Crete Exploration Journey - 8 Days

Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport, we transfer by coach to the hotel in the Gouves or Chersonissos area for check-in. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the local surroundings at your own pace. Dinner is included.

Overnight in the Gouves or Chersonissos area.

After breakfast, we set off to discover one of Crete’s most famous sites - Spinalonga. Known as the ‘island of tears’, it was once a Venetian fortress and later became a leper colony, where residents built a small community of homes and shops.

On arrival, we take a guided walk through the remains of the colony, including the main street and former houses. We then sail back to Elounda for a typical Cretan lunch. Afterwards, there is free time to stroll, shop or swim before returning to the hotel. Lunch and dinner are included.

Overnight in the Gouves or Chersonissos area.

After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the Palace of Knossos, the great centre of Minoan civilisation dating back to around 1900 BC. This remarkable site is closely linked to the myth of King Minos, the Labyrinth and the Minotaur.

During the guided visit, we explore the palace ruins and learn more about its history and legends. We then continue to Heraklion to see highlights including the Venetian lion fountain and the Loggia, now used as the Town Hall. The visit ends near the old harbour, where you have time to explore independently. You may also choose to join an optional guided visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Dinner is included.

Overnight in the Gouves or Chersonissos area.

After breakfast, we travel west to visit two of Crete’s most attractive cities - Chania and Rethymnon. Both are known for their historic old towns, picturesque harbours and layers of Venetian, Italian and Turkish influence.

In Chania, we take a guided walk through the old quarter, with its restored backstreets and characterful neighbourhoods. We also visit the lively market hall and the famous leather lane before reaching the Venetian port. Later, we continue to Rethymnon, whose old town and harbour are equally charming. There is free time in both cities to explore the winding streets at your own pace. Dinner is included.

Overnight in the Gouves or Chersonissos area.

After breakfast, we head into central Crete for a Land Rover safari exploring the island’s mythology, culture, landscapes and rural life. The journey begins at the Aposelimi Dam before continuing through olive groves to the ruins of the Roman aqueduct of Lyttos.

We then visit Kastamonitsa, where we join locals for raki and olive oil tasting. From here, the off-road adventure begins as we climb into the mountains and follow an ancient Minoan route. We visit a local shepherd, taste homemade cheese and may spot local wildlife along the way.

Later, we stop at a viewpoint overlooking the Minoan path and the Lassithi Plateau, before descending to explore the plateau itself. A traditional lunch with unlimited wine is included, with a vegetarian option available. Our final stop is the village of Krassi, home to an ancient plane tree and a natural spring, before returning to the hotel.

After breakfast, we transfer to Aqua Plus Waterpark for a fun day out. With slides such as the vertical kamikaze and twister, as well as pools for relaxing, it is an ideal experience for the whole family. Dinner is included.

Overnight in the Gouves or Chersonissos area.

After breakfast at the hotel, the day is free to enjoy as you wish. You can relax on the beach or explore more of Crete independently. Dinner is included.

Overnight in the Gouves or Chersonissos area.

After breakfast, we provide a shared transfer from your hotel to the airport to continue your onward travel arrangements. Breakfast is included.