Embark on a captivating 7-day coastal adventure to Crete, the largest of the Greek Isles, boasting azure waters and a rich historical tapestry. This idyllic haven blends natural beauty with cultural exploration, offering an unforgettable escape bathed in sunlight and mythology. Uncover Minoan secrets with an archaeological visit, embark on a thrilling jeep safari, and indulge in a leisurely beach swim. Explore the hidden wonders of the Argyroupolis Waterfall and meander through Chania city's charming alleys. Catering to the adventurous, history enthusiast, and nature lover alike, Crete promises an immersive journey blending adventure, history, and relaxation. Ideal for those seeking an all-encompassing experience, this coastal odyssey caters to discerning explorers on a quest for an unforgettable escape.
7 days
10 - 24 spots
Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
6 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 2 Dinners
Kalimera and welcome to Crete! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into HER.
You will have a short walk from the hotel to a local taverna. For dinner you will try Greek cuisine. Dinner is included at a local taverna with a set menu consisting of: Family style shared starters, choice of 1 main dish, dessert and 1 glass of wine or 1 beer or 1 soft drink. Water and bread are also included. Final menu and restaurant to be determined.
Overnight in Heraklion
After breakfast you'll begin your day visiting the famous Heraklion Archeological Museum. You will then be transferred to the Palace of Knossos archeological site and the birthplace of the Minotaur legend. Afterwards, say goodbye to Heraklion and you will be transferred to Rethymno. In the afternoon you'll have plenty of time for lunch or to relax by the beach, or explore! Please wear comfortable walking shoes for your morning exploration. In the afternoon you should pack a swimsuit, sandals, hat and sunglasses if you plan on hitting the beach.
Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (above items can vary).
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
After breakfast you will walk no more than 3 minutes, depending on the pace of the group, to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Admission into the museum is included. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the oldest and most remarkable museums in Greece. It prides itself for its unique Minoan collection, which includes the masterpieces of Minoan art. You will have 1 hour 30 minutes to explore the museum at your own pace.
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
After the museum you will be transferred 15 minutes for your archeological tour. Perhaps one of the most famous stories from Crete, visit the site and see where Knossos stood 3,000 years ago. Admission into the site is included. The vast labyrinth stretched beneath your feet, hiding the terrible Minotaur and all who challenged the king. This tour includes walking on uneven ground and walking on unpaved ground for roughly half a mile. After time with your guide you will be able to explore on your own.
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
Take a private transfer to Rethymno. Stops for bathroom/snacks will be made along the way as needed.
Overnight in Rethymno
Today you'll traverse the island of Crete from north to south as you split up into a Jeep Caravan, off roading and exploring the diverse palm forests, gorges, and beaches of Crete. When you reach the southernmost point of the island you'll reach Preveli Beach. For the jeep tour you should wear comfortable clothing. Pack your bathing suit if you want to take a swim before heading back to Rethymno. After arriving in town you will have the remainder of the day on your own.
Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (above items can vary).
APPROX. 4 HOURS
After breakfast you will meet your private drivers and jeeps at the hotel for a half day of exploring Crete. There will be 4-6 people per vehicle. Rumble along remote roads in the gorgeous Rethymno region, passing landmarks like Prasses Gorge and Potamon Dam and stopping to swim in the Mediterranean Sea. The route is approximately 60 miles.
Light lunch is included at a local taverna. You will be served a traditional Cretan meal family style (shared local dishes) with 2 glasses of local wine.
APPROX. 1 HOUR
A picturesque palm beach, stop for a visit and bring your bathing suit for a swim! You will have 1 hour to relax and explore before heading back for the remainder of the day. Please do not forget to pack a towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and water.
Overnight in Rethymno
The morning is yours to relax by the beach, or explore the old town of Rethymno on foot. The old quarter of the town has many Venetian palazzos, Turkish houses with wooden balconies and the Venetian citadel with a mosque spanned by a massive dome. Later on you'll transfer to Chania, another quintessential Greek isle beachside town. Along the way you'll stop for lunch at the Argyroupolis Waterfalls. After arriving in Chania you will have the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (above items can vary).
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
In the early afternoon you will check out from your hotel and be transferred 30 minutes to the beautiful Argyroupolis Waterfalls. Before a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants, you will have time on your own to walk around, marvel at the springs and take photos.
Included lunch at a local taverna by the Argyroupolis Waterfalls. You will try local Cretan cuisine. Lunch at a local taverna with a set menu consisting of: Family style shared starters, choice of 1 main dish, dessert & 1 glass of wine or 1 beer or 1 soft drink - water & bread are also included. Final menu & restaurant to be determined.
APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN
After lunch take a private transfer to Chania. Stops for the bathroom/snacks will be made along the way as needed.
Overnight in Chania
This morning you'll take a guided walking tour of Chania, tasting local delicacies along the way. Afterwards you'll have some time for lunch and to explore the town or to spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach. If you're up for a unique adventure, take the optional excursion to the nearby Monastery for wine and snacks.
Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (above items can vary).
APPROX. 2 HOURS
Meeting in the hotel lobby you will begin exploring the town of Chania and tasting local delicacies. On your private walking tour, your guide will show you the highlights of the city and explain the various influences that have impacted the architecture and the city itself. After walking through Chania and tasting various local delicacies you will have a much better understanding of the local life and the Cretan cuisine. The number of tastings will be confirmed in your final itinerary. You will be walking on pedestrian streets and paved roads for approximately 1.4 miles. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and pack a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.
APPROX. 4 HOURS
From town you will be privately transferred to The Patriarchal Monastery of the Holy Trinity Tzagarolon, one of the most important monasteries of the Venetian era in Crete with a rich offering of history and education on the island. In recent years the Monastery has developed the systematic cultivation of organic vines and produces excellent wine, tsikoudia (raki), olive oil, honey, vinegar and olive oil soap. You will have the opportunity to taste 5 wines, accompanied by traditional Cretan snacks. *Please note that when visiting the Monastery, you will need to wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
Overnight in Chania
Today you will have a free day! Relax at the hotel, sunbathe on the beach, or join an optional full day cruise to further along the coast. In the evening, join your group for a final farewell dinner.
Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (above items can vary).
APPROX. 7 HOURS
This morning you will be privately transferred to the dock for a boat tour. This shared cruise takes you to Gramvousa, where you will have the chance to observe geological phenomena, sea caves and beautiful waters. Upon arrival at Gramvousa Island, you will have time to walk up to the Venetian castle or spend your time swimming and sunbathing. Your next stop is Balos, one of the most beautiful places on earth! Here you will have the privilege of swimming in the shallow and warm lagoon waters. For today, please be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, a hat, bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, water & snacks. You can also bring a change of clothes if you'd like. After returning to the dock you will be transferred back to the hotel where you will have time to relax on your own before the farewell dinner.
Farewell dinner included at a local taverna with a set menu consisting of: Family style shared starters, choice of 1 main dish, dessert and 1 glass of wine or 1 beer or 1 soft drink. Water and bread are also included. Final menu and restaurant to be determined. Roundtrip transfers are included.
Overnight in Chania
All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of CHQ.
Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (above items can vary).
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