Heraklion:Day trip to Chania old Town,Kournas Lake& Rethymno

Exploring Crete in a Day: Chania, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno Tour Review

If you’ve ever wanted to see a slice of Crete’s diverse charm without spending days on the road, this day trip from Heraklion offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s highlights. For around $36, you’ll visit some of the most photogenic spots, including the Venetian port of Chania, the peaceful waters of Lake Kournas, and the historic streets of Rethymno. The tour promises a mix of scenic views, cultural elements, and leisure time—all packed into roughly 9 to 11 hours.

What really makes this tour stand out is the variety of stops—from bustling old towns to tranquil lakes—giving you a sense of Crete’s layered history and natural beauty. Plus, with a professional multilingual guide and smooth transportation, it’s a practical way to tick off several must-sees in one day.

However, keep in mind that this is a full-day experience with a busy schedule, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend longer at specific sites, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, lunch isn’t included, so plan for some snacks or a meal at your own expense.

This tour suits travelers who want an affordable, guided overview of the northwestern coast, especially those with limited time but eager to explore beyond their hotel. If you’re curious about Crete’s history, love scenic drives, or just want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport, this is a solid option.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary including Chania, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno provides a well-rounded experience of Crete’s culture and natural beauty.
• Affordable price point offers good value for a full-day guided tour with included transportation.
• Variety of sights from Venetian architecture to freshwater lakes makes for a visually engaging day.
• Flexible departure times and hotel pickup make planning easier.
• Limited free time at each stop means you’ll need to prioritize what to see and do.
• Tour guides are multilingual, enhancing understanding and engagement.

A Deep Dive Into the Crete Day Trip Experience

The Pickup and Early Morning Departure

Your day begins with hotel pickup from a range of locations around Heraklion, including popular spots like Karteros, Ammoudara, and Gazi. The providers, PLATANOS TOURS, promise a comfortable journey on air-conditioned buses—something you’ll appreciate after the early start. Expect to be on the road for roughly 1.5 hours before reaching your first stop, giving you a chance to get your bearings and settle in.

First Stop: Rethymno

Rethymno is the tour’s first major stop. As the third-largest city in Crete, it’s a treasure trove of history and lively street scenes. The old town here features narrow alleys, Ottoman minarets, Venetian fortresses, and charming squares—each tells a story of the city’s layered past.

You’ll get about 75 minutes to explore, which might seem brief but is enough to wander through the streets, snap photos of the Turkish minarets, or relax over a Greek coffee in the bustling port area. One review highlights how visitors appreciated the chance to see the coexistence of Ottoman, Greek, and Venetian influences—a tangible reminder of Rethymno’s diverse heritage.

Scenic Drive and Stop at Chania

Next, the bus makes its way to Chania, a highlight for many travelers. Known for its Venetian port, lively alleys, and historic lighthouse, Chania offers plenty of photo opportunities and cultural sights. The tour allocates around 2 hours here, enough time to stroll the scenic harbor, browse local arts and crafts markets, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

A reviewer mentions, “The picturesque town of Chania is worth seeing,” and appreciates the chance to walk along the waterfront and see the famous Venetian lighthouse. For many, the highlight is simply soaking up the views of the old port against a backdrop of colorful taverns and boats.

Lake Kournas: The Natural Gem

From Chania, the journey continues to Lake Kournas—the only freshwater lake on the island. This spot is a favorite for its lush surroundings, steep hills, and calm waters. We loved the way the tour allows visitors to enjoy some free time here—whether for a swim, a walk around the lake, or just relaxing by the water.

According to a review, the lake’s beauty makes it a place you’d want to linger longer. You’ll see rare species like eels, moorhens, and turtles—an opportunity to connect with Crete’s natural environment. The lake’s peaceful ambiance offers a nice break from the busy towns, and the scenery is picture-perfect, especially if you’re into nature photography.

Return to Rethymno and End of the Day

The trip then heads back towards Rethymno for a second visit, giving you more time to explore or just relax at the old port. The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to your hotel, arriving after approximately 11 hours of sightseeing.

What to Expect from the Tour

Transportation: The use of air-conditioned buses ensures comfort during the long day. The schedule is tight, with specific times allocated for each stop, so you’ll need to be ready to move quickly.

Guide Service: The multilingual guides, speaking English, German, French, and Polish, enhance the experience with insightful commentary. While you won’t get in-depth historical lectures, you’ll learn enough to enrich your visit.

Timing and Flexibility: The tour starts early, with pickup options from multiple locations, and ends late in the evening. This makes it suitable for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing without worrying about logistics.

What’s Included and What’s Not: The price covers transport, guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off—offering decent value. Lunch, however, isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews, guests often appreciate how well-organized the trip is, especially the smooth pickup process and the variety of sights covered. One guest noted, “I can highly recommend this day trip,” and appreciated the opportunity to visit Lake Kournas, which they described as “so beautiful”.

Keep in mind that free time at each stop is limited. If you’re a slow walker or want to spend longer at certain spots, you might find yourself rushing. Packing a snack or water is advisable, particularly since lunch isn’t included.

For photography lovers, early morning or late afternoon visits to Chania provide excellent lighting—so if possible, aim for those times. The scenic views on the way are also worth paying attention to, as they add to the experience’s visual appeal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of western Crete without the hassle of planning. If you’re on a tighter schedule or prefer guided tours that handle transportation and logistics, you’ll find this very convenient.

It’s ideal for those interested in photo opportunities, historical sites, and natural beauty—from Venetian architecture to tranquil lakes. It’s also a good choice for families, small groups, or solo travelers eager to meet others while exploring.

But if you favor leisurely exploration or have specific sites you want to spend more time at, you might find the schedule a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Heraklion delivers a mix of history, culture, and nature in one well-organized package. For a budget-friendly price, you’ll visit some of Crete’s most iconic sights—like Chania’s Venetian port and Lake Kournas—while enjoying the convenience of guided travel and comfortable transport.

The experience offers great value for money, especially for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The tour’s highlights—stunning views, diverse cultural influences, and lush landscapes—are sure to leave lasting memories. It’s a good choice if you’re eager to see Crete’s northwest coast without the stress of self-driving or extensive planning.

For travelers seeking a balanced, engaging, and affordable introduction to the region, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring some snacks, and keep a camera handy—you’ll want to capture every moment.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Malia, Stalis, Hersonisos, Anissaras, and other nearby locations are included.

How long is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, depending on traffic and timing at each stop.

What languages are supported by the guides?
Guides speak English, German, French, and Polish. On Tuesdays and Fridays, the guide speaks English, German, and French; on Thursdays, English, Polish, and other supported languages.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of options available in Chania and Rethymno’s harbor areas.

How much free time will I have at each stop?
Expect around 1.5 to 2 hours at Chania, Lake Kournas, and Rethymno, which should be enough for sightseeing, photos, or a quick meal.

Are the transportation vehicles comfortable?
Yes, the buses are air-conditioned and considered comfortable for a full day of travel.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a guided tour with set stops, so flexibility is limited. You might be able to spend more or less time at some locations, but the schedule is generally fixed.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a water bottle, and some cash or cards for personal expenses or snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with a full-day schedule and traveling on a bus.

How do I know where to be picked up?
You will receive an email with specific pickup details after booking—make sure your hotel is listed, or contact the provider for clarification.

This Crete day trip offers a balanced taste of history, scenery, and local life, making it an excellent choice for those eager to maximize their time on this beautiful island.