Day Trips from Crete to Chania

Get off the beaten track and onto rugged roads only 4-wheel drives can access on this foodie safari into Chania’s dramatic hinterland. Taste organic extra virgin olive oil along with five different local wines and snacks at Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill; sample five more Cretan wines at Manousakis Winery; and enjoy a delicious lunch of traditional Cretan flavors.

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.

Enjoy a relaxing day out on the water on this private sailing trip from Chania. You and your party will ride a yacht to beautiful places full of history, including Fortezza, the isle of Karga, Cape Drapano lighthouse, and more. Swim and snorkel in shallow, sheltered waters while your personal chef prepares a local lunch on board. Return to port while admiring the sunset.

Ideal for travelers short on time, this private full-day tour covers the best of seductive southern Crete in a single day of sightseeing. Highlights include morning coffee in Spili, exploring Kourtaliotiko Gorge with its chapel, a traditional lunch over views of the Libyan Sea, and swimming near a remote beach. Round-trip transportation from Chania is included.

Discover the secrets of Crete’s liquid gold with a guided visit to a traditional olive oil factory and learn about the fascinating process of olive oil production—from handpicking the olives to cold pressing. Enjoy a tasting session where you’ll sample extra virgin olive oil paired with local honey and raki. Visit the Agia Triada Monastery one of the major historical monuments of the island, which was built in 1634. Wander around the monastery church, the complex, and the large exhibition of woodcarvings and icons in the monastery Museum. Get in touch with history by visiting the graves of Venizelos, ex-prime minister during the early 1900s, located on a hill with an amazing panoramic view of Chania town. Wander around Chania, a small, picturesque town worth getting to know. Get lost in the narrow streets of the old town, admire the Venetian, Turkish, traditional, and modern architecture in the old port, and taste a greek coffee or some local food in a taverna.

This full-day private trip from Rethymno takes you deep into the South, far from the crowds. Start your journey with Spili, a peaceful village nestled in the foothills of Mount Kedros. Sip a mountain herb tea or coffee by the Venetian lion-head fountains, stroll through cobbled streets, and discover local crafts and products like handmade soaps, herbs, and textiles. Next, head to Kourtaliotiko Gorge, where you’ll walk among wind-carved cliffs and hear the story of the “clapping rocks.” Keep your camera ready—this place is raw, wild beauty. Then it’s time to relax at Kalypso Beach, a hidden gem near Plakias, with dramatic cliffs, crystal waters, and excellent snorkeling spots. Whether you prefer sunbathing on a rock terrace or exploring the underwater world, this is a perfect spot to unwind. Round off the day with a Cretan meal in a taverna that only locals know—homemade, fresh, and full of heart.

Explore the wild beauty of western Crete on a private tour that combines stunning landscapes, rich tradition, and intriguing history. Visit the famous pink sands of Elafonissi Beach, where you can swim in crystal clear waters and bask in the sun. Discover the impressive stalactites of Agia Sofia Cave, known for its remarkable rock formations, and stroll through the charming village of Topolia, where authentic Cretan life thrives. This customizable tour ensures you travel at your own pace in a comfortable vehicle while enjoying traditional Cretan snacks. - Visit iconic Elafonissi Beach with its unique pink sand and clear waters - Explore the mystical Agia Sofia Cave with its fascinating rock formations - Discover the traditional Cretan village of Topolia and its local culture - Enjoy a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests and pace

Explore the serene beauty of Lake Kournas, Crete's only freshwater lake, where relaxation awaits. Enjoy a coffee at a local taverna, paddle around the lake, or take a refreshing swim with the turtles. The adventure continues at a traditional olive oil factory, where a guided tour reveals the art of producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil, ending with a delightful tasting of local products. Conclude your day at a charming winery, learning about Cretan winemaking and enjoying a guided tasting of five local wines, with the option of a flavorful lunch to enhance your experience. - Visit the tranquil Lake Kournas for relaxation and swimming - Tour a traditional olive oil factory with tastings included - Discover Cretan winemaking secrets at a picturesque winery - Taste some traditional Greek lunch (optional)

Explore the stunning landscapes of southern Crete on a full-day adventure that combines nature, history, and local culture. Start your journey at Kourtaliotiko Gorge, where towering cliffs and powerful winds create a dramatic backdrop. Next, relax at Preveli Beach, a beautiful spot where the Libyan Sea meets a lush palm forest, offering swimming and sunbathing opportunities. Conclude your exploration in the charming village of Spili, known for its Venetian lion-head fountains and authentic local experiences like olive oil and honey tasting. This tour is ideal for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike, showcasing the best of Crete in one day. - Full-day tour exploring Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Preveli Beach - Relax at the unique Preveli Beach with a palm forest and freshwater river - Visit the picturesque village of Spili for local culture (Lunch break-optional) - Perfect for nature lovers and those interested in authentic Crete experiences

Combine a visit to the only freshwater lake on Crete with tastings of local olive oil on this private tour. Travel by private vehicle to Lake Kournas, where you can swim or enjoy a pedalo ride. Then visit a family-owned olive oil factory to sample products and learn about their production. This tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, offering a relaxed pace and personalized experience.

Take in picturesque views of the Imbros Gorge and a trek on an easy trail, suitable for all hiking levels, without worrying about losing your way when you go with a guide. The 5.5-mile (9-kilometer) walk includes the chance to stop for a refreshing swim in the cool waters of Southern Cretan villages. Enjoy hiking assistance, hotel transfers, and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable experience throughout.

Discover one of Crete’s most famous natural treasures on a full-day excursion to Elafonisi. Travel through traditional Cretan villages and the impressive Topolia Gorge before reaching a paradise of turquoise waters, white and pink sand, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Enjoy plenty of free time to swim, relax, and explore the unique lagoon-like landscape before stopping at a traditional village on the return journey for an authentic taste of Cretan culture. Tour Highlights Scenic drive through traditional Cretan villages. Passage through the impressive Topolia Gorge. Approximately 4 hours of free time at Elafonisi Beach. Swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters. Walk across to the famous Elafonisi islet. Optional stop for traditional Cretan food in Elos Village. Comfortable round-trip transportation by air-conditioned coach.

This daily trip is a perfect combination of 2 of the most popular areas on Crete island and we assure you that you will enjoy it! The famous Kournas Lake is a worth visit place for people that love nature and water. It is the only one natural lake with fresh water in Crete and it is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Crete island. The lake’s maximum depth is 22 meters and it lies approximately 20m above sea level. The green, blue and turquoise waters of the lake, the sun above them and the White Mountains create a stunning combination that all the visitors love! Rethymno, and especially the Old Town is similar to Chania in a smaller scale. Narrow streets, lovely atmospere and the avra of this city will fascinate you. Rethymno city is a well known destination, blending history, culture and modern amenities. Do not forget to visit the famous Fortezza (fortress) with stunning panoramic views of the city and the Rimondi Fountain.

Lace up your hiking boots for a guided walk through the Samaria Gorge National Park. With a guide, discover the trails that might be difficult to find alone, taking in the landscapes around the Tara River en route. It’s a long hike, with roughly six hours of walking time, but the route provides some of the most beautiful nature on Crete. Round-trip transport from Heraklion is included.

Discover a small picturesque fishing village in southwestern Crete on a full-day guided tour. Explore Loutro village either on foot from short walking trails or by boat. Travel to Skafia and start with the beach in Marmara either by walking for 2 hours or by taxi boat.

Enjoy some of Crete’s most beautiful beaches without the self-drive hassles on this guided small-group tour. Travel direct from your door to Kissamos, where you board a boat for Balos Beach and Lagoon, then savor the soft white sands. Next, ride a boat to Gramvousa Island (own expense), swim in the clear waters, and opt to hike to the 16th-century fortress. Your guide will drop you directly to your door.

See the crystal clear waters of Balos Bay on this memorable full-day trip. Travel to Crete's westernmost point before taking a boat over beautiful waters to Gramvousa Island. White sand beaches and turquoise seas await. Enjoy included hotel pickup and comfortable, air-conditioned transport with a local guide as you travel by bus to the lagoon, then relax and swim during an hour on the boat in Balos Bay and at Gramvousa Island.

Discover the westernmost tip of Crete on a scenic bus and boat trip to Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay. Dip your toes in the soft white sand of some of the most beautiful beaches you ever have seen!Upon arrival, climb aboard a boat and cross to Balos Bay at the northernmost tip of the peninsula. Relax on the 1-hour boat trip, and get 2.5 hours at Balos Bay to enjoy the soft white sands and unique blue and green waters of the lagoon.

Discover the westernmost tip of Crete on a scenic bus and boat trip to Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay. Dip your toes in the soft white sand of some of the most beautiful beaches you ever have seen!Upon arrival, climb aboard a boat and cross to Balos Bay at the northernmost tip of the peninsula. Relax on the 1-hour boat trip, and get 2.5 hours at Balos Bay to enjoy the soft white sands and unique blue and green waters of the lagoon.

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

The gorge of Imbros is one of the deepest and narrowest gorges of Crete and the second most popular for visitors after the gorge of Samaria. It ιs located in the South East part of the White Mountains, with 7km length, and has slopes up to 300m high. There are some spectacular sections, especially several very narrow passages. It is famous due to the rare flora and the amazing landscape all over the area. The scenery is beautiful and the low difficulty makes the descent of Imbros ideal for families. On the way to the gorge we will stop at a Greek bakery and offer you several traditional snacks to taste, coffee or juice. The walk takes about 2 ½ hours, at the end of the gorge at the village Komitades you can enjoy a cold drink and relax. You will then drive down to the seaside village of Hora Sfakion where you will have free time to relax at one of the little café/taverns on the water front overlooking the sea or enjoy a dip in the cool Libyan sea.

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 complimentary towel on the sunny upper deck, plus priority boarding.

Starting early, heading west, we reach the port of Kissamos. Here we take our boat for approximately a 1 hour pleasant sail along the coastline. Arriving in the port of the ex­-pirate island of Gramvousa we hear how, during the Turkish occupation, the residents of the island started looting passing boats thus giving the island its pirate reputation. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Venetian castle on top of a steep rock as this is one of the most impressive castles in Greece. There is plenty of time for swimming or lunch on board. Our boat then departs for the Blue Lagoon of Balos, a shallow and warm water lagoon which brings to mind similar lagoons in the Caribbean. You will be disembarked at a distance of 50 meters from the shore according to the Law , as there will be no approach pier. Balos is one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world. Enjoy a fantastic swim and relax for approximately 3 hours before boarding for the return sail. An experience to remember a lifetime !

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.