Crete: Chania Old Town, Lake Kournas and Rethymno Tour

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, boasts an enchanting blend of history, natural wonders, and cultural richness. The "Crete: Chania Old Town, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno Tour" promises to unveil the island’s captivating essence. Exploring the charming streets of Chania, relaxing by the serene waters of Lake Kournas, and discovering the architectural marvels of Rethymno, this tour offers an immersive experience that delves into the heart of Crete. With convenient pickups and knowledgeable guides, travelers can embark on a journey that will leave them with a deeper appreciation for this Mediterranean gem. What secrets and surprises await those who choose to uncover the treasures of Crete?

Key Points

• This full-day tour provides an immersive cultural and natural experience, covering Chania Old Town, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and is available in multiple languages, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
• The itinerary includes highlights such as exploring the Venetian, Ottoman, and Byzantine influences in Chania Old Town, swimming and relaxing at Lake Kournas, and visiting the Venetian fortress in Rethymno.
• The tour includes convenient pickup from various locations across Crete and transportation via a modern, air-conditioned bus, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• The tour has received positive customer reviews, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the beauty of the visited destinations, with suggestions for improvements regarding tour length and food options.

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Crete: Chania Old Town, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno," is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on a journey through the historical and natural wonders of western Crete.

Priced from $42.10 per person, the tour lasts 10-12 hours and is available in multiple languages, including German, French, English, and Polish.

Guests can benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve their spot without immediate payment.

The tour covers the charming Chania Old Town, the scenic Lake Kournas, and the historic Rethymno, providing an immersive experience in the region’s diverse cultural and natural attractions.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing from Heraklion, the tour takes visitors on a journey through Minoan, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian history, with a 2-hour stop in the charming Chania Old Town for sightseeing, shopping, and lunch.

The next stop is Lake Kournas, where guests can spend 1.5 hours swimming, walking, and enjoying the local wildlife.

The final destination is Rethymno, where the group has 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore the old town, visit the Venetian fortress, and relax in local cafes.

Throughout the tour, scenic bus rides offer panoramic views of Crete’s north-west coast.

Pickup and Transportation

This tour offers pickup from 16 convenient locations across Crete, including popular spots like Malia, Agia Pelagia, Gouves, Hersonissos, and Heraklion.

Pickup times vary from 7:15 AM to 9:15 AM depending on your location. Transportation is provided by a modern, air-conditioned bus with an experienced driver.

The scenic bus rides will offer panoramic views of Crete’s northwestern coast as you travel between the tour’s destinations.

Whether you’re staying in the west or central part of the island, this tour makes it easy to explore Chania, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno without the hassle of driving yourself.

Included and Not Included

For this tour, the package includes hotel pickup, modern air-conditioned transportation, and liability insurance.

However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Participants should bring a sun hat and water, and have cash on hand, as the tour doesn’t allow pets.

While the overall customer ratings are positive, with highlights including knowledgeable guides and beautiful destinations, some suggestions include considering the tour length for families with infants, availability of food options, and potentially longer stays in Chania and Rethymno.

Customer Reviews

The tour’s overall customer rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 225 reviews reflects the positive experiences of previous participants.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, flexibility in exploration, and the beauty of the destinations.

However, some suggest considering the length of the tour for families with infants, the availability of food options, and the potential for longer stays in Chania and Rethymno.

Exploring Chania Old Town

Chania’s old town, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and Venetian-style buildings, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history.

The neighborhood boasts a vibrant atmosphere, with charming alleyways, quaint shops, and an array of cafes and restaurants.

Visitors can explore the imposing Venetian lighthouse, the Venetian shipyards, and the old market hall, which now houses artisanal boutiques.

The picturesque Venetian harbor, lined with colorful buildings and buzzing with activity, is a must-see.

Wandering through Chania’s old town is a delightful way to take in the unique blend of Cretan, Venetian, and Ottoman influences that have shaped this captivating destination.

Discovering Lake Kournas

After exploring the captivating Chania Old Town, the tour moves on to discover the natural wonder of Lake Kournas.

Situated in the western part of Crete, Lake Kournas is the largest freshwater lake on the island. Visitors have 1.5 hours to soak up the serene atmosphere, take a refreshing swim, and keep an eye out for the diverse array of wildlife.

The lake’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding rugged hills create a picturesque landscape that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Whether strolling along the shoreline or simply admiring the tranquil setting, Lake Kournas offers a peaceful respite from the bustling Old Town.

Visiting Rethymno

Once the tour leaves Lake Kournas, it heads to the historic city of Rethymno, located along Crete’s northern coast.

Visitors have approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore the old town’s Venetian and Ottoman architecture. The tour includes a visit to the iconic Venetian fortress, providing panoramic views of the city and harbor.

Guests can also stroll through the charming alleyways, browse local shops, and stop for a coffee or light refreshment in one of the cozy cafes.

The tour’s flexibility allows travelers to discover Rethymno’s captivating blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean atmosphere at their own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows passengers to bring their own food and drinks. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions on outside food and beverages before the trip.

What Type of Vehicle Is Used for Transportation?

The tour uses a modern, air-conditioned bus with an experienced driver to transport guests. The bus provides comfortable transportation and panoramic views during the scenic drives along Crete’s north-west coast.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?

According to the tour details, travelers don’t need to bring any special equipment. The tour includes transportation by an air-conditioned bus, and the only suggested items to bring are a sun hat, water, and cash.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

There is no specific discount mentioned for seniors or students on this tour. The tour price is listed as a general rate of $42.10 per person, without any information about special pricing for particular groups.

Can I Extend My Stay in Chania or Rethymno on My Own?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Chania or Rethymno on your own after the tour ends. The tour only provides a limited time in those cities, so you’re free to explore further on your own schedule.

Recap

This comprehensive tour of Crete’s highlights won’t disappoint. Visitors can enjoy the charming Old Town of Chania, unwind at the serene Lake Kournas, and marvel at Rethymno’s captivating Venetian architecture. With convenient pickup options and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the rich history and stunning landscapes that make Crete a beloved destination.