Craft Beer & City Tour – Rethymno Old Town

Exploring the Craft Beer & City Tour in Rethymno Old Town

This craft beer and city tour in Rethymno offers a unique blend of cultural exploration and beer tasting, all within the charming streets of this historic Greek town. With a small group size, expert local guides, and a focus on authentic, local brews, this experience promises an engaging way to spend an evening in Crete. The tour is designed to give you a taste of Rethymno’s multicultural past while savoring some of its best craft beers, accompanied by snacks and memorable sights.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its personalized approach—you’re not just being herded through a standard itinerary but gently guided through hidden corners and lesser-known pubs. Plus, the inclusion of educational snippets about craft beer, combined with tasting sessions, makes it both fun and informative. The only thing to consider is its relatively short duration of around three hours—if you’re a serious beer enthusiast, you might wish for more tasting or a longer experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate craft beer, enjoy casual city strolls, and want a deeper look into Rethymno’s local flavor. It’s also perfect for those who prefer a small-group vibe, making the experience more intimate and engaging. If you’re curious about local brews and love discovering authentic spots with a knowledgeable guide, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic Craft Beer Scenes: Visit some of Rethymno’s top craft beer pubs, including hidden gems you might not find alone.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a local beer guide and home brewer, gaining insights into both the beers and the city’s history.
• Comprehensive Tasting: Sample five Greek craft beers, from seasonal options to classic favorites, paired with tasty snacks.
• Personal Experience: Small group size (max 8) ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Iconic Locations: From the Venetian Harbour to the lighthouse, the tour combines sights with beer stops for a well-rounded experience.
• Photo Opportunities & Local Tips: Enjoy the best photo spots and get recommendations for the rest of your stay.

A Deep Dive into the Craft Beer & City Tour

Starting at the Old Venetian Harbour

The tour kicks off with a welcoming beer on draught at a waterfront craft beer pub, giving you an instant sense of Rethymno’s maritime charm. Sitting by the sea, you get to relax while your guide, who is both knowledgeable and friendly, introduces you to the local craft beer scene. This first stop is not just about the beer; it’s about setting the tone for a laid-back, enjoyable evening. You’ll also learn about the town’s history and how its multicultural past influences its current vibe.

Many reviewers, such as StenMartin_E, have highlighted the friendly atmosphere cultivated by guides like theirs, who made the experience both informative and warm. The combination of sea views and fresh craft brews makes this a memorable start, especially for those who appreciate a scenic setting.

Exploring Rethymno’s Hidden Pubs

The next stop takes you through lesser-known pedestrian streets of Old Town, a journey that’s as much about discovering local charm as it is about sampling beers. Your guide will point out monuments and tell tales about the town’s diverse past, adding context and depth to your stroll. This part of the tour is perfect for those who love wandering off the beaten path and learning about the local culture.

You’ll visit a well-camouflaged pub that’s hidden in plain sight—perhaps tucked behind a narrow alley or inside a historic building. Here, you’ll experience a multi-beer tasting session, which showcases a variety of styles, matching seasonal brews with your preferences. The focus on seasonal and local brews means you’re likely to taste something new and exciting, not just the standard commercial options.

The Iconic Lighthouse and Final Tasting

Our walk continues toward the Rethymno Lighthouse—an ideal spot for photos and a perfect backdrop to reflect on the day’s discoveries. Here, the tour culminates with a draft beer of your choice paired with finger foods—think tasty bites that complement the brews. Whether you want a light lager or a richer stout, you can select what suits your palate.

The reviews echo the enjoyment of this part: many find the final stop a lovely way to unwind, drink in the views, and soak up the lively atmosphere. The tour concludes either here or with an option to head off for your evening plans, leaving you with new knowledge and a few souvenir keepsakes.

What’s Included & What to Expect

For $100.99, this tour offers excellent value considering its inclusion of five Greek craft beers, snacks, and an educational component. The guided walking tour is led by a local beer expert and home brewer, which adds authenticity to the experience. Expect to learn about the craft beer scene in Rethymno and get insider tips on where to enjoy more local brews afterward.

One of the standout features, based on reviews, is the personalized attention with a small group of up to eight travelers. This ensures you aren’t just another face in a crowd but part of an engaging, friendly group. The tour also includes a unique souvenir—something small but memorable to remind you of your evening.

Practical Details and Tips

Starting at 6:00 pm, the tour is perfect for evening relaxation after a day of exploring. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll walk through cobbled streets and scenic spots. The tour is weather-dependent; if it rains heavily, the route may be modified or the tour rescheduled, and refunds are available if canceled.

While tips aren’t included, the friendly nature of guides and overall small-group atmosphere make tipping a nice gesture if you enjoyed the experience. Remember to bring your ID, stay hydrated, and consider packing a water bottle—Crete’s sun can be hot even in the evening.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re passionate about craft beer and local flavors, enjoy walking tours, and want a personal, relaxed atmosphere. It appeals especially to those interested in learning about the town’s history through its pubs and who appreciate tasting different beer styles. Those traveling solo or in small groups will find the intimate setting particularly enjoyable.

The Sum Up

The Craft Beer & City Tour in Rethymno Old Town offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Crete’s burgeoning craft beer scene, combined with an enjoyable walk through one of Greece’s most atmospheric towns. With knowledgeable guides, a small group size, and a focus on local brews, this tour balances education, leisure, and cultural discovery beautifully.

It’s especially suited for travelers eager to combine their love of beer with a taste of local culture and history. The inclusion of snacks, souvenirs, and stunning photo spots makes it a memorable evening. While it might not be a lengthy or all-day experience, its quality and intimacy make it a fantastic choice for a relaxed but engaging outing.

If you’re after a fun way to spend a couple of hours, learn about Rethymno’s multicultural past, and sample some of Greece’s best craft beers, this tour is a smart investment. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious about local flavors, you’ll walk away with new knowledge, great memories, and perhaps even some new favorite brews.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 6:00 pm and ending around the same time.

What does the tour include?
It includes five Greek craft beer samples (full and tasting sizes), snacks like finger foods, a guided walk through Rethymno’s old town, visits to top beer pubs, and a unique souvenir.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for families with babies or those with walking difficulties due to the walking involved and the nature of the stops.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, your ID, a water bottle, and your enthusiasm!

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included, but they are appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather or low bookings, you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Bricks Beers & Tales, Eleftheríou Venizélou 41, and ends at the same spot.

What if it rains?
The tour route may be modified, or the tour can be canceled for a full refund if the weather is very poor.

This guided craft beer and city walk offers a genuine taste of Rethymno’s lively beer scene, with the added bonus of exploring the historic old town in a relaxed, friendly setting. Perfect for those who want to combine cultural sightseeing with a few well-chosen drinks, it’s an evening well spent in Crete.