Top Crete Historical Tours - page 11

Discover the authentic heart of Crete on a private countryside tour through the Apokoronas region. Your day begins with pickup from your Chania accommodation by a friendly, English-speaking driver in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. – 100% Private & Customizable – Hotel Pickup & Drop-off in Chania Your first stop is Stilos, a peaceful village with natural springs and citrus groves—perfect for soaking in the mountain air. Next, explore Fres, a quiet gem at the foot of the White Mountains, where locals relax in the charming square. Continue to Vryses, known for its riverside setting and serene lake, then enjoy a unique olive oil tasting experience, learning about ancient cultivation methods and seeing a 2,500-year-old olive tree. End your journey in Gavalohori, a traditional village with stone alleys and well-preserved architecture. Sip coffee or raki in the square before heading back to Chania, full of new memories and appreciation for Crete’s rich countryside.

Explore the historical city center of Heraklion through the lens of your camera and capture unforgettable memories on this guided walking tour. Accompanied by your expert selfie escort, discover the fascinating blend of past and present in one of Crete’s most vibrant cities. Walk along charming alleys and monumental squares where myths, history, and local traditions come alive. From legendary landmarks to hidden photogenic corners, this tour is a perfect mix of cultural immersion and fun photography. Highlights Stroll through the heart of Heraklion, with expert commentary on its rich history and myths. Visit Saint Minas Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Greece. Enjoy a stop at Lion’s Square, where you’ll taste the famous Cretan Bougatsa with local raki. See Tito’s Church, Heraklion Town Hall, and Koules Fortress, along with impressive Venetian monuments. Learn insider selfie tips to capture the best angles with historic backdrops.

From quality local produce to postcard-perfect beaches in western Crete. This full tour showcases the area's best bits, with wine tasting at Karavitakis Winery, sampling organic olive oil at the Biolea Estate and relaxing on Falassarna beach. The day starts with some viticulture on a guided tour of the family-run Karavitakis Winery. Delight your taste buds by sampling local wine and tasty snacks at the state-of-the-art visitor center. Next, you'll be taken to the Biolea Estate, a family-owned olive oil factory that produces organic olive oil. Find out everything you need to know about olive oil production, from how the olives are grown to how the oil is pressed and then bottled. You'll then head for lunch to a traditional Cretan restaurant by the sea, where food is prepared using locally sourced products. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing on the blond sands of blissful Falassarna beach, which, says Vasso, ‘has been voted as one of the best beaches in Europe several times'.

Experience the minoan treasures of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum at your own pace with a pre-booked e-ticket and audio tour as well as a self-guided tour of the majestic city of Heraklion on your smartphone. Receive your ticket by email, download the app and the audio tours on your phone, prior to your visit, and travel back in time to experience the glory of one of the most visited attractions of Crete, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the historic city of Heraklion. Put on your headphones and explore the Phaistos Disc, Koules and the Morosini Fountain through the power of storytelling and learn historical information and uncommon stories and anecdotes from the ancient times till the fascinating present of the city of Heraklion and its amazing museum. Tours’ content is the result of in-depth research, squeezed into brief original stories that will make your visit both engaging and informative. The audio tours can be used repeatedly and anytime, before or after your visit.

Meet your guide at the terminal of Cretan Spiti Travel, across from the entrance of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, in front of Hari’s Creperie, at 11:30 to start your visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the second largest in Greece after the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. The tour begins with the oldest findings of Crete, dating back to 6000 BC, followed by the highlights of the Minoan palaces of Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, and Zakros, and continues with artifacts from cemeteries, shrines, and houses, ending with the magnificent Minoan frescoes of Knossos. Return to the Cretan Spiti Travel terminal at 13:30.

Half-day trip to the northeast of Crete, visiting the impressive Melidoni Cave, the traditional pottery village of Margarites, and the historic Arkadi Monastery. Short stop for photos at the scenic Potamon Dam before returning to Rethymno around 15:00.

The most famous landmark of Crete, Knossos, is the absolute “must” for everybody who decides to spend his or her vacation on our beautiful island. On one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Greece, we find the center of one of the most powerful civilizations of the ancient world and through the excavations, the legends and the history of the place we learn about its settlers: the Minoan people, the rulers of the Mediterranean. 10:00 Arrival in Knossos Palace 12:00 Departure from Knossos Palace 12:10 Arrivalin Patsides – Minoan Farm 13:00 Arrival in Heraklion 15:30 Departure from Heraklion

Join us for a fun day trip by bus to Agios Nikolaos! Sit back and enjoy the beautiful countryside views as we take you to this lovely coastal town in Crete. Agios Nikolaos is a small, charming town known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning scenery. It is famous for Lake Voulismeni, a deep lake in the center of town, surrounded by cafes and restaurants. According to local myths, the goddess Athena used to bathe in its waters!

Matala, a safe natural harbor, 65 kilometers from Heraklon, on the Bay of Messara, blessed with a gently sweeping sandy beach, where Zeus swam ashore in the disguise of a bull with Europa on his back. The beach is 250m long and 45m wide. Matala has something for everyone. It has become a popular tourist destination but still retains the character of a quiet fishing village. it started at the beginning of the 20th-century, and goes back to the lifestyle of the hippies of the 60’s and 70's lives on. There have been many pages of history here. Matala it is one of just over 400 beaches in Greece that have been awarded a Blue Flag. This exclusive eco-label is given to beaches that offer cleanliness and safe bathing areas and has strict criteria dealing with water quality, environmental management and safety. There is a lifeguard and first aid facilities, as well as toilets and showers. The beaches of Matala, come under Natura 2000, a European Union network of nature protection.

Meet your guide at the terminal of Cretan Spiti Travel, across from the entrance of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, in front of Hari’s Creperie, at 11:30 to start exploring the historical city center of Heraklion. Travel through time with your expert tour host and discover a city that combines old and new — the site of the 7th labor of Hercules, the birthplace of painter El Greco and writer Nikos Kazantzakis. On this tour, hear fascinating stories about Heraklion's turbulent past and visit legendary churches, fountains, and monuments such as Saint Minas Cathedral, Lion’s Square (stop to taste traditional Cretan bougatsa and raki), Saint Titus Church, Heraklion Town Hall, Koules Fortress, and other Venetian buildings. Enjoy photo opportunities and experience the local atmosphere of this vibrant city. Return to the Cretan Spiti Travel terminal at 14:00.

Start your day with a comfortable hotel pick-up and a scenic drive through picturesque villages and mountains of Crete, with stops for photos along the way. Visit the elegant town of Agios Nikolaos to stroll along the lake and marina or relax with sea views, continue with stunning sights of Elounda Bay and the Mirabello Gulf, and arrive in the village of Plaka to board a traditional boat to the historic island of Spinalonga, where you can explore the Venetian fortress and learn about its past as a leper colony. Conclude the day with a mountain drive through Fourni, enjoying panoramic views and authentic Cretan life and cuisine, before returning to your hotel with lasting memories of Crete’s history, landscapes, and hospitality.

This tour starts with a drive along the north coast of Crete towards the east of the island. Your first visit will be to the small and lively town Agios Nikolaos where you can spend some free time at the lake, the harbor or the numerous little shops and bars. After that we drive to the village Elounda. From there we continue by boat to sail over to the island Spina Longa. There you can travel through the Venetian and Turkish periods, roam through the old houses and alleys and explore the fortress to arrive at a more recent and moving part of history: The first half of the 20th century when Spina Longa was the last Leper Colony of Europe. After your visit to Spina Longa you have 2 hours of free time to stroll through the small seaside village Elounda, have a refreshing swim or enjoy the local cuisine.

Melidoni Cave – History Beneath Explore striking chambers while learning about the cave's role in Cretan mythology and its heroic resistance. Kalamas Village – Cooking with Grandma Here, you’ll enter a local home and learn how to prepare the traditional Anevati Pita during a hands-on cooking session, guided by a warm-hearted Cretan “grandma” eager to share her secrets. Arkadi Monastery – Symbol of Freedom Visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, a powerful monument of Crete’s resistance during the 1866 revolt. Discover its deep historical meaning and admire its serene setting and Venetian architecture. Amari Valley & Saint Anthony Gorge Pass through Amari Valley with views of Mt. Psiloritis. Enjoy traditional meze at Thronos, then head to Saint Anthony Gorge for a Greek coffee and a walk to a hidden rock chapel. The menu includes: Dakos, fried potatoes, fava, dolmadakia, tzatziki, pork & chondros with potatoes and zucchini. Wine (500 ml) & food will be served on plates for 4 people.

The most famous landmark of Crete, Knossos, is the absolute “must” for everybody who decides to spend his or her vacation on the beautiful island. On one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Greece, we find the center of one of the most powerful civilizations of the ancient world and through the excavations, the legends and the history of the place we learn about its settlers: the Minoan people, the rulers of the Mediterranean. 10:00 Arrival in Knossos Palace 12:00 Departure from Knossos Palace 12:10 Arrivalin Patsides – Minoan Farm 13:00 Arrival in Heraklion 15:30 Departure from Heraklion

On this excursion you will visit the oldest monastery in Crete, the historic Arkadi Monastery, which played a major role in the liberation of the island from the Turks. We continue to the village of Margarites, one of the largest pottery centers in Greece. There you will have the opportunity to admire the handmade ceramics and learn the secrets of pottery and tradition. Don't forget to taste the local Cretan cuisine in the picturesque town of Rethymnon, overlooking the beach.

Start your winter day trip in the fishing village of Plaka, one of the most beautiful places in Eastern Crete. From here, you can admire Spinalonga Island, standing quietly in the calm waters of Mirabello Bay. If the weather allows, take a short boat trip to Spinalonga.Walk through the old Venetian fortress and discover the stories of the people who once lived there. The atmosphere is peaceful full of history. After your visit, continue to Agios Nikolaos, the charming capital of Lassithi. In winter,the town is calm and welcoming.Walk around Voulismeni Lake, explore local shops. Returning we stopped at a traditional olive oil park. See how locals produce extra virgin olive oil and taste other Cretan products made from olives. This visit offers a warm genuine experience of local life and flavors. This half-day tour combines history, culture,things to do and see, and authentic Cretan taste for travelers who wish to discover the real Crete in a simple,comfortable and friendly way.

What makes this tour unique is its precision. In just 90 minutes, it strips away the superficial and focuses on what actually shaped Heraklion: power, trade, religion, and daily survival. You don’t just pass monuments; you understand why they exist. From the fortress that controlled the harbor to the church that changed faiths with each new ruler, the narrative is direct and grounded in historical reality—not folklore dressed for tourists. It also refuses to stage the city. The walk moves through real working streets, the central market, and along fortifications built for war, not aesthetics. The experience ends the traditional way, with proper Greek coffee—slow, unfiltered, and intentional. It’s concise, historically rigorous, and rooted in how the city has always lived. No filler, no theatrics—just Heraklion as it truly is.

The tiny island of Spinalonga is just a short hop away from Crete, but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle it. See it through the eyes of a local on this exclusive full day tour, which also takes in two coastal towns on Mirabello Bay. Veta, one of our guides, says, 'You'll visit the pretty fishing village of Elounda and the seaside town of Agios Nikolaos. You'll try some typical Cretan food in a taverna, too.' Spinalonga has been many things throughout its existence, including a Venetian outpost and an Ottoman town. It was even a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘Isle of Tears'. You'll take a walk with our local guide, who'll lead you along narrow lanes of long-abandoned roofless dwellings and show you around the fortress and the colony, which closed in the 1950s. What's more, you'll beat the crowds by arriving early on the first ferry of the day.

Join us on a journey through history and nature! Meet your tour leader at Cretan Spiti Travel terminal in front of Hari’s Creperie, at 08:30, or at the Heraklion Port at 09:00 for cruise ship guests. Our first stop is the archaeological site of Phaistos, a key city of the Minoan civilization. You'll have 45 minutes of free time to explore and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside. Next, we head to the village of Matala, with its golden sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and the famous caves carved into the cliffs. Spend 1 hour 45 minutes swimming, relaxing, or strolling through village’s colorful streets, full of history and character. At 13:45, we arrive in the village of Zaros, known for its fresh spring water and natural beauty. Here, you’ll have 2 hours to enjoy an optional lunch of local specialties, take a walk by Lake Votomos, and visit the traditional watermills that mark the area’s heritage. We return to Heraklion, arriving at the meeting point by 17:00.

Aegina has a unique blend of ancient mythology, fascinating political history and island charm, just an hour from Athens. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover how this picturesque island was chosen as the first capital of modern Greece and why it continues to captivate visitors with its neoclassical buildings, historic landmarks, and vibrant local culture. The tour starts at the port, beside the charming white-washed Chapel of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors. You’ll explore important sites from when Aegina was Greece’s first capital in 1828, including the Governor’s House where Ioannis Kapodistrias lived, and the First Cathedral of Free Greece (also known as the Metropolis of Aegina or the Cathedral of Aegina). The tour ends at the Nautical School of Aegina, offering the best view of the town stretching across the harbour.

Heraklion is the capital of Crete and one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in the Mediterranean with many historical monuments to visit and places to discover. Knossos is one of them, the mythical labyrinth and ancient capital of Minoan Crete, with a history aging more than 5000years ago. Take this tour and combine a visit to the vibrant city center and to the Palace of the Minoan Civilization.

Knossos Palace is the most famous site in Crete and a must-visit. This ancient palace was the center of the powerful Minoan civilization, which dominated the Mediterranean. Explore its maze-like corridors, hear the legends of King Minos and the Minotaur, and admire the mural room, royal tombs, and advanced drainage system, all showcasing the brilliance of Minoan engineering. After your visit, head to Patsides village to explore the Minoan Farm. Taste local products, walk through fields of Cretan herbs, and learn about beekeeping while sampling pure Cretan honey, known for its rich flavor and health benefits. Return to Heraklion for a guided city walk, then enjoy free time to shop, relax at a café, or explore cultural highlights like the Archaeological Museum, medieval buildings, or the Koule Fortress with its stunning harbor views. An unforgettable journey through Crete awaits.

The Samaria Gorge trail is a unique hike in the pure Cretan nature. It is a long rocky path that passes through stunning rock formations and crosses the river before exiting to the sea. This is the longest gorge of Greece (16Km / 10 miles) and one of the most beautiful gorges in Crete. That's why is a National Park of Greece since 1962, a protected area and a World's Biosphere Reserve.

Book a hike in the stunning countryside of Crete, a smooth hike of 5 hours, with no big ascents mostly on flat, easy terrain. Highlights of the hike are the endless olive grove fields, the ruins of the Ancient Eleftherna and the Hellenistic bridge. An interest hike at the interiors of the Island, under the shadow of the highest and most mythical Mountain of Crete, Psiloritis Mt. (Ida mountain). You will have the chance not only walk through the beautiful countryside of Rethymno, but also to meet and interact with the locals on a traditional ''Kafenio'' at the villages of Milopotamos region.