Rethymno City Tour With Arkadi Monastery and Margarites

This comprehensive tour showcases Crete’s rich heritage through Rethymno’s picturesque old town, the traditional pottery village of Margarites, and the architectural grandeur of Arkadi Monastery. Stroll Rethymno’s narrow streets lined with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, browse charming shops, and admire the iconic Venetian Loggia. In Margarites, watch skilled potters demonstrate their craft before exploring the tranquil countryside. At Arkadi Monastery, marvel at the Byzantine-style frescoes, ornate iconostasis, and the monastery’s role in the Cretan Revolt. This captivating day tour provides a deeper understanding of Crete’s unique culture and history. To learn more about the inclusions and exclusions, continue reading.

Key Points

• The Rethymno City Tour covers the picturesque Old Town of Rethymno, featuring Venetian and Ottoman architecture, charming cafes, and historic landmarks.
• The tour includes a visit to the renowned pottery village of Margarites, where visitors can watch skilled local potters showcase their craft.
• The Arkadi Monastery, a 16th-century Byzantine-style architectural landmark, is also part of the tour, showcasing intricate frescoes and the monastery’s role in the Cretan Revolt.
• The Fortezza, a Venetian stronghold, is another highlight, offering impressive architecture and stunning views of Rethymno and the Mediterranean Sea.
• The tour lasts 9.5 hours, with air-conditioned transportation, a professional escort, and all entrance fees included, but lunch and gratuities are excluded.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Picturesque Old Town of Rethymno

The picturesque old town of Rethymno features narrow streets lined with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, charming cafes, and boutique shops, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and vibrant culture.

Wandering through the labyrinth of alleyways, you’ll discover historic landmarks like the iconic Venetian Loggia and the striking 16th-century Fortezza fortress.

The old town’s lively harbor promenade offers stunning views of the Cretan Sea and the majestic White Mountains in the distance.

With its blend of architectural styles and lively atmosphere, Rethymno’s old town is a must-see destination that captures the essence of Crete’s unique heritage.

Traditional Village of Margarites

After exploring the picturesque old town of Rethymno, the tour moves on to Margarites, a traditional village known for its renowned pottery.

This quaint, charming village is nestled in the countryside, offering visitors a glimpse into the authentic Cretan way of life.

The highlight of the visit is the opportunity to watch skilled local potters showcase their craft, creating intricate and beautiful ceramic pieces using traditional methods.

Visitors can also browse the charming shops and galleries, purchasing unique handmade souvenirs to take home.

The tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make Margarites a truly enchanting stop on the Rethymno City Tour.

Architectural Landmark of Arkadi Monastery

Nestled in the heart of Crete’s rugged landscape, the Arkadi Monastery stands as an architectural and historical landmark, captivating visitors with its grandeur and cultural significance.

This 16th-century Byzantine-style monastery is renowned for its intricate frescoes, ornate iconostasis, and impressive stone construction. Visitors can explore the monastery’s various chambers, including the church, refectory, and library, each offering a glimpse into Crete’s rich monastic heritage.

The monastery also played a pivotal role in the island’s history, serving as a refuge during the Cretan Revolt against Ottoman rule in 1866. Today, the Arkadi Monastery remains a testament to Crete’s resilience and enduring cultural identity, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its architectural splendor.

Venetian Stronghold of Fortezza

Fortezza, Rethymno’s Venetian stronghold, stands as a remarkable testament to the island’s rich history and strategic importance. Constructed in the 16th century, this imposing fortress once served as a formidable defensive structure, guarding the city against invaders and upheavals that plagued Crete over the centuries.

Visitors can explore the fortress’s well-preserved walls, towers, and bastions, which offer stunning views of the city and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

The site also features a Turkish mosque, a Byzantine church, and a series of underground cisterns, providing a glimpse into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Rethymno’s past.

Today, Fortezza continues to captivate visitors with its timeless charm and historical significance.

• Towering walls and bastions
• Impressive architecture blending Venetian and Ottoman styles
• Stunning views of Rethymno and the Mediterranean Sea
• Remnants of a Turkish mosque and Byzantine church

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Duration and Meeting Point

The tour lasts 9.5 hours and meets at the Terminal of Cretan Spiti Travel at Eleftherias Square in front of the Astoria Capsis Hotel.

This centrally located meeting point makes it easy for participants to find the tour.

From there, the air-conditioned motorcoach will transport the group to the various destinations, including the picturesque old town of Rethymno, the traditional pottery village of Margarites, the Arkadi Monastery, and the Venetian stronghold of Fortezza.

The tour includes a professional escort to guide the group and provide commentary throughout the day.

With pickup and drop-off transfers, entrance fees, and all legal taxes included, this comprehensive tour offers a convenient way to explore the highlights of Rethymno and the surrounding area.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes an air-conditioned motorcoach to transport participants, as well as a professional escort who provides commentary throughout the day.

It also covers the entrance fees to all the sites visited, including the picturesque old town of Rethymno, the traditional pottery village of Margarites, the Arkadi Monastery, and the Venetian stronghold of Fortezza.

Plus, the tour provides pick-up and drop-off transfers, and all legal taxes are included in the price.

The tour includes:

1. Air-conditioned motorcoach
2. Professional escort
3. Entrance fees to all sites
4. Pick-up and drop-off transfers

Excluded From the Tour

Despite the comprehensive inclusions, the tour doesn’t cover participants’ lunch at a restaurant throughout the tour, costing 20,00 €. Plus, it doesn’t include drinks and beverages during the meal, gratuities, or anything not specified in the program as included. This means guests will need to budget for their own meals during the 9.5-hour excursion.

The tour also isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it requires a fair amount of walking and exploration. However, comfortable shoes are recommended for all participants to fully enjoy the tour’s highlights, which include the picturesque old town of Rethymno, the traditional pottery village of Margarites, and the historic Arkadi Monastery.

Tour Suitability and Considerations

Generally, this tour caters to a wide range of participants, though it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the itinerary involves extensive exploration of historic sites and the charming old town of Rethymno.

Participants should be prepared to:

1. Navigate cobblestone streets and uneven terrain within the old town.
2. Climb stairs to access the Arkadi Monastery and Fortezza in Rethymno.
3. Explore the traditional village of Margarites, known for its pottery workshops.
4. Spend a substantial portion of the day outdoors, with limited opportunities for rest breaks.

The tour isn’t recommended for unaccompanied minors, as a professional escort will guide the group throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy is not specified in the knowledge provided. Tour operators typically have their own cancellation policies, which may include fees or refunds depending on the timing of the cancellation. Customers should check with the tour provider for the specific policy.

Are There Any Child Discounts Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any child discounts. However, the tour is suitable for general participants, so it’s likely that children are welcome to join. Guests should check with the tour provider for any special pricing or policies for children.

Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated During the Tour?

The tour does not appear to explicitly mention dietary accommodations. However, travelers with dietary requirements should inform the tour provider in advance to determine if their needs can be met during the included meal.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While the tour duration is fixed at 9.5 hours, there may be an option to extend the tour for an additional fee. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about any available extensions or customizations to the standard itinerary.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not specified in the provided knowledge. Generally, group sizes for such tours are limited to facilitate a comfortable and personalized experience for participants, though the exact group size can vary depending on the tour operator’s policies.

Recap

This comprehensive tour of Rethymno and its surrounding attractions offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

From the picturesque old town to the renowned Margarites village, the awe-inspiring Arkadi Monastery, and the Venetian stronghold of Fortezza, this experience promises an enriching exploration for both the curious explorer and the passionate historian.

You can check if your dates are available here: