Are you visiting Rethymnon and want to explore the surrounding area? It’s one of Creta’s best-positioned towns for exploring the island’s major sites. Between the Balos lagoon to the north-west, the Samaria Gorge to the west, the Arkadi Monastery to the south-east and Knossos Palace to the east, the possibilities for day trips are many and varied. We explored the area around Rethymnon and were pleasantly surprised by the diversity of landscapes and experiences accessible in less than a 2-hour drive.
Use our practical tips and photos to plan your ideal getaway. See our selection of the 10 best excursions from Rethymnon to make your choice!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions from Rethymnon
Rethymnon offers privileged access to some of Crete’s most remarkable sites. To simplify your visits, you can opt for organized excursions. Before presenting our detailed reviews of each tour, here are our 3 favorites:
- Arkadi Monastery, symbol of Cretan resistance, 25km southeast of Rethymnon – See prices, photos and availability
- Préveli Beach and its monastery, Crete’s most photographed beach – See prices, photos and availability
- Chania, the most beautiful city in Crete – See prices, photos and availability
1. Arkadi Monastery, symbol of Cretan resistance
Why do we recommend this tour?
This is the must-see excursion from Rethymnon for anyone interested in Cretan history. The Arkadi Monastery is much more than a place of worship: it is the symbol of the Cretan people’s resistance against the Ottoman Empire. Founded in the 16th century, the monastery experienced a tragic and seminal episode in 1866, during the great Cretan uprising. Besieged by Ottoman forces, its defenders chose to blow up the powder magazine rather than surrender, resulting in the deaths of several hundred people. This ultimate act of resistance had a profound impact on the Greek national consciousness, and helped draw international attention to the Cretan cause.
We were struck by the beauty of the building, whose 17th-century Baroque façade stands out elegantly against the Cretan hinterland. A visit to the site and the small museum associated with it will give you all the keys you need to understand the island’s eventful history. What’s more, the drive from Rethymnon through lush green countryside and centuries-old olive groves is a pleasure in itself.
What you will see
- The Baroque façade of the monastery, dating from the 17th century, is remarkable for its blend of Venetian and local influences.
- The main church with its frescoes, and the monastery’s inner courtyard
- The historic powder magazine, scene of the 1866 episode
- A museum retracing the siege and Cretan resistance against the Ottoman Empire
- The Cretan hinterland, between olive groves and hills
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day from Rethymnon: approx. 30min drive out, 1h to 1h30 on site, depending on your interests, then return. The monastery is about 25km southeast of Rethymnon, accessible by car or organized excursion.
WHERE TO STAY IN Rethymnon
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
In the historic center
Hotel Palazzino Di Corina – Check photos and availability
Downtown
Boutique-Hotel Pepi – Check photos and availability
By the sea
Nautilux Hotel – Check photos and availability
2. Préveli Beach and its palm lagoon
Why do we recommend this tour?
Préveli Beach is one of Crete’s most photographed beaches, and for good reason: its palm-fringed lagoon, formed by the Kourtaliótis river as it flows into the sea, creates a landscape that is atypical of the Mediterranean. We found the site particularly disorienting, with its palm trees whose roots plunge directly into the lagoon’s freshwater, facing the turquoise sea. The contrast between the mountainous hinterland, the canyon and the beach is striking.
You can combine this excursion with a visit to the Préveli Monastery, an Orthodox religious establishment perched high above the sea, offering panoramic views of the Libyan Sea. You can reach the beach on foot via a path from the parking lot (approx. 20min downhill), or by boat from the nearby beach of Plakias.
What you will see
- The palm lagoon, a natural formation unique in the Mediterranean
- The Kourtaliótis river and the gorges that precede it
- The Préveli Monastery and its views of the south coast
- A sandy beach bordered by turquoise waters, perfect for swimming.
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day from Rethymnon. The journey by car takes around 50min to 1h, depending on the route chosen. The walk down to the beach takes 20min one way, and the climb back up is more demanding. Half a day is enough if you just want to see the lagoon without lingering. Bring good walking shoes and plenty of water.
Find all the options for visiting Préveli Beach and its monastery here!
3. Chania, Crete’s most beautiful city
Why do we recommend this tour?
Chania is, in our opinion, Crete’s most endearing city. Its arched Venetian port, pastel facades and stacked architectural heritage – Venetian, Ottoman, Byzantine – make it a destination in its own right. From Rethymnon, it takes about 1 hour to drive west: an ideal distance for a day trip.
We were won over by the atmosphere of the old town, especially along the harbor in the late afternoon, when the golden light illuminates the facades and the taverns come alive. The Venetian lighthouse, the arsenals and the Janissary Mosque add to the richness of the picture. Beyond the port, the less touristy Splanzia district is worth a visit for its shady square and authentic cafés.
What you will see
- The Venetian Port and its lighthouse, built in the 14th and 16th centuries, are among the most beautiful in Europe.
- The Janissary Mosque, Crete’s oldest mosque, converted into an exhibition space
- The Venetian arsenals, of which seven of the original seventeen are still visible.
- Firka Fortress and the Maritime Museum of Crete
- The Splanzia district and Agios Nikolaos Church, whose architecture features both a bell tower and a minaret
- The Archaeological Museum of Chania, housed in a former Venetian monastery
How much time should I allow?
A full day is ideal to enjoy Chania without rushing. From Rethymnon, allow around 1 hour’s drive (65km). Plan the morning for the port and the old town, the afternoon for the museums or a swim at Koum Kapi or Nea Chora beach, and the evening for the sunset from the waterfront. The car is the most convenient way to get here, but the KTEL bus also links the two towns regularly.
4. The Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest gorge
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Samaria Gorge is a landmark for hiking enthusiasts in Crete. Classified as a National Park, they are the longest gorge in Europe, with a 16km route linking the plateau of Omalos, at 1230m altitude, to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, on the Mediterranean coast. We found the hike demanding but very rewarding: the scenery changes constantly, from cypress forests to rocky passages where the walls narrow up to 3m wide in places.
From Rethymnon, a day trip is perfectly feasible, especially with an organized tour company providing transport. After the descent, you can go for a swim at Agia Roumeli before taking the boat to Chora Sfakion and then the return bus. Logistics are the main challenge of this excursion: we advise you to book in advance and plan this hike at the beginning of your stay, in case weather conditions don’t allow access on the planned day.
What you will see
- Les Portes de Fer (Sideroportes), the narrowest passage in the gorge, where the walls meet at less than 4m.
- Cypress and pine forests and dense Mediterranean vegetation
- The river and its seasonal fords
- The ghost village of Samaria, in the heart of the national park
- Agia Roumeli beach for a well-deserved swim at the end of the tour
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day. The hike alone lasts between 5 and 8 hours, depending on your pace. The gorges are open from May to October. Good physical condition required. Bring plenty of water, snacks and hiking boots.
5. Elafonissi, the pink-water beach at the end of the world
Why do we recommend this tour?
Elafonissi is one of Crete’s most famous beaches, and its main attraction is immediately apparent: its pinkish sand, tinged with crushed coral, and crystal-clear blue waters create a picture that’s hard to forget. We were struck by the natural beauty of this site, which is more reminiscent of a tropical lagoon than a classic Mediterranean beach.
From Rethymnon, the beach can be reached by car in around 2 hours 15 minutes, depending on the route, via winding but well-maintained mountain roads. An organized bus tour is also a practical option. We recommend arriving early in the morning to take advantage of the calm before the summer rush, as the site is very busy in high season. The waters are shallow over a wide area, making it particularly suitable for families.
What you will see
- Pink sand with crushed coral, unique in the Mediterranean
- A lagoon with shallow, crystal-clear waters, ideal for family bathing.
- The islet of Elafonissi, accessible on foot at low tide
- A preserved coastal landscape, classified as a Natura 2000 protected area
How much time should I allow?
A full day, including the round trip from Rethymnon (approx. 2h15min depending on the route chosen). Bring sun cream and a hat, as shade is scarce on the beach. Parking available nearby. A number of catering outlets are available on site.
RENT YOUR CAR IN Crete
- Our preferred agency is Rental Center Crete
everything is included in the price and the service is excellent. No stress! - Choose a car with a decent engine for greater comfort on the few mountain roads.
- Book early for choice.
- If you prefer international brands, compare prices on DiscoverCars
6. The Balos Lagoon, a Mediterranean postcard
Why do we recommend this tour?
Balos Lagoon is the image of Crete most shared on social networks, and the reality lives up to the reputation. Its shallow turquoise waters, white sand and the silhouette of the island of Gramvousa in the background make up a panorama of rare beauty. We were captivated by the shades of blue of this crystal-clear stretch of water, in stark contrast to the deep blue of the surrounding open sea.
From Rethymnon, the bus takes you first to the port of Kissamos, from where the cruises to Balos and Gramvousa depart. The distance is greater than from Chania, but it’s still a day trip. It’s a popular destination: we advise you to book well in advance in high season.
What you will see
- The Balos Lagoon and its shallow turquoise-blue waters
- The island of Gramvousa and its perched Venetian castle
- The northwest coast of Crete seen from the sea
- A sandy beach, ideal for a swim break
How much time should I allow?
Full day trip from Rethymnon. Allow around 1h30 to 2h to reach the port of Kissamos, then cruise to Balos and back. Cruises usually depart in the morning. Reserve in advance.
7. Heraklion and Knossos Palace, at the heart of Minoan civilization
Why do we recommend this tour?
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is about 1h15 drive east of Rethymnon. The combined city and archaeological tour of Knossos is one of the most culturally rich in Crete. Knossos Palace, considered the oldest urban site in Europe, dates back to over 7000 BC. We were fascinated by the partial reconstructions carried out by archaeologist Arthur Evans at the beginning of the 20th century, which allow us to visualize the scale of the Minoan palace.
In town, the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion houses one of the world’s largest collections of Minoan artefacts. The Knossos frescoes, the “Snake Goddess” and the mysterious Phaistos disc are all major pieces. We recommend combining the two visits for a complete, coherent day out. The Koules Fortress, overlooking the old port, is also an interesting stop if time permits.
What you will see
- Knossos Palace and its reconstructed frescoes, center of Minoan civilization (2600-1150 B.C.)
- The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and its collection of Minoan pottery, jewelry and statuettes
- Heraklion’s old port and Koules Fortress, built between 1523 and 1540 by the Venetians
- Heraklion’s old town, the Morosini Fountain and the 17th-century Venetian Loggia
How much time should I allow?
Full day from Rethymnon. Allow 1h15 drive each way (80km). The Palace of Knossos takes 2h to 3h to visit, and the Archaeological Museum between 1h30 and 3h, depending on your level of interest. Plan to get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds at Knossos.
8. Matala Beach and its legendary caves
Why do we recommend this tour?
Matala is an atypical spot on Crete’s southern coast, famous for the caves carved into the limestone cliffs that frame the beach. Originally used as tombs in Neolithic and Roman times, the caves enjoyed a second life in the 1960s and 1970s, when a community of hippies from all over the world settled here. According to local tradition, Joni Mitchell and Cat Stevens stayed in these caves. We found this singular place hard to classify: somewhere between archaeological site, beach and recent historical curiosity.
The bay itself is beautiful, lined with fine sand and framed by reddish cliffs. A visit to the villages of Messara, the great agricultural plain of central Crete, or to the Minoan site of Phaestos, some 30 km away, can complete the excursion.
What you will see
- The Matala caves carved out of the cliffs, former Roman tombs converted into hippie dwellings
- The sandy beach framed by limestone cliffs
- The bay of Matala and its clear waters, perfect for swimming
- Optional: the Minoan archaeological site of Phaestos, about 30km away
How much time should I allow?
Allow a day’s drive from Rethymnon. The journey by car takes around 1h30 to 2h depending on the route (inland passages). Half a day is enough for the beach and caves if you don’t add any additional sites. The village has several tavernas where you can have lunch.
9. Lake Kournas, Crete’s only freshwater lake
Why do we recommend this tour?
Lake Kournas is a natural curiosity on Crete: it’s the island’s only freshwater lake. Located around 45km east of Rethymnon, not far from the town of Georgioupolis, it stands out clearly from the beaches and gorges that usually dominate the Cretan landscape. Surrounded by green hills, it offers a calm, timeless atmosphere, which we appreciated after several days on the coast.
The lake is home to a rare species of freshwater turtle, which can be spotted by gently approaching the banks. You can also hire a pedalo to explore the lake at your own pace, for around €10. The lakeside taverns serve simple, generous cuisine in unpretentious surroundings. We had lunch there, and enjoyed a quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle of the seaside. This excursion is particularly suited to families and those looking for a day without strenuous physical exertion.
What you will see
- Lake Kournas, Crete’s only freshwater lake, surrounded by green hills
- Rare freshwater turtles visible from the riverbank
- Rent a pedalo to sail on the lake
- Lakeside taverns for lunch in unspoilt natural surroundings
- Optional: the coastal town of Georgioupolis and its sandy beach, just a few kilometers away.
How much time should I allow?
Half a day is enough to visit the lake and have lunch on site. Allow 35 to 40 minutes’ drive from Rethymnon. A car is the most practical way to get there. The trip can be combined on the same day with a stopover in Georgioupolis or, continuing eastwards, with a visit to the outskirts of Chania.
Discover all guided excursions to Lake Kournas from Rethymnon!
10. Excursion to Santorini, the Cycladic volcano
Why do we recommend this tour?
Santorini is not a day trip in the strict sense of the word: the Cycladic island is about 2.5 hours by fast ferry from the port of Heraklion. From Rethymnon, you must first reach Heraklion by car or bus (1h15 drive), which makes the total journey almost 4 hours one way. Let’s be clear: to really enjoy Santorini, we recommend spending at least one night, if not two. A round-trip day trip is still possible, but it leaves little time on site and involves tight logistics.
That said, Santorini is a destination of very special beauty, and we understand why people would want to enjoy it even briefly from Crete. The island, of volcanic origin, is famous for its villages with whitewashed houses clinging to the cliffs of the caldera, its sunsets from Oia and its views over the submerged crater. The combination of geological landscape, Cycladic architecture and late afternoon light makes it one of the most photographed sites in the Mediterranean.
What you will see
- The Santorini caldera, one of the world’s largest submerged volcanic craters
- The village of Oia, with its white houses and blue domes perched on the cliffs, famous for their sunsets.
- Fira, the island’s capital, with its narrow shopping streets overlooking the caldera
- Optional: a boat trip to the active volcano of Néa Kaméni and its hot springs
- Black or red sand beaches, typical of the island’s volcanic geology (Perissa, Kamari, Plage Rouge)
How much time should I allow?
For an excursion from Rethymnon, allow 1h15 driving time to the port of Heraklion, then around 2h30 on a fast ferry to Santorini (services operated mainly from May to October). The return trip takes the same amount of time. If you opt for a round-trip day trip, leave early in the morning and take a late afternoon ferry back. We recommend booking an overnight stay to enjoy the sunset from Oia and visit the island without rushing.
Book your day trip to Santorini from Rethymnon
Other excursions from Rethymnon
Rethymnon is ideally placed in the center of Crete for a wide range of escapades. In addition to our selection, here are a few other destinations that deserve your attention.
- Spili and the villages of the Cretan hinterland: Perched in the hills some 30km to the south, it is famous for its fountain with twenty-five stone lion heads, from which fresh water flows continuously. Only 35 minutes by car from Rethymnon. see options
- Theriso Gorge: accessible from Chania, this short excursion leads to the mountain village of Therisso, linked to the Cretan revolution. The panoramic road cut into the rock is a sight in itself. 1h15min from Rethymnon.
- The Botanical Garden of Crete: a vast park with three climatic zones, tropical, Mediterranean and alpine. A good option for nature and botany enthusiasts, its on-site restaurant is renowned in the region. 1h30min drive.
- The Nida Plateau and Mount Ida: a complete change of scenery guaranteed! Fresh air, alpine scenery, flocks of sheep and silence. For fans of Greek mythology, the Grotto of Ideon is traditionally the place where Zeus grew up, hidden by his mother Rhea from his father Cronos. 1h30min drive.
DISCOVER Rethymnon
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best excursion from Rethymnon?
It all depends on your interests. For history and culture, the Arkadi Monastery or the Heraklion-Knossos combination are a must. For nature and hiking, the Samaria Gorge is a must. For an outstanding beach, Elafonissi or Balos are the two references. If you only have a day, we’d recommend Arkadi in the morning, followed by an afternoon at Préveli Beach.
Do I need a car for excursions from Rethymnon?
A car is highly recommended for free access to most destinations. See our tips for renting a car in Crete here. Some excursions, however, such as Balos or the Samaria Gorge, are easier with an organized tour, which takes care of all the logistics. The KTEL bus links Rethymnon to Chania and Heraklion on a regular basis, but inland villages and sites are difficult to access without a private vehicle – see our car rental options.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
What to do in Crete
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful cities
Most beautiful beaches in Crete
Best archaeological sites
Best museums
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Crete
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
Attractions in Heraklion
Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
