability and additional fees.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Shopping in Each Location?

The tour allocates 2.5 hours in Chania and time to explore the shops and restaurants at one’s own pace. However, the itinerary doesn’t specify the exact duration set aside for shopping in Rethymnon or at Kournas Lake.

Recap

The Full-Day West Crete Tour offers an enriching experience, showcasing the enchanting Venetian streets of Chania, the medieval charm of Rethymnon, and the serene beauty of Kournas Lake. With convenient hotel pickups, breakfast, and lunch included, it’s a hassle-free way to explore the highlights of West Crete. Travelers can also enjoy the option to rent pedal boats at the picturesque Kournas Lake, providing a peaceful conclusion to this delightful journey.