Rethymno: Old Town Craft Beer Walking Tour

Introduction
Looking for a fun, relaxed way to experience Rethymno’s Old Town while sampling some of Greece’s best craft beers? The Rethymno: Old Town Craft Beer Walking Tour promises just that — a blend of cultural exploration, authentic beer tasting, and tasty local snacks. This tour, offered by Bonnie and Clyde Urban Tours, has quickly earned a stellar reputation for its intimate group size, knowledgeable guides, and focus on supporting local brewers.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines a walk through the charming, lesser-known streets of Old Town with a curated selection of Greek craft beers that showcase regional flavors and seasonal ingredients. It’s a laid-back way to learn about the city’s multicultural past while enjoying some well-crafted brews.

However, a potential consideration is the tour’s focus on drinking — it’s best suited for those of legal drinking age who enjoy beer and socializing. Also, since transportation to the starting point isn’t included, you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This experience works wonderfully for beer lovers, curious travelers wanting a unique spin on Old Town, and those seeking a small, private group setting.

Key Points

• Unique Introduction to Rethymno’s Old Town: Discover hidden corners and iconic monuments in a relaxed, guided walk.
• First Craft Beer Tour in Rethymno: Experience Greece’s burgeoning craft beer scene with expert insights.
• Support for Local Brewers: Enjoy beers selected from passionate Greek brewers supporting local businesses since 2021.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal and engaging vibe.
• Tasty Food Pairings: Savor local finger foods and regional snacks that complement the beers.
• Flexible and Authentic: An evening tour that balances education, fun, and genuine local flavor.

Exploring Rethymno: Old Town Craft Beer Walking Tour

A Walk Through the Historic and Modern Blend
The tour kicks off at Eleftheríou Venizélou 41, a lively meeting point on the seafront, where you’ll be greeted with a draft beer at Bricks Beers & Tales. This initial sip sets the tone, blending freshness with the scenic backdrop of Rethymno’s coast. The guide, whose name you’ll find in reviews, is praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making everyone feel at home from the start.

From there, the journey takes you through the lesser-known pedestrian streets of Old Town. While many travelers stick to the main avenues, this tour’s charm lies in discovering corners rich with multicultural history, local shops, and picturesque alleyways. Expect to see iconic monuments and hear stories that highlight the city’s diverse influences. One reviewer appreciated how the guide “brought history alive with interesting anecdotes,” making the walk both enjoyable and informative.

Hidden Gems and Beer Tasting
The highlight for many is visiting a well-camouflaged craft beer hangout, a spot that balances cozy ambiance with a great selection of brews. Here, you’ll sample a multi-beer style tasting session tailored to seasonal offerings and guest preferences. Critics have lauded the quality of the beers — “the brews ranged from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts,” one reviewer remarked, emphasizing the variety and craftsmanship.

What sets this stop apart is not just the beers, but the storytelling behind each brew. The guide explains the brewing process, regional ingredients, and the passion behind Greek craft beer’s recent rise. Guests often mention the educational aspect as a major plus, making them appreciate each sip more.

Scenic Photo Stop and Final Taste
As the walk continues, the group reaches the best photo vantage point, where panoramic views of the coast and Old Town’s rooftops create perfect picture opportunities. This spot also serves as the backdrop for the last tasting session, where you choose a draught beer to accompany some delicious finger foods. Reviews frequently mention the delicious local snacks, which perfectly complement the beers and add a hearty touch to the tasting experience.

This final stop often feels like the perfect way to wind down, with many guests saying it “felt like a celebration, not just a tour.” The tour concludes here, but for many, it’s the start of an enjoyable evening in Rethymno, with local bars and tavernas beckoning just around the corner.

The Details: What You Can Expect

Itinerary Breakdown
– Starting Point: Eleftheríou Venizélou 41, on the seafront, where you kick off with a draft beer and introductions.
– Historic Walk: A guided stroll lasting about an hour, covering hidden streets, notable monuments, and stories behind the city’s multicultural past.
– Hidden Beer Spot: A cozy, well-hidden pub or craft hangout where you’ll sample a variety of Greek craft beers. The guide explains brewing techniques, regional ingredients, and seasonal trends, giving you a deeper appreciation for each drink.
– Photo Stop: A scenic vantage point for memorable photos and a final taste of regional beers, paired with local finger foods.
– Tour End: Back at the starting point, or for those wishing, you can continue exploring local bars, as the tour’s ambiance often sparks the desire for more.

Group Size & Atmosphere
Limited to 8 guests, the small-group format creates an intimate, friendly environment. Guides are praised for their knowledgeable, engaging approach, making even beginners feel comfortable. The relaxed pace allows for conversations, questions, and a genuine connection to Rethymno’s beer scene.

Pricing & Value
Costing around $106 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded experience — a guided walk, five Greek craft beers (samples and full pours), delicious snacks, a souvenir, and insights into the local brewing culture. Considering the quality of the beers, the personalized attention, and the inclusion of regional snacks, many find it to be good value.

Considerations
– The tour is not suitable for children or those under 18, as it involves alcohol consumption.
– Transportation to the starting point isn’t included, so plan for a taxi or walk if you’re staying nearby.
– Comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking portions, and weather-appropriate clothing is advised since parts of the tour take place outdoors.

Authenticity and Highlights from Guest Reviews

Guests often rave about the friendly guides who clearly love sharing their passion for craft beer and Rethymno’s history. One review noted, “Our guide, Maria, was fantastic — she knew so much and made it all fun.” Others appreciated the variety of beers offered, describing the tasting as “a perfect mix of traditional Greek styles and innovative brews,” which showcased the emerging Greek craft beer scene.

The food pairing has also been a standout feature, with many commenting on how the local finger foods complemented the beers perfectly — “so tasty, and a great way to keep our energy up during the walk.” The photo stop is frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing beautiful views and a peaceful moment to soak it all in.

The Sum Up

This Rethymno: Old Town Craft Beer Walking Tour offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and authentic Greek craft beers. It’s a smart choice for those who want to explore the city beyond the usual tourist trails while enjoying a relaxed, social atmosphere. The intimate setting, knowledgeable guides, and focus on local brewers support a truly authentic experience.

If you’re a beer enthusiast, curious about Greek brewing, or simply looking for a fun way to spend an evening in Rethymno, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy small-group adventures, tasty local snacks, and discovering hidden gems in a historic setting.

For those who want more than just sightseeing — an experience that combines storytelling, tasting, and intimate exploration — this tour is a very good choice. Just remember to bring your ID, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your appetite for both regional beers and local snacks.

FAQ

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to Eleftheríou Venizélou 41, the meeting point.

What’s the age requirement for this tour?
Participants must be over 18 and of legal drinking age to enjoy the beer tastings.

How many beers will I get to taste?
The tour includes five Greek craft beers, which can be samples or full pours, depending on your preference.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
The provided information emphasizes local finger foods and regional snacks; specific dietary accommodations aren’t mentioned, so it’s best to inquire directly if you have special needs.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a 3-hour experience, starting at a time you can check availability for.

Can I continue to explore after the tour?
Absolutely. Many guests say the final stop makes them want to stay out and enjoy more local pubs and bars nearby.

This engaging, authentic tour is a fantastic way to experience Rethymno’s hidden corners, regional brews, and local flavors — a perfect evening for curious travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and craft beer.