Experience the timeless beauty of Crete. From ancient palaces and Venetian harbours to breathtaking coastlines and authentic villages, this journey brings the island’s rich history and natural charm to life. Discover Crete, where ancient civilizations, stunning landscapes, and vibrant Mediterranean culture come together. This 8‑day journey across Crete invites you to discover the island’s most iconic treasures at a relaxed and enjoyable pace. Explore legendary archaeological sites, charming coastal towns, and stunning natural landscapes while experiencing the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of Greece’s largest island.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Knossos: Palace of Minos – Crete’s most iconic archaeological site and the heart of the Minoan civilization.
Heraklion: Archaeological Museum – One of the world’s finest collections of Minoan art and artifacts.
Spinalonga Island: A scenic boat trip to a historic island crowned by a Venetian fortress.
Southern Crete: Panoramic drives through rugged landscapes and traditional villages.
Phaistos & Gortys: Key archaeological sites linking Minoan and Roman heritage.
Matala: A coastal village famous for its rock‑cut caves and relaxed atmosphere.
Imbros & Kourtaliotiko Gorges: Dramatic natural scenery shaped by Crete’s wild landscapes.
Preveli Monastery: A historic monastery perched above the Libyan Sea.
Chania: A charming harbor town reflecting rich Venetian heritage.
Rethymnon: A lively blend of Venetian architecture and local life.
Day 1: ARRIVAL HERAKLION (20km - 20min)
Arrival at Heraklion Airport. Welcome and shared transfer from the airport to your hotel. Free time to settle in and relax after the journey.
Overnight in the Heraklion area.
Day 2: HERAKLION
For guests arriving on Sunday, this day is free at leisure. Enjoy time to relax at the hotel, make use of the facilities, or explore the surroundings independently. This leisure day allows a smooth and unhurried start before the guided program begins.
Guests arriving on Monday are met upon arrival at Heraklion Airport and transferred by shared coach to the hotel. After check‑in, the remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing time to rest after the journey and adjust before the guided program begins.
Overnight in the Heraklion area.
Day 3: HERAKLION: CITY TOUR
Today, visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, offering an excellent introduction to Crete’s Minoan civilisation, with outstanding exhibits from Knossos and other ancient sites. Continue with an orientation of the city of Heraklion, including its Venetian walls and harbour area. Proceed to the traditional village of Archanes, known for its neoclassical architecture and local character and enjoy an authentic Cretan lunch. Later, visit the Palace of Knossos, the most important archaeological site on the island, famous for its complex layout and associations with the legend of King Minos.
Overnight in the Heraklion area.
Day 4: HERAKLION: NORTHEASTERN CRETE ISLAND TOUR (150km – 3hrs)
Travel towards the Gulf of Mirabello, one of the most scenic coastal regions of Crete. From Elounda, enjoy a boat excursion to Spinalonga Island, featuring a well-preserved Venetian fortress and a fascinating layered history. Lunch in Elounda, followed by free time in Agios Nikolaos, a charming seaside town built around a picturesque lake. In the afternoon, return to the hotel.
Overnight in the Heraklion area.
Day 5: HERAKLION – RETHYMNON (200km – 4hrs)
Depart Heraklion and travel south to visit the Palace of Phaistos, one of the most important Minoan archaeological sites, offering impressive views over the Messara Plain. Continue to Matala, known for its distinctive rock-cut caves and relaxed coastal atmosphere. After lunch, visit Gortys, once the Roman capital of Crete, where notable ruins and ancient law code inscriptions can be seen. Continue to Rethymnon.
Overnight in the Rethymnon area.
Day 6: RETHYMNON: SOUTH CRETE ISLAND TOUR (150km – 3.5hrs)
Drive through the impressive Imbros Gorge and continue to Frangokastello, an isolated Venetian fortress overlooking the Libyan Sea. Proceed to Plakias, where free time is available for swimming or relaxing by the beach. Later, visit the historic Preveli Monastery, dramatically located above the coast. Return to Rethymnon via the scenic Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
Overnight in the Rethymnon area.
Day 7: RETHYMNON: WESTERN CRETE ISLAND TOUR (135km – 2.5hrs)
Begin the day with panoramic views from the Venizelos Tombs on the Akrotiri Peninsula. Continue to Chania for a guided visit, exploring its Venetian harbour, old town, and historic covered market.
After lunch, return to Rethymnon, where the remainder of the day is free to explore the old town, fortress, and harbour at your own pace.
Overnight in the Rethymnon Area.
Day 8: RETHYMNON – HERAKLION DEPARTURE (82km – 1hr)
For guests arriving on Sunday, the tour concludes today. After breakfast, a shared transfer is provided from the Rethymnon area to Heraklion Airport according to flight schedules.
For guests arriving on Monday, this day is free at leisure in Rethymnon, allowing time to relax or explore independently before departure the following day.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Greece. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
