Private Trip From Rethymno to Dinosauria Park & Cretaquarium

Planning a day out in Crete that combines both prehistoric adventure and marine exploration? This private tour from Rethymno to Dinosauria Park and Cretaquarium delivers just that—and more. It’s designed for travelers who want a hassle-free day packed with engaging discoveries, comfortable transport, and family-friendly activities.

What makes this tour stand out are its personalized private transfer, the chance to see over 50 dinosaur species and life-sized robotic exhibits, and the opportunity to explore the first large aquarium in Greece. We appreciate how smoothly everything seems organized, but it’s worth noting that food and additional guide services aren’t included. This experience suits those who value flexibility, comfort, and a good dose of educational fun—perfect for families or curious individuals eager to learn about Earth’s past and Mediterranean marine life.

One potential consideration is that the tour’s price ($248 per person) might seem steep for some, especially when factoring in the extra costs for entrance fees and meals. However, the price reflects the private transport, comprehensive access, and curated experience that you wouldn’t easily replicate on your own.

This trip is ideal for travelers looking for a well-rounded, engaging day in Crete that balances entertainment with learning—especially if you have a keen interest in dinosaurs or marine biology, or are traveling with children eager for adventure.

Good To Know

• Private, luxury transportation enhances comfort and flexibility throughout the day
• Includes access to Dinosauria Park with interactive exhibits and augmented reality movies
• Visits Cretaquarium, Greece’s largest aquarium, with over 250 marine species
• Flexible pickup options in multiple locations around Rethymno and nearby areas
• Family-friendly activities, including outdoor playgrounds and educational exhibits
• Vale for money considering the full-day itinerary, private transfer, and entries included

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Convenience of Private Transfer and Pickups

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is the private luxury transportation. With pickup available from various spots—southern Rethymno, Scaleta, Adele, Platanias, Missiria, and even Heraklion—you can start your day with ease. The driver, who speaks excellent English, isn’t just a chauffeur but a friendly guide ensuring smooth transitions between locations. According to reviews, this part of the tour is well-organized, with guests noting the punctuality and comfort of the vehicle as a key benefit.

Dinosauria Park: A Prehistoric Playground

The first stop on the journey is Dinosauria Park, located on the Old US Base in Gournes. This is where the fun begins, especially for families or dinosaur enthusiasts. The park features over 50 species of dinosaurs, statues, robotic exhibits, and a fossil museum that can really capture kids’ imaginations.

Guests seem to appreciate the interactive elements—from walking through the park to encountering fossil displays, a “time machine,” and a dinosaur hospital. The highlight for many is the augmented reality movies in the 5D Cinema and VR simulators, which bring the dinosaurs and their environment to life. One reviewer mentioned that watching the AR movies “adds a lot of fun and immersion for kids,” while adults also enjoy the tech-driven experience.

For families, the outdoor playground is an added bonus, providing a space for kids to burn off some energy. The snack bar is described as well-organized, offering a quick refreshment break amidst the excitement. A note from a visitor: “The park is full of interactive elements that make the experience memorable, and the exhibits are well-maintained,” which indicates the level of detail and care put into the park.

Cretaquarium: A Dive into Mediterranean Marine Life

Following the dinosaur adventure, the tour takes you to Cretaquarium, Greece’s first large aquarium. With more than 60 tanks housing over 250 species, you can expect a fascinating glimpse into the marine biodiversity around Crete.

The aquarium showcases the marine fauna of the Mediterranean, which is especially meaningful for visitors wanting to learn about local ecosystems. Reviewers highlight the diverse range of sea creatures—from colorful fish to larger predators—and appreciate the educational signage that explains each species. The aquarium is both fun and informative, perfect for all ages, especially those with an interest in marine biology.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Extra Experiences: 5D Cinema and VR

The tour’s inclusion of augmented reality movies and VR simulators really elevates the experience. These immersive features are tailored to give visitors a sense of life as a dinosaur or underwater explorer. Many reviews mention how these elements add excitement, particularly for children. One guest said, “The VR experience felt surprisingly realistic and made the day feel like a full adventure,” illustrating how these technological features are more than just add-ons—they genuinely enhance the visit.

The Logistics and Duration

Spanning around 8 hours, the trip is designed to be a full-day excursion without overwhelming. Starting times vary, so it’s advisable to check availability when booking. The tour is private, meaning you’re not beholden to group schedules or crowds, which provides more flexibility to linger at exhibits or take breaks.

Practical Considerations

While the tour covers a lot, keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included. The snack bar at Dinosauria Park is handy, but if you want a sit-down meal or specific dietary options, you’ll need to plan accordingly. Entrance fees for the Dinosauria Park and Cretaquarium are also not included—you should budget approximately 8 euros for Dinosauria and 9 euros for kids at Dinosauria, plus similar for the aquarium.

The group size is small and private, which is a significant advantage for those seeking a relaxed visit. Plus, the full liability insurance and professional driver make for a worry-free day.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests often mention how smooth the experience is, with particular praise for the driver’s friendliness and knowledge. A reviewer shared, “The driver was incredibly helpful and made sure we knew what to expect at each site,” reinforcing the value of the private transfer.

The exhibits and interactive elements receive positive comments, especially the AR movies and VR experiences, which are considered “a highlight for kids and adults alike.” Some reviewers note that the park is very clean and well-maintained, adding to the overall enjoyable atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with children, curious travelers eager to explore Crete’s natural history, or anyone wanting an easy, well-organized day out. It suits those who prefer private transportation and want to avoid the hassle of public transport or self-driving.

While the tour offers a fantastic overview, it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility, as walking around the outdoor dinosaur park and aquarium can take a couple of hours. Budget-conscious travelers should also consider the additional entrance fees and meals, but the comfort and educational value often outweigh those costs.

The Sum Up

This private trip from Rethymno to Dinosauria Park and Cretaquarium combines interactive prehistoric fun with marine discovery, all wrapped in the comfort of private transportation. It offers a relaxed, engaging way to spend a full day, especially for families or groups eager for an educational adventure. The inclusion of augmented reality movies and VR simulators makes it particularly appealing for tech-savvy kids and adults alike.

The experience’s value is rooted in its convenience, personalized service, and the chance to see Crete’s fascinating history—both past and present—in one seamless day. For travelers looking to combine entertainment with learning in a comfortable, private setting, this tour is a solid choice.

In summary, this tour is best suited for those who want a flexible, family-friendly, and immersive outing—particularly if you enjoy attractions that combine education with a bit of adventure. It’s a balanced mix of fun, learning, and convenience, making it a rewarding addition to your Crete itinerary.

FAQ

Are the pickups included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in several locations around Rethymno, including Souda Bay, Georgioupolis, Petres, Kavros, and even nearby towns like Heraklion, making it easy to start your day without stress.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you enough time to explore both Dinosauria Park and Cretaquarium comfortably.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees for Dinosauria Park and Cretaquarium are not included in the price. You should budget around 8 euros for Dinosauria and similar for the aquarium, depending on age.

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Absolutely. The tour is family-friendly, with outdoor playgrounds, interactive exhibits, and immersive movies that children find engaging. However, children under 2 years are not suitable for participation.

Can I customize the start time?
Availability varies, so it’s best to check when booking. The tour allows some flexibility in starting times, but confirm with the provider for specific options.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there’s a snack bar at Dinosauria Park for quick refreshments. You may want to bring snacks or plan to eat afterward.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide if this full-day, private adventure suits your Crete trip—combining the thrill of dinosaurs with the calming beauty of Mediterranean marine life, all wrapped up in comfort and convenience.

You can check if your dates are available here: