Top Crete Holidays - page 5

Welcome to the charming and enchanting world of the traditional villages of Lasithi Plateau. Nestled high in the mountains of Crete, this picturesque region is a treasure trove of history, culture and natural beauty. Join us on a journey back in time as we explore the quaint villages that have preserved their authenticity and way of life. Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to visit an olive oil mill, taste different kind of local olive oils, to have a Greek coffee, wine and raki in a traditional caffe, to interact with the friendly villagers, learn about their way of life, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region. So, come with us and experience the magic of Lasithi Plateau's traditional villages – a journey that will surely leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the past. As you depart, you'll take a piece of this magical journey with you, forever reminding you of the beauty that lies within the heart of Crete.

This private winery tour includes hotel pickup and guided visits to one of three local wineries near Peza in central Crete, depending on daily availability. Visit Lyraraki, Titaki, or Digenaki winery, each producing wines in traditional Cretan methods. Taste house wines, olive oils, and local cheese in the vineyard. Vegetarian menus are available on request.

Discover the picturesque villages of Crete and the local wine scene during a private full-day tour. Combine sightseeing and vineyard visits during this itinerary focused on the flavors of Crete. Explore two wineries and experience a guided tasting of several different kinds of wine. Relax over a meze-style meal at a traditional tavern and admire the view while learning about Cretan gastronomy. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.

Learn about Cretan wine from a passionate local expert on this fun tour of the family-owned boutique Menexes Winery. Tour the winery, learning about the different stages of production all the way through to barrel ageing, then enjoy a tutored tasting of four different wines accompanied by cheese, charcuterie and crackers.

We invite you to join an exciting private tour of Chania that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the beautiful island of Crete. Over the course of 4-5 hours, you will immerse yourself in the region's history and culture, enjoy breathtaking views, and taste some of the finest local wines. - Monastery of the Holy Trinity: Your journey begins with a visit to this famous monastery, where you'll enjoy an engaging tour and a tasting of exquisite Cretan wines made by the monks. - Next, we'll ascend to a viewpoint offering stunning vistas of Chania and its surroundings. It's the perfect spot for memorable photos. - Take a break in a cozy local café, savoring a cup of coffee or freshly squeezed juice while sampling delicious local sweets. - Walk through the narrow streets of the old town, discover its historic buildings, charming shops, and the central market filled with local products and souvenirs.

8 of the highest quality Greek wines that stand out from the competition. An 8-course Cretan feast made only with locally sourced 100% organic ingredients. Experience this journey while inside Zourida Gorge on a stone-built balcony. Tutored explanation of Greece’s local winemaking heritage.

Embark on a voyage through time with this full-day olive oil, wine, and beer private tour. Follow in the footsteps of Cretan generations, uncovering their ancient traditions and modern production techniques. Explore three unique sites: visit an olive oil factory, take part in wine tastings and beer samplings during your winery tour, and savor an exquisite local lunch. Your journey will be completed by visiting either the 13th-century Monastery or Maleme Airfield from World War II before returning home.

Board a luxury catamaran in Panormos, headed for Bali Bay—a sheltered stretch of Crete's northern coast where rocky reefs, seagrass meadows, and underwater statues make for some of the best snorkeling in the region. En route, enjoy snacks, drinks and a full Mediterranean lunch prepared with local ingredients, try your hand at paddleboarding, or simply relax on deck and enjoy the view.

In this route we will explore the Central side of Crete following the paths of Cretan history where we will get to know the traditional way of life and learn everything about the production of the famous Cretan olive oil as well as Cretan Wines. We will visit the shepherd's house participating in the cheese production process and finally we will enjoy an amazing meal in a traditional tavern making ourselves Cretan sweets.

Join a semi-private 4×4 safari from Rethymno through Crete’s rugged mountains. Discover hidden villages, historic monasteries, and panoramic views. Taste hand-picked local wines, fresh extra-virgin olive oil, and traditional shepherd-made cheese, then enjoy a hearty Cretan lunch in a family-run tavern — an unforgettable journey combining adventure, culture, and authentic flavors.

Authentic local experience – Visit family estate, raki distillerie, and olive oil producer where traditions are still passed down through generations. Indigenous Cretan varieties – Taste wines made from local grape varieties you won’t easily find outside Crete. Meet the producers – Speak directly with the people behind the wine, raki, and olive oil and hear their personal stories. Educational but relaxed – Learn how to taste wine and olive oil properly in a friendly, easygoing atmosphere. Small groups – A more personal experience with time for questions and interaction. Cultural insight – Discover how wine, raki, and olive oil are deeply connected to Cretan history, cuisine, and everyday life. Off-the-beaten-path locations – Enjoy tastings in beautiful countryside settings away from crowded tourist spots. Yamas-Cheers!

This experience blends history, mythology, nature, and gastronomy in a single unforgettable day. You'll walk in the footsteps of the Minoans, stand beneath the sacred Mount Giouhtas where Zeus is said to rest, and taste Crete's rich agricultural heritage through private wine tastings and traditional cuisine. Led by a local expert, this tour offers exclusive access, authentic encounters, and deep cultural insight — far beyond the typical tourist path.

Learn more about wine and olive oil in Crete with this 1.5-hour tasting at Digenakis Winery in Arkalochori in central Crete. Enjoy a tour of the winery, learn about wine production, and savor samples of five different wines, along with olive oil, and a selection of local foods in a scenic setting.

Explore the Art of Wine Tasting at AVLI Malia - Experience an exclusive wine tasting in our elegantly designed wine cellar. Each private wine tasting that we organize is conducted by our certified Sommelier. Choose between your exquisite flights featuring Cretan and Greek wines, each offering a unique journey through the rich flavours of local vineyards. Discover five or eight wines from celebrated varieties like Thrapsathiri and Xinomavro, accompanied by individual platters featuring premium Greek delicacies from our kitchen, with most ingredients coming from our organic farm. Each session promises an intimate atmosphere, allowing you to savour the essence of Greece's wine heritage and enjoy the best of its culinary delights.

Arrival at Vassilakis Estate & greet your guide Tour of the olive press with Vassilakis family member: - Viewing of the original 1865 museum-piece hand-operated press and description of how olive oil used to be made - Viewing of the working olive mill and description of how olive oil is made today Cretan wine-tasting session with a qualified sommelier & appetizers (at the visitors’ building): - Professional tasting of 5 different Cretan wines accompanied with a generous selection of local Cretan delicacies Free time for photos and questions

Immerse yourself in an exquisite wine tasting event featuring a curated selection of local wines. Each session lasts 45 minutes and offers an intimate exploration of two whites, two reds, and a delightful dessert wine. Sample delicious pairings like kalamata olives and prosciutto skewers while enjoying the ambiance with a small group of fellow wine enthusiasts. With sessions available on Thursdays, this is the perfect evening outing to savor great flavors and expand your palate.

Description: Arrival at Vassilakis Estate & greet your guide Tour of olive press with Vassilakis family member: • Viewing of the original 1865 museum-piece hand-operated press and description of how olive oil used to be made • Viewing of the working olive mill and description of how olive oil is made today Expert-led olive oil and wine tasting session with appetizers: • Professional tasting of 4 different olive oils: how experts judge olive oil quality & learn how to recognize it for yourself. Includes appetizers. • Professional tasting of 5 different Cretan wines (red, white, rosé & dessert), accompanied with a generous selection of local Cretan delicacies. Receive your luxury souvenir gift. Free time for questions and photos.

Begin your journey at the Palace of Knossos, where Minoan myths and legends come to life. Explore the vibrant frescoes, the Throne Room, and the grand Central Court. Continue to a local winery nestled in the Cretan countryside, tasting exquisite wines from indigenous grapes like Vilana and Kotsifali. Learn about Crete’s olive oil production and sample premium extra virgin olive oil. End your day with a hearty meal at a traditional tavern, savoring local dishes, wine, and the warm Cretan hospitality.

Combine sightseeing with wine tasting in Heraklion on this private tour on an eco-bike. Cover more ground with less effort and visit and attractions such as the Cathedral of St. Minas, Lion’s Fountain, Agios Titos Church, and the Old Venetian Harbor in between stops to sample wine and learn about Crete’s wine heritage and viticulture.

Discover the authentic taste of Crete at a boutique winery in the countryside of Vatolakkos. This immersive experience takes you straight to the heart of the winemaking process. Guided by passionate local experts, you'll go behind the scenes to explore the production area and the aromatic aging cellar. Learn how strict guidelines and international expertise shape the rich Cretan terroir into perfect vintages. After exploring the facilities, relax in our beautiful garden and indulge in a hand-picked tasting of five exceptional regional wines, perfectly complemented by traditional local snacks.

Step into the roots of Crete with a visit to the Ancient Olive Tree of Vouves, one of the oldest living trees in the world, still bearing fruit after more than 3,000 years. Next, explore a local olive oil factory, where you’ll witness the process of turning freshly harvested olives into award-winning extra virgin olive oil. Learn about Cretan olive farming traditions and enjoy a guided tasting of aromatic oils. From there, we head to a craft brewery tucked into the scenic countryside. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, and taste a flight of local beers. Your day ends with a relaxed Cretan meal served right at the brewery — homemade, seasonal, and paired perfectly with your favorite brew. Perfect for foodies, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts. This tour blends history, tradition, and flavor into a delicious, easygoing experience — perfect for foodies, beer lovers, and culture seekers alike.

This private tasting offers more than just great flavors — it’s an authentic journey into Crete’s culture, history, and hospitality. What makes it truly special is the personal connection: you’ll be welcomed like a friend, not a tourist, as you explore family-crafted wines and the island’s signature spirit, tsikoudia.

Discover the Wines of Crete: Lyrarakis & Titakis Wineries with Lunch in Archanes Join a small-group half-day tour through Crete’s celebrated Peza Valley and visit two of its most iconic family-run wineries—Lyrarakis and Titakis. Taste 10 premium wines made from rare indigenous grape varieties, explore vineyards and cellars, and learn about the island’s winemaking traditions. Finish your experience with a full-course Cretan lunch in the charming village of Archanes. Ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and curious travelers looking for an authentic taste of Crete beyond the beaches. ✅ Small group (max 7) ✅ Guided wine tastings at both wineries ✅ Traditional Cretan lunch included ✅ Round-trip transfers from Heraklion Prefecture

This experience combines two completely different sides of Crete in one relaxed half-day journey: the island’s growing craft beer culture and one of its most peaceful hidden spiritual sites. Rather than focusing only on a brewery visit, the tour pairs an award-winning craft beer tasting experience with the hidden Cave of St. John the Hermit, creating a refreshing balance between flavor, local stories, and nature. The first stop introduces guests to Crete’s modern brewing scene through fresh unfiltered beers, local ingredients, and small Cretan snacks in a scenic countryside setting. The journey then shifts into a completely different atmosphere, where a short walk leads into the sacred cave and its peaceful monastic surroundings. This contrast between contemporary local craftsmanship and centuries-old spiritual heritage makes the experience feel fresh, authentic, and unlike standard tasting tours.