Chania Areas: Day Trip to Arkadi -Margarites & Rethymno City

Traveling through Crete often means juggling ancient history, scenic villages, and lively towns—all in one day. This tour from Rethymno offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s cultural and natural charms, all packed into approximately 10 hours of exploration. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances guided sightseeing with free time to soak in the local vibe.

What immediately draws us in are three key aspects: the chance to visit Arkadi Monastery, an iconic symbol of Cretan resilience; the opportunity to stroll through Margarites, a village renowned for its pottery craftsmanship; and a generous stretch of free time in Rethymno, a town known for its picturesque Venetian architecture and welcoming atmosphere. The inclusion of a beach swim near the town adds a relaxing touch after a day of sightseeing.

However, a consideration is that the tour is quite full, with around 4 hours of free time in Rethymno—meaning you’ll need to decide how best to prioritize your explorations. Also, entrance fees to Arkadi Monastery are not included, costing just 4 euros, so budgeting for that is wise.

This tour suits travelers keen on combining history, culture, and leisure in one day without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal for those who enjoy guided experiences but also cherish some personal time to explore at their own pace.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary combining history, craftsmanship, and leisure
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning and hotel pick-up
• Rich storytelling from knowledgeable guides (though not included with private options)
• Time flexibility in Rethymno for sightseeing, shopping, and relaxing at the beach
• Affordable extras like the modest entrance fee to Arkadi Monastery
• Suitable for those who want a comprehensive day trip with authentic experiences

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Crete’s Hidden and Famous Gems

This tour offers a carefully curated snapshot of Crete’s diverse appeal. It hits three highlights: an iconic monastery, a traditional pottery village, and Rethymno’s lively old town. Each stop is designed to showcase a different facet of the island’s character, from the resilience of its history to the artistry of its people and the relaxed charm of its towns.

Discovering Arkadi Monastery: The Heart of Cretan Resistance

Your journey begins with a visit to Arkadi Monastery, a site that’s more than just a religious landmark—it’s a symbol of defiance and freedom for Crete. As you walk through its impressive stone walls, you’ll learn about its role in the island’s fight for independence. The monastery’s architecture, with thick stone walls and serene courtyards, offers a peaceful yet powerful ambiance.

The guided tour provides insights into the monastery’s importance, with a brief stop for photos and reflection. The entrance fee isn’t included but is a modest €4. Past visitors mention the interest in the heroic revolution associated with this site, making it a meaningful visit beyond just sightseeing.

Margarites: A Village Steeped in Pottery Tradition

Next, the tour takes you to Margarites, a village either famous or infamous for its pottery craft. It’s one of the largest pottery centers in Greece, with a tradition that spans generations. Walking through its narrow, winding streets, you’re immersed in a world where every corner seems to tell a story of clay, fire, and artistry.

A highlight here is the chance to see an elder hand-throw pots, giving you a glimpse of centuries-old techniques still alive today. Reviewers note that the village’s extraordinary architecture and the chance to shop for handmade ceramics make it a memorable stop. You might even find a unique souvenir to take home.

Rethymno: The Perfect Blend of Old and New

The final major stop is Rethymno, one of Crete’s most charming towns, with a vibrant old town full of Venetian influences. You get about 4 hours of free time, enough to explore the Venetian Fortezza, wander through cobbled alleys, or sit at a café and watch the world go by.

The Venetian fortress offers spectacular views and a sense of stepping back in time. Reviewers mention that the old town’s authenticity and lively atmosphere make it a standout part of the tour. Plus, there’s optional time for shopping, sampling local cuisine, or just relaxing by the palm-lined beach nearby.

For those looking to cool off, the beach at the town’s edge is perfect for a quick swim. The calm waters and sandy shore are especially inviting after a morning of sightseeing.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The day kicks off with pickup from one of 14 locations around Chania and surrounding towns, ensuring convenience for most travelers. The coach ride to Arkadi Monastery takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a comfortable start to the day.

Arkadi Monastery (1 hour): Guided tour with photo stops, where you’ll learn about its historical significance. The visit is typically peaceful, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to absorb its impressive architecture.

Margarites (1 hour): Explore the pottery village, watch artisans at work, and enjoy some free time for shopping or browsing. Reviewers have appreciated the chance to see craftsmanship firsthand and the village’s picturesque setting.

Rethymno (3 hours): The largest block of free time, where you can visit the Venetian fortress, stroll the old town’s alleys, or relax on the palm beach. Lunch is usually on your own, so you can choose a local taverna or café, tasting some delicious Cretan specialties.

The return journey takes around 100 minutes, with drop-offs at multiple central locations.

Transport & Comfort

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, making the long drives comfortable, especially during hot summer days. Pick-up and drop-off are included at numerous hotel and central locations, which means you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics.

Guides & Extras

While the tour includes a professional English-speaking guide, note that the private group option does not include a guide. The guidance provided is generally well-reviewed, with travelers appreciating the stories and context shared about each site.

Cost & Value

At a modest additional cost for entrance to Arkadi Monastery, the overall value is quite good considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, and the flexibility of free time. Reviewers mention that the experience is “worth the price,” especially given the convenience of hotel pickup and the variety of stops.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking through uneven streets and historical sites.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen as you’ll be outdoors for most of the day.
• Carry water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
• Prepare a camera to capture the stunning views at Arkadi and Rethymno.
• Budget around €4 for entrance to Arkadi Monastery.
• Use the free time in Rethymno wisely: explore, shop, or relax at the beach.
• Be aware the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to some walking and uneven terrain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Crete without the hassle of planning individual excursions. History buffs will appreciate Arkadi’s significance, while culture lovers will enjoy Margarites’ artisan atmosphere. Those seeking a blend of sightseeing and leisure will find the free time in Rethymno especially valuable.

It’s also ideal for visitors with limited time but who still want to see key sights, enjoy authentic local experiences, and spend some time relaxing by the sea. If you prefer more personalized or in-depth explorations, a private tour option might suit better, but for most groups, this full-day experience offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-balanced day of exploration and relaxation. From the historic significance of Arkadi Monastery to the artisanal charm of Margarites and the vibrant streets of Rethymno, it covers a lot of ground in a single day. The inclusion of free time means you can tailor part of your experience, whether that’s shopping, sightseeing, or simply unwinding at the beach.

For travelers eager to get a broad yet authentic glimpse of Crete’s highlights, this tour is a smart choice. It’s convenient, affordable, and packed with memorable sights—perfect for those who want to experience a bit of everything Crete has to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from many central locations around Chania and nearby towns.

How long is the drive between stops? The bus rides vary from around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the route and traffic.

Are meals included during the tour? No, meals and drinks are not included, giving you flexibility to choose where and what to eat in Rethymno.

What is the cost of entrance to Arkadi Monastery? The entrance fee is 4 euros, payable locally, not included in the tour price.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour is fixed in structure, but the free time in Rethymno allows you to customize your exploration.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, but keep in mind the walking involved. Bring water and snacks for young travelers if needed.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended.

Is there a private group option? Yes, private groups are available for a more personalized experience.

What language are guides in? The tour is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides sharing interesting insights.

This day trip from Crete’s Chania area offers a fantastic balance of culture, history, artisan craft, and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a memorable, well-rounded experience of the island.

You can check if your dates are available here: