Explore Preveli Palms, Damnoni Beach & Historic Rethymno

Crete is a stunning island with a wealth of natural beauty and rich history waiting to be discovered. This guided tour offers the chance to explore three of its renowned highlights – the serene Preveli Palms, the picturesque Damnoni Beach, and the charming old town of Rethymno. From a relaxing boat ride to savoring authentic Cretan cuisine, this itinerary provides a well-rounded experience that immerses visitors in the island’s captivating landscapes and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or culture, this tour promises to leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in Crete.

Key Points

Immerse in the natural beauty of Preveli Palms, Damnoni Beach, and Kourtaliotiko Gorge on an 11.5-13 hour tour with convenient pickup from 16 locations across Crete.
Enjoy a boat ride to Preveli Palm Beach, followed by 1.5 hours of swimming and snorkeling, and savor authentic Cretan cuisine at a local taverna.
Explore the historic old town and Venetian architecture of Rethymnon, with 1 hour and 20 minutes allocated for wandering its vibrant streets and port.
Experience round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable English-French-German speaking guide, and public liability insurance, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free tour.
Tour not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain, and pets are not allowed to maintain group integrity and protect the environment.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Overview and Pricing

This tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of Crete’s southern and western regions.

Priced from $58.16 per person, the 11.5 to 13-hour excursion takes you to Preveli Palms, Damnoni Beach, Kourtaliotiko Gorge, and the historic town of Rethymnon.

Pickup is available from 16 locations, including Anissaras, Sisi, Fodele, and Heraklion.

Highlights include a boat ride to Preveli Palm Beach, free time for swimming and lunch, and exploring the picturesque streets of Rethymnon.

With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and public liability insurance, this tour provides an unforgettable experience in a stunning corner of Crete.

Pickup Locations

With pickup locations spanning 16 options across the island, travelers can conveniently access the Preveli Palms and Damnoni Beach tour from various parts of Crete.

The pickup points include Anissaras, Sisi, Fodele, and Heraklion, ensuring easy accessibility for guests staying in different regions.

This flexibility allows participants to join the tour seamlessly, without the need for complicated transportation arrangements.

The tour’s comprehensive coverage of Crete’s stunning southern and western landscapes makes it an attractive choice for those seeking to explore the island’s natural wonders with ease and convenience.

Damnoni Beach and Preveli Palm Beach

After a 2-3 hour bus ride from the pickup locations, travelers embark on a 30-minute boat ride to reach the picturesque Preveli Palm Beach.

This oasis features lush palm trees, turquoise waters, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors spend 1.5 hours exploring the beach, taking in the stunning scenery, and enjoying a well-deserved break.

A short 20-minute bus ride then takes the group to the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, where they stop for 10 minutes to capture photos of the dramatic geological formations.

Lunch and Local Cuisine

Travelers on this tour enjoy a 1-hour lunch break at a local taverna located at Damnoni Beach.

This is the perfect opportunity to sample authentic Cretan cuisine and soak in the stunning coastal views. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including fresh seafood, hearty stews, and vegetarian options.

Theres some good classic Greek salads, dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and the renowned Cretan raki – a fragrant local spirit.

With ample time to relax and savor the flavors, this lunch stop is a highlight of the day, allowing travelers to truly enjoy the culinary culture of Crete.

Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Rethymnon

Following the bus ride to Damnoni Beach and lunch, the tour continues with a 20-minute transfer to the picturesque Kourtaliotiko Gorge.

Guests will enjoy a 10-minute photo stop, capturing the stunning natural scenery of this impressive gorge.

Afterward, the bus takes the group to the historic city of Rethymnon.

Visitors will have 1 hour and 20 minutes to explore the town’s charming old streets, lined with Venetian architecture and traditional shops.

Strolling along the old port, guests can soak in the lively atmosphere and vibrant culture of this captivating Cretan destination before heading back.

Transportation and Tour Guide

Guests enjoy round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus throughout the excursion. A knowledgeable tour guide, fluent in English, French, and German, accompanies the group, providing insightful commentary and ensuring a smooth experience.

The tour includes:

Pickup and drop-off from standard zones, with an additional charge for the Agia Pelagia and Lygaria zones.
Public liability insurance that covers all participants.
Scenic transportation to the day’s destinations, including a 20-minute bus ride to the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and a 2-3 hour bus ride followed by a 30-minute boat ride to reach Preveli Palm Beach.

Activities and Experiences

The tour offers a variety of immersive activities and experiences for guests.

Highlights include a boat ride across turquoise waters to Preveli Palm Forest, where visitors can spend 1.5 hours swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

The tour also provides free time for lunch and local cuisine tasting at a taverna by Damnoni Beach.

Scenic views and opportunities for swimming and relaxation await at Damnoni Beach.

On top of that, guests can explore the picturesque streets and old port of Rethymnon, a charming town with a rich history.

These activities allow guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Crete.

Important Restrictions

While the tour offers a wealth of experiences, there are some important restrictions to keep in mind.

First, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and steps involved.

Secondly, pets aren’t allowed on the tour, as they may disrupt the group or disturb the natural environment.

Finally, the tour focuses on notable sights on the South and West sides of Crete, so those looking to explore the entire island may need to consider additional activities.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for This Tour?

Unfortunately, the information provided does not mention any discounts or promotions for this tour. The price listed is from $58.16 per person, and there’s a reserve now & pay later option available.

Can I Customize or Modify the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can be customized to an extent, though significant changes may incur additional fees. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator to see what modifications are possible within the tour’s framework.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size, but the maximum is 50 people. This allows for a personalized experience while accommodating larger groups. Customers can enjoy the highlights of the tour in a comfortable setting.

What Types of Snacks or Refreshments Are Included During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any snacks or refreshments. However, there’s an opportunity to purchase local cuisine during the 1-hour lunch stop at a taverna on Damnoni Beach.

Can I Book This Tour in Multiple Languages Other Than English?

Yes, the tour offers a multilingual experience. It’s led by a knowledgeable guide fluent in English, French, and German, ensuring all participants can enjoy the tour in their preferred language.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

This Crete tour offers a diverse and immersive experience, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and authentic local cuisine. Visitors can relax on serene beaches, discover the enchanting Preveli Palms, and explore the historic streets of Rethymno, all while enjoying the convenience of transportation and knowledgeable guidance throughout the day.