CHANIA – KOURNAS – RETHIMNO

Exploring the enchanting regions of Chania, Kournas, and Rethymno in West Crete offers a captivating journey through the island’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. From the charming Venetian streets of Chania to the serene serenity of Kournas Lake and the well-preserved Venetian architecture of Rethymno, this tour showcases the diverse cultural and scenic highlights that make Crete a truly remarkable destination. Whether you’re seeking a glimpse of the past or a chance to learn about the island’s natural wonders, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to discover more.

Good To Know

• The tour explores the highlights of West Crete, including the charming Venetian city of Chania, the scenic Kournas Lake, and the historic town of Rethymno.
• Chania’s Venetian architecture, quaint shops, and vibrant harbor offer an authentic Mediterranean experience.
• Kournas Lake, surrounded by olive groves and mountains, provides a peaceful oasis for relaxation and exploration.
• Rethymno’s Venetian heritage, well-preserved architecture, and picturesque harbor showcase the region’s rich history.
• The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and accessibility features, providing a comprehensive and inclusive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "West Crete: Chania, Rethymno Town & Kournas Lake," is priced from $66.71 per person.

It’s a one-day excursion that starts and ends at the Creta Maris Resort. Guests can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve their spot without paying today.

The tour covers Chania, Kournas Lake, and Rethymno, allowing participants to explore Venetian streets, the vibrant Chania harbor, and the natural beauty of Kournas Lake.

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned bus with a professional driver and tour guide. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and pickups are available from hotels and bus stops.

Itinerary and Highlights

This one-day tour begins at the Creta Maris Resort, where guests embark on an engaging exploration of West Crete. The first stop is the historic city of Chania, where a guided tour and free time allow visitors to enjoy the Venetian charm of the old harbor and engaging in shopping.

Destination	Duration
Chania	2.5 hours
Kournas Lake	1.5 hours
Rethymno	1.5 hours

Next, the group visits the picturesque Kournas Lake, enjoying a guided tour, lunch, and free time to explore the natural beauty. The final stop is Rethymno, where a guided tour and free time showcases the vibrant streets and opportunities for shopping.

Transportation and Accessibility

Air-conditioned buses transport guests throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable journey.

A professional driver and tour guide accompany the group, providing valuable insights and assistance.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to fully participate.

Hotel and bus stop pickups are available, allowing for convenient meeting points.

With these transportation and accessibility features, the West Crete tour offers a seamless and inclusive experience for guests of all abilities.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes transportation, a professional tour guide, and legal taxes, ensuring a comprehensive and carefree experience. Plus, liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ is provided for added peace of mind. However, certain items are not included, such as the cost of pedal boat hire at Lake Kournas and museum entrances. Guests will need to cover their own food and drinks as well.

Included	Not Included
Transportation	Pedal boat hire at Lake Kournas
Tour guide	Museum entrances
Legal taxes	Food and drinks
Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ

This breakdown of inclusions and exclusions helps set clear expectations for travelers and allows them to budget accordingly for a seamless and enjoyable tour.

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Preparation and Important Information

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended items to bring on this tour.

Face masks are required in indoor places and while traveling by bus, as per government regulations.

The meeting point is the sign on the bus, and the exact location and time will be provided after booking completion.

It’s essential to be prepared for the day’s activities, which include walking through Venetian streets, exploring vibrant Chania and its old harbor, and enjoying the natural views at Kournas Lake.

Discover Chania’s Venetian Streets

Chania’s Venetian streets captivate visitors with their charming alleys, quaint shops, and historic architecture.

As you stroll through the old town, you’ll discover:

1. The vibrant Venetian harbor, lined with seafood restaurants and cafes, offering breathtaking views of the harbor and the Lighthouse.

2. The stunning Venetian Loggia, a 16th-century building that now houses the Municipal Art Gallery, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Narrow streets and alleyways, where you can explore traditional workshops, artisanal boutiques, and local eateries, enjoying the city’s authentic Mediterranean atmosphere.

Lose yourself in the timeless charm of Chania’s Venetian quarter, where history and modernity seamlessly blend.

Explore Kournas Lake’s Beauty

After exploring the charming Venetian streets of Chania, the tour now takes visitors to the serene Kournas Lake, a true gem nestled in the heart of West Crete.

Surrounded by olive groves and mountains, this freshwater lake offers a peaceful oasis. During the stop, travelers can take a guided tour, enjoy a delectable lunch, and explore the area at their own pace.

Whether strolling along the lakeside, browsing local shops, or simply taking in the breathtaking natural scenery, Kournas Lake provides a delightful respite from the bustling city.

This idyllic setting showcases the diverse beauty that West Crete has to offer.

Guided Tour of Rethymno

The tour now makes its way to the historic city of Rethymno, where travelers can explore its rich Venetian heritage.

The guided tour leads visitors through the city’s vibrant streets, showcasing its well-preserved Venetian architecture and charming old town.

Highlights include:

1. Wandering the Venetian harbor, a picturesque waterfront dotted with restaurants and cafes.
2. Exploring the Loggia, a magnificent 16th-century Venetian building that now houses the town hall.
3. Visiting the Fortezza, a 16th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline.

After the guided tour, travelers have free time to shop, dine, or simply soak in the city’s captivating atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer customization options. The itinerary is pre-set, but it covers popular highlights in the region like Chania, Kournas Lake, and Rethymno. Customers can’t request to visit specific sites not included in the tour.

How Many People Typically Join the Group Tour?

The group size for this tour typically ranges from 10 to 30 people. The exact number may vary depending on customer demand and the tour capacity. The tour operator give you a personalized experience within a small group setting.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and casual, weather-appropriate clothing. Bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is also advised for protection during outdoor activities.

Are Audio Guides Available During the Guided Tours?

No, audio guides aren’t provided. The tour includes a live guide who’ll lead the group through the historical sites and provide commentary during the stops in Chania, Kournas Lake, and Rethymno.

Can I Leave the Group at Any Point During the Tour?

Participants can generally leave the group at any point during the tour, but they’ll be responsible for their own transportation and any additional costs. It’s best to coordinate with the tour guide before departing.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour through West Crete offers a unique opportunity to take in the island’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. From the charming Venetian streets of Chania to the serene beauty of Kournas Lake and the vibrant atmosphere of Rethymno, this journey promises an unforgettable cultural and scenic experience that will leave a lasting impression on visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: