Top Crete Culture

Knossos was once the capital of the Minoan civilization, and a must-see site in Crete. Explore the landmark in the company of a guide, who can provide more insights than visiting on your own. Afterwards, enjoy a guided walk around central Heraklion and free time to explore afterwards on your own.

Half a day on land is still plenty of time to pack in the best of Heraklion and its surroundings. Skip taxi lines and public transport for time-efficient transfers to Knossos Palace—once the home of the ancient Minoan civilization—complete with a guided tour. Next, explore the Old Town of Heraklion, before convenient drop-off back in port.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion in Crete—such as an engagement, anniversary, or a birthday—or you simply want to preserve vacation memories, this private photography session is the perfect choice. A professional photographer captures your moments, and you can even rent or purchase a wedding dress if needed (extra charge). Tailored to your preferences, the session is customizable and exclusively for your personal group.

In olden times, people with leprosy were forced to live on Spinalonga, a fortress island in Mirabello Bay. Discover its long history from your guide on this fascinating day trip from the Heraklion area. You'll see Elounda, a resort that's popular with VIPs, visit Agios Nikolaos, known for its deep lake, and enjoy a barbecue lunch on Kolokithia Beach. Entrance fees and boat ticket (with barbecue) are at your expense.

Go beyond Heraklion to visit the island of Spinalonga on a day trip by coach and boat. Offering an easy way to get from the city to the scenic Elounda Gulf area, this excursion covers transport direct from your hotel, a boat ride, and a barbecue lunch, along with ample free time to explore the island (entrance fee not included), Kolokitha Bay, Elounda, and postcard-perfect Agios Nikolaos.

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 .

Knossos palace is Crete’s most visited archaeological site. Discover the most well know myths about the Minotaur and the Labyrinth while walking through the history of the Minoan civilization. The first excavation of the site was conducted in 1878 by Minos Kalokerinos of Heraklion. This was followed by the long-term excavations 1900-1913 and 1922-1930) of the Englishman Sir Arthur Evans, who uncovered virtually the entire palace. While walking through the palace one can admire the Frescoes, pottery and the Throne room. This great civilization was destroyed at the explosion of the volcano of Santorini island. Come with us and our professional guide-archaelogist to learn about the history and the myths that surround this great palace.

Enjoy a walking tour of the island of Spinalonga during a full-day excursion from Elounda to the island. Visit Agios Nikolaos and Elounda and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch. Along the coast through the St. George Gorge to Elounda, a tranquil coastal resort At around 10:30, you will get on board to visit the bay and the beach of Kolokytha, a secluded haven that offers a respite from daily life. You can swim and eat a delicious BBQ on board. Then, you take the boat at around 12:45 to Spinalonga, across Mirabello bay. Spinalonga's history is complex. It was a natural barrier for Olous in Ancient Greek times, a Saracen pirate refuge, a Venetian fortification, and a Turkic settlement. You depart from Spinalonga at appr. 14:45 p.m. Transfer from/to port is not included.Clients go with get your guide code to the boat they don't need to have confirmation

Make the most of your time in Heraklion with skip-the-line entry to the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Bypass the often lengthy queues and explore all 27 galleries at your own pace, discovering exceptional Minoan treasures, ancient sculptures, frescoes, and artifacts that trace Crete’s rich history. Prebooked admission lets you spend more time inside one of Greece’s most important museums.

Skip the line at the Palace of Knossos and choose to explore with a guide on this tour. Collect your ticket at the entrance of the palace and avoid the long wait to go inside. If you wish, join your small group and learn about the labyrinthine Palace of Knossos from your guide. Hear stories about the Minotaur wander the ancient ruins.

Discover the best of South Crete on a full-day trip that blends culture, nature, and authentic local flavors. The experience begins at one of Crete’s top wineries, set among the island’s lush interior vineyards, where guests can enjoy a guided tasting and learn about the traditions behind Cretan wine. The tour continues to the legendary village of Matala, known for its relaxed “hippie” vibe, colorful streets, and stunning turquoise beach. Travelers can swim, sunbathe, or explore the iconic caves carved into the seaside cliffs. A traditional Cretan lunch is served at a local restaurant, prepared with fresh regional products and accompanied by local wine. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and gentle routes, this tour delivers a full day of authentic experiences and the true spirit of southern Crete.

Skip the self-drive stress and relax with a private driver on this comfortable tour of Minoan Knossos and the Lassithi Plateau. Tour the traditional village of Mochos, then see the enormous Platanus Tree in Krasi. Explore the Cave of Zeus and savor plateau views before visiting the Palace of Knossos. Your day includes a honey or raki tasting, but other tickets and food are at your expense.

This private tour includes three stops. First, experience the unique pink sand and postcard-worthy views at Elafonissi Beach. Then it’s on to Chrisoskalitissa Monastery, a 17-century structure built atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea. Finally, tour the Cave of Agia Sofia with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The tour price includes up to seven people.

Step back in time to ancient Minos and immerse yourself in the island’s exciting myths and legends at Minoan’s World Museum and Cinema. With life-sized 3D exhibits, discover the island’s many stories – its rich history and ancient legends – in an interactive and family-friendly way. Then step into the museum’s 9D cinema and thrill at the mythology of Minos, told with a variety of immersive special effects.

Discover scenic villages and dramatic gorges on this fully customizable tour of the Rethymno region. A typical day might begin with Spili village, the Kortialotiko Gorge and the Church of St. Nicholas of Kortialoti. Next, head to the Holy Monastery of Preveli and Preveli Beach with its natural palm forest. Finally, explore Rethymno’s Venetian old town. Your package covers door-to-door private guided transfers: meals and tickets are at your expense.

Check out Crete’s western sites on this day trip from Heraklion with your own private guide. You’ll explore with your own private guide, visiting picturesque villages such as Spili and Plakias, checking out sites like the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and the Holy Monastery of Preveli, and admiring Ottoman and Venetian architecture of Rethymno and Chania. Extra perks include coffee, and a hotel and raki liqueur tasting.

Explore the great outdoors without navigating or planning an itinerary on this private full-day tour from Rethimno. Visit the traditional village of Mochos, see a 2,400-year-old Writers’ Plane Tree at Krasi, and visit an ancient cave thought to be Zeus’ birthplace—Dikteon. The tour also reveals views of the Lasithi Plateau and the impressive Knossos Palace.

Get more out of your time in Crete, and discover the history of the Minoan civilization on a tour of Knossos Palace and the cultural center of Heraklion. You’ll get the lowdown on the exhibits of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and discover one of the locals’ favorite spots for coffee in a cozy city café. Note that entry fees are payable on the day.

Most travelers think they’ve seen Chania after a quick stroll around the Venetian Harbor or a photo by the lighthouse. But what if I told you that the real Chania, the one filled with ancient whispers, Venetian elegance, and traces of many civilizations, hides just a few steps beyond the crowded streets? Many cruise passengers wander on their own and see only the surface. They miss the hidden alleys where history lingers, the Byzantine walls that still guard secrets, and the blend of cultures that shaped Crete’s most enchanting city. Without a local to guide you, it’s easy to leave Chania thinking you’ve seen it all, when you’ve only skimmed the top. That’s why this Walking Tour in Chania is your chance to truly connect with the city. Your guide adapts the experience to your pace and interests, leading you through timeless landmarks and tucked-away corners. In just a few hours, you’ll uncover the Chania that most travelers never get to know.

Visit the former leper colony and Venetian fortress on Spinalonga Island during this private tour. Sail to this rocky island, and explore the streets, houses, and ruined Venetian fortifications where lepers were confined from 1903 to 1957. Then, relax with a swim stop and barbecue lunch before cruising back to port. Return coach transport, the boat ride to Spinalonga, and select hotel pickup and drop-off in north-coast resorts included.

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Chania with our immersive tour and learn about traditional arts and crafts! Begin the day with a traditional local breakfast and witness the art of phyllo-making. Take a leisurely stroll through Chania’s Old Town, guided by a local who will share stories of the city’s rich arts and crafts heritage. Visit a folklore atelier to explore Chania’s cultural traditions. Discover local workshops where skilled artisans revive ancient techniques. Sample renowned Cretan olive oil and thyme honey. Experience modern artistry that blends tradition with innovation. Perfect for those seeking an authentic cultural experience, this tour offers memorable encounters with local artisans. Great for families, too.

A great tour for those on shore excursions, this walking tour of Crete’s capital city Heraklion takes you through the city’s rich history. Visit major sites and monuments like the Archiepiscopal Church of Saint Titus, the Venetian Loggia, Saint Menas Cathedral, the Central Market of Heraklion, Morosini Fountain, and Saint Mark’s Basilica. Your guide can answer any questions you may have.

Explore more of the Samaria Gorge on this long-way hike. Enjoy convenient hotel pickup in Chania and transfer by air-conditioned vehicle to Omalos, where you can refuel with an optional breakfast (own expense). Then enjoy a 10.2-mile (16.5-kilometer) hike from Xyloskalo to Agia Roumeli at your own pace, with your escort-guide following behind to ensure your safety.

Hit Heraklion’s highlights in just half a day direct from your accommodation (or cruise ship) when you book this private tour, with skip-the-line tickets to the iconic Palace of Knossos. Your licensed guide will showcase details from lighting to drainage that bring this lost civilization to life. Next, discover the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (own expense) and its Minoan collection; finally, explore Heraklion, including the fortress, cathedral, market and Venetian Walls.