Chania Areas: Day Trip to Arkadi, Margarites & Rethymno City
Imagine spending a full day exploring some of Crete’s most captivating sights—from a historic monastery to a lively old town, with a splash of seaside relaxation. This day-long tour from Chania provides a well-paced mix of history, local crafts, and scenic beauty. Led by knowledgeable guides (think friendly, informative, not overly formal), you’ll visit Arkadi Monastery, stroll through the colorful pottery village of Margarites, and enjoy ample free time in Rethymno.
Two things we really appreciate about this tour: firstly, the diversity of experiences packed into a single day—cultural, historical, artistic, and leisurely all in one. Secondly, the opportunity to enjoy Rethymno’s charming old town and nearby palm beach at your own pace, which means you can savor the town’s atmosphere without feeling rushed.
One potential consideration is the length of the travel day—about 10 hours in total, which might be a long stretch if you’re not used to full-day excursions. Also, entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need a small budget for the Arkadi Monastery (€4). This tour suits travellers who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Crete without the hassle of planning multiple visits themselves, especially those interested in history, local crafts, and scenic coastal spots.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Historic Sites: Visit the renowned Venetian Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resilience.
- Cultural Experience: Explore Margarites, a village famous for its pottery tradition and charming architecture.
- Flexible Time in Rethymno: Enjoy four hours to wander the old town, visit the fortress, or relax at the beach.
- Scenic & Relaxing: Include time for swimming at a palm-fringed beach near Rethymno.
- Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned coach, hotel pick-up, and drop-off included.
- Optional Add-ons: Private groups and guide-led tours available, with opportunity to skip the ticket line.
Planning more time in Rethymno? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Full Breakdown: What You’re Really Getting
The Itinerary and Its Highlights
The day begins with a convenient pick-up at one of 14 locations around Chania, such as Daratso, Gerani, or Almyrida. The bus ride to Arkadi Monastery lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you some time to relax and get oriented before the first major stop.
Arkadi Monastery is a key highlight—both historically and visually. As you walk through its stone walls and courtyards, the guide will share stories of the heroic Cretan uprising and the monastery’s role as a symbol of resistance. The entrance fee is modest (€4), and while not included in the tour price, it’s well worth the few extra euros. Many visitors note that the monastery’s striking architecture and the stories attached to it make a lasting impression. One reviewer said, “We loved the way our guide explained the historical significance, and the monastery’s setting is simply breathtaking.”
Next, you’ll journey for about 40 minutes to the village of Margarites. This spot is a treasure for those interested in handmade pottery—a craft that the village has perfected over generations. Here, you can see local artisans throw pots right in front of you, sometimes even trying your hand at it. The town itself offers a feast for the eyes with its narrow winding streets and extraordinary architecture. You might find some beautiful pottery souvenirs here, with shops lining the streets for browsing and buying.
The final leg of the tour takes roughly 50 minutes to reach Rethymno, a city that exudes Venetian charm. Once there, you’ll have around four hours of free time. This is your chance to explore the Fortezza, a Venetian fortress with views over the sea, or meander through the old town’s narrow streets, discovering cozy cafes and shops. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to sample local cuisine or simply soak in the lively, authentic atmosphere.
A highlight here is the palm beach near the town’s center, where you can take a relaxing swim. The beach is described as beautiful and perfect for a short refreshment break after a day of sightseeing.
The return trip takes about 100 minutes, giving everyone time to unwind before arriving back at the original pick-up points.
What We Love About This Tour
The variety of locations makes this a comprehensive introduction to Crete. The blend of historic sites like Arkadi Monastery with the artisan charm of Margarites and the vibrant streets of Rethymno ensures there’s something for all.
We also appreciate the flexibility—with plenty of free time in Rethymno, you can do exactly what interests you most, whether that’s wandering, shopping, or lounging at the beach. Plus, the air-conditioned bus and hotel pick-up make the logistics straightforward—something busy travelers will definitely enjoy.
More Great Tours NearbyPossible Drawbacks or Considerations
The main thing to keep in mind is the long duration—around 10 hours—so it’s not ideal if you prefer shorter, more relaxed outings. Also, the entrance fee for Arkadi Monastery (€4) is not included, so bring some cash. While the tour is well-paced, some visitors might find the bus ride a bit lengthy, especially if they prefer more time at each location.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This is a great option for history buffs, craft lovers, and those wanting a taste of authentic Crete without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s perfect if you want a full-day immersion that balances cultural sights with time to relax. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and leisure, you’ll find this tour offers good value and memorable experiences.
Detailed Review: Why This Tour is Worth Your Time
The Transport and Logistics
Starting with a pick-up from 14 locations, the tour is designed for maximum convenience. The coach is air-conditioned, which is a relief on hot days, and the schedule is straightforward, with approximately 1.5 hours to Arkadi, shorter rides in between, and enough time in Rethymno. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest a comfortable, manageable number, fostering a friendly atmosphere.
Arkadi Monastery: A Cultural Anchor
Visiting Arkadi is not just about admiring its medieval stonework but about understanding its profound role in Cretan history. The monastery became a symbol of resistance during Ottoman rule, with stories of heroic sacrifices. Many visitors comment on how the guide’s storytelling brought the site to life, making history resonate. It’s a place where the architecture, the stories, and the setting combine to leave a lasting impression.
Margarites: Artisans and Authenticity
The village of Margarites is a highlight for craft lovers. The tradition of pottery here isn’t just a tourist attraction—many visitors say it feels genuine, with artisans still hand-throwing pots as they have for generations. Watching the elderly pottery masters work, you get a sense of living tradition, which is increasingly rare. The narrow streets and colorful shops add to the picturesque vibe, making it worth wandering aimlessly for a while.
Rethymno: A Town of Contrasts
The free time in Rethymno allows you to craft your own experience. The Venetian fortress (Fortezza) offers breathtaking views and a chance to walk through history, while the old town’s labyrinth of alleys teems with cafes, shops, and history. Many reviewers appreciate the balance of sightseeing and leisure, with some opting to just sit in a cafe and watch the world go by.
The Beach Break
The palm beach near Rethymno is a bonus, especially if you enjoy swimming or relaxing on the sand. It’s close enough to the town center to be convenient, and many find it to be a peaceful way to cap off a busy sightseeing day.
Value and Overall Experience
Considering the cost, the tour offers solid value for what it includes—transport, a guide, and access to key sites. The small entrance fee to Arkadi is minimal compared to the overall experience. The free time allows for personal pacing, which is often what travelers appreciate most.
The Sum Up
This Chania-area day trip combines history, craft, and seaside leisure in a way that’s both manageable and memorable. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see a bit of everything—from a resilient monastery to a vibrant old town, with the option to relax at a nearby beach. The tour’s relaxed pace and authentic stops make it a practical choice for those eager for a comprehensive Crete experience without the stress of planning.
If you’re interested in Cretan history and culture, enjoy scenic coastal views, or want a balanced day of sightseeing and leisure, this tour will serve you well. Just remember to bring your comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a sense of curiosity.
FAQ
What locations does the tour pick up from?
You can be picked up from 14 different locations around Chania, including Daratso, Gerani, and Almyrida, among others.
How long is the travel time between stops?
The drive to Arkadi Monastery is about 1.5 hours, with shorter stops in between, and roughly 50-minute rides to Rethymno, allowing for a relaxed pace.
Is there free time at Rethymno?
Yes, you get around four hours to explore the old town, visit the fortress, or relax at the beach.
What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes visits to Arkadi Monastery, Margarites village, free time in Rethymno, a professional guide (not with private options), transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Are entrance fees included?
No, the €4 entrance fee to Arkadi Monastery is not included but is a small additional cost.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in history and local crafts, though the full day might be long for very young children.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
Can I customize my experience?
Private groups are available, offering more flexibility if you prefer a tailored experience.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are essential for staying comfortable throughout the day.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of some stops and walking involved.
This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Crete’s history, crafts, and seaside charm, making it a favorite for those wanting a meaningful, scenic, and manageable day in the heart of this captivating island.
You can check availability for your dates here: