Rethymno’s top city tours offer efficient ways to explore this historic Cretan gem. Among the standout options, I love the 3-hour Craft Beer & City Tour – it smartly combines local brews with must-see landmarks, making history more digestible. The 2-hour E-Bike Tour is perfect for covering more ground while keeping things active and breezy. For serious explorers, two longer tours stand out: a 10-hour journey to Lake Kournas, Chania, and Souda Bay, and a 9.5-hour cultural trek including the powerful Arkadi Monastery and the pottery workshops of Margarites. Let’s look at our favorite Rethymno tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Rethymno Craft Beer & City Tour offers a 3-hour experience with beer tasting, a guided walking tour, and a final stop for beer and finger food.
- The Rethymno E-Bike Tour provides a 2-hour scenic ride through the old town and along the coast, with stops at iconic landmarks.
- The Lake Kournas – Chania City – Souda Bay Boat Tour is a comprehensive 10-hour tour that includes swimming, pedalo boating, and exploring Chania’s old town.
- The Rethymno City, Chania City & Kournas Lake Tour is a 10-13 hour adventure with guided exploration, lunch options, and flexible booking.
- The Rethymno City Tour with Arkadi Monastery and Margarites offers a 9.5-hour experience that includes visiting a traditional pottery village and a historic monastery.
Rethymno: Craft Beer & City Tour
The Rethymno Craft Beer & City Tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and thriving craft beer scene.
The 3-hour tour, limited to 6 participants, begins at Bricks Beers & Tales in Rethymno’s Old Town, where guests enjoy welcome refreshments and a beer tasting.
Participants then embark on a guided walking tour, discovering the city’s landmarks and learning about its storied past.
The final stop features a beer of choice and finger food, allowing guests to savor the local flavors.
This award-winning tour, the first of its kind in Rethymno, combines an enthusiastic beer guide, tasting of diverse Greek beer styles, and a unique souvenir.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a valid ID, personal water bottle, and enthusiasm for an authentic Greek beer experience.
Not suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or wheelchair users, the tour offers top local recommendations and a fun atmosphere for beer aficionados.
Read our full review: Rethymno: Craft Beer & City Tour Review
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Rethymno: E-Bike Tour on the Old City
Exploring Rethymno’s charming old town by e-bike offers visitors a fun and eco-friendly way to discover the city’s rich Venetian heritage.
The 2-hour Rethymno e-Bike Tour takes participants on a scenic ride along the coastal road and through the historic streets, stopping at iconic landmarks like the Rimondi Fountain, Neratze Mosque, and Fortezza castle.
Led by an experienced guide, the small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) provides an in-depth look at the city’s architecture and history. Guests can capture postcard-worthy pictures during the journey, which includes a visit to the Catholic Church of St. Francis and the Guora Gate.
The tour is available in English and Greek, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Priced at $42.31 per person, the experience includes the use of a bicycle, helmet, and safety vest, as well as hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen for an enjoyable and informative exploration of Rethymno’s old town.
Read our full review: Rethymno: E-Bike Tour on the Old City Review
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Lake Kournas – Chania City – Souda Bay Boat Tour
This comprehensive 10-hour tour allows visitors to experience the natural beauty and cultural highlights of western Crete. Priced at $39.10 per person, the tour includes visits to Lake Kournas, Chania City, and a boat trip in Souda Bay.
Travelers can swim or ride a pedalo boat at the scenic Lake Kournas, then explore the narrow streets and Old Venetian Harbour of Chania City. The tour also includes a boat trip in Souda Bay, where guests can snorkel in crystal-clear waters and relax at Marathi beach.
With live English and Russian-speaking guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.
Highlights include observing local wildlife, shopping for local products, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Customers have provided positive reviews, making this tour a great option for those seeking to discover the wonders of western Crete.
Read our full review: Lake Kournas – Chania City – Souda Bay Boat Tour Review
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Rethymno City, Chania City& Kournas Lake Tour From Heraklion
Visitors seeking to enjoy the captivating cities and natural wonders of western Crete can embark on the comprehensive Rethymno City, Chania City, and Kournas Lake Tour, priced from $53.90 per person.
This 10-13 hour adventure, conducted in English, features a guided exploration of the historic Rethymnon, the charming Chania, and the serene Kournas Lake. Travelers will relax at Rethymnon’s old port, discover Chania’s Venetian and Turkish architecture, and enjoy lunch options near the freshwater Kournas Lake.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off service, air-conditioned transportation, a live guide, and refreshments. Flexible booking options allow for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
With a duration of 10-13 hours, this comprehensive tour offers an excellent opportunity to experience the highlights of western Crete in a single day.
Read our full review: Rethymno City, Chania City& Kournas Lake Tour From Heraklion Review
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Rethymno City Tour With Arkadi Monastery and Margarites
Rethymno City boasts a rich history and captivating architecture, making it a must-visit destination in western Crete. The Rethymno City Tour with Arkadi Monastery and Margarites offers an immersive experience that highlights the region’s cultural treasures. Priced at $126.81 per person, this 9.5-hour tour takes visitors to the traditional pottery village of Margarites, the iconic Arkadi Monastery, and the well-preserved medieval town of Rethymno.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, professional guidance, and entrance fees to the sites. Guests can explore the scenic Rethymno Old Town, admire the Venetian Fortezza, and enjoy an optional lunch at a local restaurant.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves navigating cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. Suitable for both English and non-English speakers, this comprehensive tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover the unique charm and legacy of Rethymno.
With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve without upfront payment, it’s an attractive choice for those seeking a memorable exploration of this captivating region.
Read our full review: Rethymno City Tour With Arkadi Monastery and Margarites Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Rethymno?
The best time to visit Rethymno is typically during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. The weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower compared to the peak summer months when temperatures can be quite hot.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals for Multiple Tours?
Many tour operators in Rethymno offer discounts or package deals for booking multiple tours. Visitors can often save money by purchasing multi-tour packages, allowing them to explore the city’s highlights more affordably.
Do the Tours Accommodate Travelers With Mobility Issues?
Many tour companies offer accommodations for travelers with mobility issues. They’ll work with you to ensure your experience is comfortable and accessible. Some tours may have special equipment or assistance available upon request.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Many tour companies offer customizable itineraries that allow travelers to tailor the tour to their interests. Travelers can often request specific sights, activities, or themes to create a personalized experience that meets their preferences and needs.
Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Multiple Languages?
The tour guides are typically fluent in multiple languages, including English, making it easy for visitors from diverse backgrounds to enjoy the tour and engage with the guide. This allows for a more personalized and enriching experience.
The Sum Up
Rethymno offers a variety of captivating city tours, catering to diverse interests. From exploring the old town’s charming alleyways to discovering the region’s craft beer and rural villages, these tours provide an immersive experience. Whether you prefer a leisurely e-bike ride or a boat excursion, Rethymno’s tours showcase the city’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. With multiple options available, visitors can tailor their exploration to their preferences and create unforgettable memories of this enchanting Greek destination.