Greece: Crete, an Island Getaway on the Mediterranean Sea

Heraklion - Rethymno - Chania

Exploration, Food

Activity Level: 2

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

Activities Included

  • Heraklion Archeological Museum Visit
  • Palace of Knossos Site Visit
  • Rethymno Jeep Safari
  • Preveli Beach Visit and Swim
  • Argyroupolis Waterfalls Visit
  • Chania Guided Walking Tour

Other Inclusions

  • Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
  • Local guide throughout trip
  • All city transfers

Optional Activities

  • Monastery Visit & Wine Tour
  • Tropical Balos and Gramvousa Islet Cruise

Exclusions

  • Flights (except as noted)
  • Food & Alcohol (except as noted)
  • Visas & Travel Insurance
  • Airport Transfers
  • Tips & Gratuity

Itinerary

Day 1

info

Day 1

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.

meal

dinner

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.

accommodation

Astoria Capsis, or similar

Overnight in Heraklion

Day 2

info

Day 2

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.

meal

breakfast

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).

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Heraklion Archeological Museum Visit

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.

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Palace of Knossos Site Visit

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.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Transfer to Rethymno

Take a private transfer to Rethymno. Stops for bathroom/snacks will be made along the way as needed.

accommodation

Achillion Palace, or similar

Overnight in Rethymno

Day 3

info

Day 3

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.

meal

breakfast

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).

activity

APPROX. 4 HOURS

Rethymno Jeep Safari

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.

meal

lunch

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.

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Preveli Beach Visit and Swim

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.

accommodation

Achillion Palace, or similar

Overnight in Rethymno

Day 4

info

Day 4

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.

meal

breakfast

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).

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Argyroupolis Waterfalls Visit

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.

meal

lunch

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.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Transfer to Chania

After lunch take a private transfer to Chania. Stops for the bathroom/snacks will be made along the way as needed.

accommodation

Akali hotel, or similar

Overnight in Chania

Day 5

info

Day 5

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.

meal

breakfast

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).

activity

APPROX. 2 HOURS

Chania Guided Walking Tour

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.

activity

APPROX. 4 HOURS

Monastery Visit & Wine Tour (Optional)

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.

accommodation

Akali hotel, or similar

Overnight in Chania

Day 6

info

Day 6

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.

meal

breakfast

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).

activity

APPROX. 7 HOURS

Tropical Balos and Gramvousa Islet Cruise (Optional)

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.

meal

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.

accommodation

Akali hotel, or similar

Overnight in Chania

Day 7

info

Day 7

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.

meal

breakfast

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).

Itinerary Details

Itineraries may change throughout the year due to several factors including logistical issues, Traveler feedback, or operational changes. The provided itinerary, including estimated times, serve as guidelines only. As your date of travel approaches, our Operators will amend the itinerary to include more details, adjust activities and provide updated information.

TrovaTrip and our Operators reserve the right to alter itineraries as we deem necessary before and during your experience in-destination.

Our 1% Promise

In partnership with The Cool Effect, 1% of your booking will be donated to reduce carbon emissions through community-based initiatives around the globe. Learn more at cooleffect.org.

$2300+ USD

per traveler
Request trip

$2300+ USD

per traveler