In a nutshell

Two places that have so much to tell: the monastery of Arkadi and the city of Rethymno, which bear testament to Venetian and then Ottoman rule. Set off with your guide on a journey that will take you through the history and culture of Crete, wandering among the ancient architecture and discovering the stories that have left their mark on the island. A walk to remember.

Main stops

Arkadi monastery: Interior visit
A walk through the historic center of the city of Rethymno
Free time

The programme

From Souda Bay, your guide will accompany you on a journey which will lead you to the monastery of Arkadi.
This historic Orthodox place of worship looks like a fortress, with impressive walls and architecture, just like the events that it has borne witness to. It was here that Cretan resistance fighters battling for independence from centuries-long Ottoman rule barricaded themselves in 1866.
A chapter in the history of the island that was even narrated by Victor Hugo. Your guide will also tell you all about it as you walk around this place where religion and patriotism come together and lose yourself among the details of its Venetian Baroque style.
Now set off to discover Rethymno, with its Renaissance architecture and Venetian buildings, including the imposing 16th century fortress which was later converted into a mosque by the Ottomans, as well as a host of other treasures that have made this city so fascinating and popular.
Here, you'll also have some free time to continue your exploration or to go on a hunt for a souvenir to take home with you.

Good to know

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the experience.
Wear suitable clothing for the places of worship you will be visiting.
The bus transfer to the Arkadi monastery takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the return from Rethymno to the port takes around 1 hour.