The Private Tour Of Eleftherna & Rethymno Villages

The Private Tour of Eleftherna & Rethymno Villages offers an immersive experience for travelers seeking to uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Crete. Over six captivating hours, guests will embark on a journey through ancient ruins, charming villages, and revered monasteries, all while savoring the region’s renowned Cretan cuisine. From the well-preserved 16th-century Arkadi Monastery to the captivating archaeological site of Eleftherna, this tour promises to transport visitors to a bygone era and leave them eager to explore further the captivating wonders that Crete has to offer.

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

Key Points

• The private tour offers a 6-hour immersive experience through the historic Rethymno region, including visits to the Arkadi Monastery, ancient ruins of Eleftherna, and the pottery village of Margarites.

• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an English-speaking driver/escort, all entrance fees, and a traditional Cretan lunch, providing a comprehensive and convenient exploration.

• Guests can learn about the significance of the Arkadi Monastery in the Greek-Turkish wars, discover the ancient Cretan civilization at Eleftherna, and engage with local artisans in Margarites.

• The tour allows for culture, with opportunities to appreciate Crete’s enduring traditions, gastronomy, and rich history, fostering a deeper understanding of the region.

• The tour offers flexible booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free experience and peace of mind for modern travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private tour of Eleftherna and Rethymno villages in Crete costs €450.00 per person and lasts 6 hours.

It’s a small-group experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking local driver/escort, all entrance fees, transport in an air-conditioned minivan, a traditional Cretan lunch, and all taxes and fees.

Gratuities are optional, and additional food and drinks aren’t included.

Visitors can customize their travel plans by selecting the date and number of participants based on availability.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Arkadi Monastery, a 16th-century Eastern Orthodox masterpiece. Visitors then explore the ancient ruins of Eleftherna, an archaeological site located 25 km southeast of Rethymno. Next, they discover the charming village of Margarites, renowned for its stone paths and traditional pottery shops. The experience culminates with a delightful traditional Cretan lunch at a unique restaurant showcasing a captivating folklore collection.

Itinerary Highlights
Arkadi Monastery	Ancient Eleftherna	Margarites Village	Traditional Cretan Lunch	Folklore Collection

This carefully curated itinerary allows participants to enjoy the rich history, culture, and gastronomy of the Rethymno region.

Experience and Cultural Immersion

Travelers on this private tour will journey through the historic marvels of Rethymno, revealing the ancient Cretan civilization that once thrived in this region.

Along the way, they’ll learn about the significance of the Arkadi Monastery, a site that played a crucial role in the Greek-Turkish wars.

The experience immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of Cretan traditions, culture, and gastronomy.

From the stone paths and pottery shops of Margarites village to the folklore collection at a unique restaurant, this tour offers a truly authentic and immersive glimpse into the living heritage of Crete.

Guests will leave with a deeper appreciation for the island’s enduring cultural identity.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience for guests.

An English-speaking local driver/escort accompanies participants throughout the journey, providing insights and historical context.

All entrance fees to the sites visited, such as the Arkadi Monastery and Ancient Eleftherna, are covered in the package price.

Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned minivan, adding to their comfort.

Plus, a traditional Cretan lunch is included, allowing them to savor the local cuisine.

Lastly, all taxes, fees, and handling charges are encompassed in the tour cost.

With these comprehensive inclusions, guests can fully enjoy the cultural and historical exploration of Eleftherna and Rethymno without worrying about additional expenses.

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Free Cancellation and Flexibility

This private tour offers a flexible booking experience, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment, allowing them to book now and pay later when convenient.

This policy provides peace of mind, ensuring customers can easily modify or cancel their plans if needed. With no financial risk upfront, travelers can secure their spot on this immersive Cretan adventure hassle-free.

The tour operator’s flexible approach caters to the dynamic needs of modern travelers, offering a seamless and stress-free booking process. This level of flexibility is a hallmark of the tour, allowing guests to fully focus on the culture and historical exploration of Eleftherna and Rethymno.

Exploring Ancient Eleftherna

One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the archaeological site of Ancient Eleftherna, located 25 kilometers southeast of Rethymno.

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Psiloritis, this remarkable ancient city offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich cultural heritage, with artifacts and ruins dating back to the 7th century BC.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved remnants of the city’s acropolis, agora, and necropolis, uncovering the daily life and rituals of the Elefthernians.

The site’s museum displays an impressive collection of pottery, sculptures, and other artifacts, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s history.

This ancient site is a testament to Crete’s enduring legacy, offering a fascinating exploration of the island’s storied past.

Discovering Margarites Village

A short drive from Ancient Eleftherna lies the charming village of Margarites, renowned for its captivating stone paths and thriving pottery tradition.

As visitors stroll through the winding streets, they’ll be enchanted by the quaint homes, workshops, and galleries showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans. The village’s pottery legacy dates back centuries, with families passing down techniques from generation to generation.

Exploring Margarites is like stepping into a living museum, where:

1. The rhythmic tapping of potters’ wheels creates a soothing soundtrack.

2. The air is infused with the earthy aroma of freshly fired ceramics.

3. Vibrant displays of vases, plates, and figurines captivate the senses.

4. Conversations with artisans unveil the rich cultural heritage of Cretan pottery.

Savoring Cretan Cuisine

Having savored the aromatic pottery workshops of Margarites, visitors can delight in the vibrant flavors of Cretan cuisine during their traditional lunch.

Showcasing the island’s bountiful produce and time-honored culinary traditions, the carefully curated menu immerses guests in the rich gastronomic heritage of this sun-drenched Mediterranean region.

Prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, the fare features iconic Cretan dishes like dakos, a rustic barley rusk topped with tomatoes, olives, and creamy feta.

Sipping on a glass of robust, fruity red wine, travelers will savor the essence of Crete’s celebrated food culture.

This immersive dining experience complements the day’s exploration of the region’s captivating history and architecture, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the island’s extraordinary wealth of cultural riches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are no specific dress code requirements for this tour. Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and exploring historical sites. The tour is designed to be flexible and accommodate a range of attire.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Meet Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to meet specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider, who will tailor the itinerary accordingly. This ensures a personalized experience that caters to the individual’s interests.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private tour does not have a specified maximum group size. The tour is customizable, allowing travelers to select the number of participants based on availability and their preferences for a more intimate or larger group experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are no specific restrictions on photography during the tour. Visitors are generally allowed to take photos at the sites, though they should be respectful of any cultural or religious sensitivities that may apply.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Traditional Cretan Lunch?

Yes, dietary restrictions can be accommodated for the traditional Cretan lunch. The tour provider is happy to cater to any special dietary needs with prior notice to ensure an enjoyable culinary experience during the tour.

Recap

This private tour offers an enriching experience, allowing travelers to explore Crete’s captivating history and culture.

From the ancient ruins of Eleftherna to the charming Margarites village, the tour immerses guests in the region’s heritage.

The inclusion of a traditional Cretan lunch and an English-speaking driver ensures a seamless and immersive journey, making it an ideal way to discover the hidden gems of this remarkable island.

You can check if your dates are available here: