West Crete (Chania – Rethymnon excursion)

Description

West Crete (Chania Rethymnon Excursion): Chania - Rethymnon - Kournas Lake 

(Disclaimer: Not all the parts shown on this video are scheduled to be visited on this excursion)

Discover the Heart of Western Crete: Chania, Rethymno, and Kournas Lake Excursion

Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of western Crete. This unforgettable excursion, departing from Heraklion, Hersonissos, Gouves, Stalis, Malia, or Sissi, unveils the rich history, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture of this captivating region.

Step Back in Time: Explore Chania's Venetian Charm

Our first stop is the mesmerizing city of Chania, a captivating tapestry woven from Venetian architecture and Ottoman influences. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the old town, marveling at the imposing Venetian harbor, a timeless reminder of the city's maritime past. Peruse charming shops overflowing with local treasures, savor delectable Cretan cuisine at a waterfront taverna (lunch not included), and lose yourself in the city's enchanting atmosphere.

Unwind in Paradise: A Serene Escape at Kournas Lake

Next, we journey to the breathtaking Kournas Lake, a haven of tranquility nestled amidst the majestic White Mountains. This unique natural wonder, the largest freshwater lake in Crete, offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Take a scenic paddleboat ride (optional) across the crystal-clear waters, soak up the sun on the pristine shores, or simply relax and relish the serenity of this idyllic setting.

Explore Rethymno's Colorful Tapestry

Our final stop is the captivating town of Rethymno, a vibrant blend of Venetian and Turkish architecture. Stroll along the picturesque harbor, a charming haven lined with colorful cafes and restaurants. Explore the labyrinthine streets of the old town, where remnants of Renaissance grandeur intertwine with Ottoman influences. Visit the imposing Fortezza, a majestic Venetian fortress guarding the harbor, and lose yourself in the town's captivating charm.

An Unforgettable Experience Awaits

Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia. [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]

Operating Days:
Every Wednesday & Saturday

Languages:
English, German: Wednesday & Saturday

Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort throughout the tour
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour

Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot (optional):
• Hire of pedal boat at Lake Kournas
• Museum Entrances
• Food/Drinks

Tour highlights:
• Walk through the streets of Venetian Rethymno
• Explore the vibrant town of Chania and its famous old harbor and admire the Venetian architecture.
• Enjoy the view of a natural landscape at Kournas Lake
• Admire the clear blue waters and get some fresh air at the Lake

Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Comfortable shoes
• Swimsuit / Beach towel
• Water

Direction:
West Crete

Duration:
11-12 hours approximately - 280 Km

Chania Rethymnon Excursion Overview:
Following the northwest coastline, we arrive in Chania, the former capital of Crete. The town is divided into the old town, within the Venetian city walls, which is an attractive maze of narrow streets, old mansions and arcades, with mosques and minarets bearing witness to the Turkish influence and the carefully laid out new town which is considered to be one of the most beautiful towns of Crete. Lunch can be enjoyed in one of the many waterfront tavernas, which overlook the old Venetian harbour, where the film "Zorba the Greek" was filmed. You will have free time to visit the famous "Agora" (market) with the leather goods.

On the way back we stop at the picturesque Lake of Kournas.

Next stop the town of Rethymnon, a colourful mixture of Venetian and Turkish architecture, the current centre of Arts & Letters of Crete. You may visit the Turkish minarets or enjoy a coffee at the attractive harbour which is dominated by the Venetian fortress.

Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old  (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old  (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old  (Free of charge)

Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below

Pricing
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from your hotel, Chania & Rethymnon Tours. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).

 

Pick-up Locations

Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:

WEST CRETE EXCURSION Chania Rethymnon Excursion Pickup timetable
Pick up Location	Pick-up Time
Sissi	07:00 AM
Nikos hotel - Filipidis S/M	07:10 AM
Malia church	07:10 AM
Malia Bay - Malia Park - Sirens	07:05 AM
Drossia - Kernos Beach - Ikaros Village	07:20 AM
Alexander - Ariadni	07:25 AM
Cactus - I Resort	07:25 AM
Mochos Cross (Bus Stop #29)	07:30 AM
Stalis (Bus Stop #28) - Blue sea	07:30 AM
Nana B/S - Mediterraneo	07:35 AM
Belvedere - Eri bus stop	07:35 AM
Silva Beach - Pela Maria	07:40 AM
National Bank (Ethniki Bank) - Chalkiadakis S/M	07:40 AM
Koutouloufari (Esperides Resort)	07:40 AM
Piscopiano well (pigadi)	07:40 AM
Mathioudakis (Kritikos S/M) - Albatros Corner - Creta Maris	07:45 AM
Hersonissos Village (Hotel Accommodation)	07:45 AM
Knossos Royal - Royal Mare - Annabelle	07:50 AM
Cretan Village - Laguna - Chrissi Amoudia	07:55 AM
Serita - Zorbas - Anissa - Bella - Lytos	08:00 AM
Analipsi Beach  Road	08:05 AM
Analipsi Bus stop	08:05 AM
Amirantes Bus stop	08:10 AM
Gouves Beach  Road	08:10 AM
Gouves Cross - Lavris	08:15 AM
Gournes church	08:20 AM
Rinela - Hatzis	08:20 AM
Knossos beach - Arina	08:25 AM
Karteros - Amnsissos	08:30 AM
Astoria Hotel - Galaxy Hotel	08:30 AM
Heraklion port - 18 Agglon Sq. (Koules fortress roundabout)	08:30 AM
Natural History Museum	08:30 AM
Talos Plaza (outside Envy Cafe)	08:30 AM
Giofyros (Meliriton)	08:50 AM
Amoudara (Gazi)	08:55 AM
Lygaria: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Lygaria via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up.	08:30 AM
Agia Pelagia: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Agia Pelagia via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up.	08:40 AM

LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!

 

CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.

IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organizer tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.

 

For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560

 

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