Rethymno Old Town, Arkadi, Eleutherna, Margarites | Private

Taking a day out to see Crete’s most captivating sights with a private guide is a fantastic way to dive into the island’s history, culture, and scenery. This tour, offered by SunSud Tours, promises an 8-hour journey through some of the most iconic spots near Rethymno, including the Old Town, Arkadi Monastery, the pottery village of Margarites, and the ancient ruins of Eleutherna.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized touch of a private guide means more tailored insights and flexibility. Second, the blend of cultural landmarks with scenic drives through traditional villages keeps the day engaging from start to finish. Third, the opportunity to try handmade pottery and sample local products adds an authentic flavor you can’t get from a large group tour.

A possible consideration? The tour’s price includes many extras, but some sites like the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna require an extra fee if you want to go inside, which might add to your overall spend. This experience is best suited for travelers who value depth over speed, enjoy history and artisan crafts, and prefer a more intimate, guided experience.

Good To Know

• Personalized Private Tour: Enjoy a flexible, tailor-made experience with a knowledgeable local driver-guide.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: Visit iconic sites like Rethymno Old Town, Arkadi Monastery, and Margarites Village.
• Authentic Crete: Watch artisans at work, sample local products, and explore traditional villages.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation, Wi-Fi onboard, and hotel pickup make the day seamless.
• Value for Money: All major transportation, tastings, and pottery workshop fees are included.
• Ideal for: History lovers, culture seekers, craft enthusiasts, and those who prefer a personalized approach.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Close-Up of the Itinerary

This tour is designed to maximize your experience of Crete’s diverse attractions, blending historical sites with scenic drives and charming villages. It starts with a flexible pickup from over ten locations around Rethymno, such as Georgioupoli, Fodele, or Hersonissos, making it accessible for most travelers.

Rethymno Old Town

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Fortezza of Rethymno, a Venetian fortress offering commanding views of the city and sea. Then, you’ll stroll through Rethymno’s Old Town, with its narrow alleys, Venetian architecture, and lively harbor. One reviewer notes that the 70-minute walk allows plenty of time for photos, shopping, and soaking in the atmosphere. Expect to see vibrant cafes, boutique shops, and historical buildings, which collectively reveal the city’s layered past.

Arkadi Monastery

Next, the bus rolls through scenic mountain roads to Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resilience and faith. The 50-minute visit gives you time to explore the church, monastery grounds, and learn about its role in resisting Ottoman rule. As one traveler mentioned, the setting in the mountains adds a peaceful, contemplative vibe. Entry fees are minimal, but if you wish to go inside, the fee is around €4.

Scenic Drive & Margarites Village

Afterward, you’ll enjoy a 25-minute drive through rolling hills and olive groves to reach Margarites, a village renowned for its traditional pottery. Here, you’ll have 1.5 hours to wander its arts and crafts market, watch artisans at work, and even participate in a pottery workshop. Guests often rave about the opportunity to get hands-on with clay—”watching the artisans create is fascinating, and trying it yourself adds a memorable touch,” says a reviewer. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy a local lunch in one of the tavernas, sampling Greek flavors in a setting straight out of a postcard.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Eleutherna & Museum

The tour then continues with a 70-minute drive to Ancient Eleutherna, a site of archaeological significance. While the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna is an optional stop (and closed Tuesdays), some travelers choose to visit for an extra €10, gaining insights into Crete’s ancient civilization. The site itself offers impressive ruins and panoramic views, perfect for history buffs or those looking for a quiet, reflective experience.

Scenic Return & Drop-Off

The day wraps up with a scenic 5-minute drive and an easy 20-minute walk around Rethymno’s harbor area. The drop-off service returns you to your accommodation or selected location, making the entire experience hassle-free and comfortable.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Expert Local Guide & Personal Touch

Reviewers consistently highlight the guides—particularly George—for their wealth of knowledge and warm personalities. The flexibility to customize the day means you get an experience tailored to your interests, whether you want more time at a specific site or to explore local culinary options.

Scenic & Cultural Balance

This tour strikes a good balance, blending scenic drives with active exploration. The stops at traditional villages like Margarites allow for a more intimate look at local crafts and customs, while the archaeological sites provide tangible connections to Crete’s storied past.

Authentic Crete Experiences

From tasting local products at an olive mill to trying your hand at pottery, the experience offers hands-on activities that deepen your understanding of Crete’s culture. The inclusion of tastings and workshops makes the day more engaging and memorable.

Comfort & Convenience

Private transportation means no waiting for other travelers, and amenities like Wi-Fi onboard, bottled water, and hygiene amenities ensure a comfortable day. Pickup from a variety of locations around Rethymno caters to different itineraries, adding flexibility.

Analyzing the Cost & Value

At $93 per person, this private tour offers a lot of value. It covers transportation, guided insights, tastings, and a pottery workshop, which could be costly if booked separately. The personalized nature also means you avoid the large bus crowds, gaining a more relaxed and flexible experience.

While entry fees to sites like Arkadi Monastery and Eleutherna are extra, they’re minimal (€4 and €10 respectively) and represent a small addition to your overall package. The cost also includes several amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and bottled water, making the day comfortable without extra charges.

What You Should Know

• The tour runs for about 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Pickup and drop-off are included, but check if your location is within the designated areas.
• If you want to visit the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna, be aware of the €10 entry fee.
• Licensed guides are not provided inside archaeological sites, but your driver-guide can offer general background.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Both reviews echo a high level of satisfaction with the guide’s knowledge and kindness. One traveler from the UK said, “George was professional and informative, with excellent communication beforehand,” while a Greek guest appreciated the blend of history and scenery, calling it “outstanding.”

Many mention the clean, comfortable vehicle and the opportunity to sample local wines and foods, which added an extra flavor to the day. The pottery workshop was described as a highlight, especially for craft lovers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and craft lovers who enjoy learning from local experts. The private format makes it perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a more personalized adventure. If you’re interested in authentic experiences like pottery-making or sampling Crete’s local products, this tour hits the mark.

This private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s cultural and scenic treasures. The flexibility and personalized attention ensure a memorable day for those who prefer a deeper connection with their guides and locations. The combination of historic sites, scenic drives, and artisan workshops makes it a fantastic choice for travelers looking to combine fun, learning, and relaxation.

While it’s a full day that requires some energy, the comfortable transportation and small-group feel create an intimate, stress-free environment. The value for money is clear, considering the inclusions of tastings, workshops, and private guiding. This tour suits curious travelers wanting a meaningful and authentic Crete experience, especially if they appreciate culture, craftsmanship, and a tailored approach.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time and visits to various sites.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from a range of locations around Rethymno, such as Georgioupoli and Hersonissos.

Can I visit the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna?
Yes, visiting the museum is optional and costs around €10. Note that it is closed on Tuesdays.

Is there an extra fee for Arkadi Monastery?
Entry to Arkadi Monastery costs about €4, but this is not included in the tour price.

What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy sightseeing, a pottery workshop, tastings at an olive mill, and free time for exploring and shopping.

Is the tour suitable for children or wheelchair users?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible and suitable for families, but check specific needs with the provider beforehand.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your camera. The tour provides bottled water and amenities onboard.

Can I customize the experience?
While the guide can tailor the day to some extent, the core itinerary is fixed. Feel free to discuss your preferences beforehand.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The private setting makes it easy to meet new people or enjoy a peaceful day on your own.

This private Crete tour offers a thoughtful, engaging way to experience the island’s highlights without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. If you’re after a day filled with meaningful sights, local culture, and scenic beauty, it’s worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: