Top Crete On the Ground - page 2

Towering 8,058 feet (2,456 meters) over central Crete, Mt. Psiloritis (also known as Mt. Ida) is the island's highest peak and plays an important role in ancient Greek mythology. Skip the stress of route planning and navigation, and join a certified guide to scale the summit and soak up panoramic island views. Your guide provides snacks, bottled water, and trekking poles to take the stress off your knees.

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.

A great excuse to explore the outdoors, this tour takes you on a full-day walking adventure through the Samaria Gorge from the Heraklion area. This 11-mile (18-kilometer) adventure starts at Xylo kalo and takes you to the Samaria Gorge, showcasing Cretan flora and fauna. Traverse through rocky terrain, visit the deserted village of Samaria, and see majestic Iron Gates before enjoying a meal at a tavern in Ayia Roumelis.

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.

Step aboard the 'Mikros Naftilos' for a private cruise to the islands of Gramvousa and the Balos Lagoon. With a well-established local operator as your skipper, you'll relax on a carefully planned route that showcases the area's coastal highlights. Enjoy a lunch of regional dishes and unlimited drinks as you cruise, and stop for cool-down dips in the sea along the way.

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.

Discover ancient Minoan history, Cretan farming culture, and magnificent island views on this full-day off-roading adventure from Heraklion. Travel in a rugged Land Rover along historic mountain trails, stopping along the way to visit the mythological Diction Cave, shepherds’ villages, the scenic Lassithi Plateau, and an eco park where traditional ways of life are still practiced. Replenish your energy with an included lunch and taste of ‘raki’ liqueur at a local tavern.

This private day trip stands out because it respects both the landscape and your time. You travel at your own pace through Crete’s dramatic south, reaching Kourtaliotiko Gorge, where we escort you to the waterfalls and provide waterproof phone cases so you can enjoy the experience without worry. No rushing, no crowds—just raw nature handled properly. After the gorge, you choose how the day continues: the river and palm forest of Preveli Beach, or the deep, crystal-clear waters of Kalypso Beach, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. We can then stop for lunch at a local seaside or mountain taverna, enjoying simple, honest Cretan flavors. Cruise-friendly, fully private, and seamlessly planned—this is a full-day experience designed to feel effortless and genuinely memorable.

Although Heraklion is the perfect base to see Crete’s cultural and architectural heritage, it’s not the only part of Crete that is worthy of a visit. On this full-day tour, discover two of the prettiest cities in Western Crete—Chania and Rethymno—and immerse yourself in some of the island's loveliest scenery. Admire the White Mountains, visit Lake Kournas, and learn all about local history and culture as you explore.

Getting to know the real Chania isn't always easy—but on this private, half-day tour, your guide will help you discover its local charms. Enjoy a cafe visit with a view; next, head to a winery for a sommelier-led indigenous wine tasting. Then it's on to Old Town Chania, where you'll go for a walking tour, visit a local restaurant, and enjoy a range of Cretan delicacies, from breads and cheeses to pastries and beyond.

Taste your way through some of Crete's top wines on this full-day, small-group tasting tour. Led by your guide, and with round-trip hotel transfers included, this tour makes it easy to head off the tourist trail and explore beyond Heraklion’s usual landmarks. Visit two top wineries, enjoy tastings with nibbles, and indulge in a 3-course meal at a gourmet restaurant.

The Samaria Gorge is one of Crete's most spectacular natural attractions, but it can be a challenging hike—especially for people who haven’t visited the Gorge before. Don’t let that stand in your way with this hassle-free guided walk. Tackle this full-day trek in the company of an experienced guide, who can provide support as you go. Plus, with round-trip transit included (park fee and boat tickets own expense), logistics are made simple.

Only One Day to Explore? Make It Imbros Gorge! If you have just one day to experience the natural beauty of southern Crete during your stay in Chania, this guided tour to Imbros Gorge is the perfect choice. Part of the E4 European Long-Distance Trail, Imbros Gorge offers an accessible and scenic hiking experience through one of the island’s most captivating landscapes. As you walk the trail, take in the breathtaking views, admire the rare local flora, and immerse yourself in the unique natural surroundings. Your licensed guide will be with you every step of the way, sharing fascinating stories and insights about the gorge’s history, geology, and ecosystem—making the experience both educational and unforgettable.

Through this tour you will have the chance to explore one of the most amazing and wild areas of Crete with a certified guide on your side. A special and unique environment with lot of wildlife around it. The great river will cool you up as we walking down the gorge .Local vegetation and natural seeds are everywhere around. No rush at all let you enjoy every aspect of the tour. Finally we will be at a cozy and friendly cottage where the Cretan hospitality makes you feel like home! The excursion runs in small groups to respect the ecosystem and giving the chance to connect with each other easier.

Immerse yourself in an incredible journey through some of Crete's most beautiful spots with our exclusive tour that combines breathtaking views and relaxing beach time. Start your adventure with a visit to the unique Devil's Bay, where you'll have fantastic photo opportunities, and then head to Marafi Beach for swimming and sunbathing. You'll be accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver who will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip. Book the private tour "Devil's Bay and Marafi Beach" and enjoy unforgettable moments in Crete! Discover amazing natural attractions, swim in crystal-clear waters, and relax on sunny beaches with comfort and convenience. Let this journey become a highlight of your holiday in Crete!

This tour is the perfect way to go off the beaten path in Crete. Save yourself hours of research time as a driver takes you on a pre-planned route of interesting locations—such as the village of Kritsa, Katharo Plateau, Selakano forest, and Sarakina Gorge. Having the route planned out eliminates the need for maps and there are plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos along the way too.

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.

This tour will take you to Lassithi Plateau, where you will explore its wonders. First stop in an Olive Oil Mill as in Crete we have great tradition with olive oil production.We will continue to the Monastery of Kera, with centuries of religious tradition. From there, you will be guided to the island' s mythological past with a visit to the legendary Cave of Zeus and then to the countryside. Next stop for lunch in a Traditional Restaurant and the plane tree in Krasi that witnessed many historical events and the presence of the famous Greek author Nikos Kazantzakis.

Rethymno is full of beachside roads, small streets, and parkland perfect for bike trips. This guided bike tour covers the best of the area roughly three to five hours of sightseeing. Highlights include visiting the Arkadi Monastery, Chromonastiri’s churches, Roussospiti’s Venetian buildings, Rethymno’s Old Town, and more. The price of this tour includes a bike, helmet, lock, and refreshments.

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.

Ready for a one-of-a-kind hiking challenge? Travel the length of Crete's spectacular, 10-mile (16-kilometer) Samaria Gorge on this full-day, guided tour. Don't worry about navigating transportation options on your own: Round-trip transit from your hotel by vehicle and boat (tickets own expense) makes getting into nature easy. Upon arrival, receive support from your guide as you set off on the hike of a lifetime.

The Greek islands boast a rich history dating back to the days of antiquity, but exploring independently means missing the hidden secrets they hold. On this private tour of Crete, delve into the island’s colorful past with your guide—with round-trip transport from your Crete hotel or the port included. Travel back 4,000 years at the Palace of Knossos, and learn of ancient civilizations at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

Learn all about the brewing process—and enjoy a range of freshly made beers in a tranquil environment—during this small-group brewery tour. Make your own way to the brewery in Zounaki, Crete, and get ready to explore. Your guide will point out the brewing facility, talk through the process, and share more about the beers at hand. In addition to your tasting flight, upgrade to add snacks or lunch.

Spend a day at Acqua Plus, the most popular water park on Crete. The park is divided into two sides, one for all ages and one for adults only. Facilities are clean, well-run, and safe, with multiple lifeguards on duty at all times. In addition to the many games, slides, and water rides inside the park, there is a beautiful garden in the center with Cretan flowers and trees, exotic flowers, weeping willows, palm trees, bougainvilleas,  French marigolds and more greenery, making for a nice escape form the heat and sun.