Explore Venetian Heritage, Historic Monasteries and Traditional Pottery
This private day tour in Crete takes you to Margarites Village, Arkadi Monastery, and Rethymno — offering a perfect mix of history, culture, nature, and authentic local experiences.
It is an ideal way to explore some of the most important historical and cultural landmarks of the island while also enjoying the beauty and relaxed atmosphere of a charming coastal town.
Rethymno is located on the northern coast of Crete and is known for its beautifully preserved Venetian Old Town. Wander through narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, local shops, and traditional cafés. Discover iconic landmarks such as the 16th-century Fortezza Fortress and the historic Rimondi Fountain, which reflect the town’s rich Venetian heritage.
Enjoy lunch in Rethymno at a local restaurant before your driver comfortably transfers you back to your ship or hotel.
Don’t miss the chance to taste traditional Cretan dishes such as dakos (barley rusk salad with tomato and feta), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and moussaka (baked eggplant with meat and béchamel) — authentic flavors that complete your experience.
Pick-Up from your Hotel
- Our driver will meet you at the Heraklion or Chania cruise port, right next to your cruise ship, or directly at your hotel. From there, your private tour in Crete begins comfortably and stress-free.
Margarites Village Exploration
- Start your journey with a visit to the traditional village of Margarites, famous for its long pottery tradition. Here, you can watch local artisans working with clay and creating handmade ceramics. It’s also a great opportunity to explore small workshops and purchase unique handmade souvenirs to take home.
Visist Arkadi Monastery
- Continue to the historic Arkadi Monastery — a place of great cultural and symbolic importance. Recognized by UNESCO as a European Freedom Monument, this 16th-century monastery stands as a powerful symbol of Cretan resistance against Ottoman rule. Built at an altitude of 500 meters, it is surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, pines, cypress, and oak trees, creating a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere. Its impressive architecture and deep historical meaning make it one of the most important landmarks in Crete.
Walking Exploration in Rethymno
- Explore the charming town of Rethymno starting at the Venetian Fortezza, a 16th-century fortress offering panoramic views over the town and the sea. Walk down toward the Old Town and enter through the Venetian Loggia, once a meeting place for Venetian nobility and today the Town Hall. Continue to the Rimondi Fountain, a historic 16th-century fountain that once supplied water to the town. Stroll through the narrow streets filled with small shops, local handicrafts, and authentic products. Discover the Nerantze Mosque, built during the Ottoman period in the 17th century and now used as an art gallery. Along the way, admire the beautiful blend of Venetian and Ottoman architecture with colorful facades, wooden balconies, and ornate details that give Rethymno its unique character.
Drop-Off at your Hotel
- After a full day of exploration, history, and authentic local experiences, our driver will comfortably transfer you back to your hotel or cruise port in Heraklion or Chania, ensuring a smooth and safe return.