The Minoans; Inspiring 5 days to the gorgeous Crete Island
Crete: An unrivaled blend of attractions
Crete, Greece’s biggest island, offers an unrivaled blend of attractions for island-seekers. Explore ancient ruins, indulge in local cuisine, and connect with both traditional and modern elements. Amidst breathtaking landscapes of mountains, olive groves, and pristine beaches, you can escape the crowds and discover hidden gems.
Visit the legendary birth cave of Zeus or lose yourself in quaint fishing villages and hillside towns. The diverse and enchanting nature of Crete promises endless surprises and unforgettable experiences.
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Destinations: Crete
Region: Greek Islands: Mediterranean, Crete
Accommodation: 4 nights in Heraklion
Tour Language: English
Age Range: 1 to 99 year olds
Available: April – November
Departures: Daily
Highlights of The Minoans; Inspiring 5 days to the gorgeous Crete Island
- 5 days to the biggest island in Greece
- Explore the wonders of the ancient and classical sites of the island
- Explore Knossos the first Western civilization
Crete, the largest Greek island, is located at the southernmost point of Europe, where the Aegean and Libyan Seas meet. Due to its strategic position as a crossroads between the East and West, as well as Africa and Europe, Crete has historically been a target of powerful civilizations. With a rich history, mythology, and hospitality tradition, Crete is renowned as the birthplace of Zeus, the god of hospitality, and the Minoan civilization. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, the island boasts a diverse landscape including towering mountains (Psiloritis, Lefka Ori, Dikti), the world-famous Samaria Gorge, and pristine beaches along the Cretan and Libyan Seas. Administratively, Crete is divided into four prefectures.
Prepare to be captivated by ancient towns, historical ruins, and breathtaking natural wonders. Explore the remnants of Knossos Palace, visit the vibrant capital of Heraklion, and wander through the picturesque streets of Rethymno’s Venetian harbor. Delve into the depths of Crete’s cultural heritage by visiting monasteries like Agia Triada, Toplou, and Preveli.
Escape to the idyllic shores of Elafonisi, Phalasarna, or Vai for pristine beaches and tranquil sunsets. Thrill-seekers can embark on an adventure to the historic island of Spinalonga. Embark on an unforgettable island-hopping journey in the Mediterranean, with Crete as a captivating stop along the way.
From the thriving metropolis of Athens, embark on an enchanting voyage to the captivating island of Crete.
Our service includes arranging for your hotel pickup in Athens and providing transportation to Athens airport, where you will embark on your flight to Heraklion, Crete.
Arrival in Crete – Heraklion
Upon your arrival, our attentive team will welcome you and lead you to your meticulously chosen lodging. Whether you prefer the elegance of a hotel, the privacy of an apartment, or the spaciousness of a villa, you can rest assured of its quality. Once you have settled into your accommodations and explored the captivating island of Heraklion, the remainder of your first day and evening is yours to savor the delights it offers. Overnight.
Embark on an enchanting journey to Heraklion, where ancient wonders and modern attractions await.
Nestled close to the iconic Knossos Palace and Phaistos Palace, Heraklion is an ideal starting point for exploring Crete’s ancient history. Beyond its archeological wonders, the region boasts picturesque beaches and a charming city steeped in Venetian heritage.
Our comprehensive guide unveils hidden gems, covers top attractions, showcases enchanting beaches, recommends highly-rated hotels, highlights culinary delights, and presents a stunning gallery of photographs to enhance your Heraklion vacation experience.
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey with our “Unforgettable Experiences” private tour in Heraklion.
Experience a memorable afternoon with our exceptional “Best Of Heraklio & Knossos 4-Hour Private Shore Excursion,” a must-have for an extraordinary adventure.
Venture to Knossos, just south of Heraklion, and immerse yourself in the remnants of the grand Minoan civilization from 4500 years ago. As the captivating capital of King Minos, Knossos Palace reverberates with mythical tales of Europa, the Minotaur, and other legendary figures. Explore its architectural marvels, including innovative storage facilities with natural lighting and indoor plumbing, imposing pillars, an elaborate drainage system, aqueducts, irrigation channels, paved streets, and stunning frescoes. Through Knossos, gain insights into the origins of Europe’s oldest civilization, paving the way for a deeper understanding of our past and future.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the many local restaurants and then experience the legendary nightlife by visiting some of the island’s famous clubs and bars. Prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary display of exquisite jewelry that pushes the boundaries of imagination. This collection offers a glimpse into an opulent and unimaginable lifestyle that was once unimaginable in the early stages of civilization.
Day at leisure in Heraklion. Explore the city’s beaches.
Want to discover the most beautiful beaches of Heraklion with ease and carefree?
Along the north and south coasts of Heraklion, visitors can enjoy a variety of beaches for relaxation. Near popular tourist areas, organized beaches feature accommodations, dining options, and water sports facilities. For those seeking solitude, secluded bays can be found primarily on the less-developed southern coasts of Crete. In addition to beaches, Heraklion offers numerous historical and cultural attractions worth exploring.
Here is a list of the region’s top beaches: Matala, Malia, Agia Pelagia, Agiofarrago, Tymbaki, Lygaria, Tobrouk, Amnisos, Amoudara, Hersonissos, Stalida, Kalamaki, Kikkini, Fodele, Tsoutsouros, Gouves, Karteros, Analipsi, Kosmos, Keratokambos, Kokkinos Pyrgos, Paleokastro, Psari, Tertsa, Sidonia, Vathi, Treis Eklisies, Linoperamata, Mesara.
Overnight in Heraklion.
**Optional tours: Shore excursions in Crete
Chania: A wonderful place for vacations
Embark on a morning journey to Chania, a picturesque destination situated on Crete’s westernmost shores. This enchanting region is a haven for vacationers, boasting a captivating medieval town, pristine beaches that rank among Greece’s finest, enigmatic castles, and a breathtaking natural landscape. Prepare to be amazed by the abundance of extraordinary sights that await you in Chania! Known for its pristine beaches and rugged landscapes, Chania, the westernmost region of Crete, is a popular summer destination.
Must-visit attractions include: * Old Town of Chania: Explore this charming town with its Venetian port, lighthouse, and cobblestone streets. * Beaches: Balos, Elafonissi, and Falassarna offer stunning turquoise waters and white sand. * Hiking: Trek through the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest in Europe. * Adventure Activities: Go bungee jumping at Aradena Bridge or windsurfing at Elafonissi.
After your tour in Chania, we’ll drive back to Heraklion. Overnight in Heraklion.
Rethymno: An unforgettable adventure!
Your tour to Rethymno will commence with our driver collecting you from your hotel in Heraklion, the starting point of your unforgettable adventure.
Rethymno, a captivating destination in Crete, Greece, is a treasure trove of alluring beaches, intriguing archaeological sites, ancient Byzantine churches, and charming villages. Its cosmopolitan resorts offer a touch of modern elegance. Nestled between Chania and Heraklion, Rethymno’s capital city showcases stunning Venetian architecture. From bustling seaside spots to tranquil hidden coves, this region caters to diverse travel preferences. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring insider tips on the best accommodations, dining options, activities, enchanting beaches, and a gallery of breathtaking images to inspire your wanderlust!
When the sun sets in Heraklion, the stunning views and vibrant nightlife come alive, offering a captivating experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Crete’s historic and captivating charm. Overnight in Heraklion.
You’ll have a free morning to explore and enjoy the area at your leisure. Then, you’ll be transferred to Heraklion airport to board your flight to Athens.
When you arrive at Athens International Airport, our airport representative will meet you and arrange for your convenient transportation back to your hotel in Athens.
End of our services!
Enhance your Crete experience by adding extra nights to your stay. Simply request an extension when making your reservation, and we’ll ensure your dream vacation is tailored to your desires. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of these enchanting islands for a little longer, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Three (3) of our helicopters are based in Athens International Airport ready for you, whenever you decide you want a reliable and fast way to get to the destination you desire. Choose the location and we will fly you there, waiting for you, and fly you back to Athens.
Tour Type
- Vacation / Holiday package
Included
- Sightseeing sailing (for packages including islands)
- All ferry tickets are calculated on economy class, without cabin.
- Hotels, pickup and drop off (selected hotels only)
- Round trip shared transfers (Port – Hotel – Port) on each Island are included.
- An English speaking tour driver, with good knowledge of Greek history and culture (for private tours)
- Road tolls, All taxes, and handling charges
Excluded from the tour
- Gratuities (optional)
- Drinks and Beverage
Booking and Payment Terms:
- A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the program price (minimum €150.00) is due immediately upon booking to secure your reservation.
- The remaining balance must be paid in full 90 days prior to the departure date.
Cancellation Policy
Important Considerations:
- Tour quotes exclude airfare to/from the trip start point unless explicitly stated on the itinerary.
- Any cost increases due to currency exchange rates, government fees, taxes, surcharges, or hotel/lodge tariff hikes between the quote date and start date will be the client’s responsibility.
- Hotel availability cannot be guaranteed until the booking is confirmed. While we make every effort to secure accommodations as per the itinerary, during peak seasons or for bookings made within 90 days of the tour date, substitutions may be necessary.
- Payment of the program price constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions outlined in our “Terms & Conditions” section. We recommend carefully reviewing these terms and conditions to ensure a seamless and well-informed travel experience.
- Please note that living standards and practices at the destination may differ from those in your home country regarding utilities, services, and accommodation provisions.
Additional info
- Dress: When visiting religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered out of respect for the cultural norms
- Departure Time: Departure as per our program
- Return details: Returns to original departure point
- Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 – 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation
- The order of visiting the islands can be changed according to the traffic and weather conditions.
- Upon booking, an electronic voucher will be emailed to you containing our contact information, tour details, and all necessary instructions. This voucher serves as your ticket and proof of purchase. Please present a printed or digital copy of the voucher on the day of your tour to redeem your activity.
Special Notes
- The boat schedules provided in our Greek island packages are flexible and can be adjusted to accommodate clients’ preferences. The times mentioned serve primarily as a reference for the most convenient boat schedule.
- Accommodation on the islands is subject to availability and may vary based on the booking period and occupancy levels.
- For added convenience, any portion of the trip involving ferry transportation can be substituted with air travel, subject to availability and at an additional cost.
- To ensure conciseness, our package descriptions include only the offered services and occasionally a few suggestions. For comprehensive information about each suggested destination, please refer to our detailed destination guides.
- We aim to provide a seamless and personalized experience, tailored to your individual needs and preferences. Our knowledgeable travel consultants are available to assist you with any specific inquiries or customization requests.
- By offering flexibility, transparency, and personalized service, we strive to create unforgettable island adventures that exceed your expectations.
Persons with Disabilities
- Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora
- In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen.
