Exploring the historic and picturesque regions of Arkadi and Rethymnon on Crete can be a truly rewarding experience. With a private tour in a luxury Mercedes Vito minivan, travelers can enjoy the island’s rich culture and beautiful landscapes. From the iconic Arkadi Monastery to the charming old town of Rethymnon, this guided journey promises to deliver a memorable day filled with stunning sights, delectable local cuisine, and a personal touch that sets it apart from the ordinary. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an authentic Cretan adventure, this tour presents an opportunity to discover the essence of this captivating island.
This experience made our list of the 8 Best Private Tours In Rethymno.
Key Points
- Luxury Mercedes Vito minibus with English-speaking driver provides a hassle-free transportation experience to explore Arkadi Monastery and Rethymnon’s old town.
- Visit the Arkadi Monastery, a historical site of resistance against Ottoman rule, and learn about Crete’s past and resilience.
- Explore the charming, winding streets of Rethymnon’s old town, admiring the Venetian and Ottoman architecture and experiencing the local culture.
- Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch near the picturesque harbor, savoring authentic dishes and fresh seafood.
- Flexible and personalized tour allows for leisurely exploration, photography opportunities, and insider tips from the knowledgeable driver.
Tour Overview
This private tour takes travelers to the historical Arkadi Monastery and the charming old town of Rethymnon.
Lasting 7 hours, the tour is priced from $100.74 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.
The tour includes transportation in a luxury Mercedes Vito minibus with an English-speaking driver and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Highlights include visiting the significant Arkadi Monastery and exploring Rethymnon’s old town, followed by a delicious lunch near the harbor.
Travelers can personalize the tour at their own pace and have ample time to wander through Rethymnon’s shops and narrow streets before returning to their hotel.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rethymno.
Transportation Details
Comfort and convenience underpin the transportation arrangements for this private tour.
Travelers will be ferried in a modern, well-appointed Mercedes Vito minibus, ensuring a smooth and relaxed journey. The professional, English-speaking driver will handle all the driving, allowing guests to sit back and take in the sights.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, eliminating the need for additional transfers. This comprehensive transportation package makes for a hassle-free experience, enabling visitors to focus on seeing the tour’s highlights without the worry of navigating unfamiliar roads.
Arkadi Monastery Visit
The tour begins with a visit to the historic Arkadi Monastery, a site of great significance in the resistance against Ottoman rule.
Guests will explore the monastery’s fortified walls, Byzantine churches, and museum, which displays artifacts from the Greek struggle for independence. The guide will provide insights into the monastery’s role in the 1866 Cretan Revolt, where hundreds of Cretans took refuge and fought against the Ottoman forces.
Visitors can wander through the monastery’s beautiful courtyards and gardens, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and learning about its rich history.
This stop offers a glimpse into Crete’s past and the island’s resilience in the face of foreign occupation.
Rethymnon’s Old Town
After visiting the historic Arkadi Monastery, the tour continues to the captivating old town of Rethymnon.
Wander through the narrow, winding streets lined with Venetian and Ottoman architecture. Discover charming cafes, artisan workshops, and vibrant local life.
Explore the iconic Venetian Loggia, a 16th-century landmark, and the ancient Fortezza, a well-preserved Renaissance fortress.
Admire the impressive Neratzes Mosque, a former Catholic church converted during the Ottoman era. Enjoy a delectable lunch near the picturesque harbor, surrounded by the timeless beauty of Rethymnon’s enchanting old town.
- Stroll through the quaint, historic streets
- Admire the stunning Venetian and Ottoman architecture
- Discover local cafes, artisan shops, and vibrant culture
- Explore the iconic landmarks of Rethymnon’s old town
Lunch Near Harbor
Following the exploration of Rethymnon’s captivating old town, the tour continues to a delightful lunch near the picturesque harbor.
Guests will enjoy a traditional Cretan meal at a local restaurant overlooking the tranquil waters. The menu features a variety of authentic dishes, showcasing the region’s fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors.
Diners can savor the local specialty of fresh fish, accompanied by a selection of meze plates and a glass of crisp white wine.
This leisurely lunch break provides the perfect opportunity to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the harbor and recharge before the next part of the excursion.
- Charter:Chania Airport (Chq) To/From Central Rethymno
- Rethymno: Cretan Herbs and Wine Tasting With Lunch
- Rethymno: Boat Rental Without License
- Agia Galini: South Crete Sailing Trip With Optional Lunch
- Elafonisi Island Day Tour by Bus From Rethymno
- Wheelchair Accessible Tour: Rethymno – Kournas -Georgioupoli
Personalized Experience
Designed as a personalized experience, this tour allows guests to explore Arkadi and Rethymnon at their own leisurely pace.
With ample time to wander through the shops and narrow streets of Rethymnon, travelers can enjoy the unique atmosphere of the old town.
The tour’s flexibility enables visitors to:
- Discover hidden gems at their own rhythm
- Indulge in the local culture and cuisine
- Capture the essence of Crete through photography
- Engage with the knowledgeable driver for insider tips
This tailored approach ensures an unforgettable and enriching journey, catering to each traveler’s interests and preferences.
Booking Information
Travelers can check availability for the tour’s starting times and select the desired participants and date to reserve their spot.
The tour can be booked online, and customers have the option to pay later. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can easily adjust their plans if needed.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the hotel, ensuring a seamless start and end to the experience.
Whether travelers are looking to explore the historic Arkadi Monastery or wander through the charming old town of Rethymnon, this private tour provides a personalized and flexible way to discover the highlights of the region.
Refund and Cancellation
This private tour offers flexible cancellation options, giving travelers peace of mind when planning their trip.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can receive a full refund if their plans change. The "reserve now & pay later" option also allows for more flexibility in booking.
This tour’s cancellation policy demonstrates the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and understanding the unpredictable nature of travel:
- Hassle-free cancellation for a full refund up to 24 hours prior
- "Reserve now & pay later" option for added flexibility
- Responsive customer service to accommodate changes
- Peace of mind when booking this private tour experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests. The private nature of the tour allows for a personalized experience, where the itinerary can be adjusted to suit the preferences of the participants.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t include any additional costs or fees during the experience. The price covers the private transportation, English-speaking driver, and entrance fees to the monastery and old town. Travelers only need to pay for their own lunch.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?
The tour is available in English. However, the website doesn’t specify if other language options are offered. Customers should inquire about language availability when booking the tour.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?
The tour’s group size is private, allowing for a personalized experience. The number of participants is flexible, ensuring a comfortable and tailored excursion to suit the needs of each booking.
Can the Pickup/Drop-Off Location Be Adjusted From the Hotel?
Yes, the pickup and drop-off location can be adjusted from the hotel. The tour provider offers flexible transportation options to accommodate the customer’s needs, so they can be picked up and dropped off at another agreed-upon location.
Recap
This private tour to Arkadi and Rethymnon offers an immersive Cretan experience. The luxury Mercedes Vito minivan provides comfortable transportation, while the professional driver shares insights. Visitors explore the historic Arkadi Monastery, stroll Rethymnon’s charming old town, and savor traditional Cretan cuisine by the harbor. With a personalized approach, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Crete’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Rethymno
- From Chania:Private Rethymnon Argyroupolis Kournas Lake Tour
- Chania: Loutro Private Beach Day Trip in South Crete
- Crete : Guided Private Day Trip Knossos & Heraklion
- Rethymno private guided city tour
- Private Trip From Rethymno to Dinosauria Park & Cretaquarium
- Private Tour Elafonissi Beach, Tsikoudia Museum, Agia Sofia
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
- Rethymo: Landrover Safari Sunset Tour with Dinner and Drink
- Heraklion Areas:Rethymno,Chania & Lake Kournas Full-Day Tour
- Heraklion Areas : Preveli Beach & Palm Forest Full-Day Tour
More Tour Reviews in Rethymno
- From Chania:Private Rethymnon Argyroupolis Kournas Lake Tour
- From Rethymno: Spili, Agia Galini, and Matala Tour
- 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
- Rethymno: Shepherd For A Day
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
- Rethymno: Guided e-Bike Tour on Mili Gorge and soft drinks
- From Panormo: Luxe All-Inclusive Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
- Rethymno: Shepherd For A Day
- Rock Climbing in Crete with a Guide at Plakias Beach sectors
- Reflexology Couples Workshop in Crete
- Rethymno: Chrysoula’s Cretan Home Cooking Lessons
- Rethymo: Landrover Safari Sunset Tour with Dinner and Drink
- Crete: Cretan Night A Traditional Experience
- From Heraklion: Preveli Natural Palm Forest & Exotic Beach