How to get to Arkadi Monastery? Taxi, Bus & Car Rental

by Best Crete Transfer
20 minutes
How to get to Arkadi Monastery? Taxi, Bus & Car Rental

Arkadi Monastery is a 12th-century fortress church on the edge of a high plateau near Rethymno, Crete. It is famous for its role in the Cretan revolt of 1866 against Ottoman rule. There are several ways to get to Arkadi Monastery, depending on the starting point and the preferred mode of transportation. The most popular way is by car, which offers more flexibility and convenience. The roads are not difficult, and a large car park is at the monastery's entrance.

The cheapest way to reach Arkadi Monastery is by public bus from Rethymno or Chania. The bus fare is 3€ ($3.27, £2.61) one way, and the journey takes 40 minutes from Rethymno and 90 minutes from Chania. The bus stops at the village of Amnatos, which is 3 kilometres (2 miles) north of the monastery. Visitors can walk or take a taxi to the monastery from the area. The most popular starting point to get to Arkadi Monastery is Rethymno, the third-largest city in Crete and a major tourist destination. Rethymno has a beautiful old town, a Venetian harbour, a long sandy beach and many cultural attractions. It is also closer to the monastery than Chania or Heraklion, the other two large cities in Crete. Rethymno can be reached by car, bus or ferry from other parts of the island or Athens.

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Listed below are ways to get to Arkadi Monastery:

  • Taxi: Taxis are available in Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and can be booked online or by phone. A taxi ride from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery takes 22 minutes, depending on the traffic. The cost of getting to Arkadi Monastery by taxi varies depending on the time of the day, the season, and the number of passengers. The average price for a one-way trip is 20€ ($21.8, £17.4).
  • Car Rental: Car rentals are available in Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and can be booked online or at the airport. The cost of getting to Arkadi Monastery by car rental depends on the type of car, the duration of the rental, and the insurance coverage. The average price for a one-day rental is 30€ ($32.7, £26.1). Some car rental companies may offer discounts for longer rentals or online bookings.
  • Public Bus: Public buses run from Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and stop at the monastery's entrance. A bus ticket from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery costs 3€ ($3.27, £2.61). The distance from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 21 kilometres (13 miles). The bus ride from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery takes 40 minutes, depending on the traffic. The route follows the E75 highway and the Sfakakiou-Amnatou road.
  • Organised Tour: Arkadi Monastery is easily accessible through an organised tour. Getting to Arkadi Monastery through an organised tour is convenient and hassle-free. The tour handles all the logistics, including transportation to and from the monastery. It eliminates the need to navigate public transportation or rent a car. Getting to Arkadi Monastery through an organised tour is 35€ ($38.15, £30.45) per person.
  • Private Tour: Getting to Arkadi Monastery through a private tour is convenient and flexible. Individuals can customise their itinerary and travel at their own pace. Travelling to Arkadi Monastery through a private tour allows visitors exclusive access to transportation, ensuring a comfortable and personalised journey. A private tour to Arkadi Monastery may cost 80€ ($87.2, £69.6) per person.

1. Taxi

Getting to Arkadi Monastery by taxi is a convenient and comfortable option for visitors. Taxis are available in Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and can be booked online or by phone. A taxi ride from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery takes 22 minutes, depending on the traffic. The cost of getting to Arkadi Monastery by taxi varies depending on the time of the day, the season, and the number of passengers. The average price for a one-way trip is 20€ ($21.8, £17.4). Some taxi companies may offer discounts for round trips or group bookings. The distance from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 21 kilometres (13 miles). The route follows the E75 highway and the Sfakakiou-Amnatou road. The monastery is on a plateau at an altitude of 500 metres (1,640 feet), offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The best time to visit Arkadi Monastery is in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. The monastery is open daily, but the opening hours vary throughout the year. The church services are held daily at 06:00 am and 06:00 pm. The annual festivals take place on May 21 and August 6, and the commemoration of the 1866 siege is on November 8.

2. Car Rental

Getting to Arkadi Monastery by car rental is a flexible and adventurous option for visitors. Car rentals are available in Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and can be booked online or at the airport. A car rental allows visitors to explore the monastery and the surrounding area at their own pace and convenience. The cost of getting to Arkadi Monastery by car rental depends on the type of car, the duration of the rental, and the insurance coverage. The average price for a one-day rental is 30€ ($32.7, £26.1). Some car rental companies may offer discounts for longer rentals or online bookings. The distance from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 21 kilometres (13 miles). The route follows the E75 highway and the Sfakakiou-Amnatou road, passing through scenic villages and olive groves. The driving time from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 22 minutes, depending on the traffic. The road is well-maintained and signposted, but drivers should be careful of the curves and the speed limits. The best time to visit Arkadi Monastery is in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. The monastery is open daily, but the opening hours vary throughout the year. The church services are held daily at 06:00 am and 06:00 pm. The annual festivals take place on May 21 and August 6, and the commemoration of the 1866 siege is on November 8.

3. Public Bus

Getting to Arkadi Monastery by public bus is a cheap and eco-friendly option for visitors. Public buses run from Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and stop at the monastery's entrance. A bus ticket from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery costs 3€ ($3.27, £2.61). The bus schedule varies depending on the season and the day of the week, so checking the timetable in advance is advisable. The distance from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 21 kilometres (13 miles). The bus ride from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery takes 40 minutes, depending on the traffic. The route follows the E75 highway and the Sfakakiou-Amnatou road. The best time to visit Arkadi Monastery is in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. The monastery is open daily, but the opening hours vary throughout the year. The church services are held daily at 06:00 am and 06:00 pm. The annual festivals take place on May 21 and August 6, and the commemoration of the 1866 siege is on November 8.

4. Organised Tour

Arkadi Monastery is easily accessible through an organised tour. The monastery is located in Crete, Greece. To reach Arkadi Monastery, individuals can join an organised tour that provides transportation and a guided visit. Getting to Arkadi Monastery through an organised tour is convenient and hassle-free. The tour handles all the logistics, including transportation to and from the monastery. It eliminates the need to navigate public transportation or rent a car. The cost of getting to Arkadi Monastery through an organised tour varies, but on average, it is 35€ ($38.15, £30.45) per person. The price typically includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes additional amenities like a meal or refreshments. The duration of the tour to Arkadi Monastery is half a day, taking 4 hours on average. The timeframe allows visitors to explore the monastery, learn about its history, and appreciate its cultural and religious significance. The ideal time to visit Arkadi Monastery is spring or autumn. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25 ℃ (77 ℉). The monastery is less crowded during these times, providing a more serene and peaceful experience.

5. Private Tour

Getting to Arkadi Monastery through a private tour is convenient and flexible. Individuals can customise their itinerary and travel at their own pace. Travelling to Arkadi Monastery through a private tour allows visitors exclusive access to transportation, ensuring a comfortable and personalised journey. Private tours also provide the opportunity to have a dedicated guide who can offer detailed insights and answer any questions along the way. The cost of a private tour to Arkadi Monastery can vary depending on the specific arrangements and services included. A private tour to Arkadi Monastery may cost 80€ ($87.2, £69.6) per person. The cost typically covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes additional amenities such as meals or refreshments. The duration of the private tour to Arkadi Monastery depends on various factors, including the participants' starting points and preferences. The journey can take 5 hours on average, allowing sufficient time to explore the monastery and its surroundings. The ideal time to visit Arkadi Monastery is spring or autumn. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25 ℃ (77 ℉). The monastery is less crowded during these times, providing a more serene and peaceful experience.

What is the cheapest way to get to Arkadi Monastery?

The cheapest way to get to Arkadi Monastery is by bus. Firstly, buses are a cost-effective mode of transportation. The bus fare to Arkadi Monastery is relatively inexpensive compared to other alternatives. The bus ticket price is 3€ ($3.27, £2.61) per person. This affordable fare makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travellers. Secondly, buses provide a direct route to Arkadi Monastery. They operate from various regional locations, including nearby towns and cities. Travellers can easily access the monastery without needing multiple transfers or additional transportation costs. The bus journey typically takes 40 minutes, depending on the starting point. Lastly, buses offer a reliable and comfortable travel experience. They are equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seating, ensuring a pleasant journey for passengers. The bus routes are well-maintained, providing a smooth and efficient ride to Arkadi Monastery.

What is the quickest way to get to Arkadi Monastery?

The quickest way to get to Arkadi Monastery is by taxi or car rental. Firstly, hiring a taxi allows individuals to enjoy a direct and expedited journey to Arkadi Monastery. Taxis are readily available in the region, offering a convenient solution for travellers. Taxis provide a swift and efficient way to reach the monastery, with an average travel time of 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the starting point and traffic conditions. Secondly, renting a car offers travellers the freedom and flexibility to travel at their own pace. Car rental services are easily accessible in major towns and cities, providing a convenient option for visitors. Individuals can choose their route and make stops along the way. Renting a car allows for a quick and convenient journey to Arkadi Monastery, with an average travel time of 20 to 30 minutes. Lastly, taxis and rental cars ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Taxis are equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seating, ensuring a pleasant journey for passengers. Rental cars provide the convenience of having one's vehicle, allowing for a comfortable and personalised trip. Both options offer a time-saving solution, allowing individuals to reach Arkadi Monastery efficiently.

What way to get to Arkadi Monastery should families with kids select?

Families with kids should select a car rental to get to Arkadi Monastery. Firstly, renting a car provides families with the flexibility and comfort needed when travelling with kids. With a car at their disposal, families can easily accommodate children's needs, such as carrying strollers, diaper bags, and other essential items. Car rentals also allow for easy access to the monastery, as they provide a door-to-door service. It eliminates the hassle of navigating through public transportation or managing multiple transfers, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey for families. Secondly, a car rental offers the freedom to set the pace and explore the surrounding areas at the family's convenience. Families can choose their route, make stops along the way, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Crete. The flexibility is particularly valuable when travelling with kids, as it allows for necessary breaks, rest stops, or spontaneous detours to cater to the needs and interests of the children. Having a car provides the option to visit other family-friendly attractions in the region, making the trip to Arkadi Monastery even more rewarding. Lastly, car rentals offer a comfortable and private travel experience for families. Rental cars have air conditioning, spacious seating, and ample storage space for luggage and belongings. It ensures a comfortable and enjoyable ride for both parents and children. A private vehicle allows families to customise the travel environment, such as playing children's music or adjusting the temperature.

What is the best transfer vehicle to get to Arkadi Monastery?

The best transfer vehicle to get to Arkadi Monastery is by taxi. Firstly, taxis provide a direct and efficient way to reach the monastery. They can pick up passengers from various locations and take them directly to Arkadi Monastery without the need for transfers or multiple modes of transportation. It saves time and ensures a smooth journey. Secondly, taxis are readily available and can be easily hailed or booked through taxi apps. The accessibility gives visitors flexibility in their travel plans and provides a hassle-free experience. Taxis also offer the convenience of door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transportation or walk long distances. Lastly, taxis offer comfort and privacy during the journey. Visitors can relax in a private vehicle with air conditioning, which is especially beneficial during the hot summer months. Taxis also have enough space to accommodate luggage or personal belongings.

What is Arkadi Monastery?

Arkadi Monastery is a religious building of the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is on a flat area 23 kilometres (14 miles) southeast of Rethymno, a city on the island of Crete in Greece. The monastery's main church was built in the 16th century and combines Roman and Baroque styles. The monastery also had a school and a library with many books. Arkadi Monastery is famous for its role in the Cretan revolt in 1866 against the Ottoman Empire, which ruled Crete for 200 years. In November 1866, 943 Greeks, mostly women and children, took shelter in the monastery from the Turkish army. After three days of fighting, the Greeks decided to blow up the gunpowder room, killing themselves and many Turkish soldiers. The sacrifice became a symbol of the Cretan resistance and a national memorial.

Arkadi Monastery is still active and has a few monks who live there. It is open to visitors every day from 09:00 am to 07:00 pm. The entrance fee is 3€ ($3.27, £2.61). Inside the monastery is a small shop with handmade items and copies of Byzantine icons. The monastery also has a museum with icons, clothes, weapons and relics from the 1866 revolt. Outside Arkadi Monastery, a structure remembers the Cretans who died in 1866. It has the bones of the dead people on display. The area around the monastery is rich in natural beauty and history. There are vineyards, olive groves and forests with many plants and flowers. There are also hills and gorges that offer scenic views. Arkadi Monastery is named after Arkadios, a monk who founded it in the 12th century, while another story says that it was named after Arcadius, a Byzantine emperor.

How to get to Arkadi Monastery from Heraklion?

Listed below are the different ways to get to Arkadi Monastery from Heraklion:

  • Taxi: To reach Arkadi Monastery from Heraklion by taxi, one should head south on the National Road towards Rethymno. The monastery is 23 kilometres (14 miles) southeast of Heraklion. Heraklion taxi ride takes 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The average cost for a one-way taxi trip is 35€ ($38.15, £30.45).
  • Car Rental: For those who prefer to drive, car rental is a convenient option. From Heraklion, one should take the National Road towards Rethymno. After 23 kilometres (14 miles) southeast of Heraklion, there are signs indicating the turn-off to Arkadi Monastery. The drive takes 40 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The cost of car rental varies depending on the rental company, but an average daily rate is 30€ ($32.7, £26.1).
  • Bus: Public buses also provide transportation to Arkadi Monastery. From Heraklion, one can take the KTEL bus to Rethymno. The bus journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon reaching the village of Adele, which is 17 kilometres (10 miles) from the monastery, passengers can disembark and walk for 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) to reach the monastery. The one-way bus fare is 5€ ($5.45, £4.35).

How to get to Arkadi Monastery from Chania?

Listed below are the different ways to get to Arkadi Monastery from Chania:

  • Taxi: One can easily reach Arkadi Monastery from Chania by taxi. The journey covers a distance of 24 kilometres (15 miles). Chania taxi ride typically takes 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. A one-way taxi fare from Chania to Arkadi Monastery costs 30€ ($32.7, £26.1), but prices may vary.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience for visiting Arkadi Monastery. From Chania, travellers can take the EO90 road eastbound towards Rethymno. After 16 kilometres (10 miles), they should take the exit towards Arkadi Monastery. The total driving time is 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Car rental prices in Chania vary depending on the vehicle type and duration, but on average, expect to pay 40€ ($43.6, £34.8) per day for a standard car.
  • Bus: The local bus service is available from Chania to Arkadi Monastery for those looking for a more economical option. Visitors can take the KTEL bus from the central bus station in Chania. The journey takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. The bus fare for a one-way ticket is 3€ ($3.27, £2.61).

How to get to Arkadi Monastery from Rethymno?

Listed below are the different ways to get to Arkadi Monastery from Rethymno:

  • Taxi: Travelling by taxi is a convenient way to reach Arkadi Monastery from Rethymno. Taxis are available in Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and can be booked online or by phone. A taxi ride from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery takes 22 minutes, depending on the traffic. The cost of getting to Arkadi Monastery by taxi varies depending on the time of the day, the season, and the number of passengers. The average price for a one-way trip is 20€ ($21.8, £17.4). Some taxi companies may offer discounts for round trips or group bookings. The distance from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 21 kilometres (13 miles). The route follows the E75 highway and the Sfakakiou-Amnatou road.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car is popular for travellers who prefer flexibility and independence. Car rentals are available in Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and can be booked online or at the airport. A car rental allows visitors to explore the monastery and the surrounding area at their own pace and convenience. The cost of getting to Arkadi Monastery by car rental depends on the type of car, the duration of the rental, and the insurance coverage. The average price for a one-day rental is 30€ ($32.7, £26.1). Some car rental companies may offer discounts for longer rentals or online bookings. The distance from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 21 kilometres (13 miles). The route follows the E75 highway and the Sfakakiou-Amnatou road, passing through scenic villages and olive groves. The driving time from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 22 minutes, depending on the traffic.
  • Bus: For budget-conscious travellers, taking a bus is a cost-effective option to reach Arkadi Monastery. Public buses run from Rethymno, the nearest city to the monastery, and stop at the monastery's entrance. A bus ticket from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery costs 3€ ($3.27, £2.61). The bus schedule varies depending on the season and the day of the week, so checking the timetable in advance is advisable. The distance from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery is 21 kilometres (13 miles). The bus ride from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery takes 40 minutes, depending on the traffic. The route follows the E75 highway and the Sfakakiou-Amnatou road.

How to get to Arkadi Monastery from Agios Nikolaos?

Listed below are the different ways to get to Arkadi Monastery from Agios Nikolaos:

  • Taxi: For a convenient and direct journey, travellers can opt for a taxi from Agios Nikolaos to Arkadi Monastery. The distance between the two locations is 60 kilometres (37 miles). Travellers should head south from Agios Nikolaos on the E75 highway connecting the two towns. The estimated travel time is 1 hour and 15 minutes, but it may vary depending on traffic conditions. Taxis are readily available in Agios Nikolaos, and the average cost for a one-way trip to Arkadi Monastery is 70€ ($76.3, £60.9).
  • Car rental: Renting a car is recommended for those who prefer the freedom to explore at their own pace. From Agios Nikolaos, travellers should head south on the E75 highway towards Rethymno. After driving for 60 kilometres (37 miles), they will reach the exit for Arkadi Monastery. It is advisable to follow the signs and directions towards the monastery, which is located in the Rethymno region. The journey typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Car rental prices in the area start at 30€ ($32.7, £26.1) per day, excluding fuel costs. It is important to note that international visitors may require an International Driving Permit and a valid driver's license.
  • Bus: Travellers looking for a more economical option can choose the bus service from Agios Nikolaos to Arkadi Monastery. The journey involves a transfer to Rethymno. First, travellers should catch a bus from Agios Nikolaos to Rethymno, which is 80 kilometres (50 miles) away. The bus ride from Agios Nikolaos to Rethymno takes 2 hours, depending on traffic and stops. After reaching Rethymno, travellers can transfer to another bus or take a taxi to reach Arkadi Monastery, which is 20 kilometres (12 miles) away. Bus fares vary depending on the specific routes and operators, but a one-way trip costs 10€ ($10.9, £8.7) per person.

How to get to Arkadi Monastery from Hersonissos?

Listed below are the different ways to get to Arkadi Monastery from Hersonissos:

  • Taxi: To take a taxi from Hersonissos to Arkadi Monastery, head south on the main road, Ethnarchou Makariou, towards Heraklion. After 24 kilometres (15 miles), take the exit towards Rethymno. Continue on the National Road for 40 kilometres (25 miles) until reaching the Arkadi Monastery. The taxi ride typically takes 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The average taxi cost from Hersonissos to Arkadi Monastery is 70€ ($76.3, £60.9) one way.
  • Car Rental: To drive from Hersonissos to Arkadi Monastery, start by heading south on Ethnarchou Makariou towards Heraklion. After 24 kilometres (15 miles), take the exit towards Rethymno. Continue on the National Road for 40 kilometres (25 miles) until reaching the Arkadi Monastery. The drive takes 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Car rental prices vary, but on average, a small car can cost 30€ ($32.7, £26.1) per day, excluding fuel costs.
  • Bus: To reach Arkadi Monastery, take the local bus from Hersonissos to Heraklion city centre. From there, take a bus towards Rethymno. Ask the driver to drop at the Arkadi Monastery stop. The bus journey from Hersonissos to Arkadi Monastery takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The bus fare is 5€ ($5.45, £4.35) per person, one way.

Is Arkadi Monastery worth visiting?

Yes, Arkadi Monastery is worth visiting. It holds historical and cultural significance in the region. The monastery, located 23 kilometres (14 miles) southeast of Rethymno, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. It was crucial in the Cretan resistance against the Ottomans in 1866. The monastery's architecture, with its fortified walls and beautiful church, provides insight into the island's past. Visitors can explore the monastery's various buildings, including the church, museum, and historic rooms. The museum displays artefacts, manuscripts, and religious objects. Arkadi Monastery is considered a symbol of freedom and sacrifice.

Do you need to book a transfer in advance to visit Arkadi Monastery?

No, booking a transfer in advance to visit Arkadi Monastery is unnecessary. Arkadi Monastery is a popular tourist attraction on the island of Crete. It is accessible by public transportation, private vehicles, or Crete taxi. Public buses run regularly between major towns, including Heraklion and Rethymno, making stops near the monastery. Visitors can easily reach Arkadi Monastery by taking a bus from nearby towns or cities without needing a pre-booked transfer.

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