Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery, Margarites Village & Melidoni Cave.
Explore the cultural and natural highlights of central Crete with a private tour from Chania or Rethymno. Visit the historical Arkadi Monastery, descend into the legendary Melidoni Cave, and discover the artisan pottery village of Margarites. Along the route, learn from your guide about the ancient city of Eleutherna, once a major cultural center of Crete. End your day with a stroll through the romantic alleys of Rethymno Old Town.
• Visit the historical Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance
• Explore Melidoni Cave, a site of natural beauty and tragic history
• Stop in the traditional pottery village of Margarites
• Walk through the picturesque streets of Rethymno Old Town
• Hear stories of Ancient Eleutherna on your way through the region
Options
Arkadi Monastery -Up to 10 pax
Mercedes Sprinter
Pickup included
What's included in Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery, Margarites Village & Melidoni Cave.
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Chania Prefecture
Pickup from your location in Chania region. Your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel, villa, or cruise ship. Sit back and enjoy the journey through the scenic Cretan countryside.
Monastery of Arkadi
Arkadi Monastery (Visit – approx. 1 hour). Explore one of Crete’s most sacred landmarks, a symbol of freedom and resistance. Learn the powerful story of the 1866 rebellion against the Ottoman Empire and admire the monastery’s impressive Baroque architecture, bell tower, and peaceful surroundings.
Archea ElefthernaPass-by Only
Eleutherna (Drive-by storytelling stop – no visit). On the way to Margarites, your guide will tell the fascinating story of ancient Eleutherna — once a thriving city-state with Homeric connections. Although we won’t stop at the archaeological site, you’ll gain an insightful overview of its historical importance, recent discoveries, and connection to nearby villages.
Inclusions
- Pick-up at your hotel
- Entrance tickets to the Monastery of Arcadia and the Eleutherna Museum.
- All Fees and Taxes
- Wi-fi on board and Water from the springs of the White Mountains “Samaria”, in bottles
- Accompaniment by a professional guide
- Comfortable Vehicle with a professional driver
- Personal expenses, drinks, lunch / dinner
- Customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other point in the region of Chania and Rethymno. Pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation.
- To visit the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – a skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders. For men – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
- Important to have: Comfortable shoes, Comfortable clothes, Sunglasses, and Hat Money for souvenirs, drinks, lunch/dinner.
- Health issues: If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated, and we exercise all discretion.
- HealthInsurance: Our company is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before traveling to Crete.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 5 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
Enjoy the convenience of private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other location in the Chania or Rethymno region. We offer flexible pick-up times tailored to your schedule, ensuring a stress-free and personalized experience. Simply confirm your preferred pick-up time, and our professional team will handle the rest.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
For your excursion, it's advisable to bring along some essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some recommendations: Comfortable Walking Shoes: As you'll be exploring various sites and walking through the old town, comfortable shoes are essential to keep your feet happy throughout the day. Sun Protection: Don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the Mediterranean sun while touring. Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Light, breathable clothing is ideal for warmer days, while a light jacket or sweater may be needed for cooler evenings. Camera or Smartphone: Capture memorable moments along the way with your camera or smartphone to cherish the memories of your tour. Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day by bringing a refillable water bottle. It's important to drink plenty of water, especially in the Mediterranean climate. Snacks: While lunch will be provided, having some light snacks on hand can be helpful during the tour to keep you energized between meals. Personal Essentials: Don't forget to bring any personal medications or items you may need during the day. By packing these essentials, you'll be well-prepared for your excursion and able to fully enjoy the sights and experiences of your journey.
