Rethymno Itinerary: Arkadi & Eleutherna

Rethymno is a picturesque town located on the northern coast of the Greek island of Crete. It is a popular tourist destination for its stunning beaches, rich history, and charming old town. If you are short on time and want to explore some of the best places in Rethymno during a daytrip, here is an itinerary that will take you to some of the most significant landmarks in the area.

Arkadi Monastery

Start your day by visiting the Arkadi Monastery, located about 20 kilometers southeast of Rethymno. This monastery has a significant place in the history of Crete as it was a site of a tragic event during the Cretan uprising in 1866. The monastery has a beautiful courtyard, a church, and a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.

Eleutherna Archaeological Museum

Next stop is the Eleutherna Archaeological Museum, located about 10 kilometers east of Arkadi Monastery. The museum houses artifacts from the excavations at Eleutherna, including pottery, jewelry, and tools. The museum also has interactive displays and multimedia installations that provide an immersive experience of the ancient history of Crete.

Eleutherna Archaeological Site

Next, head to the Archaeological Site of Eleutherna, located near the archaeological museum. This ancient city dates back to the Geometric period and was inhabited until the Byzantine era. The site has well-preserved ruins of houses and public buildings that give a glimpse into the life of the ancient Cretans.

Margarites Village

After visiting the Eleutherna Archaeological Site, drive to the charming village of Margarites, located about 15 kilometers southwest of the archaeological site. This village is famous for its pottery tradition, and you can see many workshops where skilled artisans create beautiful pottery pieces. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local taverns and try some of the traditional Cretan dishes if you cannot wait until dinner.

Melidoni Cave

If you have extra time on your hands or are interested in exploring more of the region’s natural wonders, we highly recommend adding Melidoni Cave to your Rethymno itinerary. This magnificent cave has a rich history and is believed to have been used as a place of worship and shelter during the Neolithic period. The cave also played a significant role in the Cretan uprising of 1821, as many villagers sought refuge here during the Ottoman occupation.

Bali Village

End your day by visiting the charming fishing village of Bali, located about 30 kilometers northwest of Rethymno. This picturesque village has a lovely harbor, four sandy beaches, and many taverns where you can enjoy a lovely dinner and local wine. 

This itinerary covers some of the most significant landmarks in the Rethymno area and gives a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Crete. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, carry sunscreen and a hat, and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery along the way. With careful planning and efficient time management, you can experience the best of Rethymno in a day.