Chania Private Tour: Monastery, Scenic Gorge & Mountain Views

5.0
(11 reviews)

4 to 5 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Perfect tour for those seeking an authentic Cretan experience, the tour takes you to a historic monastery, followed by a breathtaking drive through Therisso Gorge, where you’ll soak in stunning mountain views.

Depending on the day, we will visit one of the local monasteries—either the Monastery of Metamorfosi or the Monastery of Odigitria. Both are excellent choices, offering an authentic experience of spiritual tranquility and unique architecture that reflects Crete’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

Then, we will drive through the scenic Therisso Gorge, admiring the towering cliffs and lush landscape that create one of Crete’s most impressive natural wonders.

There is also the option to stop for lunch at a traditional, family-run restaurant in the mountains. (optional)

Whichever option you choose, this tour offers an unforgettable journey into Crete’s rich history and natural beauty.

What's Included

Private transportation
Refreshments and bottled water throughout the day
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional English speaking driver
Cretan snacks

Meeting and pickup

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

* In the case that your accommodation is in the pedestrian zone of the old Venetian harbor, we’ll meet you at the nearest accessible location for our vehicle. *The pickup and dropoff is included within 20km of Chania city center. Pickup and dropoff outside of this zone until the Rethymno city center will incur an additional surcharge.

Itinerary

Duration: 4 to 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    The day begins with a visit to one of the region’s historic monasteries—either the Monastery of Metamorfosi or the Monastery of Odigitria. The choice depends on the day, ensuring we visit the monastery that is open. Both offer a peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture, and insight into Crete's rich religious heritage. Wander through serene courtyards, admire ancient icons, and take in the spiritual ambiance that makes these monasteries such important cultural landmarks.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Our next stop is the historical village of Therisso, but to get there we must first drive through the beautiful and imposing Therisso Gorge! There will be several stops along the way to enjoy the natural scenery, the impressive, towering cliffs and if we’re lucky, we may even meet a few flocks of goats and sheep! Inside the gorge we can stop for photographs.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2

    At the end of the gorge lay Therisso village. Vital to the Cretan revolution, we will discovery its charming stone square sat under the shade of the trees, the beautiful old church and the monument of “Eleutherios Venizelos”. The village is a very popular gastronomic destination to locals and visitors who love traditional food of high quality.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    After Therisso, we will travel through small, picturesque villages to a traditional family-run taverna. As authentic as it gets and surrounded by stunning sea and mountains views, we will enjoy a delicious lunch cooked by the grandmother of the family, using time-honoured and very tasty recipes!

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 4

    On the way back, we stop by the beautiful Meskla village, which has one of the smallest, but also impressive gorges in Crete. (optional - in this case, the tour starts at 9:00am)

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by IMable Travel - Private Tours in Crete

Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Shore Excursions
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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Rating

5.0 Based on 11 11 reviews
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