Rethymno: Ride with a BMW 318i Cabrio for 12 hours

Exploring Crete can involve many things—beaches, ancient ruins, lively villages—but there’s something uniquely memorable about cruising the island in a BMW 318i Cabrio. This 12-hour experience isn’t just about transportation; it’s about taking the time to enjoy the landscape, capture unforgettable photos, and feel the wind in your hair in a classic car that turns heads. As I review this experience, I can’t help but be drawn to its promise of a relaxed, scenic, and stylish way to see Crete.

What I really like about this offering is how it blends comfort with nostalgia. The classic BMW itself is a highlight, offering a sense of style and fun that elevates any drive. Plus, the flexibility of a full-day adventure means you can explore at your own pace—whether along the coast or inland—making it ideal for travelers who want to create their own casual itinerary. Another strong point is the photo opportunities — with the car and sweeping vistas, you’ll have plenty of chances for those iconic travel shots that you’ll cherish long after your trip.

The one thing to keep in mind is pricing and logistics—this experience is priced for a full day, which might be more than some budget travelers want to spend, especially if you’re just after a quick sightseeing tour. Also, as it’s a self-driven experience, it requires a certain comfort with driving on Crete’s sometimes winding roads, so those with limited driving experience might want to consider this.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Classic Car: The BMW 318i Cabrio offers a stylish and nostalgic way to explore Crete, making your drive memorable and photographable.
• Flexible 12-Hour Drive: You get to choose your route and pace, whether along the coast or inland, with the island’s scenery as your backdrop.
• Photo Opportunities: The convertible and scenic vistas are perfect for capturing stunning travel photos with the car as a focal point.
• Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: Optional transport makes logistical planning easier, especially if you’re staying in Rethymno or nearby.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: It’s a slow-paced experience, perfect for those who want to enjoy Crete at leisure—no rushing, just enjoying the views.
• Suitability: Best suited for travelers with a sense of adventure, some driving confidence, and an appreciation for vintage automobiles.

Exploring Crete in a Classic BMW: A 12-Hour Scenic Ride

If you’re looking for a way to add a touch of elegance and fun to your time in Crete, riding in a BMW 318i Cabrio for a full day is a surprisingly attractive option. Unlike typical tours that are rigid in schedule, this experience gives you the freedom to create your own adventure—be it along the coast with the wind in your hair or inland to discover hidden spots. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the island’s beauty in a stylish vehicle.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

The first thing to love is the classic BMW Cabrio itself. It’s more than just a mode of transport; it’s a conversation piece and a photo magnet. Many reviews mention how fun it is to drive such a select vehicle, with one guest noting how they enjoyed taking “fantastic photos with the car in the background.” The car’s elegant design and open-top feature make it perfect for capturing the stunning landscapes of Crete, whether it’s the rugged coastline or mountain vistas.

Secondly, the flexibility of a full-day drive is a significant advantage. You’re not tied to a schedule, allowing you to stop wherever interests you—perhaps for a quick swim, a local cafe, or a scenic overlook. This laid-back approach is appreciated by travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace, savoring small moments rather than rushing through a busy itinerary.

A Potential Drawback to Keep in Mind

While the experience offers incredible freedom, the cost might be a consideration for some. Priced for a 12-hour rental, it’s not the cheapest way to see the island, especially if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget. Also, since it’s a self-driven tour, it requires some confidence in handling a convertible in possibly winding Cypriot roads, and familiarity with driving on the right side.

Key points / Takeaways

• Photogenic Vehicle: The BMW Cabrio is a stylish and nostalgic choice, perfect for adding flair and capturing photos.
• Customizable Route: You decide your route and stops, making each trip unique.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: The long duration allows plenty of time for spontaneous detours and breaks.
• Hotel Pickup Available: Convenient pickup and drop-off mean less stress planning your day.
• Great Views: The panoramic scenery of Crete combined with the open-top drive creates memorable moments.
• Family and Solo Friendly: The experience suits both solo travelers and couples; groups might find it a fun shared activity.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics: The tour kicks off at a convenient office location, with an option for hotel pickup—handy if you’re based in Rethymno. The full-day format (around 12 hours) provides ample opportunity to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from the lively ports to quiet inland villages.

The Car and Its Charm: The BMW 318i Cabrio is a classic 1990s model, often praised for its smooth handling and stylish appearance. Many reviewers mention how it’s a head-turner, perfect for making your trip photos special. The convertible’s top is easily retractable, so you can enjoy the sun and wind when the weather permits—something you’ll appreciate on Crete’s generally mild days.

What to Expect During the Drive: The experience emphasizes enjoying the scenery at a relaxed pace. You might choose to cruise along the coast, with views of the blue Aegean stretching endlessly, or venture inland to see the more rugged, untouched parts of the island. The open vehicle enhances the sensory experience—smelling the sea breeze, feeling the warmth of the sun, and hearing the sounds of Crete’s rural life.

Photo Opportunities: One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is how well this experience lends itself to creating memorable photos. The car against the backdrop of coastlines, mountains, and traditional villages makes for striking travel shots that you’ll be proud to share.

Who Will Love This Tour? It’s perfect for car enthusiasts, vintage lovers, and those wanting a personalised sightseeing experience. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind handling a manually driven vehicle. It’s less ideal for those who prefer guided tours or have limited driving experience.

Price, Value, and Practical Tips

The cost reflects the full-day nature and the luxurious feel of driving a classic car. For many, the value lies in the authentic experience—a chance to create personalized memories, enjoy Crete’s landscapes in style, and perhaps take some of the best travel photos of their trip.

If you’re considering this experience, I recommend discussing your route preferences with the provider, especially if you want to focus on coastal drives or inland explorations. Being flexible with start times, as availability varies, can also help you fit this memorable ride into your schedule.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This experience is best for travelers who love a touch of nostalgia, enjoy scenic drives, and want a relaxed, personalized way to explore Crete. It’s ideal for those who value authentic moments over scripted tours, and who appreciate a stylish vehicle as part of the adventure. If you’re traveling with a partner or as a small group, sharing the car can make for a fun, memorable day.

On the other hand, if you prefer guided excursions with a structured itinerary or are uncomfortable driving unfamiliar roads, it might be better to consider other options. Also, those on a tight budget might find this experience a splurge, but for many, the memories and photo opportunities are worth the price.

FAQ

Is the BMW 318i Cabrio suitable for all drivers?
While it’s a manageable vehicle, it’s best suited for those comfortable with manual driving and open-top vehicles. The experience is designed for drivers who enjoy driving and want to take charge of their adventure.

Can I choose my route during the 12-hour drive?
The experience emphasizes flexibility, so you can decide your route and stops. It’s a great way to tailor your day based on your interests.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are optional, making logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Rethymno.

What about weather considerations?
Crete enjoys mild weather most of the year, but it’s wise to check the forecast. The open-top design means you’ll want good weather for maximum enjoyment.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While it’s primarily a solo or couples’ activity, families with confident drivers might enjoy it. Keep in mind, the long drive might not suit very young children.

How much does it cost?
Prices are set for the full 12-hour experience, offering a premium, memorable way to see Crete. Consider it a worthwhile splurge if you love classic cars and scenic drives.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Are there any hidden fees?
All costs are generally included, but I recommend confirming if there are any additional charges for extras or specific routes.

Is the car provided with insurance?
While not explicitly mentioned, most rental experiences include basic insurance; double-check with the provider to clarify coverage.

In the end, this 12-hour BMW drive offers a rare blend of freedom, style, and scenic beauty that appeals to travelers craving a relaxed, authentic Crete experience. If you enjoy driving, vintage cars, and panoramic views, it’s worth considering. Just be prepared to embrace the slow pace and the wind in your hair.