A day trip to Preveli from Rethymno is sure to be the highlight of your stay in Crete. This idyllic beach is one of the most photographed on the island and with good reason.

The sandy cove and clear waters are perfect for sun seekers, while the palm grove offers a tempting riverside diversion for curious explorers. Whether you want to swim, relax or hike, Preveli never fails to impress.

Here's all you need to know about Preveli, one of the most exciting day trips in Rethymno.

How to get to Preveli from Rethymno?

Preveli is on the southern coast of Crete, just 35 kilometers from Rethymno. You can visit the beach independently by car or on a guided tour.

From Rethymno to Preveli by car

The journey to Preveli from Rethymno by car takes around 45 minutes. It’s a straightforward drive south on the Rethimou-Agias Galinis road.

You’ll need to park at the Monastery of Preveli and then take the path down to the beach. The walk is about 20 minutes.

Guided tour to Preveli from Rethymno

Join a guided day tour to Preveli for a hassle-free experience. All your transport will be taken care of, and most operators will come and collect you from your hotel.

You’ll have a guide to make sure the excursion runs without a hitch. Tours last around 8 hours for a fun day out.

What is the typical itinerary?

Most day trips to Preveli from Rethymno begin with an 8:30 AM pickup from your hotel. Round-trip transfers make your experience run super smoothly so you don’t need to worry about transport logistics.

Sit back and relax as your driver takes you on an adventure through the Cretan countryside. Your first stop will be the breathtaking Prasses Gorge, which is a hotspot for local wildlife. Keep an eye out for vultures circling overhead!

You’ll continue to the Potamon Dam where a tiny church sits beside the lake. Religion is an important part of the island’s culture, with rural churches offering an insight into the age-old traditions of the communities here in Crete.

Next up on your adventure are the quaint villages of Karines and Spili, which you’ll pass through on your journey to Preveli. Your guide will reveal some of the local customs of this region during the drive.

After tucking into regional specialties for lunch at a traditional tavern, it’s time to swim in the clear waters at Preveli Beach. Here, you will also explore the palm forest on an easy hike. Depending on your tour option, you may also visit Damnoni Beach.

The final point of call is the Kourtaliotiko Gorge where nature is at its finest. Conclude your tour by soaking up the views of Rethymno from a panoramic overlook before being returned to your hotel in the evening.

What kind of tours are available to go to Preveli?

Preveli day trip from Rethymno by land and boat

This guided day tour to Preveli from Rethymno is also a small group trip. As well as exploring the inland gorges, you’ll also enjoy a boat tour from Damnoni Beach to Palm Beach in Preveli. It’s a great way of seeing a different side of the coast.

Your excursion to Preveli includes transfers and a guide for a seamless round-trip experience.

Guided Land Rover safari to Preveli from Rethymno

These day trips to Preveli whisk you off on a land-based quest, taking in highlights of the countryside and coast. The tours run on a group basis to keep costs affordable, with up to 15 participants on each excursion.

You will journey by Land Rover on this 4x4 tour, taking in hidden natural environments along the way. A guide will accompany you throughout the day, so you know you’re in safe hands.

How much does a day trip to Preveli from Rethymno cost?

A jaunt to Preveli from Rethymno by land and boat starts at €30 per passenger. This includes bus transfers, hotel pickups and drop-offs, as well as a guide. You’ll need to pay for your boat ticket to Preveli Beach in person – this costs around €10 per person.

For the day trip to Preveli from Rethymno by luxury Land Rover, expect to pay €90 each. This is a more comprehensive package, with transport, a guide, pickups, lunch and unlimited wine provided. Additional soft drinks can be purchased separately.

What will you see and do?

Overlooking the Libyan Sea, Preveli is a lush and rocky region on the south coast of Crete, popular with explorers of all ages. Thanks to its stunning scenery, Preveli is one of the most-visited beaches on the island.

The landscape here is a beautiful blend of sandy beach and green river, with the latter being lined by exotic palm forests. During your time here you’ll get to explore both.

This dreamy bay sits at the end of the wild Kourtaliotiko Gorge, which makes for show-stopping photos. You can soak up the sun on the sand and take a dip in the turquoise water to cool off.

A short hike through the tropical forest will be another highlight of your Preveli day trip. Enjoy the shade of the palm trees and admire the canyon walls that loom high above.

When is the best time to visit Preveli?

If you want to swim during your day tour to Preveli, the summer is the best time to visit.

However, Preveli is a popular spot, so it does get busy between July and September. To escape the crowds and still enjoy the warm weather, try and come in the shoulder months of May, June and October.

What other day trips can you do from Rethymno?

Travel tips

Book your day trip to Preveli from Rethymno in advance as tickets can sell out in the peak summer season.
Take swimwear and a towel if you plan on going swimming at the beach. Sunglasses, sunscreen and a sun hat are also recommended.
Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on uneven terrain at some of the stops.
If your tour includes lunch, remember to advise your guide of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Preveli: Day Trips and Tours from Rethymno