Monument visits in Crete
Private guided tour with Knossos Palace & Heraklion
The ancient Palace of Knossos is Crete's most popular attraction. And for good reason – it's absolutely fascinating. Exclusively for you and your party, this private tour takes you to explore the island's most-prized archaeological gem and the Cretan capital, Heraklion.
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Full-day tour of Crete’s historic Knossos Palace and Heraklion
'The Palace of Knossos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete because it's where Europe's first civilisation began,' says Veta, one of our guides. A born and bred local, she knows a thing or two about the legends and myths surrounding the island's most popular attraction. You'll spend the day watching history come to life as you tour the grounds of the palace, before crossing over to Heraklion for some free time in the capital.Once the hub of Crete's Minoan civilisation, Knossos Palace sits in the heart of what's considered to be Europe's oldest settlement. You'll enjoy a guided tour around its treasures, stopping by the throne room, royal apartments, frescoes and more. And with fast-track access, there's no waiting around in queues.It's then time to head to Heraklion, the island's capital. See the 17th-century Morozini Lions fountain and the 400-year-old Venetian Loggia – which is still the city hall – during a short guided walk around the city centre. We'll round the day off by taking you to the open markets for some free time. Poke around stalls laden with hand-made trinkets and fresh local produce or stop off for a coffee at a local café for some people watching. Other must-sees include the Koule Fortress and the Church of Agios Titos.
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Rethymnon and Lake Kournas Tour
There's something about the old town of Rethymnon that makes you want to keep on exploring. And you'll have a whole morning to wander it at your own pace before spending the afternoon at nearby Lake Kournas. It's up to you to do as you wish – just follow your inner compass and go with the flow.Rethymnon old town is pretty compact and bursting with activity. A maze of narrow alleys links the old harbour to the Fortezza citadel. Everything in between dates from the Venetian and Ottoman eras. As well as tavernas and shops, you'll encounter churches of all styles and mosques. The Veli Pasha mosque was recently renovated and is now a palaeontological museum – it's well worth a visit.Then, it's on to Lake Kournas. Protected under the Natura 2000 project, it's a dream for all things green. Surrounded by the imposing White Mountain range – and the only freshwater lake in Crete – you'll have just over an hour to soak in the fresh mountain air, swim in the calm waters or kick back and relax on the sandy beach.
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Southern Crete Tour with Moires Market & Matala Beach
South-central Crete is steeped in fascinating history and the southern shore is home to some of the island's best beaches. On this tour, you'll take in a traditional village market at Moires, followed by an afternoon of relaxation at Matala beach.The journey begins with a visit to the village market in Moires, where you can experience the local lifestyle firsthand. Wander through the bustling stalls, each brimming with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique crafts. It's a fantastic opportunity to interact with local vendors, sample traditional Cretan foods, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.After exploring the market, we'll take you to the stunning Matala beach. In the 60s and 70s, Matala had a thriving hippie scene – and you can still feel the more bohemian vibe today. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun, swimming in the inviting Mediterranean waters, or exploring the famed caves carved into the cliffs.
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The tiny island of Spinalonga is just a short hop away from Crete but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle the islet. You'll sail to Spinalonga from Elounda, a 25-minute cruise.On arrival at the islet – which is no more than 435m long and 230m wide – you'll find yourself immersed in its history straight away. Over the years, Spinalonga has been a Venetian outpost, an Ottoman town and a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘isle of tears'.A guided walk will show you around the Venetian fortress and the leper colony – which closed in the 1950s. See the main street, still lined with the shops and houses where the lepers attempted to live ordinary lives. And look round the old hospital and graveyard. After fascinating if poignant visit, you'll board the boat and sail back to Elounda.
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Half-day Heraklion city treasure hunt and tour
Follow in the footsteps of one of Greece's most adventurous characters, Alexis Zorba, on this treasure hunt tour. An iconic character from Nikos Kazantzakis' novel Zorba the Greek, Zorba is known for helping the narrator, a young Greek intellectual, find his way to a more exciting life. On this tour, guided by Zorba's spirit, you'll delve into Heraklion's culture and history, solving riddles and uncovering clues to take you to the best bits of the city.Journey through Heraklion using the in-app gameplay as a guide. Plus, professional games masters will be on hand if you need pointing in the right direction. They'll offer clues to help you with the treasure hunt and direct you towards tasty Greek treats – you'll get to taste a traditional Cretan pastry like kaltsounia and try local 'dakos,' otherwise known as Greek bruschetta. The challenge begins at the Koules Fortress, at the entrance of the old port. From here, you'll make your way through the city, stopping at bustling markets and ancient landmarks, where you'll get to see where Zorba's larger-than-life character originated.
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The west of Crete offers up some dramatic landscapes and impressive scenery. First up is the village of Spili and its iconic fountain featuring a series of lion heads. Next, you'll visit the old Byzantine Monastery of Preveli before discovering Argyroupoli's waterfalls and greenery. End the day tasting Cretan wines while watching the sun go down over the Venetian harbour of Rethymno.
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Excursion to Knossos Palace from South Crete
Boasting one of Europe's most important archaeological sites, Crete's capital sets the scene for Minoan greatness. On this tour, you'll discover the Palace of Knossos, a spot veiled in mystery. Uncover this ancient civilisation and the legendary King Minos with your expert guide. Check out alluring artefacts and get in-depth historical knowledge before heading back to Heraklion for some free time.
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Spinalonga Island Tour from Southern Crete
The tiny isle of Spinalonga is one of the top things to do in Crete. Take a tour of this former leper colony and discover the centuries of history packed within the walls that encircle it. What's more, you'll also visit the seaside resorts of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos for a spot of swimming and the chance to find lunch.Spinalonga has been a Venetian outpost, an Ottoman town and a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘Isle of Tears'. A guided walk will show you around the fortress and the colony – which closed in the 1950s. Spinalonga is one of Crete's best-known features and a location in Victoria Hislop's bestselling novel, The Island.Later, you'll sail back to Elounda. Swim, stretch out in the sunshine, or watch the world go by at a café. You'll also have lunch - not included - in a local taverna. And rounding off the day is a visit to Agios Nikolaos, a chic seaside town sheltered by two offshore islets.
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Spinalonga is one of Crete's most talked about sights. It was Europe's last leper colony and scores of lepers lived here, in exile from the mainland, until 1957. Sail to this eerie island just 15-minutes from the mainland and explore this relic of the past.Arriving at the island, you'll find yourself immersed in its history right away. Over the years, it's been a Venetian outpost, an Ottoman town and most notoriously, a leper colony which led to it being dubbed the ‘isle of tears'.A guided walk will show you around the Venetian fortress and the main street lined with the shops and houses where the lepers attempted to live ordinary lives. You'll get to look round the old hospital and graveyard, too. Later, you'll sail back to Elounda where you can swim in the sea, stretch out in the sunshine or watch the world go by at a waterside café. There's also free time to find lunch in a local taverna and a visit to the chic resort of Agios Nikolaos.
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Popular experiences in Crete
Crete - Heraklion airport VIP service and lounge
Make your wait at the airport a breeze with our VIP airport service. Avoid all the usual hassle as you're fast tracked through check-in and security to enjoy unlimited drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi and more in the exclusive departure lounge. An altogether more relaxed way to round off your stay.Greeted on arrival at Heraklion Airport, the VIP service sees you sail through check-in and security with our fast track pass – giving you more time to take advantage of the comfortable VIP lounge and all its benefits.Inside, you've access to complimentary coffee, tea, water, soft drinks and snacks, as well as selected alcoholic beverages too. What's more, there's unlimited free Wi-Fi and access to TV, magazines and newspapers, allowing you to relax right up to take off.
Looking to let loose in Malia? We got you. Bag your Scene Pass for access to the some of Crete's best nights out, including pool parties, beachside raves and more...
Crete - Scene Malia White Party at Apollo Club
Get ready to glow at the White Party. Rock your best all-white fit and soak up the hottest urban beats from top DJs til the early hours, spicing up the Old Skool classics with new jams. With our hype MC and fire-breathing dancers in glam white, the vibe's electric. It's the ultimate blend of elegance and wild party energy, making it the must-attend event where the night's vibe is as fresh as your fit.
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Crete - Nat Geo Day Tour: The Millenary History of Olive Oil
Approximate itinerary and duration of activitiesIntroduction - 15 minutesWalking tour through the olive trees - 30 minutesPause for questions and raki drink - 15 minutesOlive oil factory tour - 40 minutesOlive oil tasting and questions - 55 minutesCooking demonstration and tastings - 30 minutesPlease note the order of activities may vary at your guide's discretion With millennia of experience behind them, it's no wonder the people of Crete produce some of the finest olive oil in the world. You will appreciate the timeless bond between Cretans and their revered olive trees as you trace the long heritage of olive cultivation on the island. Just outside Kritsa village in the hills of eastern Crete, you'll follow Nikos Plevritakis on a brief walk to his olive groves where some trees are 600-800 years old, and learn about olive cultivation from a true specialist. In the shade of the olive trees, you can try local raki known as ‘tsikoudia' with olives to nibble on while discussing the cultural and societal significance of olive cultivation in Crete. Then it's time to visit a local cooperative factory, to see up close how olives are processed into world-class olive oil. Back on the Olive Path, seize the chance to taste fresh figs, almonds, and grapes, see what the locals are growing, and find out all about the Cretan lifestyle and diet. Then, at an olive farm, you can sample olives, fresh tomatoes, and raki before your olive oil tasting session begins – a great opportunity to learn how to taste oils like a professional and compare the flavor profiles of different varieties. Finish off the day with a cooking lesson on various ways to use olive oil in Cretan cuisine. Authentic dishes, such as tzatziki and Greek salad will feature, and you'll find out why the traditional Cretan diet is so beneficial to health and longevity.
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Crete - Nat Geo Day Tour: Discover Cretan Farm Life
Small-scale, family-run farms are integral to the Mediterranean diet that Crete is so famous for. A local family will welcome you to their Mitato, a small farmhouse, where you'll be greeted with the genuine warmth of Cretan hospitality. Listen to the local farmer tell the intriguing tale of King Minoas who watched from his observatory, and alerted locals to incoming pirates. Greetings over, it's time for a hands-on bread-making lesson, learning the techniques for typical Cretan bread, made with wheat and barley flour. Then, witness their cheese-making skills using goat's milk from the farm. Next, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in, helping out with daily farm tasks like feeding the goats, pigs, chickens, and rabbits, and tending to the gardens. The adventure continues with a snail hunt over the mountainside, exclusive to National Geographic travellers, peeking under rocks, and among shrubs and flowers. As the day unfolds, your collected treasures, including snails, eggs, fruit, and vegetables, become the ingredients for lunch. Alongside the family, you'll prepare a feast of local delicacies, all made from the products of your day's work. Finish off the experience with a taste of Crete's spirit, Raki, and why not sing along to their traditional Cretan ‘Mantinades,' - traditional Cretan couplets that express sentiments about Cretan daily life.
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Crete - Acqua Plus Waterpark Ticket
Channel your inner child and head to Acqua Plus Waterpark, where you can splash, tumble and whizz your way down slide after slide. If you're up for a thrill try the extreme slides – the Spacebowl is our favourite – or, if relaxing is more your thing, check out the lazy river. Perfect for kids and big kids alike.Located just outside Heraklion, the park is easy to find. Once you're there you'll receive a digital wristband to scan so there's no need to carry money about – just pay at the end for anything you've bought. Then the fun can begin.The park is split in two, one side for the extreme slides and the other is made for younger children. You'll be spoilt for choice with over 50 slides to choose from – there's even the chance to walk on water in the W.O.W balls.
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Crete - Elafonisi Island tour with Agia Sophia Cave and monastery visit
The uninhabited island of Elafonisi may be tiny but it's bursting with personality. This journey to this islet off southwestern Crete is steeped in myths and legends and boasts historic buildings and amazing natural scenery – making it an ideal excursion for all the family.
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Crete - Matala Beach Festival - transfer only
The Matala Beach Festival is an annual music and cultural event held in Matala, a small coastal village in Crete, Greece. The festival gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s when it became a gathering place for the hippie community.Today, it continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to enjoy live music performances, art exhibitions, workshops, and various cultural activities. The festival is free to attend and it takes place on the picturesque Matala Beach, known for its unique rock formations and caves.This is one of Crete's most important music festivals, offering a vibrant atmosphere, where attendees can soak up the sun, dance to the rhythm of music, and experience the bohemian spirit that still lingers in this charming seaside location. This excursion offers hassle-free transport to and from the Festival.
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Crete - Chania Old Port Catamaran Cruises to Agioi Theodoroi Island
Whether you choose the morning or evening, this catamaran cruise in the Agioi Theodoroi Bay has all the ingredients for a classic Cretan outing, with coastal views, watersports in the clear waters and fresh Mediterranean food. You'll sail out of the Old Venetian Port of Chania and drop anchor near the island of Agioi Theodoroi for swimming, snorkelling, paddle-boarding or fishing. On the morning tour you'll tuck into lunch onboard, with Greek beer and Cretean wine, while on the sunset tour, there's a platter of local ham, cheese and fruit, plus a glass of fizz and canapes when you board.
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Crete - Private off-road tour to experience Crete
Buckle up for an exciting 4x4 off-road tour, rumbling into the mountainous landscapes of Crete. You'll be awe-struck by views of the south Cretan coast from Kerame village and the drama of Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Take a cooling dip at Preveli Beach, tuck into a traditional lunch, and check out Spili's lion-head fountains. With your guide doubling as your driver, every twist and turn reveals another hidden gem of Crete.
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Crete - Full-day tour with Cretan caves, olive oil and pottery
Get a glimpse of Cretan tradition on this full-day tour. You'll start your adventure at Melidoni Cave for a look around, before stopping for a coffee. Then, call in at an olive mill to learn all about how olive oil is made, from hand-picking to bottling. Plus, you'll get to taste different varieties and pick up some tips for your cooking. Swing by a honey museum afterwards for a tasting session, before wrapping up your tour in the village of Margarites, a pottery hub with Venetian roots that's known for its centuries-old ceramic-making heritage.
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Crete - Private premium catamaran cruise to Dia Island in Crete
Cast off on a half-day catamaran cruise, gliding over to Dia Island in Crete. As you sail, you can tuck into traditional Cretan treats. Once you arrive at the island, you can take your pick from the watersports on offer – try paddle-boarding, snorkelling, or just go for a swim. After working up an appetite, you'll have an onboard Mediterranean feast prepared by an award-winning chef. For this experience, you can choose whether to sail in the morning or evening, and if you want to opt for a little extra luxury with a private cruise.
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Crete - Premium catamaran cruise to Dia Island in Crete
Cast off on a half-day catamaran cruise, gliding over to Dia Island in Crete. As you sail, you can tuck into traditional Cretan treats. Once you arrive at the island, you can take your pick from the watersports on offer – try paddle-boarding, snorkelling, or just go for a swim. After working up an appetite, you'll have an onboard Mediterranean feast prepared by an award-winning chef. For this experience, you can choose whether to sail in the morning or evening, and if you want to opt for a little extra luxury with a private cruise.
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Crete - Lasithi Plateau tour with Cretan tastings and pottery lesson
Discover Crete's beauty on a tour across the Lasithi plateau. Explore ancient villages, taste local produce, and experience pottery making.
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Crete - Sunset cruise from Gouves port to St George Bay in Crete
Sail from Gouves port to St George Bay on this sunset cruise. As you glide across the Mediterranean, you can sip on unlimited drinks, tuck into some tasty snacks, and lounge on deck – what more could you ask for? Plus, if you fancy it, you can make a splash snorkelling or try your hand at fishing – the boat has all the gear you need. Then, as the sun sets, you can take in the Insta-worthy views before heading back to port.
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Crete - Crete sailing trip to Dia Island with lunch
You're sailing to an uninhabited island steeped in Greek mythology on this day out. Legend has it that Dia Island was once a giant lizard that tried to destroy Crete until Zeus turned it to stone with a thunderbolt. You'll take a leisurely sail to Dia, where you'll visit two of the island's tucked-away bays. The first bay is a little livelier, where you can make the most of the water toys for snorkelling, fishing and swimming. Then, after a freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch onboard, it's off to a calmer, more tranquil bay to while away the afternoon sunbathing, swimming and relaxing.
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Crete - Sunset catamaran cruise from Souda Port in Crete
Cruise to Marathi Bay at sunset on this half-day tour. Hop aboard for an evening of snorkelling, surfing, and fishing – or kick back and soak up the views Marathi Bay is known for. You'll find sandy beaches and calm, shallow waters here – ideal for all ages. Plus, there are snacks included for when you need to boost your energy levels. Then, you'll hop back on board the boat and return to the port, with the Cretan sunset as your backdrop.
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Crete - Catamaran cruise from Souda Port in western Crete
Relax in Mother Nature's hands on this catamaran sailing trip. Depending on the weather, you'll be whisked off to one of two swoon-worthy bays. If it's calm, you'll sail to Octopus Bay, where the secluded pebbly coves and seabed are alive with starfish, crabs and the eight-legged friends the bay's named after – ideal for snorkelling. If it's a little rougher, then the bustling Marathi Bay is your best port of call, where you can try paddle-boarding, snorkelling and fishing by the sandy beaches. Whatever the weather, you can relax onboard with lunch and drinks.
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Crete - Private tour of western Crete's highlights from Chania
Discover Western Crete's highlights on a private tour. Explore Chania, Agia Triada Monastery, and Marathi Beach.
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Crete - Juktas Mount, Raki and wine distillery guided tour
Book your spot now for this 7-hour 4x4 tour of Crete including wine tasting and lunch!