Rethymno isn’t just a charming port city with narrow alleyways and Venetian architecture—it’s also a fantastic place for exploring by bike. The region offers varied landscapes, from lush gorges to traditional villages, making it perfect for cycling enthusiasts looking to combine activity with authentic experiences. We particularly like the guided e-Bike tour on Mili Gorge for its scenic trail and cultural insights, and the Undiscovered Amari Valley tour for its mix of nature, history, and local life. Both tours provide a wonderful way to see Crete beyond the usual tourist spots.
If you’re considering a cycling adventure in Rethymno, this guide will help you navigate your options—from shorter city rides to full-day explorations—so you can pick the perfect fit.
Quick Overview
Our top picks cover a range of biking experiences. For those wanting an easy ride through countryside and traditional villages, the guided e-Bike tour on Mili Gorge offers about 3.5 hours of scenic discovery. If you’re after a more adventurous full-day trip that combines medieval villages, gorges, and lakes, the Undiscovered Amari Valley tour provides five hours of varied terrain. For those interested in exploring historic sites, the e-Bike tour to Arkadi Monastery offers a four-hour trip focused on culture and history. Lastly, if a shorter, city-centered ride appeals, the e-Bike tour on the old city takes around 2.5 hours through Rethymno’s historic streets.
1. Rethymno: Guided e-Bike Tour on Mili Gorge and soft drinks
This 3 to 3.5-hour guided e-Bike tour offers a relaxed yet immersive experience in and around Rethymno. Starting from Rethymno Bike Tours, you’ll pedal through the stunning Myli Gorge, a lush corridor filled with wildflowers and shady trees. The ride continues to the Halevi Monastery, an impressive historic site perched on a hillside, and then to the tiny community of Chromonastiri, where traditional Cretan village life persists.
What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility—using electric bikes, it’s suitable even for beginners or those who want a less strenuous way to explore. The guides are fluent in English and known for sharing fascinating cultural stories. Reviewers love the friendly attitude of guides Yiannis and Konstantinos, and praise the “amazing scenery and authentic villages.” The tour includes soft drinks and a chance to appreciate Rethymno’s countryside at a gentle pace, making it ideal for families or those with limited cycling experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a scenic, relaxed introduction to Rethymno’s countryside without breaking a sweat.
2. Rethymno: Guided e-Bike tour at Undiscovered Amari valley
For around $136 per person, this 5-hour guided e-Bike adventure explores one of Crete’s less visited, yet stunning, areas—the Amari Valley. Starting from Hortatzi 25, you’ll pedal comfortably on e-bikes through lush scenery, visiting the medieval village of Prasies. The route takes you to Patsos Gorge, where you’ll walk inside this dramatic canyon, and then to a peaceful lake where you can relax at a local café.
What sets this tour apart is its diverse itinerary, combining historical village exploration, nature hikes, and lake-side refreshment. The route is well thought out, with plenty of stops for photos, rest, and lunch. The guide, Panos, is highly praised for his knowledge and accommodating attitude. Reviewers mention how safe they felt on the roads, despite cretan traffic, and highlight the excellent quality of bikes. It’s best suited for active travelers wanting a full immersion in nature and culture, with enough time for photos and quick hikes.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those wanting a full-day, scenic cycling experience that mixes history, nature, and a touch of adventure.
3. Rethymno: e-Bike tour to Arkadi Monastery
This 4-hour guided e-Bike tour offers a chance to visit one of Crete’s most iconic historic sites—the Arkadi Monastery. Starting from Sofokli Venizelou 4, you’ll ride through the scenic countryside, enjoying views of rolling hills and traditional villages, before arriving at the monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance. The guide shares engaging stories about the monastery’s history, making it more than just a photo stop.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on culture and history, combined with a comfortable ride on electric bikes that make the journey accessible. Reviews praise the “friendly guide” and the “beautiful ride,” emphasizing how well the tour balances historical storytelling with scenic views. It’s ideal for travelers interested in Cretan history or those who want a shorter, more relaxed bike trip that still covers significant cultural ground.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history buffs or those wanting a meaningful cultural experience coupled with easy cycling.
4. Rethymno: e-Bike Tour on the old city
If you want to explore Rethymno’s historic streets, this 2.5-hour guided e-Bike tour is perfect. Starting from Sofokli Venizelou 4, you’ll pedal through the old city’s narrow alleys, learning about its Venetian and Ottoman influences. The tour includes stops at key sites, lively markets, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the sea.
What makes this ride stand out is its focus on Rethymno’s urban charm and authentic streets, giving you a taste of local life during a relaxed ride. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guides and the chance to see hidden corners of the city that many visitors miss. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but wanting a colorful, cultural introduction to Rethymno.
Bottom Line: A lively, city-focused ride that offers a perfect snapshot of Rethymno’s historic and lively old town.
How to Choose the Right Bike Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and fitness level. If you prefer a gentle countryside experience, the Mili Gorge tour is ideal. For a full-day adventure into mountains and lakes, the Amari Valley tour offers variety but requires more time and energy. Interested in history? The Arkadi Monastery tour provides cultural insights with a shorter ride, perfect for those who want to learn while cycling. Finally, if your time is limited but you want to see the city’s soul, the old city tour offers a quick but rich introduction.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Rethymno offers a surprising variety of bike tours suited for different interests and fitness levels. Whether you’re after a leisurely ride through traditional villages, an active day exploring gorges and lakes, or a quick spin through historic streets, there’s an option for you. The guided e-Bike on Mili Gorge remains our top pick for its balance of scenic beauty and relaxed pace, while the Amari Valley tour is perfect for those craving a full day of adventure.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance and preparing for Crete’s varied terrain will help you get the most out of your cycling experience. Rethymno’s diverse landscapes and historic sites are waiting to be explored—they’re best enjoyed on a bike.