Crete excursions – explore the island and experience it like a true local! As the largest island of Greece, Crete offers numerous of activities that make every traveler uncover the uniqueness of the island. Its rich cultural heritage and the scenic landscapes and natural beauties, provide some of the most exciting opportunities for excursions. Moreover, it is a journey through the ancient years and mythology, while the island boasts the Mediterranean cuisine with rich flavors.
Discover one of the most incredible and most known natural parks in Europe, the Samaria Gorge. Enjoy a stroll through the colorful streets of Chania and Rethymno. Learn about Cretan gastronomy and taste local food and products. Furthermore, sip authentic local drinks like tsikoudia or organic wines from local wineries as well as virgin olive oil.
Find out the best excursions in Crete during your stay
- Palace of Knossos: Take a tour to the most famous archaeological site of Greece. Knossos Palace is located at Heraklion and is considered as Europe’s oldest city. Travel back in time through Minoan Civilization and find out about the labyrinth and the creature Minotaurus. A walk to the corridors of the Palace will make you enthralled about the history of the place. After that, take a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, where you will be able to find out about the artifacts and masterpieces from the Neolithic period to Roman times.
- Samaria Gorge: The longest gorge in Europe and undoubtedly should be the highlight of your visit in Crete. Admire the raw natural beauty of the Cretan scenery and walk through an incredible 12 km hiking trail. Furthermore, along the way you will see different varieties of flora and fauna and if you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse at the endangered wild goat Kri Kri.
- Elafonisi Beach: With its crystal-clear waters and pink sand, Elafonisi Beach is a paradise for beach lovers. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing on the beach, or take a stroll around the nearby island to explore the local flora and fauna. Overall, the shallow waters and gentle waves make Elafonisi Beach a great destination for families with children.
- Chania Old Town: A charming destination that offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture. In essence, the old town is filled with narrow streets, traditional houses and ancient buildings that are a testament to the island’s past. Visitors can stroll through the town’s maze-like alleys, explore local shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs. Moreover, dine at one of the many traditional restaurants serving delicious Cretan cuisine. The Venetian harbor, with its picturesque lighthouse and ancient fortifications, is a popular spot for tourists to take in the stunning views of the sea.
Crete is a feast for the eyes!
- Balos Lagoon: a must-see for anyone visiting the island. More specific, with its turquoise waters, stunning scenery and beautiful sandy beach, the lagoon is a true paradise for nature lovers. You can take a boat tour to the lagoon and enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on the soft white sand and exploring the nearby island. Meanwhile, the lagoon’s remote location and the absence of large tourist crowds makes it a peaceful and relaxing destination.
- Arkadi Monastery: Crete maintains its culture through the historical monasteries, too. Places that have stories from the ancient years and recount some of the most significant moments of Cretan history. One of them is the holy Arkadi Monastery at Rethymno. A great way to learn about the battles of Crete. As the most sacred symbol of the struggle of the Cretans for liberation, Arkadi Monastery stands imposingly on a fertile plateau with olive groves, vineyards and several chapels.
- Botanical Park and Gardens of Crete: A fascinating destination for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts at Fournes Village. Impeccable natural beauty while you explore the rural area of Crete. The gardens cover an area of 20 hectares. In addition, it features a wide variety of plants and trees from all over the world, including rare and endangered species. Take a stroll through the gardens and admire the beautiful flowers, herbs, and trees, or take a guided tour. A perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.
- Natural History Museum of Crete: The Natural History Museum of Crete at Heraklion will leave you speechless with its exhibition. Dedicated to the plant and animal life of the eastern Mediteranean region, the exhibits are simply spectacular. Specifically, representations of ecosystems, skeleton of one of the largest species that ever lived on earth, earthquake simulator are some of them. A Crete excursion perfect for educational purpose.
Plan your gastronomy tours
- Excursion on a Cretan household: Spend a day immersed in the diverse natural scenery of Crete and taste the rich flavors. An excursion to an organized workshop in a Cretan household could be a lifetime experience. Thus, you will learn the history and significance of Cretan cuisine, while also the methods of cheese and bread making. Your experience will also include food tasting, such as traditional pilafi – the wedding rice, or kalitsounia – mini cheese pies.
- Vouves Village: Moreover, Crete is a blessed land that offers a huge variety of fruits. A must excursion in Crete is a tour at traditional wineries where you learn about the wine cultivation process. Taste different types of local wine and admire the beautiful vineyards. In addition, your taste buds will once again come to life when you will head to an olive oil estate. Crete produces tones of virgin olive oil every year, which is famous worldwide. Furthermore, you can also join a tour to the oldest olive tree in the world at and be fascinated with nature! It is estimated that this olive tree is approximately 3000 to 4000 years old.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crete excursions is the best way to discover the island and find more about its culture. A charming island that will definitely steal your heart not only with its natural beauty but with its welcoming people, too. One thing is for sure: your holidays will be unforgettable. Pack your bags and explore the island! Do not hesitate to contact us for any advice and information!
