Fortezza of Rethymno

Join us on a day trip to Chania, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno—one of the best excursions on Crete! We will travel west by bus to Chania, a beautiful city with a rich history, influenced by the Minoans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Venetians. Upon arrival, you'll see the stunning Venetian lighthouse at the port. Take a stroll through the old town’s narrow streets, brimming with history, and enjoy some free time for lunch at the picturesque harbor. Savor local cuisine while taking in the lovely views. After lunch, explore the famous market and find unique gifts and souvenirs. Next, we head to Lake Kournas, the only freshwater lake on Crete. Surrounded by green hills, the lake offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Keep an eye out for rare birds and aquatic animals such as eels and turtles. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters, walk through the tranquil wetlands, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. On our way back to Heraklion, we’ll stop in Rethymno, a historic town with a fascinating past. Wander through the narrow alleys of the old town and admire the charming buildings. Don’t miss the domes and minarets of the old Ottoman mosques, and visit the 16th-century Venetian fortress, a landmark of the town. Relax at a local café or taverna, taste authentic Cretan dishes, and soak in the special atmosphere of Rethymno. We plan to spend 2 hours exploring Chania, 1 hour and 30 minutes at Lake Kournas, and 1 hour and 15 minutes discovering Rethymno. This day trip to Crete offers the perfect combination of history, culture, and nature for a wonderful experience. Explore Chania’s rich history, enjoy the tranquility of Lake Kournas, and discover the charm of Rethymno. This tour promises a memorable adventure in Crete, ideal for anyone interested in Crete’s history, natural beauty, and cultural sites. The day tour to West Crete includes round-trip transfers from the following areas: Sissi, Malia, Stalida, Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari, Anissaras, Analipsi, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Heraklion Center, Ammoudara Beach, Agia Pelagia, and Lygaria.

Our day begins in the morning with your pick up from your hotel. After our coach ride we arrive at the beautiful Damnoni beach, where our boat is waiting for us to take us on a 30-minute boat ride to our first stop of the day, the magnificent beach of Preveli. As we approach our destination, you will be amazed by the unique landscape surrounding us that consists of vertical cliffs of the gorge, the beautiful palm-tree forest and the crystal clear water of the beach. The Grand River ( Megalos Potamos ) that runs through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and then empties into the sea, makes the water cool and refreshing, ideal for an amazing swim break. On the banks of the river there is a large colony of Theophrastus palm trees which give the region a sense of a tropical landscape. Walk along the sandy beach, under the shade of the palm trees and experience the exotic side of Crete. We then head back to Damnoni beach, a long bay with beautiful turquoise waters where you can continue your swim and have a delicious meal in one of the traditional restaurants located there. Our last stop of the day is the lovely city of Rethymno. Mostly known for its Venetian fortress, called Fortezza, Rethymno is considered to be a jewel of the island. Whether you choose to scroll around the narrow streets or have a coffee next to its beautiful Venetian port, you will have an unforgettable experience!

Discover the enchanting town of Rethymnon, hailed as one of Greece's most beautiful destinations. Meander through the town's winding alleys and colorful streets in the old town, where you can find an array of delicious restaurants and cafes. Take a walk through Rethymnon's storied history by visiting its well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman-era landmarks. You can't miss the Venetian Fortezza, a fortress built in the 16th century to defend against the Turks. Check out the Rimondi Fountain, built in 1626 by the Venetian governor Rimondi to provide drinking water. Take your time exploring the city's charms, and unwind with a refreshing swim at the beach. Rethymnon is a city that's just waiting to be discovered!

See the best of Rethynmo aboard a convenient state-of-the-art Segway. Starting from the seafront next to the marine port, you will meet your guide who will introduce you to your vehicle, after which the fun begins. You will depart on your Segway, soon finding yourself in the heart of the Old Town next to some of the most famous sights such as Mitropolis and Nerazze-Mosqe. From there, your tour advances to the "secret" part of the Old Town. Following that, it will be time for the castle. On the way up to the Fortezza Fortress you can admire the breathtaking views of the city as you feel the breeze of the sea from the other side. On the way down, you can glimpse at Venetian Harbour, as you learn about the myth that hides in the water of the Rimondi Fountain. You will eventually finish your tour finding yourself in the most famous square of Rethymno.

Explore three of the most picture-perfect destinations on Crete during this half-day private tour that visits Rethymno, the Lake of Kournas and a local olive oil factory. Take off directly from your accommodation in Chania via an air-conditioned vehicle fully equipped with Wi-Fi and USB ports. After pickup, start your journey in Rethymno, a romantic city with a variety of picturesque routes to follow and numerous historical monuments to visit. Marvel at the large Venetian castle Fortezza, the old lighthouse, and countless churches, mosques, and arches. Walk along cobbled paths leading to other hidden spots of the old city. The next stop is the famous Lake of Kournas, the only freshwater lake in Crete. This place is ideal for relaxation and walking. Take in the one-of-a-kind view of the White Mountains reflected in the waters while drinking a cup of traditional Greek coffee. Choose to rent a pedal boat to spend some time in the water looking for the turtles that live in the lake. The last stop is a local olive oil factory in a traditional village. From harvesting to the olive oil mill, and from bottling to a guided olive oil tasting you can learn all inside secrets of extra virgin Cretan olive oil

Tour Details A visit to two of the most beautiful cities of the island of Crete that are located on the western part of the island. Walk around the many Venetian and Ottoman sights and finish your excursion with a trip to the beautiful lake of Kournas, protected by the Natura 2000 networking program. Our trip begins in the morning with your pick up from your hotels. On the way you will listen to amazing stories about the island, its history and culture by our guides. Our first stop of the day is the city of Rethymnon. Third biggest city on the island of Crete, Rethymnon was originally built by the Minoans, later inhabited by the Venetians and Turks, today a jewel of the island as it has one of the best preserved old towns in Crete. Its buildings date back to the 16th century and its most famous sight is that of the fortress of Rethymnon, commonly known as Fortezza, that is one of the best preserved castles in Crete. The mosques, the Byzantine and Hellenic-Roman remains, the Venetian harbour and the Loggia are some of the city’s many sights to visit. Scroll around the narrow streets, have a cup of coffee next to the beautiful port. We then head to our next stop, the city of Chania, the “Venice of the East”. Words cannot describe the beauty of the second biggest city of Crete. Chania was originally built by the Minoan civilization and had an important role throughout the history of the island. It has two parts, the Old city that consists of the old Venetian port and the New city that lies beyond the Venetian fortifications. Walk around the city with its fountains, squares, Minoan sites, mosques and arches. Visit the magnificent harbour and walk until you find the beautiful lighthouse situated there. Take a moment to visit the old market, called Agora, where you can find local products and buy some souvenirs. Our excursion then continues to Crete’s only freshwater lake, Lake Kournas. The lake is relatively large, with a perimeter of 3.5 km. The White Mountains that are reflected in the mirror- like water of the lake, make your visit unforgettable. You can walk around, rent a pedal boat and explore the lake or have a delicious meal in one of the taverns surrounding the lake.

Welcome to Crete, a land of myth, history, and natural splendor. Your journey begins in Heraklion, where you'll visit the ancient palace of Knossos, the legendary labyrinth of King Minos and home to the Minotaur. Marvel at the intricate frescoes and architectural wonders that date back to the Minoan civilization. Next, we'll take you to the charming village of Archanes, nestled amidst vineyards and olive groves. Here, you'll enjoy a wine tasting session, savoring the flavors of Crete's renowned varietals, followed by a traditional Cretan lunch. In the afternoon, we head to the coastal town of Rethymno, where Venetian and Ottoman influences blend seamlessly. Wander through its narrow streets, visit the imposing Fortezza fortress, and relax at a seaside café. The following day, prepare for an adventure in the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's longest gorges. As you hike through its rugged terrain, you'll be surrounded by towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and the occasional sight of kri-kri goats. The trek concludes at the picturesque village of Agia Roumeli, where you can dip your feet in the Libyan Sea. On your final day, we'll visit the Lasithi Plateau, home to the famous Diktaean Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus. Explore the stalactite-filled cavern and learn about its mythological significance. The tour ends with a visit to the idyllic Elounda village and the nearby Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony with a fascinating history. Throughout your journey, you'll be treated to the warm hospitality of the Cretan people, sample delectable local cuisine, and enjoy the island's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This excursion to Crete promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.

You will enjoy postcards pictures while you are traveling with the bikes in the old town of Rethymno. Have fun while discovering majestic Venetian buildings and the imposing Fortezza castle in just 90 minutes! Description Starting from the square of the Unknown Soldier you cross the coastal road and meet in front of you the Venetian harbor with its magnificent Egyptian lighthouse. You then drive through the historic city center where we see the Rimondi Fountain, the Neratze Mosque (today’s Conservatory), which is characterized by the city’s tallest minaret, the Catholic Church of St. Francis and the Guora Gate. Then you climb into the Fortezza castle, which rises over the Cretan Sea and completes the unrivaled image of beauty and charm in the city of Rethymnon. You take the regional road alongside the sea and the beautiful taverns with seafood. Then you find on our right the Loggia, a brilliant 16th-century building and you enter Arkadiou Street, where from the period of the Venetian occupation until today, one of the most commercial streets of the city. At the end of the road you find the mosque Kara Musa Pasha.

Discover Crete’s rich heritage and natural beauty on a tour that blends history, culture, and scenic landscapes. Start in the captivating city of Rethymno, where Venetian and Ottoman influences shape the old town's narrow streets and picturesque harbor. Then, visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Crete’s resilience, set amidst the mountains. Continue to Margarites, a charming village renowned for traditional pottery. Stroll its quaint streets, watch artisans at work, and even try your hand at crafting pottery. Enjoy delicious local cuisine at a traditional taverna before driving through scenic villages, passing olive groves and rolling hills. This immersive tour offers a perfect glimpse into Crete’s storied past, vibrant culture, and natural beauty—an unforgettable experience for lovers of history and nature!

Meet with your guide at the terminal of Cretan Spiti Travel at 08.30. We start our tour driving along the north coastal road, passing by Rethymno Town, to the city of Souda, port of Chania, to visit the Venizelos Graves at the historical location of Profitis Ilias in Akrotiri, where the tomb of Eleftherios Venizelos lies, one of Greece's long-standing prime ministers. We continue to the city of Chania, where we will visit all the main highlights of the city: historic neighborhoods, churches, and museums. We'll also take a walk to the beautiful Venetian Port with the iconic Lighthouse Faros. During your tour of the picturesque alleys of the old town, you will come across unique monuments such as the Rimondi Fountain, the Nerantze Mosque (or Gazi Hussein) with its high minaret, churches, and squares. Enjoy lunch (optional) and some free time for shopping. On the way back, we will stop at the resort town of Georgioupolis, popular for its fine beaches, for a relaxing stroll and a coffee break. Late in the afternoon at 18:00, we return to Heraklion at the terminal of Cretan Spiti Travel.