Explore the captivating sights of Crete with the Rethymno City, Chania City, and Kournas Lake Tour from Heraklion. This full-day excursion immerses you in the island’s rich history and natural beauty, from the charming old ports of Rethymno and Chania to the serene waters of Kournas Lake. Led by an expert guide, you’ll stroll through picturesque streets, uncover the region’s Venetian and Cretan influences, and enjoy leisure activities like pedal boating. With inclusions such as transportation and a knowledgeable tour leader, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of Crete. What awaits you in this enchanting journey?

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Rethymno.

Key Points

Rethymno City, Chania City& Kournas Lake Tour From Heraklion - Key Points

• A full-day tour from Heraklion that visits the historic cities of Rethymno and Chania, as well as the scenic Kournas Lake.
• Explore the Venetian architecture and charming streets of Rethymno’s old port and Chania’s Venetian harbor.
• Enjoy optional activities at Kournas Lake, such as pedal boat tours, walking, or swimming.
• The tour includes transportation, refreshments, and a knowledgeable live guide for a seamless and comfortable experience.
• Discover the rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty of each destination on this comprehensive Cretan tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Rethymno City, Chania City& Kournas Lake Tour From Heraklion - Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of three renowned destinations in Crete: Rethymno City, Chania City, and the picturesque Kournas Lake.

Priced at $55.55 per person, the tour lasts 11-13 hours and is conducted in English. Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of reserving their spot now and paying later.

With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, participants can plan their trip with confidence.

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as snacks and beverages.

A live guide will accompany the group, providing insights and expertise throughout the journey.

Itinerary Highlights

Rethymno City, Chania City& Kournas Lake Tour From Heraklion - Itinerary Highlights

The tour itinerary offers captivating highlights that showcase the distinct charm and historical significance of the destinations.

Visitors will first experience the old port‘s beautiful scenery and unique Cretan architecture in Rethymnon.

Next, they’ll explore the Venetian harbor, narrow streets, and historical buildings of Chania, the capital of the Chania prefecture and the island’s second-largest city.

The final stop is the picturesque Kournas Lake, the only natural freshwater lake near Chania, where travelers can enjoy optional activities like pedal boat tours, walking, or swimming while soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Included Amenities

Rethymno City, Chania City& Kournas Lake Tour From Heraklion - Included Amenities

Conveniently, the tour provides pick-up and drop-off transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Plus, travelers are offered a croissant, juice, sandwich, and water during the excursion.

On top of that, the tour is led by a knowledgeable live guide who provides informative commentary throughout the day.

This ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience as visitors explore the charming cities of Rethymno and Chania, and the picturesque Kournas Lake.

The included amenities cater to the needs of the travelers, allowing them to focus on the sightseeing and enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of the region.

Important Details

Regarding the tour booking, travelers will receive their voucher with pick-up details (including time and location) one day prior to the scheduled tour date.

Plus, the reserve now & pay later option allows for greater flexibility in finalizing travel plans. This means you can secure your spot on the tour without needing to make full payment upfront.

On the day of the tour, you’ll be picked up and dropped off in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The provided voucher will have all the necessary information to ensure a smooth and seamless experience throughout the day’s activities in Rethymno, Chania, and Kournas Lake.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Rethymnon Exploration

Rethymno City, Chania City& Kournas Lake Tour From Heraklion - Rethymnon Exploration

Visitors to Rethymnon can enjoy the old port’s captivating scenery, where Cretan architecture seamlessly blends with the picturesque waterfront. The charming streets and buildings showcase the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, providing a gateway to understanding the unique character of this Cretan destination. Strolling through the narrow alleys, one can discover delightful cafes, traditional shops, and historic landmarks that transport visitors back in time. The city’s Venetian influences are particularly evident in the harbor area, where pastel-colored buildings and the iconic lighthouse create a picturesque setting.

Rethymnon Highlights
Old Port Cretan Architecture
Charming Streets Historic Landmarks
Venetian Influences Picturesque Harbor

Chania Old City

Just a short distance from Rethymnon, the historic city of Chania beckons with its captivating Venetian harbor, narrow streets, and well-preserved architectural gems. Chania is the second-largest city on the island, with a population of around 65,000.

Visitors can explore the charming Old Town, strolling along the picturesque waterfront and admiring the iconic lighthouse, a symbol of the city. The former Venetian shipyards, now converted into quaint shops and cafes, offer a glimpse into Chania’s rich maritime heritage.

Beyond the harbor, the old town’s labyrinth of alleys reveals traditional Cretan houses, artisanal workshops, and vibrant squares, giving travelers a taste of the city’s authentic character and cultural essence.

Kournas Lake Visit

One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to Kournas Lake, the only natural freshwater lake on the island of Crete. Nestled at the base of the White Mountains, this picturesque lake offers visitors a serene escape from the bustling towns, with opportunities to enjoy a variety of activities.

Guests can take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s shores, admiring the stunning natural scenery and lush vegetation. For a more immersive experience, visitors can opt for a pedal boat tour, gliding across the calm waters and taking in the breathtaking views.

Whether you choose to swim, relax on the banks, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere, Kournas Lake is a true gem that provides a refreshing respite during the tour.

Experience Summary

The tour offers a picturesque exploration of Rethymnon and Chania, renowned for their Venetian architecture and historical significance, culminating in a relaxing visit to the serene Kournas Lake. Here, visitors can engage in various activities while savoring the natural beauty of the area.

Guests will experience the charming old port of Rethymnon and marvel at the unique Cretan architecture. In Chania, they’ll wander the Venetian harbor, narrow streets, and historical buildings.

At Kournas Lake, they can choose to take a pedal boat tour, go for a walk, or even go swimming, all while surrounded by the lake’s stunning natural setting.

This comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience of Crete’s cultural and natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each City Visit?

The overview does not provide specific time allocations for each city visit. However, it states that the total duration of the tour is 11-13 hours, allowing visitors to explore the highlights of Rethymno, Chania, and Kournas Lake during the excursion.

Is Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off Included in the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle. Travelers are picked up from their accommodation in Heraklion and transported to the tour destinations, then returned to their starting point at the end of the excursion.

What Types of Food and Beverages Are Provided?

The tour includes a croissant, juice, sandwich, and water as part of the provided food and beverages. This ensures travelers have sustenance throughout the excursion to the various destinations on the itinerary.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

This tour operator typically offers group tours, but private tours may be available upon request. Travelers can inquire about the possibility of a private tour when booking, though additional fees may apply for a customized experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

The tour provider likely offers options to extend the duration or add additional activities, such as visiting more sites or engaging in more experiences. Travelers should inquire about customizing the tour to suit their preferences.

Recap

This full-day tour from Heraklion offers an immersive experience showcasing Crete’s rich heritage and natural wonders.

Explore the charming old towns of Rethymnon and Chania, with their Venetian and Ottoman influences.

Then, bask in the tranquility of Kournas Lake, where visitors can enjoy activities like pedal boating or swimming.

With an expert guide leading the way, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the cultural and scenic highlights of Crete.

You can check if your dates are available here: