If you’re looking for a way to add a touch of vintage charm to your Crete adventure, this 12-hour VW Beetle Cabrio experience in Rethymno might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a leisurely, visually stunning day behind the wheel of one of Volkswagen’s most beloved classics.
What immediately catches your eye is the promise of driving a beautifully maintained oldtimer through some of Crete’s most scenic spots. Add to that the opportunity for great souvenir photos with the car as a backdrop and the chance to explore Rethymno in style, and you’ve got a genuinely memorable outing. However, it’s worth considering that this experience is a full 12-hour commitment, making it more suited for those eager to relax and soak in the island at a slow, scenic pace. Perfect for vintage car lovers, sunset chasers, or anyone wanting a different way to see Crete’s untouched nature.
Good To Know
- Vintage charm with a well-maintained VW Beetle Cabrio
- Flexible timing with hotel pickup options
- Ideal for photography and enjoying scenic coastal drives
- Long but relaxed experience perfect for laid-back explorers
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience
- Rated 5/5 from multiple travelers for quality and experience
How the Experience Unfolds: A Deep Dive

Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Rethymno.
Starting Point and Convenience
The adventure begins at a designated office in Rethymno, with the option for hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes logistics straightforward especially if you’re based within the town. The full-day format (12 hours) offers plenty of time to explore at a relaxed pace. The flexibility to check availability and choose your start time helps travelers fit this experience into their broader Crete itinerary.
One of the reviews specifically notes the ease of pickup and return, which can sometimes be overlooked but is a significant plus for those not wanting to navigate rental procedures or unfamiliar town streets. The personalized service from Luxury Car Rent appears to prioritize customer satisfaction, and the reviews confirm that the cars are in great condition.
The Car: A Vintage Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio
The star of this experience is, of course, the classic VW Beetle Cabrio. Known worldwide for its cheerful curves and nostalgic appeal, it makes for fantastic photos and a fun drive. Guests mention that the vehicle is well-maintained, which is critical for comfort and safety over such a long day.
Driving a vintage car like this isn’t just about transportation; it’s about feeling connected to the road and the scenery. The open-top design means you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Crete’s rugged coastline, lush landscapes, and charming villages. As one reviewer put it, the panoramic experience combined with the car “gives you wonderful souvenir photos” and a sense of being part of the landscape.
Scenic Routes and Highlights
The itinerary is flexible, but the main draw is the opportunity to explore Crete’s coast and interior at leisure. Whether you choose to cruise along the coastal roads or venture inland, you’ll enjoy stunning vistas, peaceful countryside, and colorful small towns.
The south of Crete is mentioned as a potential route, promising vistas that are often less crowded and more pristine. This leisurely drive in a classic car makes it easy to stop frequently to take photos or just soak in the views. Expect to capture memorable images with the car and landscape in the same frame, as noted by travelers who appreciated the “wonderful panorama”.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyStops and Photo Opportunities
This experience is as much about pictures and memories as it is about the drive. Guests highlight how the retro vehicle becomes a perfect prop for authentic photos. Whether parked against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs or charming village streets, your photos will have that charming vintage vibe.
The Experience’s Pace: Relaxed and Unhurried
Reviews praise how easy and stress-free the day is overall. The long duration allows for a slow exploration rather than rushed sightseeing, giving you the chance to really enjoy the scenery and take your time at each stop. One reviewer mentions that the experience “was perfect”, emphasizing how well everything was organized and how smooth the process was.
What’s Included and Practical Details

The experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, adding convenience that many travelers appreciate. This service is especially handy if you’re staying outside the town center or prefer not to deal with parking and navigation.
The cost is paid at a later date, providing flexibility for travelers to reserve without immediate payment — a smart choice for those with a fluid schedule. The full 12 hours ensures you won’t feel rushed, perfect for those wanting to relax and explore without time pressure.
Additional considerations
Given the long duration, it’s advisable to prepare for a full day of driving and sightseeing. Bringing along snacks and water is recommended, even if not provided, to keep energy levels high. Also, since the experience runs in favorable weather conditions, it’s best to book during a season with predictable good weather for maximum enjoyment.
Authentic Experiences and Reviews: Insights from Travelers

Two reviews stand out for their honest impressions. Michael, a consistent 5-star reviewer, mentioned that “cars are in great condition” and that he would “definitely come back again”, underscoring the quality and reliability of the fleet. Meanwhile, another traveler appreciated the “easy pickup and return” and enjoyed good weather, which significantly enhances the overall drive.
These insights imply that the experience is well-organized, with vehicles in good shape, and that the best parts are the picturesque views and the relaxed pace.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for vintage car enthusiasts, photographers, and those who want a less conventional way to see Crete. It’s also suited for travelers who value comfort and convenience, thanks to the hotel pickup service and flexible scheduling.
If you’re looking for a full-day, laid-back exploration with ample time for photos and scenic drives, this tour offers excellent value. It’s less about ticking off landmarks and more about living the moment behind the wheel of a classic car, making it a memorable, Instagram-worthy day.
The Sum Up

In summary, the Rethymno VW Beetle Cabrio experience offers a delightful way to see Crete with a combination of vintage charm, scenic beauty, and relaxed pacing. The well-maintained cars, flexible scheduling, and hotel pickup make it a practical choice, especially for those who want to avoid the hassle of planning every detail.
This tour is especially rewarding for photo lovers, nostalgia fans, and slow-paced explorers eager to enjoy Crete at a leisurely, stylish pace. While it’s a longer commitment at 12 hours, the experience is designed to feel effortless and enjoyable, making it worth considering if you want a day of vintage fun and scenic discovery.
For those who love classic cars, stunning landscapes, and authentic travel moments, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Crete.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it convenient for travelers staying within Rethymno or nearby areas.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 12 hours, giving plenty of time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.
What condition are the cars in?
The vehicles are described as being in great condition, well-maintained, and ready for a full day of driving.
Can I choose the start time?
Yes, you can check availability and select a start time that fits your schedule.
What does the experience include?
It includes the use of a vintage VW Beetle Cabrio, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the chance to enjoy Crete’s landscapes in style.
Is this experience suitable for everyone?
It’s ideal for vintage car lovers and those wanting a leisurely exploration. It’s a long day, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with several hours of driving and sightseeing.
This 12-hour vintage road trip in Crete offers a blend of style, scenic beauty, and relaxed exploration — perfect for creating memories that last a lifetime.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Rethymno
Looking for something different? Other Rethymno activities we've written about
- Preveli from Heraklion: Exotic Beach & Palm Forest, PickUp
- Private Trip From Rethymno to Dinosauria Park & Cretaquarium
- Reflexology Couples Workshop in Crete
- Rethymno: Full or Half-Day Trip to Chania with Audio Guide
- Rethymno: Flower Adventure
- Rethymno City: Open Market (From Rethymno Bali and Panormo)
- Rethymno: Chrysoula’s Cretan Home Cooking Lessons
- Rethymno: Falassarna Beach Day Trip with Transfer
- Rethymno: Classic Guided Greek Wine Tasting
- Rethymno: Mili Gorge and Agios Antonios (Patsos) Gorge
- Rethymno Old Town, Arkadi, Eleutherna, Margarites | Private
- Rethymno: Guided e-Bike Tour on Mili Gorge and soft drinks
