Full-Day Tour : Rethymno-Chania- Lake Kournas ( West Crete Tour )
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This excursion takes you to the west side& includes visits at the Towns of Rethymno & Chania , as well as to the Lake of Kournas . Going west on the northern axis of Crete ,our tour will take us to the beautyful town of Rethymno .
A grafic Cretan Town , so characteristic and unique . We will have time to relax at the beautyful scenery at the old harbour of Rethymnon .
Our next stop Chania is the capital city of the prefecture of Chania . It's Venetian walls and harbor , narrow streets , and old buildings from the Venetian and Ottoman period are mostly intact and take you directly to the past . Here you can also see the Croos-Shaped closed Market of the city and the Leather-Market street .
Next and last stop will be the Lake of Kournas , where you can have your lunch . For those who want there is a possibility to exlore the lake by a petal-boat (Available for Rent) or just walk around the lake and swim before we take the road back to Heraklion .
Available options
Full-Day Tour : Rethymno-Chania- Lake Kournas ( West Crete Tour )
Pickup included
What's included
A breakfast Lunch Box : A bottle of water , an orange juice , a praline croissant and a square toast with cheese and turkey .(Vegetarian Option Available upon request).)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
We will arrive at Rethymno city approximately after about 1hour and 30-45'' .
2
Stop 2
After our arrival at the Old Town of Rethymno , you'll have the opportunity to explore the most important monuments of the City accompanied by our profetional guides , explaining every step of the way . The Rest of your time is free to spent relaxing , exploring , meeting ht elocals etc.
3
Our next stop after an approximate 1hour drive , will be the Old Town Of Chania. At this destination there will be as well a short guided tour of the most important monuments of the old City , such as it's Venetian walls and harbor, narrow streets, and old buildings from the Venetian and Turkish periods are mostly intact and take you directly to the past. The old harbor, where the small fishing boats can moor and more . After the guided tour of the city the rest of your free time is to spent as you wish .
We can highly recomment the old harbor as a perfect place to enjoy a coffee and observe the liveliness of the city , also you can see the cross–shaped closed Marketplace and the leather – Market Street.
4
Stop 4
The next stop and last after an approximate 1hour drive is the lake of Kournas, the only natural sweet water Lake close to Chania, where you can have your lunch at a restaurant of your choise . For those who want, there is a possibility to make a tour of the lake by petal-boats (Available for Rent), or just walk around the lake and swim before we take the way back to Heraklion.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.6
16 reviews
5★
13
4★
1
3★
0
2★
2
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Total duration includes the travel time.
About Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.
Top Attractions
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15 (included in multi-site ticket)
Samaria Gorge
One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Nature
5-7 hours
€5 entry fee
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Moussaka
A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat
Rakomelo
A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Samaria Gorge
Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach
Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon
Wine tasting at local wineries
Exploring the Palace of Knossos
Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon
Boat tours around Crete
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
- Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus
Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Heraklion Old Town
Chania Old Town
Day trips
Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day
A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.
Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day
A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.
Festivals
Cretan Festival • June to August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Pro tips
- Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
- Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
- Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
