Top Crete Day Trips

Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Zeus Cave,Villages, Olive Oil Tour

(358)

Price varies by group size

from US$132

4.0

(126)

Day Tour to Santorini Island from Heraklion Crete

11 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$228

Elafonissi Beach Trip from Chania

(367)

12 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$32

5Hour Safari Tour in Crete(Heraklion)with Quad,Jeep,Buggy & Lunch

(996)

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$107

Likely to Sell Out

4.5

(373)

Samaria Gorge Hiking from Chania with Professional Hiking Guide

14 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$52

4.4

(421)

Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$50

There's no better way to experience Crete's stunning coastline than by gliding through crystal clear waters on a yacht. Take a cruise to the uninhabited island of Dia, where you can explore and make the most of the beautiful sea with equipment provided for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and fishing. There's also the option to sunbathe as your comfortable yacht gently bobs in the turquoise waters. Plus, you'll feel pampered with a delicious lunch of Greek food, fresh fruit, and drinks.

Dia Island Sailing Cruise with Meal and Water Activities

4.7

(529)

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$96

If you like to explore independently but prefer to avoid self-drive, this western Crete tour is ideal. Cover ground you couldn’t hope to cover on public transport and save yourself more than four hours’ driving when you book this convenient trip to historic Rethymno, Venetian Chania and Lake Kournas, Crete’s only freshwater lake. A guide accompanies your bus but you’re free to discover each stop at your own pace.

Day trip to Rethymno, Chania & Kournas lake

3.8

(49)

9 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$52

4.2

(84)

Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion

8 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$40

Likely to Sell Out

With its turquoise waters and pale sands, Balos Beach and Lagoon is one of Crete’s most-photographed locations. Beat the crowds and discover it and Gramvousa Island from the water on this lively catamaran cruise with an onboard entertainer, snacks, brunch, and lunch included—as well as hot drinks, soft drinks, and water. Upgrade for a VIP package, featuring a reserved sunbed and towel on the sunny upper deck, plus priority boarding.

Balos & Gramvousa: Cruise with Meals, Drinks & Transfer

(33)

6 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$186

Step into our air-conditioned minivan for a journey to Elafonisi Beach, a stunning destination in Europe, famous for its pink coral sand and crystal-clear waters. Perfectly suited for cruise ship passengers, our tour begins directly at the Chania-Souda port ensuring a seamless start to your day. As we travel through scenic landscapes, our English-speaking driver-guide will share compelling stories and fascinating facts about the local area. Optional stops for snacks and beverages are available to enrich your journey. On arrival at Elafonisi, a protected EU site adored by millions each year, you'll marvel at the unspoiled white and pink sandy beaches facing the expansive Libyan Sea. A multitude of inviting beach spots provide the perfect setting for relaxation and admiration of this magnificent location. Join us to explore this exceptional highlight of Crete and enjoy a slice of Mediterranean paradise. We offer both private and shared tour options to suit your preferences.

Elafonisi Beach Shore Trip from Chania/Souda: Crete's Pink Wonder

(4)

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from US$83

Price varies by group size

This full-day private tour takes you on a journey through Crete’s flavors, landscapes, and authentic traditions. Begin with a visit to a local honey farm for a sweet start, followed by a scenic stop at the Cave of Agia Sofia for a walk and olive oil tasting. Spend a few hours relaxing at Elafonissi, Crete’s famous pink sand beach, where you can swim, explore, and enjoy nature with umbrellas provided for your comfort. On the way back, you can stop for lunch at a traditional tavern in the mountain village of Elos (optional), before ending the day with a wine tasting at a local family-run winery. With a private vehicle, a friendly English-speaking driver, and flexible timing, this experience offers a perfect mix of nature, gastronomy, and culture.

Private Tour Elafonisi Beach with Honey Olive Oil & Wine Tastings

(16)

Skip the self-drive stress and indulge as much as you want on this full-day trip to Elafonisi Beach, a 90-minute drive from Chania. Stop at Agia Sofia Cave (subject to conditions), a dramatic cave that contains a historic church, then head to the white sands and turquoise waters of Elafonisi Beach. Enjoy the dunes, the lagoon and facilities such as umbrellas, showers and snack bars (own expense), before heading home.

from US$697

Per group

Elafonissi Beach Tour from Chania with stop in Elos Village

(171)

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$34

With its sheer walls and tight passageways, the Samaria Gorge is one of Crete’s most striking natural wonders. With this tour, all the logistics are taken care of so all you need do is complete the challenging 10-mile (18-kilometer) hike. Set off from Chania in early morning and arrive at the trailhead ahead of the crowds. After the guided hike, board a boat back to Chora Sfakion, then a bus back to Chania.

Full Day Samaria Gorge 10-Mile Walking Tour

(52)

14 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$48

On this personalized, small-group up to 6 people per vehicle. Travel in a comfortable 4WD drive vehicle to off-road locations that you wouldn’t be able to access by bus or minibus. Venture from Kaliviani village to a viewpoint above the spectacular Balos Lagoon and then on to Falassarna Beach. As an extra perk, a sunbed is reserved for you on the beach, and lunch is provided at a local restaurant.

Balos & Falassarna Beach - Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch

(345)

from US$198

Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat

(205)

Escape the crowds and explore western Crete on a private, customizable tour to the stunning Elafonisi Beach, famous for its pink sand and turquoise waters. Along the way, choose from optional stops like charming villages, hidden beaches, a honey-tasting experience, or the historic Chrisoskalitissa Monastery. With a flexible itinerary, private transportation, and a local guide, this tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation tailored to your preferences.

from US$180

Elafonissi Beach Private Custom Tour – Crete’s Pink Sand Paradise

4.9

(133)

8 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$481

Per group

Near Chania—on the Greek island of Crete—lies Balos Lagoon, home to crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy beaches. Swim, snorkel, and relax under the warm Mediterranean sun away from the crowds on this full-day small-group catamaran cruise stopping at the lagoon and Gramvousa Island, where you’ll find an old pirate fortress. Hotel pickup is available, and departures are offered on two catamarans with different group sizes.

Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise (small groups up to 10 or 22ppl)

(54)

7 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$144

Head out from Kissamos to explore some of Crete’s most popular natural sights on this full-day catamaran sailing cruise. Sunbathe on the vessel’s deck as you’re transported to the sandy shores of Balos Lagoon, where you can stop for a swim in the warm Mediterranean waters. Then, head to Gramvousa Island, taking in the coastal scenery as you dine on a fresh lunch of salads, meats, and seafood.

Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise from Kissamos

4.9

(117)

7 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from US$234

The 7 Villages of Apokoronas Tour – Explore East Chania Mainland

(186)

6 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$138

Crete Wine and Olive Oil Tour

(278)

6 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$144

Special Offer

From Chania private trip to Spili-Kourtaliotiko-Kalypso beach

(78)

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area

8 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$198

Explore the rugged and wild side of Crete on the off-road adventure tour. Travel comfortably in a Land Rover high up into the Dikti mountain range. By going on an organized tour, you won’t have to worry about getting lost in unmarked rural areas and an experienced driver drives with confidence on the mountain roads. When you’ve worked up an appetite, a delicious local Cretan lunch in a taverna is provided.

Zeus Cave, Lassithi Plateau, Olive Oil Factory, Kritza, Pottery

(364)

7 hoursFree Cancellation

from US$119

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Top Attractions in Crete

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What are people saying about Crete

Elafonissi Beach Trip from Chania

Callum_V, May 2026

Brilliant tour!

Fantastic day trip with brilliant informative tour. Eleanor’s beach was beautiful and 4 hours there was perfect. Other stops were also great including a lovely Souvlaki and goat dish at Elos. Whole day was seamless and Thomas the tour guide and the bus driver made sure we were one of the first buses to arrive at each stop and were ahead of the traffic. Pick ups and drop offs were also great. Would massively recommend.

Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat

Yotam_G, Apr 2026

Amazing

Dimitris was great! Atmosphere was great! Wines and olive oil were great! Everything was wonderful and enriching. Got the chance to explore sides of Crete that we would never have. Despite the weather not being the greatest, everything else was incredible.

All Inclusive Full-day Private Tour of Crete Villages from Chania

JOdi_N, Mar 2026

Beautiful tour of Crete

What an amazing day with our wonderful tour guide Maria. She was so friendly, knowledgeable and personalized our tour for us. The village meal was amazing we couldn’t believe how much food there was. We even got to take home some lemons and oranges from her own personal garden and they were so delicious! Highly recommended. 12/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Private Full-Day East Crete Tour from Heraklion

Daymen_S, Mar 2026

Amazing day in Crete!

Kostas was amazing as a driver and tour guide! In addition to seeing amazing sites and getting tons of information, he also helped us experience the smells of fresh fruit and flowers, the tastes of his countless homemade treats, and the hidden treasures must tourists will never see. His communication before and after the tour was amazing, he even sent us a customized itinerary for our next day where we were exploring alone after the tour was over! Thanks for the hospitality Kostas!

From Chania: Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Experience Hike & Swim

Jezyk_P, Oct 2025

Great Trip with Beautiful Views

We had a wonderful experience on this hike. Although it’s officially rated as “easy,” it didn’t feel that way for everyone in our group. Our guide, Nikos, explained that the difficulty rating comes from the official mountain authorities, not the travel agencies. Personally, I found it easy, but some people did struggle a bit. The trail is downhill all the way, so if you have knee problems, it might not be as easy as advertised. The scenery is absolutely beautiful, but you do need to keep your eyes on the path while walking, so make sure to stop now and then to enjoy the views. Regular trainers were fine for me, but walking boots might be a better choice for extra support. Our guide, Nikos, was fantastic - informative, funny and very attentive. After the hike, we even went for a refreshing swim while Nikos kindly went back to help struggling hikers. Overall, it was a great experience. Everything was well organised, clearly explained and we felt very well looked after. Highly recommend!

Elafonissi Beach Tour from Chania with stop in Elos Village

Tamas_S, Oct 2025

Highly recommended tour to Elafonisi Beach from Chania

I was picked up on time. Our driver and guide were great, I think their names were Marcos and Elena. We first stopped at a shop near Kissamos where they sell local products like honey and olive oil. In the morning and almost the entire bus ride it was raining but by the time we got to Elafonisi it was beautiful summer weather and I had a lot of fun swimming in the sea on October 21st. After that we went to a beautiful restaurant in Elos village, where they had reasonable prices and good food and then we were dropped off at our pickup location. I'd say the time we spent at each stop was just perfect. Highly recommended!

Balos & Falassarna Beach - Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch

Kenton_P, Oct 2025

Day at Balos and Falasarna Beach😎😎

This is the second activity we booked with Dimitris as our guide. What a beautiful day and fantastic sights! Dimitris made sure everything was perfect and it was perfection! We highly recommend this tour to Balos Lagoon views and the day at Falasarna Beach! Don’t skip these awesome places with this tour provider!

Full-Day Small-Group Tour in Crete with Zeus Cave Visit

Jennifer_H, Oct 2025

Amazing tour - Highly recommend

Excellent trip one of the best we have ever been on. Communication of where to be and timings were brilliant. Most of all all the tour guides where amazing especially Nicholi our tour guide was so passionate about making us have the best time ever. He was so knowledgeable, charismatic and got us all laughing out loud. The trip itself was a perfect day in exploring the beautiful Cretian way of life. Thanks again to you all xxx

Samaria Gorge Hiking from Chania with Professional Hiking Guide

Simon_O, Sept 2025

Amazing hike of Samaria Gorge

Amazing and challenging hike. As advertised. Amazing views and stunning scenery. The whole thing was well-organized. Prompt bus pickup at my hotel at 6am, and safe transportation to the start and from the ferry drop off. Amazing guide. You are at the whim Of the ferry schedule to start the return so it is a full day (back to my hotel at 9:00pm). Not for the feint of heart. The first 4km is a steep downward hike - stone stairs, uneven and rocky footing. The descent was less steep for the rest. But you need to maintain focus for footing.

Balos Shared Catamaran Cruise (small groups up to 10 or 22ppl)

Cheryl_G, Aug 2025

Great!!

We absolutely loved this boat trip, mostly because the crew were so friendly and nice. The food was excellent and lunch was one of the best meals we had on the island! I would much rather take this boat trip to Balos Lagoon than any other way. Thank you so much to the captain and crew!

The 7 Villages of Apokoronas Tour – Explore East Chania Mainland

Amanda_G, Jul 2025

Come hungry!

Great way to spend a few hours away from the regular touristy traps. Our group was small, 9 people and our driver Nikos was able to personally interact with everyone! We came in on a cruise ship, and although the port was not on the selected pickup spots, with a simple email we were able to get picked up in front of a grocery store directly across the street from the port exit. At each stop Nikos pointed out different plants and herbs in the wild that would be used in some of the food we ate along the way. Taking us for coffee, stopping at a family run cheese shop and bakery, and a local lunch all in more remote spots not as easily accessible without a personal driver made for quite a unique experience versus the standard cruise ship excursion.

The Real Cretan Cooking Experience

chelsea_g, Jun 2025

The more you participate...

The more you participate the more you get out of the experience! We had a great tour guide in Alex as he was knowledgeable, personable, and engaging with us guests. The family who hosts, is wonderful! They are extremely generous with their time and have lots of patience for some of the ‘new to cooking’ participants. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a unique, delicious, and off-the-beaten path experience. Would love to come back!!