Day Trip to Preveli & Damnoni Beach & Rethymno City Tour

Discover the natural beauty and historic charm of Crete on a full-day trip that covers Preveli’s famous palm beach, pristine Damnoni Beach, and the enchanting city of Rethymno. For $56, you’ll enjoy a well-organized 11-hour journey with a knowledgeable guide, transportation, and boat rides that reveal some of the island’s most photogenic spots. We especially appreciated the unique landscape of Preveli, with its towering cliffs, tropical palm forest, and crystal-clear waters, as well as the free time to explore Rethymno’s Venetian streets at your own pace.

Two standout features make this tour worth considering: the boat ride through the gorge leading to Preveli, which offers spectacular views and a real sense of adventure, and the local guide’s insights that bring the scenery and history to life. A possible downside is the long day’s length—it’s quite packed, and some travelers might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic landscapes, historic towns, and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing with some physical activity like walking and swimming.

Key Points:
– Stunning scenery with cliffs, palm forests, and clear waters.
– Boat rides provide unique perspectives and access to remote beaches.
– Flexible free time at Rethymno allows for personalized exploration.
– Guided commentary enhances understanding of local sights.
– Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning keeps the day pleasant.
– Cost-effective considering the multiple highlights and inclusions.

An Authentic Day in Crete: Beaches, Palms, and Old Town Charm

When choosing a day trip in Crete, what could be more appealing than visiting a tropical-looking beach, floating along a canyon of cliffs, and wandering through a historic Venetian town? This tour, priced at $56, hits all those marks in an 11-hour adventure that balances scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and some well-deserved relaxation. It’s organized by SEALAND TRAVEL and offers the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a huge time saver and makes the experience feel seamless.

The day kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel at one of 12 different locations—whether you’re staying in Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, or nearby areas, you’ll find a convenient start point. The coach ride lasts around two hours, giving you a chance to settle in and take in the scenery as you head south toward the beaches and the interior. It’s a well-paced start, with the comfort of air conditioning and a friendly guide to set the tone.

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The First Stop: Damnoni Beach and the Scenic Boat Ride

Arriving at Damnoni Beach, you’ll find a long stretch of soft sand and turquoise waters—perfect for stretching your legs, swimming, or just relaxing. The highlight is the boat ride that departs from here, whisking you on a 30-minute journey across the water to Preveli. This boat cruise offers a different perspective on the rugged coastline and lush landscapes, which many travelers find thrilling and visually stunning.

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The Magic of Preveli: Cliffs, Palms, and a River

Once at Preveli, you’ll be greeted by a landscape that feels almost tropical—towering cliffs, a large colony of Theophrastus palm trees, and the Grand River flowing through the gorge before reaching the sea. The scenery here is truly unique for Greece, blending rugged terrain with lush greenery.

We loved the way the river’s cool waters invite you for a swim, especially after walking along the sandy beach or under the shade of the palm trees. One reviewer, Magali, recommends bringing water shoes and a jacket for the boat, which is a practical tip for comfort. The scenic walk along the beach and the opportunity to snorkel or simply soak in the views make Preveli a highlight of the day.

Free Time and Lunch at Damnoni Beach

After exploring Preveli, the tour returns to Damnoni Beach for more swimming, relaxing, or sightseeing. Several local restaurants here serve traditional dishes, allowing you to enjoy a meal with a view. The long bay’s calm turquoise waters are inviting, and the relaxed atmosphere encourages you to unwind before heading back on the boat to your next stop.

Rethymno: A Venetian Charm

The final leg takes you to Rethymno, a delightful city famous for its Fortezza fortress and narrow, winding streets lined with cafes, shops, and historic architecture. The guided bus tour lasts around 45 minutes, giving you a solid introduction to the city’s highlights. Then, you’re free to explore on your own for about 1.5 hours, perfect for wandering the old town, shopping, or enjoying a coffee by the Venetian port.

Many travelers, including GetYourGuide reviewer, appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the freedom to stroll at your own pace. Though some noted there was no formal city tour, the free time allows for spontaneous discoveries and personal favorites.

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Return Journey and Overall Experience

After a full day, the coach ride back to your accommodation lasts about two hours. The entire experience, from the scenic boat rides to the charming old town, is designed to maximize your exposure to Crete’s diverse landscape and history without feeling rushed.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy stunning natural scenery, historic towns, and organized group excursions. If you’re comfortable with walking, swimming, and a full schedule, you’ll find this day packed with memorable moments. It’s especially suited for those who value guided insights and want a balance of relaxation and adventure.

Those wanting more leisure or a slower pace might find the long hours a bit tiring, but for most, the variety of experiences makes up for it. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as some of the trip’s best features.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Coach Journey

Your day begins with hotel pickup—an effortless way to start. The coach is air-conditioned and comfortable, with the guide providing information about what’s ahead. Traveling through Crete’s varied landscape, you’ll begin to appreciate the island’s diversity from the start.

Damnoni Beach and the Boat Ride

Reaching Damnoni, a wide, sandy bay with calm waters, sets the scene for a relaxing morning. The boat ride to Preveli offers excellent photo opportunities and a sense of adventure. Expect some stability on the water, but Magali’s tip about water shoes is worth noting for comfort.

Exploring Preveli’s Unique Landscape

At Preveli, the landscape is the star. The cliffs are dramatic, the palm trees are reminiscent of tropical islands, and the river’s cool waters are perfect for swimming. The walk along the sandy shore under the shade of palms is a memorable moment. Many travelers find the scenery here both invigorating and picturesque.

Lunch and Relaxation at Damnoni

After swimming and exploring, you’ll have time at Damnoni Beach to grab a local meal. The restaurants here serve simple, tasty traditional Greek fare—fresh seafood, grilled meats, and salads—perfect for recharging before heading to Rethymno.

Rethymno: Old Town and Venetian Fortress

The city tour introduces you to Rethymno’s Venetian fortress, streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and historic architecture. The free time is an opportunity to absorb the city’s atmosphere, shop for souvenirs, or sit at a cafe watching life pass by.

Returning and Reflecting

The day wraps up with a coach ride back, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights—perhaps a few photos, or a quick chat with fellow travelers about the stunning scenery.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and swimwear for the beach and swimming.
A change of clothes is handy after swimming or walking.
Don’t forget your camera—the landscapes are picture-perfect.
A biodegradable sunscreen is recommended to protect the environment.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price of $56, this tour offers excellent value. It combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and leisure, all with the convenience of organized transport and guided commentary. The boat rides and free time make it engaging without feeling too rushed, and the scenic stops are among the most photogenic in Crete.

While some might find the day long, most reviews suggest the stunning scenery and friendly guides make it worthwhile. The trip’s balance of structured activities and free time means you get a broad taste of what Crete has to offer, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a fantastic choice for travelers who enjoy diverse landscapes, swimming in crystal waters, and wandering through historic towns. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided experiences that include both natural beauty and cultural exploration. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo but want an easy way to see some of Crete’s highlights, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to spend more time in each place, you might consider alternatives with longer stays or fewer stops. But for a packed, scenic, and culturally rich day at a reasonable price, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 11 hours, from pickup to drop-off, with a full schedule of stops and activities.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there are traditional restaurants at Damnoni Beach where you can buy a meal or snack.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children comfortable with walking and swimming will enjoy the day, but keep in mind it’s a long day with a lot of activity.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a sun hat, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a camera. A water bottle is also recommended.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to walking and uneven terrain at some stops.

How flexible is the free time?
In Rethymno, you have about 1.5 hours to explore independently. The rest of the day is scheduled, but guides often accommodate personal preferences when possible.

In summary, this day trip to Preveli, Damnoni Beach, and Rethymno offers a well-rounded experience of Crete’s natural beauty, historic charm, and relaxed seaside life. It’s an excellent pick for those looking to see diverse sides of the island without the hassle of organizing transport and guides themselves. Expect stunning views, friendly guides, and a day filled with memorable moments that showcase the best of southern Crete.