




The Soul of Crete Unveiled Experience the extraordinary depth of Crete on an exclusive 10-hour private journey through the heart of Rethymno. Departing from Chania or Heraklion in a premium vehicle, this bespoke tour bridges the gap between ancient myths and living traditions. A Journey Through Time & Art Your day unfolds across four iconic landmarks: the heroic Arkadi Monastery, a global symbol of freedom; Ancient Eleutherna, where the "Homeric Crete" comes to life through unique museum and archaeological site; and the artisan village of Margarites, famous for its centuries-old pottery tradition. The adventure culminates in the romantic, UNESCO-listed Rethymno Old Town, where Venetian fortifications and Ottoman architecture create a timeless atmosphere of beauty. The Ultimate Private Experience Designed for those who demand the highest standards, this tour is 100% customizable. Your professional driver tailors every stop to your interests, ensuring a seamless flow from door-to-door.
Prices change with the date; the lowest is shown.
Prices are per person when two book together; a solo traveller pays $537.
Larger groups pay less per person.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 25.
Margarites is a picturesque "hidden gem" famous for its pottery workshops. You will visit local artisans who use ancient techniques to create beautiful ceramic art. Wander through the floral-decorated streets, snap photos of the Venetian doorways, and perhaps try your hand at the potter's wheel. It is the most Instagrammable village in the Rethymno region.
Discover the secrets of one of the most significant ancient cities in Crete. You have the flexibility to choose how you want to experience Eleutherna: The Archaeological Site: Walk through the rugged landscape to see the ancient fortifications, the Hellenistic cisterns, and the necropolis that brought Homer's verses to life. The Museum: Visit the ultra-modern, award-winning museum to admire the stunning artifacts, jewelry, and sculptures found on-site. Bespoke Choice: Since this is a private tour, you can choose to visit both or focus on the one that fascinates you most. Note: Entrance fees are separate and depend on your choice to visit the site, the museum, or both.
Step into the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery, an architectural masterpiece and a global symbol of the Cretan struggle for independence. Admire the unique Baroque facade of the church and walk through the tranquil courtyards and the tragic gunpowder room. It is a place of profound energy, history, and architectural beauty that every visitor to Crete must experience.
Conclude your day in the most romantic city in Crete. Rethymno’s Old Town is a mosaic of Minoan, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. Explore the massive Fortezza castle, walk by the Egyptian Lighthouse, and get lost in the narrow streets filled with shops and aromas. Flexible Stop: This is your time for a premium lunch at a seaside taverna or a coffee break in the heart of the historic center.
Pick-up from Heraklion port, Souda port, Chania Port, Rethymno Port is included for free. The driver will be waiting outside of the hotel or the location you have chosen holding a sign with your name.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna lasts about 10 hours. The itinerary has 4 stops.
Prices start at $268 per person for this Heraklion experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. That is the per-person price when two book together; a solo traveller pays $537. There are 2 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, and 10:00 AM.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Yes, pickup is offered. Pick-up from Heraklion port, Souda port, Chania Port, Rethymno Port is included for free. The driver will be waiting outside of the hotel or the location you have chosen holding a sign with your name. Pickup points include Pela, Anastasia Star Beach Hotel & Spa.
The experience is available in EN.
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 7 travellers can book together.
Specialized infant seats are available
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 3 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Crete Wanderer.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna | 10 hours | 5.0 (3) | $268 | |
Rethymnon Old Town, Arkadi , Eleutherna, Margarites | Private | 7–8 hours | 5.0 (25) | $98 | View |
Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery, Margarites Village & Melidoni Cave. | 7–8 hours | 4.5 (16) | $1,005 | View |
From Rethymno:Arkadi Monaster Margarite village and Melidoni Cave | 6 hours | 4.2 (6) | $29 | View |
Authentic Crete: Arkadi, Margarites & Melidoni from Rethymno | 5 hours | — | $331 | View |
Arkadi Eleftherna Margarites Melidoni Bali Private Tour | 8 hours | 5.0 (1) | $331 | View |
Full day tour to Arkadi-Margarites-Sfendoni Cave-Axos | 9 hours | 3.3 (3) | $46 | View |