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.
A gastronomical journey to flavors and tastes
Spend a day immersed in the diverse natural scenery of Crete and taste the rich Cretan flavors and cuisine. 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 or bread making. Your experience will also include food tasting, such as traditional pilafi – the wedding rice, or kalitsounia – mini cheese pies.
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 Vouves Village and be fascinated with nature! It is estimated that this olive tree is approximately 3000 to 4000 years old.
Crete excursions will take you back in time!
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.
Furthermore, 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. 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.
Excursions to nature
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. 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.
Additionally, if you don’t want to hike a long trail, we suggest you to visit the Botanical Gardens of Crete, at Fournes Village. Impeccable natural beauty while you explore the rural area of Crete. A mixture of blend aromas and colors will prove you that this island is so blessed.
Last but not least, 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 Monastery of Agia Triada. Praised as the richest and most beautiful monasteries of Crete, it constitutes a guiding force in the economic and religious aspect of the island. Moreover, an excursion to Arkadi Monastery at Rethymno could be a 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.
Crete is a feast for the eyes!
In conclusion, Crete excursions is the best way to discover the island and find out more about the culture and the living. It’s 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!
