Margarites is a charming village on Crete that offers more than just beautiful scenery; it’s a place where history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty come together in a way that makes touring here truly rewarding. What makes Margarites stand out as a tour destination is its authentic local crafts—particularly pottery—and its proximity to significant landmarks like the Arkadi Monastery and Melidoni Cave. We especially appreciate tours that blend cultural sights with engaging stories, such as the Arkadi Monastery, which is steeped in history and symbol of resistance. Plus, the chance to see traditional pottery-making up close adds a tactile, memorable touch. For a comprehensive experience, check out the Arkadi, Melidoni, Margarites Half day.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find half-day and full-day group tours, as well as a private, personalized experience. Whether you want a quick taste of Margarites’ pottery village combined with historic sites or a full exploration with wine and gorge walks, these options cover a range of interests and budgets. Now, let’s dive into what each tour offers.
1. Arkadi, Melidoni, Margarites Half day
At number 1, this half-day tour offers a well-rounded experience in just six hours — perfect if you’re short on time but want a meaningful glimpse of Crete’s highlights. The tour includes a visit to Margarites, where you can admire the local pottery craftsmanship. It’s a chance to see artisans at work and maybe pick up a handcrafted souvenir. Then, you’ll explore the Melidoni Cave, which is both a natural wonder and a historical site, known for its role during various periods of Crete’s past. The highlight for many is the Arkadi Monastery, the island’s oldest monastery, renowned for its resilient history and stunning architecture.
This tour stands out thanks to the smooth organization and enthusiastic guides who share stories that bring the sites to life. Reviewers praise the positive energy and the depth of knowledge: “We learned a lot about Crete’s history while enjoying local food and fun!” The $22.58 price offers solid value considering the inclusions and the small group size. It’s perfect if you want a compact, engaging introduction to central Crete’s cultural gems.
Bottom line: A great choice for those with limited time but eager to see key sights and experience local pottery up close.
2. Melidoni Cave, Margarites pottery village, Arkadi Monastery
Ranking second, this 7.5-hour tour expands on the essentials by adding a visit to the Fragma Potamon Dam—a scenic spot ideal for photos. It’s slightly more comprehensive, blending natural beauty with cultural history. The tour visits Melidoni Cave, noted for its natural formation and historical significance, and ventures into Margarites, where you can observe traditional pottery techniques firsthand at a local workshop. The Arkadi Monastery remains a central highlight, with its impressive architecture and stories of resistance.
For $28.23, the tour offers a fuller picture of Crete’s diverse attractions. Tour guides tend to be knowledgeable, and the inclusion of photo stops at the dam adds a scenic dimension many travelers appreciate. While reviews are slightly lower at 4.3/5, they mention that the itinerary is well-paced and the local craftsmanship is a standout. It’s ideal for travelers wanting more variety and a chance to combine natural and cultural sights in one day.
Bottom line: A solid middle-ground option that balances history, nature, and craftsmanship, making it suitable if you’re looking for a fuller experience.
$28.23 per person
3. Private : Margarites village-Arkadi Monastery-Patsos Gorge
Finally, at number 3, this private tour offers an 8-hour personalized exploration designed for those who prefer a tailored experience. The tour takes you through Margarites’ most picturesque streets and includes a demonstration of pottery making, which is both educational and fun. The visit to Arkadi Monastery is more in-depth, with stories about its importance in Crete’s resistance history.
What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of wine tasting at Kourkoulos Winery, perfect for wine lovers wanting to combine cultural sights with local gastronomy. The tour also explores Patsos Gorge, a stunning natural corridor with rich flora and fauna, ideal for walking and photography. Priced at $333 per person, this is definitely an investment—best suited for travelers wanting a luxury, personalized experience that covers history, nature, and local gastronomy. Reviewers praise the attention to detail and flexibility: “The winery tour was a highlight, and the guide’s knowledge was outstanding.”
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a custom, in-depth journey into Crete’s culture, nature, and wine.
$333 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick, engaging introduction, the Arkadi, Melidoni, Margarites Half day is unbeatable. For a more extensive exploration that covers natural and cultural sites with a bit more depth, the Melidoni Cave, Margarites pottery village, Arkadi Monastery is ideal. If your budget allows and you crave a personalized, luxury experience with wine and nature walks, the Private Margarites village-Arkadi Monastery-Patsos Gorge is the best choice.
Consider your fitness level for tours involving walking or exploring natural sites like Patsos Gorge. Also, booking early can ensure availability, especially for private options or popular dates in peak season.
Final Thoughts
Margarites offers a range of tours that cater to different interests. For a short, sweet tour that hits the highlights, the half-day option is hard to beat. If you’re keen on diving deeper into Crete’s natural beauty and craftsmanship, the longer tours provide more variety and cultural insight. For those who want an exclusive, customizable experience, the private tour delivers personalized attention and unique stops like wine tasting and gorge walks.
No matter which you choose, early booking is wise—Crete’s treasures tend to fill up quickly. So, pick the adventure that suits your style, and enjoy a memorable day in this fascinating part of Greece.