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

1. 1

   Chania Prefecture

   1.5 hours

   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.

2. 2

   Monastery of Arkadi

   1 hour

   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.

3. 3

   Archea Eleftherna

   Pass by

   Eleutherna (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. 4

   Stop 4

   1 hour

   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.

5. 5

   Melidoni Cave

   1 hour

   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.

6. 6

   Rethymnon Old Town

   2 hours

   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).

7. 7

   Chania Prefecture

   1 hour

   Return to Chania. Relax during your comfortable drive back to the Chania region.

• 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.

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.