Rethymno: Ride with a Golf Gabriolet 1984 for 12 hours

If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising in a classic car along the scenic roads of Crete, this 12-hour private tour with a vintage 1984 VW Golf Cabriolet might just be your ticket. For a reasonable price, you’ll enjoy a leisurely drive through some of the most beautiful parts of the island, with the wind in your hair and the island’s vistas spread out before you. The experience is offered by Luxury Car Rent, and it’s perfectly suited for those who love nostalgic rides, stunning scenery, and a relaxed pace.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is how it combines the charm of a vintage vehicle with the natural beauty of Crete. We love the chance to drive a piece of automotive history—the iconic Golf Gabriolet—and the opportunity to capture memorable photos with this oldtimer in front of breathtaking backdrops. Another highlight is the flexibility of a private group, which allows for a tailored experience and more personal attention.

One consideration might be the insurance deposit not included in the price, so travelers should be prepared for this extra cost. Also, because it’s a full-day experience, it’s best suited for those who enjoy long drives and want to take their time exploring. If you’re after a quick tour or prefer guided sightseeing with a fixed itinerary, this might not be the perfect fit. But if you yearn for a combination of vintage charm, scenic exploration, and the freedom to customize your journey, this tour is worth considering.

This experience works beautifully for couples, car enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to add a dash of nostalgia and style to their Crete adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, slow-paced journeys and camera-worthy vistas.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Experience: Drive a classic 1984 VW Golf Gabriolet, blending nostalgia with scenic exploration.
• Customizable Private Tour: Enjoy the flexibility of a private group, with optional hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking panoramas of Crete’s untouched nature, perfect for memorable photos.
• Relaxed Pace: The 12-hour duration lends itself to a leisurely, unhurried day on the island.
• Additional Costs: Be aware that an insurance deposit is not included, which is an extra expense to plan for.
• Ideal for Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who love classic cars, scenic drives, and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a full 12 hours of driving through Crete’s most scenic areas in a vintage VW Golf Cabriolet. The car itself is a charming throwback—a 1984 model—that delivers a nostalgic thrill while cruising along the island’s picturesque roads. The driver and guide (if included) will facilitate a relaxed, personalized experience, making sure you have ample time to enjoy the sights, take photos, and soak up the island’s ambiance.

While the specific itinerary isn’t rigid, the tour promises to include drives along Crete’s coast or toward the southern parts of the island. The vehicle is described as the perfect way to slow down and escape the stress of everyday life, making this a restful and scenic alternative to fast-paced sightseeing.

The Vanishing Beauty of Crete

One of the biggest draws of this experience is the opportunity to capture stunning views of Crete’s natural landscapes. The tour’s promotional material emphasizes the “wonderful panorama” that the car in the foreground will frame—think of sun-drenched coastlines, rugged hills, and lush greenery, all perfect for picturesque photos.

Many travelers have remarked how this drive allows you to appreciate Crete’s untouched beauty in a relaxed manner, stopping for photos or just enjoying the scenery from the comfort of your vintage car. We loved the way the open-top Gabriolet brings the landscape closer, making each turn of the road feel more personal and immersive.

The Vehicle: A Vintage VW Golf Cabriolet

Driving the Volkswagen Golf I Cabrio is an experience in itself. This model, from 1984, is an icon of the era—simple, reliable, and undeniably stylish. We appreciate that this isn’t just a transportation service but an homage to classic design. The car’s small size makes for an intimate drive, and the open roof adds an extra layer of fun, especially on a sunny Crete day.

Travelers have shared their delight in getting photos with the oldtimer—a perfect souvenir of their trip. One review mentions, “The photos I took with the Golf in front of the sea are some of my favorites from Crete.” The vintage charm adds a special touch that standard rental cars can’t match.

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What to Expect on the Day

The tour’s flexibility is a key advantage. You can opt for hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Rethymno or nearby. The 12-hour duration allows plenty of time to explore, take breaks, and enjoy spontaneous stops recommended by your guide.

The experience is private, so it’s all about your preferences—whether you want to focus on coastal views, stop at charming villages, or simply enjoy a scenic drive without a fixed schedule. The guide (if present) can help tailor the route, enhancing the authenticity of your journey.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers an enchanting experience, it’s important to consider a few practical aspects. The insurance deposit isn’t included in the price, so you should be prepared for this additional expense. Also, because it’s a long day of driving, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full-day excursion and who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings.

Weather can influence your experience—an open-top car is fantastic on a sunny day, but less so in case of rain or strong sun, so check the forecast beforehand. The tour operates on a reserve and pay later basis, giving you flexibility in planning.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

This experience offers more than just a ride; it’s a chance to see Crete from a unique perspective, in a vehicle that sparks nostalgia and fun. The combination of stunning landscapes, vintage charm, and personalized service makes it stand apart from typical guided tours.

It’s especially suitable if you love classic cars or want a relaxed, picturesque day rather than a packed sightseeing schedule. The private nature of the tour means you can focus on what interests you most, whether that’s taking photos, enjoying quiet drives, or chatting about the island’s scenery.

Travelers who want authentic, memorable moments—rather than just ticking off sights—will enjoy how this tour lets you slow down and truly appreciate Crete’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since it’s a private 12-hour drive, it’s best for travelers comfortable with long drives. Kids who enjoy vintage cars and scenic views would likely enjoy it, but check with your provider about age restrictions.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor photos and variable weather. If you plan to take the roof down, don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.

Is the car manual or automatic?
The information doesn’t specify, but since it’s a vintage model, it may be manual. Confirm with the provider if this is a concern.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, as a private tour, you’ll have some flexibility. Discuss your preferences with your guide or the service provider in advance.

What if it rains?
An open-top car isn’t ideal in bad weather. Check the forecast and consider rescheduling if heavy rain is predicted.

Are meals included?
No, the tour covers transportation and photos, but you are responsible for your own meals or snacks during the day.

Final Thoughts

For those who thrill at the idea of cruising in a vintage car along Crete’s scenic roads, this 12-hour private tour offers a delightful blend of nostalgia, natural beauty, and flexibility. It’s a great way to slow down, enjoy the island’s best views, and create lasting memories, all in a charming oldtimer.

This tour shines brightest for car lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone craving an authentic, laid-back experience. If you’re looking for a full day of scenic relaxation and vintage charm—without the rush of typical guided excursions—this could be a highlight of your Crete trip.

Remember, the success of your experience depends on the weather and your comfort with long drives, but with proper planning, you’re in for a memorable, picture-perfect day on this beautiful Greek island.

You can check availability for your dates here: