
Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 3 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna worth booking?
Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna is a 10-hour experience in Heraklion, Greece, from $268 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 3 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 59 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (3)
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $268 per person
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.
What you get
About this experience
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.
What's included
Included
- Onboard Amenities: Stay refreshed and connected with bottled water and USB charging ports.
- Private Luxury Transport: Modern AC vehicle for your group
- Expert Driver-Guide: Personalized history and local insights from an English-speaking Cretan expert.
- Door-to-Door Service: Fully flexible pick-up and drop-off from any location in Chania or Heraklion.
Not included
- Entrance Fees: Arkadi, Eleutherna Museum, and Fortezza (paid locally).
- Licensed Guide: Driver provides history but cannot tour inside sites/museums.
- Meals: Lunch and personal drinks are at your own expense.
- Gratuities: Optional tips for your driver-guide.
What you'll see and do
Margarites
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.
120 minutes here
Museum of Ancient Eleutherna
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.
120 minutes here · Admission not included
Arkadi Monastery
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.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Rethymnon
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.
180 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 7 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Crete Wanderer
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 3 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Knowledge and storytelling
1 mentionReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Pace and timing
1 mentionSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Small groups
1 mentionThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
3 verified traveler reviews for Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
It is important to note...
It is important to note that this tour changed its description after we booked it, so the tour we did was of Crete and not what is now listed. We toured a honey farm, olive oil farm and a winery. It was a private tour for the day and it was a lot of fun. We enjoyed seeing the scenery and experiencing different aspects of Greek culture.
Response from the operator: Dear Steve, Thank you for taking the time to share this feedback. We're glad you still had a fun and memorable day with us, touring the honey farm, olive oil farm, and winery, and getting to experience different sides of Greek culture and the local scenery along the way. We do want to acknowledge your point about the tour description changing after you booked. That shouldn't have caused confusion, and we appreciate you flagging it so we can review how our listings are kept up to date for future travelers. Thank you for choosing Crete Wanderer, and for your honest and constructive review. Warm regards, Leonidas Crete Wanderer
via Viator
Exactly as I had hoped!
This was an AMAZING tour. Leonidas was very kind, knowledgeable, patient, and full of information. We were a group of 8, ages ranging from 6 to 76! He kept us all engaged and interested, taking in to account the needs of all. My parents don’t get around like they used to and he never made us feel rushed. I would highly highly recommend this!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that your entire group enjoyed the experience and felt comfortable throughout the day. Our goal is always to create a tour that is engaging, flexible, and considerate of everyone’s needs, and it’s rewarding to know that this made a difference for your family. It was a pleasure to host such a lovely group, and we truly appreciate your strong recommendation.
via Tripadvisor
Beautiful day
The tour was great, the drive was very scenic and the town very charming and picturesque. I would definitely recommend!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review, Vanessa! I'm delighted to hear that you enjoyed the scenic drive and found the town charming and picturesque. It's always our goal to provide a memorable and visually stunning experience. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back on another tour soon. Safe travels and best wishes!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $268 to $520
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Crete Wanderer, who run 3 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 56.9.
See everything Crete Wanderer runsWhy this scores 59
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Heraklion.
How much does Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna cost?
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Prices start at $268 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Heraklion usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna take?
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Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Heraklion is not rushed.
Is Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 3 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Heraklion, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna?
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Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Heraklion can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Heraklion and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Heraklion within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Heraklion?
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On Outty we rank every Heraklion experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory, Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Zeus Cave, Villages, Olive Oil Tour, Quad Safari: Off-Road Day Tour with Dinner & Transfers. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Heraklion?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Heraklion?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna?
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Included: Onboard Amenities: Stay refreshed and connected with bottled water and USB charging ports; Private Luxury Transport: Modern AC vehicle for your group; Expert Driver-Guide: Personalized history and local insights from an English-speaking Cret; and Door-to-Door Service: Fully flexible pick-up and drop-off from any location in Chania or H. Not included: Entrance Fees: Arkadi, Eleutherna Museum, and Fortezza (paid locally); Licensed Guide: Driver provides history but cannot tour inside sites/museums; Meals: Lunch and personal drinks are at your own expense; and Gratuities: Optional tips for your driver-guide. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 1243 listed pickup locations in and around Heraklion. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Heraklion. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Private Rethymno Tour: Arkadi, Margarites & Ancient Eleutherna?
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Across 3 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, knowledge and storytelling, small groups. The views and photo stops come up again and again. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
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