Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting 1
Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting 2
Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting 3
Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting 4
Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting 5
Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting 6
Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting 7
Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting 8
1 / 8

Melidoni and Sfendoni Caves Rethymno Old Town Olive Oil Tasting

, Greece
Shore ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursLuxuryAdventure Tours
Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

Combine Crete's geological wonders with cultural heritage and culinary traditions on this full-day guided tour. Visit two spectacular cave systems rich in stalactites and history, explore Rethymno's Venetian-Ottoman old town, and taste artisanal olive oils at a working mill.

Highlights of the Visit Sfendoni Cave (Zoniana)

Explore one of Crete’s most impressive caves, filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

Learn about the cave’s geology, history, and myths connected to the area.

Melidoni Cave

Discover the cave’s natural beauty and its historical significance as a place of refuge during the Cretan resistance.

Visit the memorial chamber dedicated to the tragic events of 1824, when locals lost their lives inside the cave.

Rethymno Town

Stroll through the charming old town with its Venetian and Ottoman architecture.

Visit landmarks like the Venetian Fortress, Rimondi Fountain, and the picturesque harbor.

Olive Oil Mill

Tour a traditional or modern olive oil mill and learn about the production process.

Discover the importance of olive oil in Cretan culture and diet.

Taste different varieties of extra virgin olive oil, and local products like raki, honey, or herbs.

Highlights

  • ✓Sfendoni Cave: dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and underground formations
  • ✓Melidoni Cave: WWII-era memorial and Cretan resistance history
  • ✓Rethymno Old Town: Venetian Fortress, Rimondi Fountain, Ottoman harbour
  • ✓Olive oil mill tour with tastings of extra virgin varieties
  • ✓Local product sampling: raki, honey, herbs

Insider tips

  • ★Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear for cave walks; limestone can be slippery despite steps and handrails.
  • ★Early morning departure means cave temperatures stay coolest mid-tour—bring a light layer even in summer.
  • ★Spend extra time in Rethymno's narrow backstreets away from the main harbour for authentic cafés and local crafts.
  • ★Ask your guide which olive mill focuses on organic or single-estate production if that matters to you.

Good to know

  • •Total duration 7.5 hours includes transport, stops, and tastings; wear comfortable walking shoes
  • •Cave interiors stay ~18°C year-round; bring a light jacket regardless of season
  • •Melidoni Cave has a steep internal staircase; not suitable for very limited mobility
  • •Olive oil tastings include bread; small amounts of raki served—pace your consumption if driving later
  • •Hotel pickup typically included for Rethymno area; confirm meeting point and time with supplier

Who it's for

History buffs interested in Cretan WWII heritage and Venetian-era architectureNature lovers and geology enthusiasts keen on cave formationsFoodies and wine/oil connoisseurs wanting hands-on agritourism experiencesCulture-focused travellers seeking combination experiences beyond beach resorts

Best time to visit

Visit April–May or September–October for mild temperatures and fewer crowds in caves and town. Mid-morning cave entry (after 9 a.m.) avoids peak early-tour congestion while maintaining comfortable underground light.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€650
per person