Viator
From €880
Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery, Margarites Village & Melidoni Cave.
Explore the cultural and natural highlights of central Crete with a private tour from Chania or Rethymno. Visit the historical Arkadi Monastery, descend into the legendary Melidoni Cave, and discover the artisan pottery village of Margarites. Along the route, learn from your guide about the ancient city of Eleutherna, once a major cultural center of Crete. End your day with a stroll through the romantic alleys of Rethymno Old Town. • Visit the historical Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance • Explore Melidoni Cave, a site of natural beauty and tragic history • Stop in the traditional pottery village of Margarites • Walk through the picturesque streets of Rethymno Old Town • Hear stories of Ancient Eleutherna on your way through the region
Tour information provided by Viator.
- · Minimum 1 travelers
- · Up to 15 travelers
Photos
29 photos
Itinerary
Select a stop or tap a pin on the map to see details. 6 of 7 stops have map coordinates.
Walking route is approximate — path follows available footpaths where possible.
- 1
Chania Prefecture
Pickup from your location in Chania region. Your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel, villa, or cruise ship. Sit back and enjoy the journey through the scenic Cretan countryside.
90 min - 2
Monastery of Arkadi
Arkadi Monastery (Visit – approx. 1 hour). Explore one of Crete’s most sacred landmarks, a symbol of freedom and resistance. Learn the powerful story of the 1866 rebellion against the Ottoman Empire and admire the monastery’s impressive Baroque architecture, bell tower, and peaceful surroundings.
60 minAdmission included - 3
Archea Eleftherna
Pass byEleutherna (Drive-by storytelling stop – no visit). On the way to Margarites, your guide will tell the fascinating story of ancient Eleutherna — once a thriving city-state with Homeric connections. Although we won’t stop at the archaeological site, you’ll gain an insightful overview of its historical importance, recent discoveries, and connection to nearby villages.
- 4
of Margarites
Margarites Village (Stop – approx. 1 hour). Discover the charming village of Margarites, famous for its traditional pottery and artistic spirit. Walk through narrow stone alleys adorned with bougainvillea, visit local ceramic workshops, and maybe take home a handmade souvenir.
60 min - 5
Melidoni Cave
Melidoni Cave (Visit – approx. 45 min). Venture into the dramatic Melidoni Cave, filled with natural beauty and poignant history. This atmospheric site was once a place of worship and later the scene of a tragic event during the Ottoman occupation. Explore the cavern’s chamber, admire the stalactites, and feel the reverence of this sacred place.
60 minAdmission included - 6
Rethymnon Old Town
Rethymno Old Town (Free time – approx. 1.5–2 hours). Conclude your tour in one of Greece’s best-preserved medieval cities. Enjoy free time to explore Venetian and Ottoman architecture, cozy cafés, boutique shops, and hidden alleyways. Optional lunch at a local taverna (at your own expense).
120 min - 7
Chania Prefecture
Return to Chania. Relax during your comfortable drive back to the Chania region.
60 min
What's included
- Pick-up at your hotel
- All Fees and Taxes
- Wi-fi on board and Water from the springs of the White Mountains “Samaria”, in bottles
- Accompaniment by a professional guide
- Entrance tickets to the Monastery of Arcadia
- Comfortable Vehicle with a professional driver
What's not included
- Personal expenses, drinks, lunch / dinner
- Customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts
Good to know
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other point in the region of Chania and Rethymno. Pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation.
- To visit the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – a skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders. For men – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
- Important to have: Comfortable shoes, Comfortable clothes, Sunglasses, and Hat Money for souvenirs, drinks, lunch/dinner.
- Health issues: If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated, and we exercise all discretion.
- HealthInsurance: Our company is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before traveling to Crete.
Tickets
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Tour options
Arkadi Monastery -Up to 10 pax
Mercedes Sprinter Pickup included
Rethymno Town: Arkadi Monastery - Eleftherna - Margarites village
Pickup included
Reviews
4.6 · 15 reviews
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