Join this memorable seven-day tour to see some of the most interesting landmarks and most beautiful spots of Crete, the largest and most diverse of the Greek islands. From Venetian towns to dazzling mountains, Crete’s multitude of things to do and see makes it really stand out from the crowd. Explore Rethymno, one of the best preserved medieval cities in Greece, visit Spinalonga, the intriguing island that used to be a leper colony, admire the romantic Chania, and enjoy an exciting landrover tour and catch sight of the place of birth of well-known Zeus. This fascinating tour gives you the chance to get closer to the interesting Greek culture while enjoying the beaches, inspiring views, and mouthwatering cuisine.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Rethymno: Explore one of the best preserved medieval cities in Greece, admiring the perfect combination of orthodox and Catholic churches, mosques, majestic mansions of Venetian architecture, arches and cobbled paths which create a magical atmosphere.
Spinalonga: The story of the fascinating book, "The Island" takes place on the island of Spinalonga, during its years as a leper colony.
Chania: Stroll the romantic streets of Chania, admire its Medieval architecture, elegant mansions and the wonderful Venetian port, the most famous spot in the town.
Day 1: ARRIVAL CRETE (22km-30 min)
Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport you will be directed to the bus that will take you to the hotel in Gouves or Chersonissos area for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the delightful surroundings on your own. Dinner is included.
Overnight n Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 2: CRETE: DAY AT LEISURE
Breakfast in the hotel. Today enjoy a day free of leisure.
Overnight in Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 3: CRETE: BOAT TRIP TO THE ISLAND OF SPINALONGA (130km–8 hrs)
After breakfast, pick up at your hotel. Spinalonga is one of the most famous spots in Crete, and sometimes called the ‘island of tears’ due to its past as a leper colony. It was initially a Venetian fortress, it became the home for hundreds of Greece’s lepers who were shipped there and formed a colony. Once there, you’ll take a guided walk around the remains of the colony. See its main street, still lined with the shops and houses where the lepers attempted to live ordinary lives. Later, you’ll sail back to Elounda, where you’ll have a typical Cretan lunch included and have free time to walk around, do some shopping or go for a swim.
Overnightin Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 4: CRETE: PALACE OF KNOSSOS AND HERAKLION TOWN (42km–7/8 hrs)
After breakfast, pick up at your hotel.The Palace of Knossos dates back to 1900 BC, it was the hub of Crete’s Minoan civilisation and where the fearsome Minotaur was said to have lurked in the labyrinth. Your guide will explain the myths surrounding the palace and its Kings as they lead you round its treasures. Then, visit Heraklion, see the Venetian lion fountain and the loggia that is now the Town Hall before finishing up at the entrance to the old harbour. Here, the time’s your own to explore. Take advantage also of the guided tour in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Overnight in Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 5: CRETE: WEST CRETE, RETHYMNON AND CHANIA (326km–10/11 hrs)
After breakfast, pick up at your hotel. Visit two of Crete’s cities, Chania (also known as Little Venice) and Rethymnon with its fascinating mix of Italian and Turkish influences both with picturesque harbour fronts. Your guide will take you on a tour of the old quarter, its quaint little neighbourhoods and backstreets that have been restored beautifully. Afterwards, make a visit to the lively Chania market hall with local produce and the famous leather lane before ending up at the breathtakingly beautiful Venetian port of Chania. Equally beautifully is the old town and harbour of Rethymon, the second stop. You have free time in both to explore the winding back streets. A day full of discovery, beautiful scenery and history.
Overnight in Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 6: CRETE: LAND ROVER TOUR AND EXPLORE THE BIRTHPLACE OF ZEUS (120km–7/8 hrs)
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel and head towards the central part of Crete to learn about its mythology, culture, and local life, while having lots of fun. Your day starts from the moment you meet your drivers, who will take you to your first stop, the Potamies Reservoir water dam. Continuing our journey through mesmerising paths and olive trees, we reach the ruins of the Roman aqueduct of Lyttos. Admire the beauty of the site and continue towards the quaint village of Kastamonitsa, where we join the locals for a coffee break in the traditional cafeneion. Afterwards, the real off-road adventure begins! We will Climb high into the mountains and follow the ancient minaon path that leads us to the cave of Zeus (entrance not included) where, according to mythology, the father of all the gods was born. Then, you have the chance to take some memorable photographs of the Lassithi Plateau, before we drop down to the plateau for a delicious BBQ lunch with unlimited wine! The journey continues with a stop at Lassithi plateau, where time has virtually stood still and the local people are mainly farmers. We continue the adventure until we reach the village of Krassi our last stop of the day. Catch a glimpse of the 2,000-year-old plane tree and learn about its natural spring water source. End this thrilling day with a transfer back to your hotel. Lunch is included with wine and bottled water.
Overnight in Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 7: DEPARTURE CRETE (16/22km-20/30 minutes)
After breakfast, pick up at your hotel. Share Transfer with a/c, modern coach from hotel in Gouves , Chersonissos area to the airport Heraklion.
Breakfast Included
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Greece. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sun glasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
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