Authentic Crete: Arkadi, Margarites & Melidoni from Rethymno

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5 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

This experience offers a different side of Crete, away from the busy tourist routes and into the island’s authentic heart.
From the historic Arkadi Monastery to the traditional village of Margarites and the fascinating Melidoni Cave, each stop reveals a different part of Crete’s history, culture and way of life.
What makes this tour special is the combination of history, traditional villages, local culture and natural beauty in one carefully designed experience. You will have time to explore, discover local stories and experience places that are deeply connected to the identity of Crete.
It is more than a sightseeing tour. It is an opportunity to experience the real Crete, with its traditions, landscapes, stories and people, while travelling comfortably from Rethymno in a private and relaxed setting.

What's Included

Private transportation
Bottled water
WiFi on board
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Alcoholic Beverages
Any type of purchase, such as souvenirs are not included
Lunch

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We will pick you up from your hotel. You can wait at the reception and the drive will come to meet you

Drop-off point
Rethimno

Hotel pick up & drop off (

Itinerary

Duration: 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Monastery of Arkadi

    Visitors to Arkadi Monastery will experience a historic and spiritual landmark of Crete, known for its stunning Venetian architecture and its heroic role in the Cretan resistance against Ottoman rule in 1866. The monastery features a beautiful church, a museum with artifacts from its history, and serene courtyards that reflect its rich cultural and religious heritage.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Margarites

    Visitors to Margarites village will discover a charming Cretan village renowned for its traditional pottery craftsmanship. Strolling through its picturesque alleys, they can visit pottery workshops, admire Venetian-influenced architecture, and enjoy the peaceful rural atmosphere surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Melidoni Cave

    Visitors to Melidoni Cave will witness a stunning underground world filled with impressive rock formations. Beyond its natural beauty, the cave holds deep historical significance, as it was both an ancient place of worship and a site of sacrifice during the Cretan resistance against the Ottomans in 1824. A memorial inside honors those who perished, making it a place of both awe and remembrance.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Supplied by Way to Crete
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Tags

Day Trips
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Archaeology Tours
Shore Excursions
New Product
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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