Top Crete Arts & Design in 2026

Enjoy seamless access to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum with a pre-booked, time specific admission ticket sent straight to your email for an enriching experience.

Discover Crete’s Minoan history without the hassle of arranging transportation between its top archaeological sites. Explore the legendary Palace of Knossos with skip-the-line entry, then continue to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion to admire exceptional Bronze Age artifacts, jewelry, and artwork. Traveling with a small group and expert guide brings the myths of King Minos and the Minotaur to life.

What makes this tour truly stand apart is its balance — a seamless blend of Crete’s **mythic past**, **authentic countryside**, and **living traditions** that most visitors never get to see. It’s not a rushed sightseeing loop; it’s a private, slow-paced journey through layers of Cretan life, guided by locals who understand the island’s rhythm and character. You’ll walk through the **legendary ruins of Knossos**, tasting the air of Europe’s first civilization, then shift gears completely to a **family-run olive mill**, where real people share their craft, not a staged show. And when the road climbs to the **Lasithi Plateau**, you’ll see Crete at its most genuine — windmills, shepherds, and tavernas untouched by time. It’s a day that connects myth with meal, stone with soil, and history with hospitality — the kind of Crete you remember long after your flight home.

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.

We meet in the heart of the old city, where I guide you through hidden alleys and capture every authentic moment in unique photographs! You'll discover the most beautiful spots of the old town & harbor and transform your moments into timeless heirlooms!

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.

Step away from the crowds and discover a different side of Crete on a family-friendly journey filled with nature, creativity, and culture. Meet friendly animals at the Cretan Animal Park, where children and adults can enjoy close encounters with fascinating species. Visit the famous pottery village of Thrapsano and create your own clay souvenir with the guidance of a local master potter. Continue to the peaceful Agarathos Monastery, one of Crete's oldest Greek Orthodox monasteries. Enjoy a delicious lunch in a traditional Cretan village, tasting authentic local dishes made with fresh ingredients and extra virgin olive oil. End your day at CRETAquarium, where colorful fish, sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish, and many other Mediterranean marine species await. A perfect experience combining wildlife, creativity, local traditions, and fun for the whole family.

Maximize time in Crete with a half-day private tour of Chania and its surroundings. Get picked up at your hotel or chosen location in Chania and set out on a sightseeing tour focused on local history and heritage. See top landmarks including the Old Venetian Harbor, Lighthouse of Chania, Firkas Fortress, and Hassan Pascha Mosque. Get to know Chania's Old Town and the many cultures that influenced its character.

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.

Make your transfer between Chania and Heraklion more than just a ride with a private journey that includes a 2-hour sightseeing stop in the charming town of Rethymno. Whether you're headed east or west, enjoy a relaxed, scenic trip with your English-speaking driver, who will pick you up directly from your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and bottled water. Halfway through the ride, explore Rethymno’s Old Town, a picturesque mix of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek architecture, stroll along the Venetian Harbor, and take in views of the Fortezza Castle. After soaking in the culture, continue your smooth journey to Heraklion or Chania, arriving refreshed and with a few extra memories of Crete.

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.

Join us on a captivating journey through the ancient wonders of Crete, starting with our departure from your hotel. Our first stop will be the archaeological site of Gortyna, approximately one hour away. Gortyna, once a thriving ancient city, now stands as a testament to the island's rich history. Next, we'll embark on a short 20-minute journey to our second stop, Phaistos. Here, amidst the picturesque Cretan landscape, you'll discover the remains of the legendary Phaistos Palace. Our final destination is the charming coastal village of Matala, which is just a short drive away. Here, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious meal, explore the famed Hippie Caves, and unwind on the beaches of the Libyan Sea.