Day Trips & Excursions: Rethymno

Nearby Destinations

Crete's efficient bus system and well-maintained main roads make neighboring cities and attractions easily accessible for a day trip.

Consider booking excursions through platforms for convenience.

Top Picks

Chania: Picturesque Venetian Harbour & Old Town. Explore Lighthouse, Archaeological Museum.
Heraklion: Crete's largest city. Archaeological Museum with Minoan artifacts. Visit Koules Fortress.
Knossos Palace: Largest Bronze Age site on Crete. Center of Minoan civilization.
Plakias & South Coast: Relaxed town, access to Preveli Beach & other stunning southern beaches.

Natural Escapes

Crete's diverse natural landscape has many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.

Preveli Beach & Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Explore the unique palm forest where the Kourtaliotiko River meets the sea, creating a beautiful lagoon.

Highlights

Preveli Palm Forest: Unique palm forest and river lagoon.
Kourtaliotiko Gorge: Dramatic cliffs, seasonal waterfalls, hiking.
Transportation: Boats from Plakias or direct from Rethymno (peak season).

Mount Ida Psiloritis

Highest peak in Crete. Challenging hikes with panoramic views. Mythological birthplace of Zeus.

Aspects

Hiking Trails: Has challenging hikes with stunning panoramic views.
Ideon Andron Cave: Mythological birthplace of Zeus located on its slopes.
Access: Rental car is recommended; no public transport to high mountain regions.

Cultural Excursions

Historic Sites

Arkadi Monastery: Historic Orthodox monastery, symbol of Cretan resistance.
Eleutherna Archaeological Site: Nearby ancient city.
Avoid illegal artifacts: Do not purchase archaeological artifacts.
Respect private spaces: Do not photograph inside private homes.

Local Traditions

Margarites Village: Traditional pottery village with workshops.
Anogia Village: Authentic mountain village with strong traditions and musical heritage.
Avoid politics: Do not discuss politics unless a local initiates.
Avoid criticism: Do not criticize Greek culture or history.

Transportation & Connections

Inter-city busesFrequent KTEL network
Ferries to other islandsFrom Heraklion/Chania ports
Domestic flightsFrom Heraklion/Chania airports
Rental carsRecommended for flexibility

To Santorini/MykonosDirect ferry connections available
To Athens (mainland)Flights or overnight ferries
Driving timeWinding roads can extend journeys
Shoulder season travelReduced ferry/bus frequency

Booking Day Trips

Consider booking your day trips and excursions through trusted platforms to streamline logistics and discover unique experiences. Find your next adventure on GetYourGuide.

Multi-Day Extensions

For those with more time, extending your stay to explore other parts of Crete or nearby islands has a comprehensive Greek experience.

West Crete Exploration

Spend an additional 2-3 nights in Chania for its Old Town and nearby Samaria Gorge.

East Crete Exploration

Consider 2-3 nights in Agios Nikolaos or Elounda for Spinalonga and the Vai Palm Forest.

South Coast Beaches

Stay overnight in Plakias or Agia Galini for more time on southern beaches and gorges.

Western Crete Loop 7-10 days

Arrive Chania, explore city & Samaria Gorge. Move to Rethymno, then south to Plakias.

Route Overview

Start: Chania Airport.
Destinations: Chania, Rethymno, Plakias.
Focus: Old Towns, Gorge, Beaches.

Full Crete Exploration 10-14 days

Arrive Heraklion, explore Knossos. Move to Rethymno, then Chania, and East Crete.

Comprehensive Journey

Start: Heraklion Airport.
Scope: Comprehensive island overview.
Pace: Creates immersion in diverse regions.

Considerations for Longer Regional Travel

Winding roadsCan extend travel times

Public transportFrequent KTEL buses between cities

Inter-island ferriesFrom Heraklion/Chania

Domestic flightsFrom Heraklion/Chania

Off-season schedulesReduced frequency

BookingSecure accommodation in advance

Longer Stay Planning

For truly in-depth exploration, consider combining the one-week itinerary with dedicated time in other regions like Chania or Heraklion.
This strategy outlines a comprehensive island overview.

Day Trips & Excursions