Day Trips from Greece to Crete

Meet your guide and set off on a safari-style tour of the Cretan countryside. Travel in a 9-seater van and visit stone-built mountain villages, the Amari Valley, and Lake. Walk through the Agios Antonios Gorge and a drive with the minivan up to the village of Karines at an altitude of 900 meters, where we will admire the wonderful view of Crete’s highest mountains, Psiloritis and Lefka Ori, as well as the north and south seas. Continue through the dramatic Kourtaliotis Gorge and stop for photos. Head to the famous Preveli Beach and explore the stunning palm forest and river. Continue along Crete’s southern coastline, revealing wild sandy beaches and hidden coves. Visit Triopetra, the famous beach known to locals for its three iconic rocks in the sea. Swim and feel the magical energy of this place. On the way back, stop at Spili, your guide’s village, famous for its fresh spring water at a constant 13°C.

Discover Crete's heritage on a private day trip from Rethymno. Visit Ancient Aptera, enjoy breathtaking views from Venizelos Graves, explore Chania’s charming Old Town with a guided walk and traditional lunch, and end your day tasting premium olive oil at Kanakis Olive Mill. -Explore the archaeological site of Ancient Aptera overlooking Souda Bay -Enjoy stunning panoramas from Venizelos Graves viewpoint -Guided walking tour and free time in picturesque Chania Old Town -Authentic Cretan lunch in a traditional taverna -Taste award-winning olive oils at Kanakis Olive Mill

Private transfer to Chora Sfakion Spend a day in the stunning landscapes of the Samariá Gorge.Upon arrival, board the ferry to Agia Roumeli, and reach the south end of Samariá Gorge, where you can take some spectacular hikes through the rocks. Benefit from the opportunity to walk up to the Iron Gate at the narrowest part of the gorge, and enjoy some free time for a refreshing swim and to enjoy lunch on arrival. You can walk as much, or as little as you want, making it suitable for families with children as well as adventurous travelers. Hike through breathtaking landscapes, keep an eye out for the rare kri-kri goat, and take a break to swim in the inviting waters followed by free time to relax before returning by ferry. - Private luxury minivan transfer from your hotel to Chora Sfakion - Scenic hike through Samaria Gorge with breathtaking views - Opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy lunch - Suitable for families and adventurers, with flexible hiking options

Start your day with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Rethymno and set off on a scenic drive to Elafonisi Beach. Arrive at Elafonisi Beach and spend 4 hours of free time at one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning locations. Swim in the crystal-clear turquoise and green waters, relax on the pink sand, and soak up the sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask your driver for a snorkeling mask and explore the underwater world. After your time at the beach, sit back and relax on the return journey to Rethymno, arriving back at your hotel around 5:45 PM.

Step away from the busy tourist spots and discover the real heart of Crete with a private journey through its traditional villages and untouched landscapes. This experience takes you off the beaten path, into places where time seems to stand still and local life carries on as it has for generations. Stroll through stone-paved alleys, admire centuries-old houses, and meet welcoming locals who still preserve the customs and traditions of the island. Taste authentic Cretan flavors in shepherd’s house, sip some homemade wine and raki, and learn about the island’s deep connection to nature, olive oil, and vineyards. Your private guide will share stories of history, culture, and daily life while you explore hidden corners, quiet chapels, and breathtaking mountain views. This is the perfect tour for travelers who wish to experience Crete away from the crowds and connect with its genuine soul. Let us craft the perfect itinerary for you, where every moment feels like a discovery.

What makes this experience unique is the opportunity to explore the wild and authentic side of southern Crete, far from the usual tourist routes. The journey combines scenic off-road driving through the dramatic Asterousia Mountains, a visit to the traditional village of Kapetaniana, and a rewarding hike to the hidden Agadiko Beach with its striking shipwreck. Along the way, guests discover untouched landscapes, local culture, and secret coastal spots that few visitors ever experience, creating a truly immersive and memorable adventure.

What sets this tour to the Milatos Cave and Lasithi Plateau apart is the way we go beyond sightseeing and create a truly personal and authentic experience. Instead of just passing through, we take you deep into the heart of Crete—its history, traditions, and everyday life. You’ll not only admire the breathtaking views and iconic windmills, but also step into traditional villages, meet locals, and discover the stories that bring this land to life. From enjoying coffee in a family-run kafeneio to tasting homemade Cretan dishes at a taverna, every stop is chosen to give you a genuine taste of the plateau’s culture. What truly makes this tour unique is the combination of local knowledge, authentic encounters, and hidden gems that most visitors never see. You won’t just visit the Lasithi Plateau—you’ll experience it, leaving with lasting memories and a deeper connection to Crete’s traditions and way of life.

Discover the hidden culinary treasures of Heraklion on a premium electric bike, combining effortless cycling with authentic Cretan flavors. This guided food and wine tour takes you off the beaten path to local eateries where you'll savor traditional 'Meze' plates, including local cheeses, olives, and handmade delicacies. Enjoy a curated wine tasting featuring indigenous grape varieties, all while soaking up the rich history of Heraklion from expert local guides. With small group sizes, this experience feels like an outing with a friend, making it perfect for every level of cyclist.

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

One of the best ways to explore the beautiful island of Crete is by bike! Notice details that are easy to miss from the tourist bus and explore a part of the island that most tourists will never see. All our bikes are in excellent condition. - Road bike is ideal for use on asphalt pavements, for fitness, long-distance trips. - Mountain bike is designed with shock absorbing features and improved brake systems, the mountain bike is suitable for off-road bike tours and mountainous parts of the island.

Your private escort-driver will pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable off-road vehicle for an exciting sightseeing tour through North-Western Crete lasting approximately 1.5hours. Enjoy panoramic views and hear local stories as you travel. After passing Kissamos, you’ll take an off-road route along Gramvousa Peninsula, reaching a spot above Balos Lagoon. From there, a 30-40 minute hike down the mountainside leads you to the stunning Balos Lagoon. Spend two-three hours relaxing on the white sandy beaches, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and exploring the area. The return hike offers plenty of chances for incredible photos of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. This private tour combines off-road adventure with breathtaking scenery for an unforgettable experience.

Experience a full day of luxury and relaxation aboard a private yacht cruise through the beautiful waters of Mirabello Bay. Departing from Agios Nikolaos Marina, this 8-hour experience takes guests along Crete’s stunning coastline with swim stops at crystal-clear bays, hidden coves, and scenic locations around Elounda and Kolokitha Bay. Guests can relax on deck, swim, snorkel, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Cretan sea while taking in views of the historic island of Spinalonga from the water. Onboard amenities include refreshments, snacks, snorkeling equipment, paddleboard, and sea scooter for a complete private yacht experience. Note: For guests seeking an even more exclusive experience, a private chef can be arranged on board at an additional cost. Enjoy freshly prepared dishes tailored to your preferences and elevate your cruise with a refined dining experience at sea.

Sail away on a unique sea adventure from Souda and discover the hidden gems of the bay! Cruise along the beautiful coastline, admire the historic Souda Island, dive into the crystal-clear waters of Almirida, explore impressive sea caves, and relax on the golden sands of Marathi Beach. A perfect escape filled with beautiful scenery, refreshing swims, unforgettable moments, and a touch of Cretan history.

One of Crete's most beautiful beaches, Elafonisi Beach is more than three hours from Heraklion by road. Enjoy space to spread out and skip the self-drive stress when you prebook this private tour, in a comfortable vehicle complete with chilled water. Your chauffeur will collect you direct from your hotel, drive you to Elafonisi with a stop to taste honey or raki along the way, then bring you back.

Explore Crete's natural beauty on this private half-day tour that offers stunning views of the iconic Samaria Gorge and a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Cretan Botanical Garden. Enjoy a scenic drive into the White Mountains, where you'll pause at a viewpoint for breathtaking photos and insights into the gorge's unique ecosystem. Then, immerse yourself in the colorful Cretan Botanical Park, discovering various native plants and fruits. Conclude your visit with an optional light lunch at the garden's tavern while enjoying mountain views. Ideal for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts looking for a relaxed yet enriching experience in Crete's picturesque landscapes. - Private transport from Chania with flexible pick-up times - Scenic stop at Samaria Gorge for stunning photography - Guided exploration of the Cretan Botanical Garden - Option for a light lunch or coffee at the garden's tavern

The mountainous, provincial road climbs the eastern slopes of Psiloritis and offers incredible views of Heraklion and the Cretan Sea. Soon we reach Krousonas and through a dirt road, which runs parallel to the homonymous gorge, to the plateau. The place is beautiful with thousands of pear and apple trees scattered all over. The dirt road will lead us tothe plateau of Nida, where we will visit IdaionAndron, the cave where Zeus was raised. From there, we will head to Anogia for a stop in a traditional kafenion. Our trip continues to Livadia and Psiloritis Chalet Retreat where we will have our cooking lesson – preparing traditional cheese and local specialties. Note: This is not a private tour. Other travellers may also participate.

Delve deeper into the 5,000-year history of Crete on a private sightseeing tour that covers the highlights of the west coast. Taking a private tour allows you to explore the Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada), the Archaeological Site of Ancient Aptera, and Chania Old Town at a pace set by you rather than a large group.

Discover the authentic flavors and natural beauty of Crete on this private half-day tour. Begin your journey at Lake Kournas, the island's only freshwater lake, where you can swim in its clear waters or enjoy a leisurely pedalo ride with stunning mountain views. Next, immerse yourself in Crete's rich culinary traditions with visits to a family-owned olive oil factory and winery. Learn about the production process of world-class olive oil and sample a variety of exquisite local wines, including five different selections at the winery. Throughout the tour, you'll travel in comfort in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with your dedicated guide, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable experience tailored to your preferences.

Discover the Beauty of Agia Lake, Meskla, Zourna & Theriso Experience an authentic journey through Crete's hidden gems!

Experience the heart of Crete on an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes, authentic villages, and hidden plateaus where mythology and local life come alive. Start in a charming mountain village, explore traditional craft shops, and enjoy a refreshing break. Take in spectacular panoramic views over Mirabello Bay before driving through the lush Selakanos Forest to the remote Katharo Plateau, where wild nature surrounds you. Pause at a traditional kafenion, then continue off-road through the exciting “Goat Valley” to a stunning viewpoint above the Lassithi Plateau—perfect for unforgettable photos. Descend for a delicious lunch with unlimited wine in a timeless rural setting. Discover authentic farm life with working donkeys and, on your return, savor a tasting of local olive oil. A day full of adventure, flavors, and unforgettable Cretan moments.

Volanna Travel - Where Dreams become Destinations! There are tours. And then there is this. Forget crowded buses and fixed schedules. Volanna Travel offers something fundamentally different - a private sanctuary on wheels, crafted for those who believe that how you travel matters as much as where you go. Your journey begins at your door - in a jet-black Mercedes-Benz VIP Minivan, Long Edition. Climate-controlled, leather-wrapped, whisper-quiet. Your chauffeur speaks your language: English, Russian, Polish, Ukrainian, Greek. He knows Crete not from a guidebook - but from a lifetime. Elafonissi isn't just a beach. It's where sand turns pink & time slows down. We arrive before the crowds. We stay as long as you want. We leave when you decide. No fixed itinerary. No rush. No compromises. Hidden villages, secret viewpoints, a family taverna tourists never find - your chauffeur knows them all. And when you return, sun-kissed and full of memories = a complimentary Cretan gift box is waiting.

Discover the real Crete with an exclusive journey into its heart. Start at Aposelemis Dam and hear the tales of its hidden villages, then visit Panagia Kera Monastery to admire its historic frescoes. Explore the Lassithi Plateau, with its iconic windmills, and descend into the legendary Cave of Zeus, said to be the birthplace of the king of gods. Rest under the ancient Platanus Tree in Krassi, standing for 2,400 years, and learn the secrets of olive oil at the Omiaia Olive Press. End at the majestic Palace of Knossos, walking through the remnants of the Minoan world. Experience Crete through stories, sights, and flavors that reveal its true soul.

Explore the stunning Kourtaliotiko Gorge on a full-day adventure in Crete’s southern landscape. Depart from your hotel in Heraklion and travel by air-conditioned bus to the charming village of Koxare, the gateway to this natural wonder. Guided hiking through the gorge reveals majestic cliffs, vibrant flora, and the soothing Kourtaliotis River. Experience the serene atmosphere, visit the chapel of Saint Nicholas, and gain insights into the local ecosystem and culture from your knowledgeable guide. This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those looking for an authentic Cretan escape. - Full-day guided hike through the scenic Kourtaliotiko Gorge - Depart from Heraklion with comfortable air-conditioned transport - Visit the historic chapel of Saint Nicholas along the way - Perfect for nature lovers seeking a quiet, authentic experience