From Rethymno: Arkadi, Melidoni, and Margarites Tour

From Rethymno: Arkadi, Melidoni, and Margarites Tour offers a perfect escape from the beaches to experience the island’s genuine rural charm. For just under $40, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring historic monasteries, ancient caves, and pottery villages—all with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. This tour is ideal if you’re craving a deeper connection to Crete’s traditions, landscapes, and history, beyond the typical tourist spots.

What we love most is how intimate and authentic the experience feels—visiting small villages like Margarites, renowned for their pottery traditions, and walking through Arkadi Monastery, the oldest on the island, offers a real taste of Crete’s spiritual and cultural roots. Plus, the visit to Melidoni Cave really stands out: its Neolithic history and dramatic interior make it a must-see. The lively lunch with live folk music and dancing adds a joyful, local flavor you won’t forget.

One potential downside? The tour’s timing might feel a bit long in Margarites, with reviews mentioning that 90 minutes could be trimmed down, especially if you’re eager to spend more time at Arkadi or Melidoni. Also, since entrance fees and lunch aren’t included, budget accordingly. But overall, this tour suits travelers eager to see a less touristic, more “real” Crete, and who enjoy storytelling, local crafts, and scenic drives.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete: Visit small villages and rural landscapes instead of just beaches or major tourist sites.
• Rich history and culture: Explore Arkadi Monastery and Melidoni Cave, both steeped in local stories and Neolithic history.
• Craftsmanship: Margarites offers insights into traditional pottery making, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Genuine local hospitality: Enjoy a meal at a family-run tavern with live Cretan music—an experience that feels like joining friends.
• Expert guides and comfortable transport: Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, with air-conditioned buses that make the long day comfortable.
• Value for money: At around $40, this full-day trip offers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s traditions, scenery, and history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

Starting with hotel pickup in Rethymno, you’ll get whisked away in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus to explore Crete’s countryside. The small group size means more personalized attention, and guides are fluent in English and German, which helps keep the experience accessible and engaging.

Arkadi Monastery is a highlight—a 16th-century religious site that’s also a symbol of Cretan resistance during the Ottoman period. Visitors often appreciate the story behind it, and reviews mention how guides share fascinating details, bringing history to life. It’s the oldest monastery on the island, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in the island’s spiritual past.

Next, the Melidoni Cave offers a different kind of history—prehistoric, dating back to the Neolithic era. This cave isn’t just a dark hole in the ground; it’s a site of archaeological significance with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and stories of its role in local resistance. Visitors rave about the “gorgeous sights” and how the guide’s storytelling makes the experience even more memorable.

Exploring Margarites and Pottery Traditions

The village of Margarites is often described as a charming stop, with its narrow streets and pottery workshops. Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the experience: “We enjoyed the variety of experiences and the landscapes are so beautiful everywhere we went,” says Susan. While some wished for more time in Arkadi and Melidoni, most find Margarites a delightful peek into local crafts. You’ll see artisans at work, and if you love photography, the colorful pottery and quaint streets are perfect backdrops.

The Village of Apostoli and the Olive Oil Factory

A short drive takes you to Apostoli to visit an old olive oil factory—a chance to learn about Crete’s traditional olive oil production. The guide provides insights into the process, which adds an educational element to this stop. It’s a real working factory, not just a demonstration, giving you a genuine taste of local industry.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Heart of Crete: Lunch and Live Music

The tour’s lunch, held at a family-run tavern, is a highlight for many. While not included in the price, reviews consistently praise the delicious food and the lively atmosphere. Expect local dishes, perhaps served with bread, dips, or small plates, accompanied by live folk music and sometimes dancing. It feels less like a tourist trap and more like sharing a meal with friends—something you’ll cherish if you enjoy authentic, spontaneous cultural moments. Some reviews note that the musical aspect is a key part of the experience, with guides sometimes playing traditional instruments like the lyra.

Final Stop: St. Antonios Gorge and Dam

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive through St. Antonios Gorge, offering Mediterranean views and peaceful landscapes. Before heading back to Rethymno, there’s a quick photo stop at the Fragma Potamon dam, showcasing more of Crete’s natural beauty. The return journey is relaxed, giving you time to reflect on the day.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

The tour lasts roughly 10 hours, with pickup times varying based on your location. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes—some sites involve walking on uneven terrain—along with sunglasses and a sun hat. Since the tour is mostly outdoors, be prepared for sun and heat, especially in summer.

Transportation is via air-conditioned bus, and the group size tends to be small, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention. Be aware that entrance fees and meals aren’t included, so plan accordingly—cash or cards are accepted at most sites, but it’s wise to carry some local currency.

The guide’s storytelling and local insights are highly praised—many mention guides like Anastasia, Kostas, and Andreas as being passionate and entertaining. The tour does not use double-decker buses, which keeps the experience more intimate.

Considerations

Some reviews mention that more time at Arkadi or Melidoni would enhance the experience, but that’s a minor point for most. The long hours are balanced by the richness of the stops, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or less time in Margarites, you might want to adjust expectations. Also, lunch is not included, so budget for that, but it’s worth it for the authentic experience.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, culture, and scenic countryside—those who want to see Crete’s villages and monasteries beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s ideal if you enjoy learning stories behind historic sites and prefer authentic meals and music rather than tasting menus. If you’re traveling with family or friends who want a full, varied day that combines outdoor exploration with culture, this tour hits the mark.

It’s particularly well-reviewed by previous travelers for guides’ knowledge and genuine enthusiasm, making it a standout in terms of value and authenticity. If you’re short on time but eager to get a well-rounded view of rural Crete, this trip will serve you well.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included in the tour, and you’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned bus.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, with starting times varying. Check availability for specific times.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included. You might want to bring some cash for sites like Melidoni Cave and Arkadi Monastery.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are recommended. Be prepared for outdoor walking and sun exposure.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. The tour includes a stop at a traditional tavern, where you can enjoy a typical Cretan meal, often accompanied by live music.

Does the tour operate in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English and German, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the group size?
The small-group setup makes for a more intimate experience, though exact numbers vary.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Yes, but consider physical mobility, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Rethymno provides a wonderful way to see Crete’s authentic side—from historic monasteries and ancient caves to pottery villages and scenic gorges. It’s a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and landscape, coupled with the warmth of local guides and traditional entertainment. It’s particularly appealing if you value genuine experiences over glossy tourist spots and are eager to connect with the island’s traditions.

While it’s a full day with some long drives and a few busy stops, the value for money is evident in the variety of sites visited and the depth of storytelling. You’ll leave with a richer understanding of what makes Crete special—besides its beaches, of course.

If you’re ready for a meaningful, scenic, and fun-filled day that captures the heart of Crete, this tour will not disappoint. It’s ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and those wanting a taste of local life far from the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: