Rethymno Town and St. Irini Monastery Private Tour from Chania

Overview

Rethymno is an enchanting little city which is considered to be one of the most beautiful on Crete. It has a great character with its narrow streets, lacy fences, old port, and a grand Fortezza fortress.

Being so truly Cretan, it’s still very dynamic and attracts not only a lot of tourists but musicians and artists too. You’ll be able to enjoy their art on the streets of the city.

NOTE: The total duration of the private tour to Rethymno Town from the Chania region is 5–6 hours.

Itinerary

1. Agia Irini Monastery

   The first place we’ll visit during our tour will be St. Irini Monastery (Agia Irini). Travel time from the Chania region is about one hour.
   
   It was first mentioned in 1362, however, we know that in 1821 it was abandoned and in 1867 conquered and looted by Turkish invaders. Only in 1989, the decision was made about restoration and 3 nuns came here for that mission. Almost all the buildings were renovated, and only a cave that used to be a monasterial cell now reminds about the old times.
   
   Nowadays, nuns do a lot to keep the monastery running. They make organic cosmetics with herbs and olive oil and paint icons.

   1 hour · Admission included
2. Rethymnon Old Town

   An old fortress guards the city at the sea and great mount Ida at the South-East. This location makes Rethymno so peaceful. Life here is nice and leisurely. The old town of Rethymno is closed for cars, so it’s quiet, relaxed and a cup of coffee at one of the cafes here feels especially good.
   
   Venetian Fortezza fortress was built in 1573-1590 and is one of the main sights of the city. There used to be many different household and administrative buildings on its territory: Episcopal palace, a principal’s house, barracks, churches, and even a theatre. It’s so huge that is considered to be the biggest of the Venetian fortresses.
   
   You will also see the famous Rimondi fountain - the next symbol of Rethymno. Three lion heads are on its frontal plate, and water pours from them into three reservoirs. “LIBERALITATIS” and “FONTES” says the inscription, which means “Generous spring”.
   
   Return to Chania region, travel time 1 hour 10 minutes.

   3 hours · Admission included

Meeting and pickup

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.

Good to know

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• For visiting the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders, for a man – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
• Important to have: Comfortable shoes, Comfortable clothes, Sunglasses and Hat, Money for souvenirs, drinks, lunch/dinner.
• 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.
• Health Insurance: Moysidis Travel is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before traveling to Crete.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.