Not expensive to enter, a leaflet guide sheet, which is enough. We were a group of 8, ranging in age from 5 to over 70 and even the 13 year old enjoyed the visit - said 'This isn't like a museum' [until we went in the museum room!] He was interested in the room where villages blew themselves up instead of allowing the Ottomans to capture them. Museum is interesting and the gold embroidery is stunning. Cafe opposite is worth a stop

The atmosphere is so strange.............. If you go arund yu will feel it better. The monastery played an active role in the Cretan resistance to Ottoman rule during the Cretan revolt of 1866. 943 Greeks, mostly women and children,[1] sought refuge in the monastery. After three days of battle and under orders from the hegumen (abbot) of the monastery, the Cretans blew up barrels of gunpowder, choosing to sacrifice themselves rather than surrender. The monastery became a national sanctuary in honor of the Cretan resistance. 8 November is a day of commemorative parties in Arkadi and Rethymno. The explosion did not end the Cretan insurrection, but it attracted the attention of the rest of the world.Source: Wikipedia

The journey up the the mountain to visit the monastery has some great views and lots of winding roads. On entering you can get a guide showing on the map all the places of interest, a lot were inside so it gave needed rest from the sun. Its a really interesting place with plenty to see.

We stayed near Arkadi so we took the kids to the monastery during the middle of the day to avoid the midday sun and I’m really glad we did. The monastery is incredibly well preserved and absolutely stunning. There is a small entry fee, I think it was 4 euros, and there is a small gift shop, otherwise you can wander the grounds and many areas at will. There are museum rooms, beautiful covered arched walkways, art gallery’s and a stunning chapel. It wasn’t particularly busy and there was a cafe but we didn’t go there. The views from the building opposite the monastery are spectacular. A lovely couple of hours.

Interesting history and well worth a visit. Peaceful garden. If you are in Rethymno you could probably combine this trip with the archaeological museum at Eleutherna. If you are driving, turn left at the unusual paved road - that's the entrance. Lots of parking. The on-site taverna is in a lovely spot overlooking the valley to the sea with a nice breeze. Somewhat bizarrely, they also have an ostrich there.