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Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery, Margarites Village & Melidoni Cave.

8 Reviews 4.50 out of 5 stars Based on 8 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Chania, Greece
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 14 (0) days in advance.

7 to 8 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
Russian
Instant confirmation

Overview

Explore the cultural and natural highlights of central Crete with a private tour from Chania or Rethymno. Visit the historical Arkadi Monastery, descend into the legendary Melidoni Cave, and discover the artisan pottery village of Margarites. Along the route, learn from your guide about the ancient city of Eleutherna, once a major cultural center of Crete. End your day with a stroll through the romantic alleys of Rethymno Old Town.

• Visit the historical Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance

• Explore Melidoni Cave, a site of natural beauty and tragic history

• Stop in the traditional pottery village of Margarites

• Walk through the picturesque streets of Rethymno Old Town

• Hear stories of Ancient Eleutherna on your way through the region

What's Included

  • Pick-up at your hotel
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Wi-fi on board and Water from the springs of the White Mountains “Samaria”, in bottles
  • Personal expenses, drinks, lunch / dinner
  • Customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Enjoy the convenience of private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other location in the Chania or Rethymno region. We offer flexible pick-up times tailored to your schedule, ensuring a stress-free and personalized experience. Simply confirm your preferred pick-up time, and our professional team will handle the rest.

What To Expect

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Chania Prefecture

Pickup from your location in Chania region.Your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel, villa, or cruise ship. Sit back and enjoy the journey through the scenic Cretan countryside.
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1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Monastery of Arkadi

Arkadi Monastery (Visit – approx. 1 hour).Explore one of Crete’s most sacred landmarks, a symbol of freedom and resistance. Learn the powerful story of the 1866 rebellion against the Ottoman Empire and admire the monastery’s impressive Baroque architecture, bell tower, and peaceful surroundings.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Archea Eleftherna (pass by)

Eleutherna (Drive-by storytelling stop – no visit).On the way to Margarites, your guide will tell the fascinating story of ancient Eleutherna — once a thriving city-state with Homeric connections. Although we won’t stop at the archaeological site, you’ll gain an insightful overview of its historical importance, recent discoveries, and connection to nearby villages.
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MargaritesArt shop

Margarites Village (Stop – approx. 1 hour).Discover the charming village of Margarites, famous for its traditional pottery and artistic spirit. Walk through narrow stone alleys adorned with bougainvillea, visit local ceramic workshops, and maybe take home a handmade souvenir.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Melidoni Cave

Melidoni Cave (Visit – approx. 45 min).Venture into the dramatic Melidoni Cave, filled with natural beauty and poignant history. This atmospheric site was once a place of worship and later the scene of a tragic event during the Ottoman occupation. Explore the cavern’s chamber, admire the stalactites, and feel the reverence of this sacred place.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Rethymnon Old Town

Rethymno Old Town (Free time – approx. 1.5–2 hours).Conclude your tour in one of Greece’s best-preserved medieval cities. Enjoy free time to explore Venetian and Ottoman architecture, cozy cafés, boutique shops, and hidden alleyways. Optional lunch at a local taverna (at your own expense).
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2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Chania Prefecture

Return to Chania.Relax during your comfortable drive back to the Chania region.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Health issues: If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated, and we exercise all discretion.
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other point in the region of Chania and Rethymno. Pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery, Margarites Village & Melidoni Cave.?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-120185P6

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.50
8 reviews

Average 4.50 out of 5 stars based on 8 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
4
4 stars
4
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 14 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Pick-up at your hotel
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Wi-fi on board and Water from the springs of the White Mountains “Samaria”, in bottles
  • Entrance tickets to the Monastery of Arcadia
  • Comfortable Vehicle with a professional driver
  • Accompaniment by a professional guide
  • Personal expenses, drinks, lunch / dinner
  • Customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Health issues: If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated, and we exercise all discretion.
  • HealthInsurance: Our company is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before traveling to Crete.
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other point in the region of Chania and Rethymno. Pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation.
  • To visit the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – a skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders. For men – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
  • Important to have: Comfortable shoes, Comfortable clothes, Sunglasses, and Hat Money for souvenirs, drinks, lunch/dinner.

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