Explore the enchanting landscapes of Crete’s southern coast on this captivating 8-hour tour from Rethymno. Discover the serene Preveli Palm Forest, stroll along the picturesque Damnoni beaches, and learn about the charming town of Plakias. With convenient pickups, a scenic boat ride, and a professional guide, this excursion promises breathtaking views, leisurely exploration, and an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, natural beauty, or culture, this tour has something to captivate every traveler. Unlock the hidden gems of Crete’s southern coastal region and embark on an adventure that will leave you yearning for more.
Good To Know
- A comprehensive 8-hour tour from Rethymno that explores the Preveli Palm Forest, Damnoni, and Plakias, with pickup options across 12 areas.
- Highlights include a water taxi to Preveli Beach, free time to explore Damnoni and Plakias, and a photo stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
- Pricing ranges from $17.87 to $22.34 per person, with potential savings of up to 20% and flexible booking options.
- The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned bus, an English-speaking guide, and pickup/drop-off, with additional costs for boat tickets and optional charges.
- Positive customer reviews praise the exceptional transportation, modern buses, and professional drivers, though some feedback indicates a preference for more time in Damnoni.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Rethymno and its surrounding areas, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
Priced at $17.87 to $22.34 per person, it’s a great value with the potential to save up to 20%.
The 8-hour excursion includes convenient pickup options, a visit to the stunning Preveli Palm Forest, time to relax on the beaches of Damnoni and Plakias, and a photo stop at the Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides flexibility and ease of booking.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rethymno.
Itinerary and Activities
The tour begins with pickup locations conveniently scattered across 12 areas, including Stavromenos, Rethimno, and Platanias, ensuring easy accessibility for participants.
From there, the group will travel by bus/coach to Damnoni, a journey of approximately 1 hour. A 30-minute water taxi ride will then take them to the stunning Preveli Beach, where they’ll have 2.5 hours of free time to explore the lagoon and palm trees.
After the beach visit, the group will return to Damnoni by water taxi, and spend 2 hours exploring the area.
Next, they’ll head to Plakias, a 20-minute bus ride, for lunch and free time.
The tour concludes with a photo stop at Kourtaliotiko Gorge before returning to Rethymno.
Pickup Locations
The tour offers a variety of pickup locations across 12 areas, including Stavromenos, Rethimno, and Platanias, providing convenient access for participants.
Guests can choose from the following options:
- Stavromenos
- Rethimno
- Platanias
- Panormo
The pickup locations span a range of popular destinations, ensuring that travelers can easily join the excursion from their respective accommodations.
This flexibility allows for a seamless start to the day’s adventure, setting the stage for an immersive exploration of Preveli Palm Forest, Damnoni, and Plakias.
Highlights and Experiences
Travelers embark on a captivating journey as they explore Preveli Beach’s stunning lagoon and towering palm trees.
The day takes them on a scenic boat trip to Palm Beach, where they can swim and soak in the natural beauty. Along the way, they’ll marvel at the breathtaking views of Kourtaliotis Gorge and the Preveli River.
In Damnoni, visitors can relax on the beach or engage in various activities.
The final stop is Plakias, where they’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the charming town.
This excursion offers a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s natural wonders and cultural delights.
More Great Tours NearbyInclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes a range of essential services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. The package covers:
- Bus ticket and travel on a modern, air-conditioned tour bus
- An English-speaking guide to provide commentary and assistance
- Pickup and drop-off from specified locations
- A professional driver ensuring safe and comfortable transportation
However, there are a few exclusions to keep in mind. The price doesn’t cover food, drinks, or individual expenses.
Plus, boat tickets (€13) and an optional charge for the Panormo area (€30) aren’t included in the package price.
Travelers should bring cash for these additional expenses.
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Important Information
Bringing your own food and drinks isn’t allowed in the vehicle, as the tour emphasizes maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for all participants.
Customers should come prepared with cash to cover boat tickets, meals, drinks, sunbeds, and umbrellas.
Pickup times may vary for hotels outside Rethymno, so it’s important to confirm the schedule in advance.
The tour has received positive reviews, with 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 16 reviews.
Customers particularly praised the transportation and felt the tour offered good value for money, though some felt there was too much time allotted in Plakias compared to Damnoni.
Customer Feedback
Customers have generally offered positive feedback on the tour, as evidenced by its overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 16 reviews.
The tour’s strengths include:
- Exceptional transportation, earning a perfect 5/5 score for its modern, air-conditioned buses and professional drivers.
- Good value for money, with a 4/5 rating for the activities and experiences offered.
- Highlights like the serene Preveli Beach and its palm-tree lagoon, as well as the scenic Kourtaliotis Gorge.
- The opportunity to explore the charming villages of Damnoni and Plakias, and enjoy swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation.
Some customers, however, felt the time allotted in Plakias was excessive, preferring more time in Damnoni.
The Sum Up
This 8-hour tour from Rethymno offers an unforgettable exploration of Crete’s natural beauty. Visitors will enjoy the stunning Preveli Palm Forest, bask on the serene Damnoni beaches, and discover the charming town of Plakias. With convenient pickups, a scenic boat ride, and ample free time, this tour promises breathtaking views, a leisurely lunch, and a remarkable journey at an affordable price.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Rethymno
- From Chania:Private Rethymnon Argyroupolis Kournas Lake Tour
- From Rethymno: Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala Tour
- Rethymno: Guided e-Bike Tour on Mili Gorge and soft drinks
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- Heraklion Areas : Preveli Beach & Palm Forest Full-Day Tour
More Tour Reviews in Rethymno
- From Chania:Private Rethymnon Argyroupolis Kournas Lake Tour
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- From Rethymno: Elafonisi Pink Sand Beach w/ Transfer
- Rethymno: Guided e-Bike Tour on Mili Gorge and soft drinks
- From Panormo: Luxe All-Inclusive Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
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Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Rethymno we have reviewed
- From Chania:Private Rethymnon Argyroupolis Kournas Lake Tour
- From Rethymno: Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala Tour
- From Rethymno: Elafonisi Pink Sand Beach w/ Transfer
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