Rethymno: Old Town Segway Tour

Discovering Rethymno’s captivating charm is a delight, and what better way to do it than on a Segway? This 3-hour guided adventure promises a unique perspective on the city’s historic streets, scenic waterfront, and impressive Venetian fortress—all from the relaxed, fun vantage point of a modern Segway.

One of the standout features of this tour is how accessible it is for most travelers. The guides are attentive and offer thorough safety training, making it easy even for beginners to feel confident on their Segways. Plus, the combination of the old town’s narrow alleys and panoramic seaside views creates a memorable experience that’s both educational and entertaining.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for very young children or those outside the specified weight range, and it doesn’t include hotel transfers. Still, if you’re after an active, authentic way to see Rethymno’s highlights, this may be just the ticket. Ideal for adventurous travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun, it’s especially great for those who enjoy guided, small-group experiences with a local touch.

Key Points

• Accessible adventure for most skill levels with comprehensive safety instruction.
• Highlights include Venetian ruins, the Fortezza Fortress, and picturesque seaside views.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention.
• Cost-effective at $73 per person for 3 hours of guided exploration.
• Includes helmets, safety briefing, and live guides speaking English and Greek.
• Not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals outside the weight limits.

Why You’ll Love the Rethymno Old Town Segway Tour

This tour offers an engaging way to explore Rethymno’s intriguing blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and modern influences. The guided aspect means you’ll learn about the city’s stories and legends, like the myth surrounding the Rimondi Fountain, while comfortably gliding through historic streets. Because it’s a small-group experience, the guides—like Giannis and Theo—can tailor the tour to your interests, making it feel more personal than a large bus ride.

The scenic stops are well chosen. You’ll start by cruising along the seafront, soaking up views of Crete’s coastline, then glide into the heart of Old Town to see landmarks like the Neratze Mosque and the bustling squares. The highlight for many is the stop at the Fortezza Fortress, where panoramic views of the city and sea await, and you get to enjoy a quick photo session with the fortress as a backdrop.

From reviews, it’s clear the guides excel at making the experience easy and fun. Louise notes that Giannis was “super good and attentive,” helping even first-timers feel comfortable. Carlton, meanwhile, raved about Theo being “lovely and amazing.” Their enthusiasm and local knowledge add significant value, turning a simple sightseeing tour into a memorable, storytelling adventure.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting at the Segway Tours Rethymno Best Ride location near the seafront, the tour kicks off with a safety briefing and a supervised test drive. This is a critical step—especially for those new to Segways—ensuring everyone feels confident before hitting the streets. Once comfortable, the fun begins.

Your route begins with a scenic glide along Crete’s popular beaches, offering lovely views of the coast. Then, you’ll dive into the historic Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets, lively squares, and centuries-old buildings tell stories of Venetian and Ottoman rule. You’ll stop at the Neratze Mosque to admire its architecture and learn about the city’s diverse past.

Next, the tour heads toward the Fortezza Fortress, perched above the city. The ascent offers breathtaking panoramas—don’t forget your camera—while the guide shares insights about its history and strategic importance. From the fortress, you’ll get sweeping views over Rethymno’s rooftops, the harbor, and the sea beyond.

Descending from the fortress, you’ll pass the Venetian Harbour, a lively area with cafes, boats, and beautiful vistas. During this part of the ride, the guide shares the intriguing myth of the Rimondi Fountain, adding a layer of local folklore to your sightseeing.

The final stop is the main square in Rethymno, where you can photograph the bustling scene, soak in the atmosphere, or take some free time to explore further. The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a compact but comprehensive taste of the city.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at the meeting point near Sofokli Venizelou 4, a convenient location central to the seafront and old town entrances. After a quick introduction and helmet fitting, you’ll hop onto your Segway, with safety instructions tailored to your experience level.

The first stop of note is the viewpoint along the coast, where you’ll enjoy a scenic drive beside the beaches. This stretch sets the relaxed, holiday vibe of the tour. Moving into the Old Town, the guide takes you past iconic sights such as Mitropolis, a key religious site, and the Neratze Mosque, with its distinctive Ottoman-era architecture.

The highlight for many is the Fortezza Fortress, a short ride uphill that offers a combination of history and scenery. The panoramic views of Rethymno and the sea from the fortress walls are truly spectacular, making it a perfect spot for photos. Reviewers mention that the ascent is smooth and accessible, with plenty of time to take in the views.

On the way back down, the Venetian Harbour comes into view—an ideal place for photos and soaking up the lively atmosphere. During this segment, your guide shares local legends, such as the myth about the Rimondi Fountain, adding an intriguing story to your sightseeing.

The tour ends in the main square, the heart of Rethymno’s social life, where you can relax or explore further before heading back to the starting point.

The Value of This Experience

At $73 per person, this tour offers a good balance of affordability and quality. The fact that it’s a small-group experience (limited to 10 people) means you’ll get personalized attention, making it easier to learn how to operate the Segway safely and comfortably. Included helmets and safety training add peace of mind, especially for first-time users.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup or food, the well-planned itinerary ensures you cover the city’s top sights in a short period, saving you time and effort. The live guides, fluent in both English and Greek, enrich the experience with local insights, history, and storytelling. This personal touch often makes a big difference in transforming a sightseeing tour into a memorable moment.

Based on reviews, guests appreciate the flexibility and friendliness of the guides. They note how easy it is to learn to ride the Segway, even for beginners, and how the stops at scenic viewpoints make for great photo opportunities. The experience’s balance of fun, education, and sightseeing makes it a standout activity for those wanting a more active way to explore Rethymno.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy active, guided tours that combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure. It suits those with a sense of curiosity and willingness to try something new—especially if you’re keen to see both the historic and seaside areas without walking extensively.

It’s perfect if you’re traveling in a small group or as a couple who appreciates personalized attention. The tour’s duration and manageable pace make it suitable for most fitness levels, though it’s not recommended for very young children, pregnant women, or those outside the specified weight limits.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun way to see Rethymno’s key sights and learn some local stories, this Segway tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes safety training and supervised test drives, making it accessible for first-time Segway riders.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, which gives enough time to explore the main sights comfortably.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll be on your feet and riding a Segway.

Is there a minimum or maximum age?
Children under 6 years old aren’t permitted, and the tour is best suited for those over 6. Participants should weigh between 35/40 kg and 117 kg (around 77/260 lbs).

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, you need to meet at the designated starting point near Sofokli Venizelou 4. No transport is included.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included, and safety instructions are given to ensure a safe experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

Final Thoughts

This Rethymno Old Town Segway Tour offers a lively, informative, and enjoyable way to see one of Crete’s most charming cities. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the fun of riding a Segway, it’s a memorable activity that balances adventure with culture. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet active experience, especially if they’re eager to learn about local legends, explore historic sites, and enjoy stunning coastal views—all in just three hours.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it hits the highlights beautifully and offers a fresh perspective that walking alone might not provide. The small group size and engaging guides make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you appreciate personalized service and a touch of fun on your travels.

For anyone visiting Rethymno and looking to experience the city in a different way, this tour delivers both entertainment and insight—an excellent addition to your Crete itinerary.