Experience a private cultural journey from Rethymno to some of Crete’s most iconic sites, including the historic Arkadi Monastery, the impressive Museum of Ancient Eleutherna, the traditional pottery village of Margarites, and—optionally—the remarkable Melidoni Cave. Travel comfortably with a private Mercedes Vito and discover the island’s heritage through a curated, immersive itinerary designed for an authentic and memorable day
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Embark on a private journey through the heart of Crete's culture. Travel in comfort, discover hidden stories, and immerse yourself in the island’s heritage with a curated itinerary designed to highlight the most iconic sites of the Rethymno region.
One of the most symbolic landmarks of Cretan history.
Arkadi Monastery stands as a tribute to resilience, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of Crete. Its elegant Venetian architecture and serene surroundings create the perfect setting to explore one of the island’s most powerful historical narratives.
The first archaeological site museum in Crete, covering 1,700 m², is located in a vast ancient landscape of 13 acres.
Inside its three exhibition halls, you will journey through the complete history of Eleutherna—from 3000 BC to 1300 AD—with remarkable artefacts from the Prehistoric, Geometric, Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, Roman, Early Byzantine and Byzantine eras.
A must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the depth of Cretan civilization.
A charming village famous for its long tradition in pottery.
Here, techniques are passed from generation to generation, and you will have the opportunity to:
Known locally as Gerontospilios, Melidoni Cave is both a natural wonder and a site of profound historical significance.
Located at an altitude of 220 meters on the slopes of Mount Kouloukona, the cave impresses with its dramatic formations and powerful stories from Crete’s past.
Standard Tour (without Melidoni Cave)
Duration: 6 hours
Price: €300
Extended Tour (with Melidoni Cave)
Duration: 8 hours
Price: €400
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Pick up & drop off
Comfortable Footwear:
The experience includes walking on uneven surfaces, village paths and museum areas. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing:
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water during warmer months; a light jacket for cooler seasons or cave visits.
Moderate Physical Activity:
The tour involves moderate walking and steps (especially at the Melidoni Cave). Guests should be comfortable with light physical activity.
Entrance Fees:
Museum or cave entrance tickets are not included (unless arranged otherwise). Please bring cash or a bank card.
Photography:
Cameras are welcome, but flash may be restricted in some museum areas.
Respectful Behaviour:
Arkadi Monastery is an active religious site. Guests are kindly asked to dress modestly and behave respectfully.
Stay Hydrated:
Especially during summer, carrying a bottle of water is essential.
Not Suitable For:
The cave may not be ideal for guests with mobility issues due to steps and uneven terrain.
Are dietary restrictions or food allergies accommodated?
Yes, most dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free) can be accommodated. Please mention any restrictions when booking so your host can prepare suitable alternatives.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, tours are private—only your group and the local host will be on the tour.
Is the cost of tastings included in the tour price?
Typically, the price covers a set number of food and drink tastings. See the description for exact details on what is included.
What types of food can we expect to try?
These tours feature a range of local specialties. The host will guide you through a variety of authentic bites, though exact dishes vary by destination and season.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, children are welcome. The host can often adjust the pace and tastings to suit younger participants. Let them know any specific needs in advance.
Does the tour include any sightseeing or cultural insights?
Although the focus is on food, some tours also offer interesting background about the local culture and neighborhoods you explore.
Is alcohol included in the tastings?
The tours include locally made alcoholic beverages, such as wine or raki, which are traditionally enjoyed by locals. If you prefer non-alcoholic alternatives or wish to have more alcohol-focused stops, please inform your host in advance.
Do you provide luggage storage?
Luggage storage is generally not provided. If you’re traveling with baggage, it’s best to arrange storage at your hotel or at a local storage facility beforehand.
Is hotel pickup included?
Hotel pickup is not included, as this is a walking tour with a designated meeting point. However, the starting point is chosen to be central and convenient. If you need advice on how to get there, feel free to contact your host in advance.
Can the tour accommodate prams or strollers?
Yes, tour can accommodate prams or strollers, though some areas may be challenging (e.g., cobblestone streets). Let the host know in advance so they can plan accordingly.
Can the tour be rescheduled if we're delayed?
If you expect a delay (e.g., due to flight changes), please contact your host as soon as possible. While the tour schedule itself cannot be altered, we will do our best to accommodate a change of date, subject to availability.
Can we focus on a particular type of cuisine (e.g. desserts, street food, wine)?
Our tour is thoughtfully designed to give participants a well-rounded experience — seeing, learning about, and tasting a variety of local products. If you would like a more specialized tour focused on a particular theme (e.g., desserts, street food, wine), please contact our platform to request availability and pricing for a customized experience.
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Fill in the booking form to check pricing and availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated.
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