Kournas Lake Tours and Tickets

Q: What activities can I do at Kournas Lake?

Kournas Lake offers a variety of activities, including renting pedal boats or kayaks to paddle across the pretty scenery, and freshwater swimming. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several walking paths around the lake, all great for birdwatching, while picnicking is a fun option, too.

Q: Is Kournas Lake suitable for swimming?

Yes, Kournas Lake is suitable for swimming, and the cool, fresh conditions are a nice change from the Aegean Sea. The calm, shallow waters near the shore are great for young children or those who prefer a gentle dip, while further out is suitable for more experienced swimmers. Note that there are no lifeguards on duty.

Q: Is there a best time of year to visit Kournas Lake?

The best time of year to visit Kournas Lake depends on what you’re looking for. The high season of June-August brings the warmest weather and the most amenities, but it comes with large crowds and potentially higher prices. The shoulder seasons—May to June, September to October—offer that sweet spot of pleasant weather and smaller crowds, though some facilities may be closed.

Q: Why is Kournas Lake special?

Kournas Lake holds a special place in Crete as it's the only freshwater lake on the island, making it a unique natural spot offering peaceful respite from the busier coastal areas. With freshwater swimming and pedal boats for rent, it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Q: Is there a beach at Kournas Lake?

Yes, there are small sandy and pebbly beach areas along the shores of Kournas Lake, but no sweeping beaches like on the coast. Kournas’ beaches are great for sunbathing, picnicking, and access to the lake, plus they tend to be far less crowded than Crete’s more famous stretches of sand.

Q: What are some nearby attractions to combine with a visit to Kournas Lake?

For attractions near Kournas Lake, don’t miss Kournas village, located on a hill overlooking the lake, where visitors can explore traditional tavernas, cafés, and souvenir shops. For a contrasting experience, visit the nearby beaches of Georgioupolis, famous for beautiful golden sands. History buffs should explore the ancient city of Aptera and its well-preserved ruins.

43 results

Best Seller

Day trip to Rethymno, Chania & Kournas lake

If you like to explore independently but prefer to avoid self-drive, this western Crete tour is ideal. Cover ground you couldn’t hope to cover on public transport and save yourself more than four hours’ driving when you book this convenient trip to historic Rethymno, Venetian Chania and Lake Kournas, Crete’s only freshwater lake. A guide accompanies your bus but you’re free to discover each stop at your own pace.

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Day trip to Rethymno, Chania & Kournas lake

9 hoursFree Cancellation

3.8

(53)

from US$50

Kournas Lake Argiroupolis and olive oil factory from Rethymno

Suitable for those looking to venture off the beaten path in Crete, this tour starts at a local oil mill where you can watch how Crete's renowned olive oil is made. Embark on a journey through Crete, making a stop at the waterfalls of Argyroupolis, which bring life to the lush vegetation surrounding the village. Conclude your tour with a refreshing swim and indulge in Cretan delicacies at the charming taverns situated around the lake.

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Kournas Lake Argiroupolis and olive oil factory from Rethymno

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(44)

from US$29

Kournas Lake and Rethymno City Tour from Chania

This tour perfectly blends nature, culture, and authentic Cretan charm in one unforgettable day. You’ll explore Kournas Lake, a rare natural wonder where you can relax or enjoy a peaceful pedal boat ride surrounded by stunning scenery. Then, you’ll discover Rethymno’s Old Town, a beautiful mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, lively streets, and local traditions. It’s not just a sightseeing trip — it’s a journey through Crete’s natural beauty, history, and everyday life.

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Kournas Lake and Rethymno City Tour from Chania

7 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from US$46

Full-Day West Crete Tour: Chania & Rethymnon Old Town and Kournas Lake

11 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.0

(44)

from US$56

Lake Kournas Pedal Boat Tour with Transfer From Rethymno

6 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

(6)

from US$139

Per group

Likely to Sell Out

Crete Nature Kournas lake Argyroupoli &Georgioupoli from Rethymno

Venture beyond Rethymno city limits—and discover a number of Crete’s most popular natural attractions, all in one day—on this tour. Following morning pickup from your Rethymno hotel, travel by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle to the scenic Lake Kournas. You’ll also explore the traditional village of Argyroupoli, admire Kotsifou Canyon, stop for a swim and local lunch in Georgioupolis, and enjoy free time relaxing on the beach at Plakias Bay.

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Crete Nature Kournas lake Argyroupoli &Georgioupoli from Rethymno

8 hoursFree Cancellation

3.4

(9)

from US$29

Price varies by group size

Chania & Kournas Lake From Rethymno

6 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(17)

from US$35

Likely to Sell Out

From Heraklion : Full-Day Bus Trip to Chania city , Kournas lake & Rethymno city

Get more out of your trip to Heraklion with this tour to the best sights of western Crete. Following your multilingual guide, you’ll witness the Minoan city of Chania, still one of Crete’s finest gems, and its decisive blend of old and new. Then it’s off to Old Town Rethymnon, one of Crete’s most well-preserved ancient settlements, and Lake Kournas, wrapping up this day with some spectacular Cretan nature.

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From Heraklion : Full-Day Bus Trip to Chania city , Kournas lake & Rethymno city

10 hoursFree Cancellation

3.9

(67)

from US$46

Rethymno City, Chania City, Kournas Lake Tour from Heraklion

This excursion takes you to the west side of the island. It includes a visit to the towns of Rethymnon and Chania, as well as to the well – known Lake of Kournas. Going west on the northern axis of Crete, first we will pass the Ida range that includes the highest mountain of Crete, Psiloritis, then our tour will take us to the beautiful town of Rethymno. Have a stroll in the alleys of the old town, visit the Turkish minarets and the Venetian fortresses or just enjoy your coffee in the magnificent harbor. Chania, the most ravishing city of Crete. It was an important Minoan city and the “mother of the Cretan cities”, according to ancient writers. Kournas Lake, a beautiful habitat with natural freshwater. Lush greenery, steep cavities between hills, rare species of fish and birds, like eels, moorhens and two-color turtles, make Kournas the ideal place to enjoy a swim before our lunch or an early afternoon walk.

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Rethymno City, Chania City, Kournas Lake Tour from Heraklion

13 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

from US$56

Arkadi Monastery Rethymno and Kournas Lake Escape Private Tour

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

from US$208

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Full-Day Tour : Rethymno-Chania- Lake Kournas ( West Crete Tour )

This excursion takes you to the west side& includes visits at the Towns of Rethymno & Chania , as well as to the Lake of Kournas . Going west on the northern axis of Crete ,our tour will take us to the beautyful town of Rethymno . A grafic Cretan Town , so characteristic and unique . We will have time to relax at the beautyful scenery at the old harbour of Rethymnon . Our next stop Chania is the capital city of the prefecture of Chania . It's Venetian walls and harbor , narrow streets , and old buildings from the Venetian and Ottoman period are mostly intact and take you directly to the past . Here you can also see the Croos-Shaped closed Market of the city and the Leather-Market street . Next and last stop will be the Lake of Kournas , where you can have your lunch . For those who want there is a possibility to exlore the lake by a petal-boat (Available for Rent) or just walk around the lake and swim before we take the road back to Heraklion .

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Full-Day Tour : Rethymno-Chania- Lake Kournas ( West Crete Tour )

10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

(21)

from US$57

Gastronomy tour and wine tasting in traditional villages

Discover the most authentic and fresh Cretan food in villages between Chania and Rethymno. We will visit traditional villages where we will taste local cheese, honey ,olive oil, smoked meat, fruits, Greek sweets and herbs •We will drink Greek coffee made the traditional way in hovoli (fire that hasn’t been completely extinguished and remains hot) •You will have visit the best cheese factory in western Crete.You will also try the perfect ice cream that my friend makes and the delicious yoghurt. •We will have two meals in two different villages.The first taverna is at a mountain.The second taverna is above lake Kournas and has a fantastic view!Both are family owned and use products from the village or their own! •You will have the pleasure to witness the Cretan hospitality yourselves This is not just a food tasting experience but also a great opportunity to discover the traditional villages of Cretan countryside. The experience can take place also in the morning between 9.00-14.30

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Gastronomy tour and wine tasting in traditional villages

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(51)

from US$209

From Chania Private half day Winery-Olive factory-Kournas lake

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(50)

from US$464

Per group

Chania City & Lake Kournas Tour

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(13)

from US$35

West Crete Tour from Heraklion: Rethymno-Chania-Kurnas

Although Heraklion is the perfect base to see Crete’s cultural and architectural heritage, it’s not the only part of Crete that is worthy of a visit. On this full-day tour, discover two of the prettiest cities in Western Crete—Chania and Rethymno—and immerse yourself in some of the island's loveliest scenery. Admire the White Mountains, visit Lake Kournas, and learn all about local history and culture as you explore.

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West Crete Tour from Heraklion: Rethymno-Chania-Kurnas

9 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.1

(117)

from US$59

Georgioupolis Safari Off Road Tours Outdoor Activities Land Rover Defender

Escape the tourist trail and spend a day exploring off the beaten track beauty near Georgioupolis. By traveling in a Land Rover, you’ll be able to access off-road sites that you wouldn’t discover otherwise. Visit incredible archaeological sites, traditional villages, and secluded beaches. If you work up an appetite, you won’t have to research where to eat as a delicious lunch in a family tavern is included. The tour will also take you to a winery, an olive oil factory, a castle, and multiple historical sites.

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Georgioupolis Safari Off Road Tours Outdoor Activities Land Rover Defender

8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(333)

from US$91

Discover Kournas Lake and Rethymno Old Town from Chania

This daily trip is a perfect combination of 2 of the most popular areas on Crete island and we assure you that you will enjoy it! The famous Kournas Lake is a worth visit place for people that love nature and water. It is the only one natural lake with fresh water in Crete and it is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Crete island. The lake’s maximum depth is 22 meters and it lies approximately 20m above sea level. The green, blue and turquoise waters of the lake, the sun above them and the White Mountains create a stunning combination that all the visitors love! Rethymno, and especially the Old Town is similar to Chania in a smaller scale. Narrow streets, lovely atmospere and the avra of this city will fascinate you. Rethymno city is a well known destination, blending history, culture and modern amenities. Do not forget to visit the famous Fortezza (fortress) with stunning panoramic views of the city and the Rimondi Fountain.

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Discover Kournas Lake and Rethymno Old Town from Chania

8 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

from US$406

Per group

Half-Day Private Tour of Chania: Explore History Culture & Beauty

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(6)

from US$197

Price varies by group size

Kournas Lake & Argiroupoli Springs from Chania

Here is what makes this specific combination unique: 1, Crete's Only Natural Freshwater Lake: Lake Kournas is a completely unique geographical feature on the island, offering a peaceful, mirror-like alpine vibe surrounded by lush hills that you won't find anywhere else in Crete. 2) Wildlife Spotting: Unlike standard sightseeing stops, the lake gives you a chance to actively look for native aquatic life, like terrapins and turtles, right from a pedal boat. 3) Mountain Springs & Waterfalls: The transition to Argyroupolis shifts the landscape from a wide-open lake to shaded, cascading mountain springs and waterfalls running right through ancient terrain. 4) Traditional Gastronomy in a Unique Setting: Argyroupolis is famous for its waterside tavernas where you can dine right next to the rushing springs, often enjoying local specialties like trout or traditional Cretan slow-roasted lamb (antikristo).

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Kournas Lake & Argiroupoli Springs from Chania

7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

from US$42

Full Day Lake Kournas, Chania City and Souda Bay Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

3.5

from US$42

Likely to Sell Out

Souda Port 3 4h to Kournas Lake Argiroupoli Private Tour Transfer

Discover the natural beauty of Lake Kournas on a private tour from Souda port /bay Areas. Watch for rare birds and aquatic life, such as eels and turtles. Enjoy a refreshing swim or take a stroll through the protected wetlands. At Kournas, Crete’s only fresh-water lake. Kournas lake is a beautiful habitat with natural freshwater, one of a kind in Crete. The whole area of Kournas is protected under 'Natura 2000', as it's a designated wetland. Vast greenery, steep cavities between hills, and rare species of fish and birds make Kournas the ideal place to enjoy an early afternoon walk.

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Souda Port 3 4h to Kournas Lake Argiroupoli Private Tour Transfer

3 hoursFree Cancellation

3.0

from US$116

Price varies by group size

CHANIA RETHYMNON KOURNAS, full day professional guided coach tour

11 hoursFree Cancellation

3.6

(8)

from US$55

Private-Chania+Rethimnon Old Towns-Kournas Lake-From Heraklion

Embark on this Private Full Day Tour to explore West Crete . We will start our day by enjoying an iced coffee in Agia Pelagia with amazing views. Enjoy the ride with our air conditioned comfortable vehicles. We will visit the old town of Chania and walk through the charming old narrow streets where we might get lost ….( we got google maps) The light house in Chania is must paparazzi point so we got to take a photo or 2 ……… Rethimno is the third biggest city in Crete and it’s known for its Venetian and Othoman architecture so we must explore it . Kournas Lake is the only natural lake in Crete and it’s located between Rethimno and Chania so we can enjoy lunch by the lake or we can skip it and enjoy lunch at an old traditional village . ( OPTIONAL)

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Private-Chania+Rethimnon Old Towns-Kournas Lake-From Heraklion

9 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(5)

from US$406

Price varies by group size

Full Day Private Chania Sights and Lake Kournas Tour

Experience the magic of Chania, where old meets new in a delightful blend. Start by strolling through the charming Old Town, taking in the sights of the Old Port and historic Lighthouse. Explore the lively Old Public Market, filled with local treasures. Then, enjoy some free time for shopping and wandering in the town's shops. Afterward, unwind at Lake Kournas, surrounded by mountains and olive groves. Take a leisurely walk by the lake, spotting local wildlife and soaking in the natural beauty. It's a journey through history, culture, and nature, all in one unforgettable day in Chania.

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Full Day Private Chania Sights and Lake Kournas Tour

7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

from US$406

Price varies by group size

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What are people saying about Kournas Lake

Chania & Kournas Lake From Rethymno

Ffion_E, Jun 2026

This was exactly what I...

This was exactly what I wanted. It combined the two things I wanted to see and couldn’t have been easier. We had plenty of time in both places and our guide was very helpful. Chania is such a beautiful city and lake kournas was stunning.

Day trip to Rethymno, Chania & Kournas lake

Patricia_D, May 2026

We enjoyed both Rethymnon...

We enjoyed both Rethymnon and Chania but would have preferred more time in Rethymnon rather than go to Lake Kournas. Lake Kournas was a little disappointing in that it is over commercialised and you don't really get to enjoy the Lake and it's surroundings as much due to all the businesses taking the frontage.

Day trip to Rethymno, Chania & Kournas lake

MicheleJohn_W, May 2026

Chania and Region bus trip

This was a superbly organised tour to the Chania region with three stops which gave plenty of time for sightseeing, shopping or eating. The tour was expertly conducted by Michael who spoke to the tour in three languages, English, French and German, thoroughly enjoyable.

Kournas Lake Argiroupolis and olive oil factory from Rethymno

Katrina_K, May 2026

Absolutely perfect

This was an amazing day the tour guide was absolutely amazing very excited informative friendly and helpful the lake was stunning the waterfalls amazing the food delicious absolutely recommend this trip to anyone on holiday in Crete . Thank you for a wonderful day

Full-Day West Crete Tour: Chania & Rethymnon Old Town and Kournas Lake

Joao_R, May 2026

Great Day Trip with Beautiful Stops and a Friendly Guide

Overall, this was a very enjoyable full-day trip and I would recommend it. The places we visited were beautiful, and the guide was very friendly, helpful, and well-organized throughout the day. Be prepared to spend a significant amount of time traveling on the bus between destinations, as the journey itself makes up a large portion of the day. Also, the time at each stop can feel a bit short, so it's worth planning ahead. The stop in Chania takes place around lunchtime, but the time there is limited and restaurant prices can be quite high. The guide actually recommends having lunch at the next stop instead, so bringing some snacks can help you make the most of your time exploring Chania without feeling rushed. If you're planning to buy souvenirs, it's worth waiting until the last stop. There is plenty of time there and a large selection of shops, making it the best and most relaxed place to do your shopping. Overall, it was a great way to see several beautiful locations in Crete in a single day, and the experience was definitely worthwhile.

Full-Day West Crete Tour: Chania & Rethymnon Old Town and Kournas Lake

gemdolan, May 2026

Magical/Mythical Cretan Tour

Our tour guide Maria was amazing, fun and knowledgeable. She told us about the history of the island, gave us insights on the the different stops we were going to visit during the tour and gave us pointers on where to go. She spoke various languages and made sure that everyone was alright and knew where to go, what to do, answered all questions, and even gave us her number in case we needed her while we were wondering around. The places we visited we beautiful and I didn’t feel like I was on a tour, I felt like I was out with my relative or a sister exploring a new place and experiencing a new adventure. She took the time with everyone so that we had a great time. She is with the Cretan Odyssey Company. She is a true gem who loves her job and meeting new people and showing us her beautiful country. I wish I could have met her sooner and spent my entire week touring with her. Thank you so much for making me feel like a family member, the laughs, the stories about Greece and giving me the opportunity for everlasting memories. You have to book this tour. You won’t be disappointed. Thank you Maria for a fabulous experience and tour.

Kournas Lake

4.5

(890)

Crete

Know before you go

Kournas Lake is ideal for outdoors and wildlife lovers.
The eastern edge of the lake has a number of hotels and villas, as well as restaurants, cafés, and traditional tavernas—great for lunch with a view.
You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas on site during summer.
Visitors with limited mobility can book a wheelchair- or scooter-accessible tour of the lake and surrounding region.

Kournas Lake Tours and Tickets

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