Top Crete Holidays - page 3

Discover the Bronze Age city of Knossos and take a sightseeing tour of Heraklion. Knossos was once the capital of the Minoan civilization and is known to be Europe’s oldest city. Enjoy a guided tour of the labyrinthine palace and learn about its history. Then, visit Heraklion, the current capital of Crete, to discover its landmarks including the Lion’s Fountain.

Escape the hum of bustling Crete and get into nature on this full-day trip to pristine Elafonisi, a small island famed for its beautiful pink sands. Soak up the Grecian sun as you explore this protected wildlife sanctuary, enjoying a walk on the sand or swim in the clear, azure waters. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included for your convenience.

Discover the traditions and gastronomy of Crete during your time in Greece when you book this half-day excursion. Head to Tsagkarolon to visit a monastery that makes wine and olive oil and enjoy tastings of each product paired with other local snacks. Then, take a tour of the monastery and its museum to learn more about its importance to the island.

Get off the beaten track into Crete's rugged heartlands in small, personalized groups with a driver. See the Sebronas Gorge and hear the village's dramatic history; see an authentic Cretan Samaria Gorge National Park—and maybe even meet the shepherds; taste different Cretan wines; and savor a restaurant lunch. For ease, your day includes round-trip transfers direct from many Chania area hotels.

Immerse yourself in Crete’s culture and cuisine on this full-day 4WD safari from Chania. Sample fine Cretan wines at a local vineyard, watch a demonstration of traditional knife making, then peek into an olive mill and learn about the island’s famous extra-virgin olive oil. Finally, indulge in a delicious lunch at a local tavern and taste typical Cretan specialties like seafood, feta cheese and savory pies.

Go to hidden-away corners of Crete few travelers get to see with this guided all-terrain vehicle tour. Follow your guide off-road to quiet tracks far from the traffic and crowded resorts. Explore the near-abandoned ghost village of Achlada, where only a few locals still live, and Fodele, the birthplace of El Greco.

With traditional villages and plenty of warm Mediterranean sunshine, the Samaria Gorge is the longest of its kind in Europe—but it’s also a challenging and rewarding hike, considered by many to be among the toughest in Crete. This adventurous full-day combination bus and hiking tour from Chania takes you deep into the gorge itself, where large boulders lie beneath soaring limestone cliffs. Follow a 10-mile (16-km) route though the Samaria Gorge and experience the best of the Crete countryside with a guide.

Time Travel with Knossos: Dive into the captivating history of Knossos Palace, immersing yourself in the tales of ancient civilizations that once graced this extraordinary site. Pedal through history and nature on our comfortable ecobikes, minimizing your environmental impact while enjoying a unique adventure. Wander off the tourist trail and embrace the tranquility of Cretan landscapes, connecting with the island's serenity as you ride. Engage with welcoming villagers, creating meaningful connections that grant you insights into both ancient traditions and modern ways of life. Witness the seamless blend of past and present as you journey from archaeological wonders to charming villages, gaining a holistic understanding of Crete's rich narrative. Choose our Ebike Tour for an experience that transcends time and place. Book now to embark an unforgettable journey through eras and landscapes.

This morning cruise from Rethymno to Georgioupoli Bay unfolds into a day of scenic adventure. Crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, and lush coastal hills stretch along the route, creating views you could admire forever. Our luxury catamaran is elegant and thoughtfully designed to offer complete comfort. Whether you stretch out on a sunbed or settle into a shaded lounge, you’ll always find the perfect spot to savor each moment of the journey. Soft, uplifting music sets a warm and joyful tone throughout the day. Between smiles and melodies, you’ll enjoy Cretan snacks, a light brunch, and a delicious lunch — all included. Espresso, tea, water, soft drinks, and local Greek white wine and beer are available whenever you wish. For those seeking adventure, the sea becomes your playground. Try stand-up paddleboarding, explore underwater life with snorkeling gear, or simply drift on an inflatable noodle. And of course, our iconic pink flamingo float is ready for your next unforgettable photo.

Start your day with a scenic drive to the beautiful Askifou Plateau, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. Highlights: Panoramic Views: Stunning vistas of the plateau and surrounding mountains. Turkish Fortresses: Optional short hike to historic fortifications over 150 years old. Askifou War Museum: One of the largest private WWII collections in Crete. Traditional Cretan Lunch: Savor local dishes at a charming tavern.(MEAL IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE) Winery Tasting: Guided tour and tasting of local wines and in welcoming cellars. A full day of history, culture, and Cretan flavors awaits! SPECIAL NOTES PLEASE NOTICE DURING WINTER MONTHS THE SCHEDULE COULD BE ALTEERED DUE TO THE WEATHER CONDITIONS.

Discover the essence of Cretan charm and heritage on our exclusive private tour from Chania. Explore the timeless Monastery of Gonia, marvel at a 3,000-year-old olive tree in Vouves, and indulge in a wine and olive oil tasting at a renowned winery. With expert guidance and luxury transportation, immerse yourself in the rich history, natural beauty, and culinary delights of western Crete. Optional dinner at a traditional taverna offers authentic wood-fired dishes, completing a day of unforgettable experiences.

This is not just a cooking class or a tasting—it’s a true immersion into Cretan life, flavors, and hospitality. You don’t simply watch; you take part. From preparing traditional Cretan dishes with local ingredients to learning the stories behind each recipe, this experience connects you with authentic culinary traditions passed down through generations. The wine and olive oil tastings are guided and educational, helping you understand local grape varieties, production methods, and how to recognize high-quality extra virgin olive oil—straight from the source, not a tourist setup. What truly sets this tour apart is the personal, small-group experience. There is no rush, no crowds, and plenty of time to ask questions, taste, cook, and enjoy. You are welcomed like a guest, not treated like a visitor. Led by passionate locals who genuinely love Crete, this tour blends hands-on cooking, premium tastings, cultural insight, and warm hospitality into one unforgettable experience.

Private wine tasting organic and natural wines.The Domaine Paterianakis run by women, is the first winery in Crete that produces certified organic wines. Also in the private wine tasting you can have a meeting with the wine maker.

Visit a olive oil factory where we learn all about olive oil production and we get to taste different kind of olive oil . Visit the village of Mochos and walk through the old narrow streets, Enjoy a coffee at the main square. Enjoy the ride with our comfortable air conditioned vehicles while learning about local traditions, history and myths. Visit a family pottery workshop ( OPTIONAL) Stop at a family restaurant up on the mountain to taste a few local dishes ( OPTIONAL) Dive into the Minoan civilization while exploring Knossos Palace .( OPTIONAL) Experience the Greek Myth with us and create memories that will last for ever. We can customize the tour on your wishes and needs so just let us know. We can pick you up from Heraklion port and region if you book the small group tour or the private option.from Rethimno region, Agios Nikolaous and Elounda we can pick you up only if you book the Private option or you are 5 people and more .

The best way to explore Crete is by boat, and this half-day cruise from Hersonissos visits St. George's Bay and the small towns of Malia and Stalis. Set sail aboard a traditional pirate ship, ideal for younger travelers; stop to swim and snorkel at the island’s beaches and bays; spot dolphins and sea turtles along the coast; and tuck into a delicious BBQ lunch on board.

What makes this experience stand out is that nothing here is staged, polished, or dressed up for show. Guests step straight into the real working rhythm of Crete — the groves where families still tend their trees by hand, the micro-wineries where winemakers argue lovingly over harvest dates, the village kitchens where recipes are older than the walls themselves. You’re not shuffled through big factories or tourist traps; you’re welcomed into places that normally open their doors only to neighbours and friends. And because every stop is small-scale and family-run, the day unfolds with the calm pace of old Crete. You taste products made in tiny batches, walk through landscapes shaped by tradition, and share a meal that feels more like Sunday lunch than a tour inclusion. It’s authentic, personal, and grounded in the way things have always been done — a reminder that the island’s true flavour comes from its people, not its brochures.

The island of Crete has been an active winemaking region for centuries – men and women have been growing grapes on the island and turning it into wine since the times of ancient Greece. On this easygoing afternoon tour, visit wineries carrying on that tradition today in a small and intimate tour group. Enjoy exclusive behind the scenes walks through these wineries, sample their wines and learn how to taste them like the professionals on the island.

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.

Douloufakis vineyards are located just a few kilometers outside the city of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Become one with nature, as you walk among the vines and taste grape varieties that have centuries of tradition in Crete. Escape the noise and traffic of the city for a day. Feel the emotion of knowing up closely the plant that produces the wine you have in your glass. Experience the traditional cretan hospitality and learn details about the organic way of cultivating the vineyards. Live the whole cretan experience by combining wine tasting with wonderful, extra virgin olive oil tasting. ** Minimum group size: 2 people. Bookings for fewer participants may be subject to cancellation or rescheduling. Please note that in case of bad weather, “ARISMARI” will be cancelled, but you could always participate in the "YAMAS" Estate Wine Tasting, in the cellar of Douloufakis Winery.

Learn about olive oil, wine, and traditional village life in Crete on this private tasting tour from Heraklion. Visit a family-owned olive oil factory to sample fresh olive oils, explore mountain villages, and optionally stop for lunch on the Lasithi Plateau. Spend the afternoon tasting local wines before returning to Heraklion with included hotel pickup for added convenience.

Combine Cretan history and cuisine on a combo tour of Knossos Palace and tastings of local products. Tour the palace known in Greek mythology as the home of King Minos and the Minotaur, and then visit a local village to sample olive oil, wine raki, and more. Small group size limited to 12 keeps the experience more intimate.

Set sail on a semi-private catamaran cruise from Heraklion to Dia Island for a day of sea, sun, and swimming. Your journey begins with a warm welcome featuring coffee and local pastries. Enjoy stunning coastal views, refreshing sea breezes, and unlimited drinks as we sail. Upon reaching Dia Island, anchor in a secluded bay to swim in crystal-clear waters before indulging in a freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch onboard.

Book reliable transportation in Crete for up to six passengers with this private transfer from the airport to Heraklion. Meet your driver at the airport arrivals hall and receive help with luggage. Travel in a spacious minivan to your hotel or the address of your choice in Heraklion. The reverse route back to the airport is also available.

Enjoy an evening to remember in Crete—and immerse yourself in the local culture, cuisine, and traditions—on this one-of-a-kind excursion. In the evening, travel via shuttle directly from your hotel to a local olive producer, where you’ll see how olive oil (and olive soap) are made, can taste local products (including Cretan wine), and more. Next, enjoy a generous buffet meal, accompanied by Cretan dance and music performances.