This experience made our article of Pappagiannades’s 6 Best Tours: Which To Choose?.
Rethymnon: Private Trip Arkadi – Eleftherna – Margarites – Melidoni
If you’re visiting Crete and looking for a well-rounded day that blends history, craftsmanship, and natural wonder, this private tour from Rethymno offers a tempting package. For $124 per person, you’ll spend between 4.5 to 8 hours exploring some of the island’s highlights — from the legendary Arkadi Monastery and the archaeological site of Eleftherna to the charming pottery village of Margarites and the mysterious Melidoni Cave. Led by a professional driver in a comfortable Mercedes Vito van, this trip emphasizes flexibility, comfort, and personalized attention.
We love how this tour combines historical depth with authentic local flavor. The visit to Arkadi Monastery is a compelling reminder of Cretan resilience, while wandering through Margarites offers a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship. The Eleftherna Museum enriches understanding of Crete’s ancient past, and the Melidoni Cave provides a striking natural and historical spectacle.
One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees for sites like Arkadi Monastery, Eleftherna Museum, and Melidoni Cave are not included, so it’s worth budgeting a few extra euros. Also, this tour doesn’t include a guide, so if you’re keen on detailed narration, consider bringing a guidebook or audio guide.
This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, personalized approach with plenty of time for photos, exploration, and soaking up local atmosphere. If history, authentic crafts, and scenic drives are your thing, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Comfortable Private Transport: Travel in a Mercedes Vito van, ensuring a smooth and private experience.
- Historical & Cultural Focus: Visits to Arkadi Monastery and Eleftherna Museum showcase Crete’s deep history.
- Authentic Local Flavors: Margarites village offers a hands-on look at traditional pottery making.
- Natural Wonder: Melidoni Cave is a fascinating natural formation with historical significance.
- Flexible and Convenient: Hotel pick-up and drop-off from various locations around Rethymno make logistics simple.
- Affordable Value: At $124, this tour offers a well-rounded day with personalized service.
Planning more time in Pappagiannades? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
Start with Convenience and Comfort
The tour begins with a pickup from a wide selection of locations around Rethymno, including hotels, airbnbs, and other key points like the port. This flexibility is a major plus, saving you the hassle of navigating public transportation or organizing transfers yourself. Traveling in a luxury Mercedes Vito ensures comfort, especially after a long day of exploring.
The drive between sites is relatively brief, with each leg typically lasting about 30 to 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery. The driver, who speaks English, is professional and responsible, offering a calming presence and local insights along the way.
Arkadi Monastery: A Symbol of Resistance
Your journey begins at the Arkadi Monastery, about an hour from Rethymno. This site is more than just a pretty Venetian-era church; it’s a place of profound historical importance for the Cretans. It’s regarded as a symbol of the island’s fight for freedom, especially noted for the heroic stand against Ottoman forces. Visitors often find the architecture and the story of sacrifice moving.
The entrance fee is around €4, and while the tour doesn’t include a guide, the site’s story is well worth reading about beforehand or asking your driver about. From scenic views to the ancient structures, Arkadi delivers both a visual and emotional experience.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering the Past at Eleftherna
Next, the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is a highlight, especially for history buffs. Covering an area of 1700 m², the museum houses artifacts dating from 3000 BC to 1300 AD, spanning prehistoric to Byzantine periods. It’s built close to the archaeological site, which sprawls over 13 acres, so you get a real sense of the ancient city’s scale.
Visitors praise the museum for its comprehensive exhibits and the way it narrates a story of continuous habitation. The museum’s construction began in 2012, and it offers three main rooms filled with objects of everyday life, art, and relics. While there’s an entrance fee of about €4, it’s a worthwhile investment for those interested in Crete’s long history.
The Craftsmanship of Margarites Village
Your next stop is Margarites, a village renowned for its pottery tradition. Here, you can stroll along winding, narrow streets lined with pottery shops and studios. Visitors often enjoy watching artisans hand-throw pots, a skill passed down through generations. One reviewer shared that they appreciated seeing an elder demonstrating traditional pottery techniques, offering an authentic insight into local craftsmanship.
The village also boasts quirky architecture and a peaceful vibe, making it a perfect place for a leisurely walk and some photos. You might even pick up a handcrafted piece to take home — a tangible memory of Crete’s artisanal spirit.
Melidoni Cave: Nature and History Combined
The final major stop is the Melidoni Cave, situated at about 220 meters altitude. This natural marvel is not only stunning but also historically significant, known as Gerontospelios. It’s associated with local legends and played a role in Cretan resistance; its vast chambers and stalactites make it a memorable visit.
Expect to spend about an hour here, with the option to explore the cave’s chambers and learn about its history. The entrance fee is approximately €4. It’s a great ending to the day, blending natural beauty with a sense of mystery and history.
Wrap-up and Return
After exploring Melidoni Cave, it’s about a 30-minute drive back to your starting point, with plenty of time to reflect or ask questions. The entire journey is flexible — if you want to linger longer at any site or prefer a shorter trip, your driver can accommodate.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This private trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, local culture, and natural scenery without the rush. It suits those who prefer comfort and flexibility, and don’t mind paying a little extra for personalized service. It’s especially great for history enthusiasts, craft lovers, and anyone wanting an authentic experience beyond the typical tourist spots.
Since the tour doesn’t include guided narration, those who love deep dives might want to prepare some background in advance. Still, the driver’s local knowledge and the site descriptions provide enough context for most travelers to appreciate each stop.
Value and Practicalities
At $124 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value and experience. The private transport means you avoid crowded group tours, and the flexible schedule allows you to customize your day. The cost excludes entrance fees (around €4 each for Arkadi, Eleftherna Museum, and Melidoni Cave), so budget accordingly.
The tour’s duration varies from 4.5 to 8 hours, giving you flexibility based on your pace and interest. It’s a full day’s outing, best suited for travelers keen to see a variety of sites without feeling rushed.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand, offering peace of mind.
FAQs
What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, private transportation in a Mercedes Vito van, all legal taxes, a professional driver, liability insurance, and child seats if requested. Entrance fees are not included.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees such as €4 for Arkadi Monastery, Eleftherna Museum, and Melidoni Cave are paid separately.
Can I bring children?
Yes, child seats are available if requested. The tour is suitable for families, though no specific age restrictions are mentioned.
Is a guide included?
No, the tour features a driver but no guide. You might want to read up on the sites beforehand for a richer experience.
What if I want to customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your interests with the driver. However, the itinerary is fixed, so any major changes should be arranged beforehand.
How long does each stop last?
Typically, expect about an hour at each major site — Arkadi, Eleftherna, Margarites, and Melidoni Cave — plus driving time in between.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for wheelchair users, considering the terrain of some sites and the walking involved.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and any personal items. Entrance fees are payable on-site, so small cash is handy.
The Sum Up
This private tour from Rethymno offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances history, culture, and natural beauty. With comfortable transportation, a flexible schedule, and a focus on authentic experiences, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore Crete beyond the usual tourist spots.
It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a personalized setting, want to learn about Crete’s resilient past at Arkadi Monastery, and appreciate traditional craftsmanship in Margarites. While it’s not a guided tour, the driver’s local knowledge and the self-directed exploration of each site make for a well-rounded experience.
If you’re after a value-packed day with the chance to connect with the local essence of Crete, this trip provides a memorable, manageable adventure with plenty of space for your personal interests.
Note: Always check current availability and prices, as they can fluctuate. Booking in advance guarantees your spot and helps ensure a seamless experience.
You can check availability for your dates here: