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Offered languages
- English
Journey Through Time in Rural Crete: Discover the charming Rethymnon region, a picturesque area that transports you to the late 19th century, showcasing the authentic rural life of Crete.
Savor Local Flavors: Delight in organic, locally-sourced products and uncover the culinary secrets that define Cretan cuisine.
Historic Exploration: Visit the revered Arkadi Monastery, a powerful symbol of Cretan resilience and freedom, along with other hidden historical treasures.
Herbal Wisdom: Stroll through a secluded village and learn about the diverse Cretan herbs and their traditional uses in daily life.
Pottery Traditions: Wander through the enchanting village of Margarites, renowned for its time-honored pottery craftsmanship.
Support Local Heritage: Engage in rural tourism that bolsters local economies and preserves the rich traditions often overlooked by mainstream tourism.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Guests’ pickup is offered. We will meet you at your hotel lobby or the cruise port. Our guide will be holding a sign with your name.
Itinerary
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1
Begin our Crete adventure tour with a wonderful scenic ride to the rolling hillsides of Crete’s Rethymno countryside. In a tiny village, you’ll visit a courtyard of a house, made famous through folklore where you will sip a morning Greek coffee or local mountain tea while hearing stories about life in the 19th-century Crete by the traditional house Museum owner. As we continue our drive, you’ll see the authentic side of Crete, a side of the island that is not often enjoyed by tourists.
3 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Next, you’ll visit the Monastery of Arkadi, one of the island’s most famous landmarks and the most sacred symbol of Cretans’ struggle for Freedom. Explore this fortified monastery surrounded by striking natural beauty, enjoy its monumental architecture that will steal your heart, and listen to revolutionary stories and numerous legends of proud Cretan people. The time will be enough for taking a tour within its walls and admiring the refectory, the museum, an icon shop, as well as the religious edifices.
2 hours • Admission ticket included -
3
Continuing the tour, we will drive to Margarites village in Rethymno, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Crete. This charming village is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and cultural experience. Known for its traditional pottery craftsmanship, Margarites offers a unique opportunity to witness the age-old art of pottery making. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with workshops and witness skilled artisans shaping clay into beautiful and intricate designs. Immerse yourself in the rich history and tradition of pottery as you explore the local museums and galleries. Indulge in the local cuisine at quaint tavernas, where you can savor traditional Cretan dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Margarites Village also boasts stunning natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
3 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- In general, there are few dress restrictions in Europe and dress codes are similar to those you are used to at home. Please note though that in many churches modest dress is required; no shorts or skimpy tops are permitted.
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Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- In general, there are few dress restrictions in Europe and dress codes are similar to those you are used to at home. Please note though that in many churches modest dress is required; no shorts or skimpy tops are permitted.
- Please wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- If you are happy with the services provided by your local a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this tour.
- Alcoholic beverages are allowed to participants age 18 or older because of the national alcohol restrictions. Participants under the age 18 are provided non-alcoholic beverages.
- Food Allergies: Unless you suffer from multiple, combined food allergies, or unless you are a vegan, we will figure it out. Vegetarians are welcome on all tours.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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