Western Crete Discovery: Chania, Rethymno, and Authentic Flavors

5.0
(4 reviews)

9 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: German and 2 more

Discover the soul of Western Crete on a bespoke journey where history, culture, and nature harmoniously unfold. Designed for seamless exploration between Crete’s western and eastern regions, this tour blends flexibility with enriching discovery.

Experience Rethymno’s Venetian charm, a perfectly preserved masterpiece, and Chania’s multicultural vibrancy, a dynamic crossroads of Mediterranean cultures. Together, they tell a story of Crete’s rich and evolving heritage.

In Argiroupolis, life-giving springs and lush greenery set the stage for savoring traditional Cretan dishes infused with local flavors. At Boutari Winery, indulge in a curated wine-tasting experience that highlights Crete’s centuries-old viniculture. Finally, find tranquility at Kournas Lake, where serene beauty and peaceful reflections await.

Curated by expert travel designers and brought to life by passionate guides, this tour blends thoughtful design with heartfelt storytelling, uncovering Crete’s essence.

What's Included

VIP skip-the-line access & assistance with purchasing admission tickets
Our assistance with the best restaurant recommendations & reservations
Exclusive insider-access opportunities & tailored details of your personal interest
Private guide: We take much pride in having the best local guides of Crete!
Personal pick-up & drop-off (flexible pick-up time)
Our concierge support before & during your day trip
A chauffeured premium vehicle
Vehicle amenities: mineral water, Cretan fruits & snacks, Wi-Fi, USB sockets & hygiene amenities
Drinks and meals
Admission fees

Meeting and pickup

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

Enjoy personal pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise or any other point of Crete island. NOTE: pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation

OR
Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 9 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    With flexibility at its core, this journey is a testament to our curated travel design, seamlessly blending expert planning with the personal touch of our private guides. Whether you are transitioning between accommodations in Crete’s western and eastern regions or simply seeking an enriching day of exploration, this tour is designed to suit your needs. Conducted in either direction—from west to east or east to west—it offers a perfectly balanced itinerary that unfolds at your pace, delivering discovery with ease and elegance.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Rethymno welcomes you as a complete Venetian city, where history feels perfectly preserved. Wander through cobblestone streets that echo with the footsteps of Venetian merchants and Ottoman poets, and marvel at the harmony of its medieval fort, elegant harbor, and labyrinthine old town. Your guide leads you through hidden alleys and sunlit squares, where every doorway holds a whisper of the past. Here, Crete’s Venetian heritage reigns supreme, creating a cityscape that feels like stepping into another time—a true ode to timeless elegance.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Beloved by Agamemnon for its bounty, Argiroupolis offers a striking contrast to Northern Crete’s coastline. Nestled in lush surroundings fed by life-giving springs, this village invites you to savor its essence through flavors that tell a story. Tender lamb kissed by wild herbs, creamy mountain cheeses, and rustic stone-baked bread reveal the soul of the highlands. As you dine beneath ancient plane trees, the gentle murmur of waterfalls and whispers of myths remind you why Argiroupolis remains a timeless sanctuary.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 4

    In the vineyards of Boutari Winery, the story of Crete takes on a new form—one of aroma and taste. Guided by winemakers whose passion runs as deep as the island’s roots, you’ll explore the alchemy of terroir and tradition. Each sip of their wines—bold reds, crisp whites, and delicate rosés—tells a tale of sun-drenched fields and the artistry of generations past. It’s more than a tasting; it’s a journey through the heart of Crete’s viniculture.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included
  • 5

    As your journey continues, Kournas Lake offers a serene retreat amid Crete’s rolling hills. The only natural freshwater lake on the island, its shimmering surface reflects the surrounding beauty—lush greenery, rugged peaks, and the endless blue sky. Take a moment to wade into its cool, crystal-clear waters or simply breathe in the tranquility as you walk along its shores. This refreshing stop is a perfect pause, where nature’s calm rejuvenates your spirit and leaves you in awe of Crete’s unspoiled charm.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Chania is a living crossroad of the Mediterranean, where Jewish, Christian, and Muslim influences converge around its iconic Venetian harbor. Your guide takes you through the vibrant quarters that embody these cultural layers—from the shipyards of the Venetian period to the charming streets of the old Jewish and Christian neighborhoods. The open market hums with energy, blending ancient traditions with modern rhythms as artisanal treasures sit alongside fresh local produce. In Chania, the past and present weave together seamlessly, creating a vibrant, multicultural tapestry that reflects Crete’s enduring spirit.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region of your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region of your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region of your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region of your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region of your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region of your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A potential region of your personal pick up and drop off.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Crete Private & Luxury Tours by Snami Travel

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Romantic Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Car Tours
Luxury Car Tours
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 4 4 reviews
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from per group (up to 15)
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