Full Day/ Group Price
No Cancel
7 people
English
Discover the authentic heart of Crete on a journey through history, tradition, and stunning architecture. This full-day private tour combines charming villages, sacred landmarks, and vibrant coastal life. Discover the historic allure of Rethymno on a guided day trip from Heraklion and other areas. Enjoy picturesque views, historical sites and local cultural.
Pottery in Margarites dates back to the Minoan era, making it one of the oldest ceramic traditions in Europe. Some local families have been potters for over 8 generations. The area around Margarites is rich in natural clay, which explains why pottery became the main occupation here. The clay is collected from nearby hills and still processed manually. The village was built with twisting alleys and hidden corners as a defense mechanism against pirate and Ottoman invasions. Today, it gives the village its enchanting, maze-like charm.
Locals believe Margarites lies on a natural “energy point” or ley line, which is said to foster creativity—especially among artists and ceramicists. In recent years, Margarites has become a hub for eco-artisans and slow living, attracting artists from around the world who settle here to practice ceramics, weaving, and organic farming.
Arkadi Monastery is on Greece’s tentative list due to its historical and architectural significance, especially as a symbol of resistance and sacrifice. The monastery’s church is an unusual mix of Venetian Renaissance and Orthodox architecture—built in the 16th century by a local architect trained in Venice. The baroque façade with Corinthian columns is rare in Greek monastic buildings.
During the Cretan revolt, 943 Greeks—mostly women and children—sought refuge in the monastery. Instead of surrendering, they blew up the gunpowder room, sacrificing themselves rather than being captured by Ottoman forces. This act shocked Europe and brought international support for Crete.
An old olive tree in the monastery courtyard is said to “sing” when the wind passes through it—locals say it’s the spirits of the fallen. The tree still bears bullet holes from the 1866 battle. Unlike many historic monasteries, Arkadi is still a functioning religious institution with a small community of monks, daily liturgies, and annual celebrations on November 8th, the date of the historic siege.
Rethymno is one of the few towns in Crete where Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences are so clearly visible side-by-side. You’ll find:
A Venetian harbor with 16th-century architecture. An Ottoman minaret rising next to a Renaissance-style building. Orthodox, Catholic, and Muslim religious structures within a short walk of each other.
Many parts of Rethymno’s Old Town are car-free, allowing visitors to wander peaceful alleyways filled with hanging balconies, artisan workshops, and flower-covered facades without traffic noise—preserving the town’s historic charm. Explore the streets of the old town with a variety of gift shops, bars and restaurants. The historic city center features a charming old harbor, adorned with Venetian-era buildings and pastel- colored houses. Visit the iconic lighthouse, the Loggia and the historic dockyards.
Built in 1626, the Rimondi Fountain is still flowing with fresh drinking water. Look closely—each lion head spout and carved column tells the story of Venetian dominance and urban design meant to symbolize power and prosperity through public works. The Old Town’s original main gate, Porta Guora, was said to be protected by a mythical stone dragon to keep evil spirits away. Though the sculpture is gone, locals still tell stories of how children were once warned not to pass through at night.
Every summer, Rethymno hosts a Renaissance Festival in its Old Town and Fortezza, celebrating the city’s literary and artistic legacy from the Venetian era. It’s one of the few festivals in Greece that focuses exclusively on the European Renaissance.
Available from: Heraklion, Hersonissos, Malia, Stalis & Sisi and upon request, from any other location in Crete
Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Your journey begins in the morning from Heraklion area. A comfortable air-conditioned Mercedes Van picks you up from your hotel or a central meeting point. The drive to Margarites takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes through scenic landscapes and traditional Cretan villages.
Margarites is a picturesque village famous for its traditional pottery and charming narrow streets. Visit local ceramic workshops and watch skilled artisans create handmade pottery using ancient techniques. Explore the Venetian-style architecture and hidden alleys lined with flowers and stone houses. Optional coffee break at a traditional café with views of the surrounding hills.
A symbol of Cretan resistance, Arkadi Monastery played a major role in the 1866 revolt against Ottoman rule. Explore the historic monastery with its impressive baroque church façade and peaceful courtyards. Learn about the dramatic siege and visit the small museum and ossuary honoring the fallen heroes. Enjoy the spiritual tranquility and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
A perfect blend of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, Rethymno’s Old Town is ideal for walking and exploring. Visit the Venetian harbor, the Rimondi Fountain, the Fortezza Fortress, and the narrow alleyways lined with boutiques and cafés. Enjoy lunch at a seaside taverna or a traditional Cretan restaurant tucked in the alleys. Time for shopping, photos, and perhaps a swim or gelato by the beach promenade.
Sit back and relax as you return to Heraklion after a full day of culture, history, and stunning Cretan scenery. Return to your hotel.
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