Crete: Margarites, Rethymnon, Argyroupoli Full-Day Tour

This full-day tour offers a thoughtfully curated look into some of Crete’s most charming and less touristy spots. For travelers eager to explore beyond the crowded beaches and typical attractions, this experience promises a mix of cultural insights, scenic drives, and picturesque villages. It’s a great way to get a genuine feel for the island’s rich history and local craftsmanship while enjoying some stunning vistas.

What really stands out about this tour is the balance between historical exploration and relaxing moments in natural surroundings. We especially appreciated how the stops include authentic local experiences, like watching pottery demonstrations in Margarites and enjoying a coffee beneath ancient sycamore trees in Argyroupoli.

One potential consideration is the tour’s duration—at 12 hours, it’s quite a full day, so if you’re not used to long excursions, pace yourself accordingly. It’s also primarily guided in German, so non-German speakers might want to prepare for some language barriers or bring a translation app. This tour suits travelers looking for an immersive, cultural day that balances sightseeing with leisure, especially those who enjoy history, scenic drives, and discovering local crafts.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Visit small villages and witness local crafts like pottery making.
• Historical insights: Learn about Venetian, Turkish, and Roman influences on Crete.
• Scenic drives: Travel along beautiful country roads with views that are postcard-worthy.
• Relaxing stops: Enjoy shaded coffee breaks under ancient trees and at picturesque waterfalls.
• Value for money: For $68, you get a comprehensive day exploring multiple highlights with guided commentary.
• Personalized insights: A knowledgeable German-speaking guide enriches the experience with local stories.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Scenic Drive to Margarites

The journey begins with a drive along Crete’s winding country roads, offering views of rugged hills and olive groves. The first stop is Margarites, famed for its pottery. We loved the way the village’s narrow streets wind through charming stone houses and pottery shops. It’s an important regional center, and walking through the alleys feels like stepping back in time. The pottery demonstration is a highlight, as noted by a reviewer who said, “In Margarites, the pottery demonstration was very interesting and nice, I really liked it.” You’ll get a chance to see artisans at work, and some tours even offer the chance to buy unique handmade ceramics.

Exploring Rethymnon’s Old Town and Fortress

Next, the tour takes us to Rethymnon, a city that somehow preserves an old-world charm despite its popularity among travelers. The highlight here is the Venetian fortress, which looms over the harbor, offering panoramic views of the sea and city. As a reviewer mentioned, “The Venetian fortress is particularly impressive,” and it’s easy to see why. Walking around the fortress walls and through the narrow streets of the old town, you’ll encounter historical buildings, lively cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere that balances old and new.

The Fortezza, built in the 16th century, provides an excellent vantage point for photos and a sense of the strategic importance this city once held. The Turkish minarets add another layer of history, illustrating the diverse influences that have shaped Crete. The city’s ambiance is lively yet relaxed, perfect for a leisurely stroll and soaking up local life.

The Charm of Argyroupoli and Its Waterfalls

The final major stop is Argyroupoli, famed for its waterfalls, which are the perfect spot to unwind. We loved the way the tour includes a coffee break under the shade of towering sycamore trees—it’s an excellent moment for photos and simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The area is historically linked to the ancient city of Lappa, and you can spot remnants like a Roman mosaic and Venetian portal inscribed with “All things of this world are smoke and shadows,” offering a glimpse into the layered past of Crete.

The waterfalls and lush greenery make it a highlight for nature lovers. The Roman mosaic and the remains of old structures add depth to the visit, providing tangible connections to the island’s past.

Travel Details and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 12 hours, which means a long but rewarding day. The transportation is by bus, with pickup available in several resorts, making it convenient for travelers staying in the northern part of Crete. The guide conducts the tour in German, so while most will enjoy the insights, non-German speakers should keep that in mind.

For the price of $68 per person, including transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this experience offers solid value—especially considering the diversity of sites covered. Note that food is not included, so bringing snacks or planning a meal during the day might be wise.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from travelers highlights the quality of the guides and the authenticity of the stops. One reviewer praised the guide Claudia, saying, “Unsere Reiseleiterin Claudia hat uns viel über Kreta erzählt,” (Our guide Claudia told us a lot about Crete), emphasizing her local knowledge. Another mentioned the pottery demonstration in Margarites as “very interesting and nice,” which shows that small details like watching artisans at work really enhance the experience.

While the tour is praised overall, some note that the day offers a quick overview rather than an in-depth exploration of each site. For instance, the time spent in Argyroupoli is described as “a little run,” so if you’re looking for a deep dive into each location, this might feel rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy history, local craftsmanship, and scenic drives. If you’re interested in authentic, less touristy spots and appreciate the stories behind the sites, this tour offers plenty of that. It’s also great for those who want a balanced mix of cultural sights and natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

However, keep in mind that the day is quite full, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider how long the stops are and whether you’re comfortable with a lengthy day on a bus. Also, since the guide is German-speaking, non-German speakers should prepare to rely on translation or focus on the sights and scenery.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a genuine look at some of Crete’s most picturesque and historically significant locations, all packed into a manageable 12-hour day. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to go beyond the typical tourist trail and experience local crafts, ancient sites, and stunning scenery in one seamless journey.

The stops at Margarites, Rethymnon, and Argyroupoli offer a well-rounded mix of cultural insight, history, and natural beauty. The inclusion of pottery demonstrations and coffee breaks under ancient trees enhances the sense of authenticity. At a reasonable price, the tour delivers excellent value, especially for those who enjoy guided storytelling combined with scenic drives.

While it’s a long day, the variety of stops and the chance to see Crete’s layered history makes it a memorable choice. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of quiet villages, or simply want to see the island’s less touristy side, this experience is likely to leave you with lasting impressions and plenty of photos.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes bus transfers from designated pickup points in several resorts around Crete.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day excursion suitable for those prepared for a long but rewarding experience.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat during the day, especially since the focus is on sightseeing rather than meals.

What language is the guide?
The tour guide conducts the experience in German, so non-German speakers should be prepared for some language considerations.

Are there any physical demands?
The tour is not specifically designed for those with physical disabilities, and some stops involve walking and standing. Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Booking is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later.

Would this tour be good for families?
Yes, especially for those interested in history and scenic spots. However, the long duration might be less suitable for very young children or those who prefer shorter outings.

In summary, this full-day tour of Margarites, Rethymnon, and Argyroupoli offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. It’s a fantastic way to explore some of Crete’s hidden gems with the comfort of guided insights and scenic traveling, making it an enriching experience for a broad range of travelers.