Highlights of Crete

7 Days | Tour the ancient histories and sun-kissed shores of Crete

4.8 out of 5 based on 43 reviews submitted.
Explorer
From
GBP £1,326
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The island of Crete has so much history and natural wonder to offer to a curious traveller. And in seven days on its shores, you’ll see what’s known as Europe’s oldest city, taste some of the region’s best food and wine, and discover some of the world’s most picturesque beaches. From Heraklion, visit the famous archaeological site of Knossos, hike through forests and gorges, unwind in the secluded seaside village of Sougia, and sip wine in the vibrant port city of Chania to show you what makes the island so special. So quintessentially ‘Greece’ and so full of life, the best of Crete is waiting.

Trip overview

Map of Highlights Of Crete including Greece
Start
Heraklion, Greece
Finish
Chania, Greece
Theme
Explorer
Destinations
Greece
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Original
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
ZLSA
This trip generates 29.02 kg of CO2-e per person per day.
We offset these emissions on your behalf. But we know that is not enough, so we also have a carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • Did you know that Crete is home to Europe’s oldest city? From Heraklion, head to the famous ruins and archaeological site of Knossos – the former capital of Minoan Crete.
  • Uncover the real Crete during visits to its quiet corners. We’ve partnered with non-profit organisation MEET to bring you an ecotourism experience in the delightful village of Agios Ioannis. Spend an evening dining in a local restaurant to the soundtrack of live traditional music and stay the night in a guesthouse with a welcoming local family.
  • Get off the beaten path – literally – during a visit to the charming fishing village of Sougia. Hike, swim, or relax on the beach with a cold drink in hand.
  • Visit the colourful port town of Chania and discover one of its most loved commodities during a visit to a local winery for a wonderful tasting experience.
  • Explore Crete’s natural wonders on foot during a hike through the Agia Irini Gorge, learning about its historical significance and rare wildlife as you go.

Is this trip right for you?
  • Summer temperatures in Greece can reach up to 40°C, which can be uncomfortable for those not used to the heat. On the other hand, early in the season (April) many businesses may still be closed and the weather is unpredictable, however you may have some of the major sights of the Greek islands almost to yourself. Please consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
  • Please be aware that some of the Greek Islands are very hilly and mountainous, which means lots & lots of steps are an inherent feature of the landscape. You will have to be able to easily lift your luggage and carry it up and down stairs and inclines. Also, stone streets become very slippery when wet. Some people may find Greece's topography very demanding.
  • On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

Itinerary

Map of Highlights Of Crete including Greece

Inclusions

Meals

6 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Transport

Public bus, Private vehicle, Boat, On foot

Accommodation

Hotel (3 nights), Guesthouse (3 nights)

Activities
  • Knossos - Archaeological Site
  • Agios Ioannis - Village Visits
  • Agios Ioannis - Live Music Evening
  • Chania - Wine Tasting
  • Chora Sfakion - Coastal Boat Ride
  • Sougia - Agia Irini Gorge Hike
  • Chania - Kalitsounia Bakery Workshop
Add on activities
  • Heraklion - Arheological Musem of Heraklion - EUR12
  • Museum of Ancient Greek Technology - EUR5

Dates and availability

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Important notes

1. A single supplement is bookable on this trip, excluding Day 2,3&4. Availability is limited due to small properties we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Reviews

4.8 out of 5 based on 43 reviews submitted.
Reviews are from travellers who have completed their trip and want to share their experience. We show all reviews, but may remove any that include profanity or inappropriate content, are unrelated to the trip or reveal personal details.

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Catherine · Traveled September 2023
Great itinerary to explore parts of Crete. Special night in the Mountains at a guest house with traditional dinner and music. Stay a few nights in Heralklion before the tour as you leave from Heralklion the first morning. Chania at the end was lovely place and hotel was best on the tour.
Review submitted 04 Oct 2023

Christoph Stephan · Traveled September 2023
I was the first time in Crete. I never expacted that it were such a interesting Island. Our Tourleader was great!
Review submitted 24 Sep 2023

Cathy · Traveled September 2023
I loved the size of our intrepid tour, the knowledge and passion of the leader along with the carefully chosen destinations. I would recommend it as a great trip which provides both flexibility and inclusion. Fun, warmth and discovery along with participation and great learning opportunities were the highlights of our experience. A great tour I would highly recommend.
Review submitted 22 Sep 2023

Karin · Traveled September 2023
This trip was ideal for getting to know and explore Crete within a relatively a short timeframe - it more than delivered. We got to see the real Crete, and there was a good variety in both the number and type of activities provided. Our tour guide, Nikos had excellent knowledge of Crete and was very helpful in terms of recommendations of both where to go and where to shop.
Review submitted 02 Oct 2023

Kate · Traveled August 2023
Our guide Vassia was amazing. Crete was incredible with its food, drinks and views. This is defiantly the trip to book to experience another side of Greece
Review submitted 05 Sep 2023
Highlights of Crete
From
GBP £1,326