Exploring Crete, Private Tour

Exploring Crete, Private Tour

70 Views
8 Days From

$3587

Exploring Crete, Private Tour

8 Days Starting and ending in Heraklion, Greece

Visiting: Heraklion, Spinalonga, Elounda, Palace of Knossos, Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, Chania, Rethymnon, Potamies Reservoir, Roman Aqueduct of Lyttos, Kastamonitsa, Cave of Zeus, Lassithi Plateau, Krassi, Archanes, Mount Gioychta, Kounavoi

Tour code:

440549

Group Type:

Private

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

18-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Tour operated in:

English , French , German
From: $3587 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 22-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating private tour of Crete, Greece, where history and natural beauty intertwine. This journey begins in Heraklion, offering a blend of leisure and exploration. Discover the poignant history of Spinalonga Island, once a leper colony, and delve into the myths of the Palace of Knossos. Wander through the charming streets of Rethymnon and Chania, and experience the vibrant local culture. Adventure awaits with a Land Rover tour to the Cave of Zeus, nestled in the mountains, and a visit to the picturesque village of Archanes for a delightful wine tasting. With comfortable accommodations and guided tours in English, German, or French, this tour promises an enriching experience of Crete's treasures. Enjoy the convenience of private transportation and savor local cuisine with included meals, making this an unforgettable Greek getaway.

Highlights

  • Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, one of the largest and most important museums in Greece.

  • Explore the Cave of Zeus on the slopes of Mount Ida, featuring stunning stalagmites and stalactites.

  • Visit Rethymnon, a town with a blend of modern and old-time charm, featuring Roman and Byzantine mosaics.

  • Take a boat trip to the island of Spinalonga, known for its history as a leper colony and Venetian fortress.

  • Discover the Palace of Knossos, the hub of Crete’s Minoan civilization and home to the myth of the Minotaur.

  • Explore the picturesque harbors and old quarters of Chania and Rethymnon, with their Italian and Turkish influences.

  • Enjoy a Land Rover tour to the birthplace of Zeus and experience the traditional village life in Crete.

  • Visit Archanes village and enjoy a wine tasting experience in Kounavoi village.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : ARRIVAL CRETE (6km – 15 min)

Location: Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive at the airport, where our representative will meet and greet you. Then transfer from Heraklion airport the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the delightful surroundings on your own. Dinner is included.

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 2 : CRETE: BOAT TRIP TO THE ISLAND OF SPINALONGA (148km – 8hrs)

Location: Spinalonga, Elounda, Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a tasty breakfast, you will be picked up at your hotel to start discovering the hidden treasures of Greece. Spinalonga is one of the most famous spots in Crete, and sometimes called the ‘island of tears’ due to its past as a leper colony. It was initially a Venetian fortress, it became the home for hundreds of Greece’s lepers who were shipped there and formed a colony. Once there, you’ll take a guided walk around the remains of the colony. See its main street, still lined with the shops and houses where the lepers attempted to live ordinary lives. Later, you’ll sail back to Elounda, where you’ll have a typical Cretan lunch and have free time to walk around, do some shopping or go for a swim. Lunch and dinner are included. 

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 3 : CRETE: PALACE OF KNOSSOS AND HERAKLION TOWN (13km – 6hrs)

Location: Palace of Knossos, Heraklion, Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After the rich breakfast served at the hotel, you will be picked up and transferred to the imposing Palace of Knossos. The landmark dates back to 1900 BC, it was the hub of Crete’s Minoan civilisation and where the fearsome Minotaur was said to have lurked in the labyrinth. Your guide will explain the myths surrounding the palace and its Kings as they lead you around its treasures. Then, visit Heraklion, see the Venetian lion fountain and the loggia that is now the Town Hall before finishing up at the entrance to the old harbour. Here, time is your own to explore. Take advantage also of the guided tour in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. Dinner is included.

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 4 : CRETE: WEST CRETE, RETHYMNON & CHANIA (286km – 10/11hrs)

Location: Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a mouthwatering breakfast before your morning picks up. Today we´ll visit two of Crete’s cities, Chania (also known as Little Venice) and Rethymnon with its fascinating mix of Italian and Turkish influences both with picturesque harbour fronts. Your guide will take you on a tour of the old quarter, its quaint little neighbourhoods and backstreets that have been restored beautifully. Afterwards, make a visit to the lively Chania market hall with local produce and the famous leather lane before ending up at the breathtakingly beautiful Venetian port of Chania. Equally beautifully is the old town and harbour of Rethymnon, the second stop. You have free time in both to explore the winding back streets. A day full of discovery, beautiful scenery and history. Dinner is included.

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 5 : CRETE: DAY FREE AT LEISURE

Location: Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast. Then, relax on the beach or enjoy the day exploring the island on your own. Dinner is included.

Overnight in Heraklion

Day 6 : CRETE: LAND ROVER TOUR AND THE BIRTHPLACE OF ZEUS (120km – 7/8 hrs)

Location: Potamies Reservoir, Roman Aqueduct of Lyttos, Kastamonitsa, Cave of Zeus, Lassithi Plateau, Krassi, Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel and head towards the central part of Crete to learn about its mythology, culture, and local life, while having lots of fun. Your day starts from the moment you meet your drivers, who will take you to your first stop, the Potamies Reservoir water dam. Continuing our journey through mesmerising paths and olive trees, we reach the ruins of the Roman aqueduct of Lyttos. Admire the beauty of the site and continue towards the quaint village of Kastamonitsa, where we join the locals for a coffee break in the traditional cafeneion. Afterwards, the real off-road adventure begins! We will Climb high into the mountains and follow the ancient minaon path that leads us to the cave of Zeus (entrance not included) where, according to mythology, the father of all the gods was born. Then, you have the chance to take some memorable photographs of the Lassithi Plateau, before we drop down to the plateau for a delicious BBQ lunch with unlimited wine! The journey continues with a stop at Lassithi plateau, where time has virtually stood still and the local people are mainly farmers.  We continue the adventure until we reach the village of Krassi our last stop of the day. Catch a glimpse of the 2,000-year-old plane tree and learn about its natural spring water source. End this thrilling day with a transfer back to your hotel.  Lunch is included with wine and bottled water.

Overnight  in Heraklion.

Day 7 : CRETE: ARCHANES VILLAGE & WINE TASTING IN KOUNAVOI VILLAGE (40 km - 4/5 hrs)

Location: Archanes, Mount Gioychta, Kounavoi, Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin your day with a delectable breakfast at the hotel. Then drive to the village of Archanes, built in a small, closed, Mediterranean valley at an altitude of 380 meters. West of the settlement is the landmark of Archanes, the anthropomorphous mount Gioychta that overshadows the settlement. Ancient fables have linked the mount with stories and legends of gods, and heroes. The settlement of Archanes is more than 4000 years old, and it harmoniously combines historical memories with the liveliness of modern life. Between the modern houses were found the relics of the Minoan rural palace in the place called “Toyrkogeitonia” and the modern houses have been built on ancient or later foundations. Archanes has been characterized as a traditional settlement and is of particular architectural and urban interest.  Afterwards, visit of Titakis Fabrica wines! With a history and tradition in wine production dating back to the late 1950s, the Titakis family of winemakers. The specialized know-how accumulated over the years, the combination of native and selected international varieties and the inspired effort to create quality wine bring Titakis Winery to its new era which coincides with what can be called a Renaissance of Cretan wines.


Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 8 : DEPARTURE CRETE (6km - 15min)

Location: Heraklion

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a tasty breakfast, enjoy a transfer from your hotel to the airport and continue with your travel arrangements.


What's Included

  • Tour Guide

    Operated with English, German or French-speaking local guide on a private basis for days 2-4 and a private escort on day 7.

  • Transport

    Air-conditioned private transportation throughout the tour from day 2 to day 7, including inbound and outbound air-conditioned private transfers from/to Heraklion International Airport.

  • Entrance Fees and Activities

    All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, including Spinalonga island tour, Elounda Port boat trip, Archaeological site of Knossos, Heraklion Museum, Rethymnon and Chania visits, Land Rover tour, and the birthplace of Zeus, village of Archanes visit, and wine experience in Kounavoi.

show more

What's Not Included

  • Zeus' Cave Entrance Fee

    The entrance fee to Zeus' cave is not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees are not included in the tour package.

  • Flights

    Domestic and international flights are not included.

  • Drinks During Meals

    Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours, if any, are not included.

  • Unmentioned Visits

    Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    Porterage and gratuities are not included.

  • Personal Expenditures

    Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not explicitly stated in the program are not included.

  • Camera/Video Camera Fees

    Any fees for camera or video camera usage are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or accidents is not included.

  • Overnight City Tax

    Overnight city tax for hotel overnights is not included and must be paid on the spot at the hotels.

  • Additional Transfers

    Additional transfers should be purchased separately if not included as part of the package or if pre and post-night stay is not booked as an extra.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Greece. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sun glasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay. Walking shoes recommended for Zeus Cave visit.


Please Note

  • Day 6: Long walks and climbs require appropriate shoes
  • Private group transfers require all participants to arrive and depart with the same flight/time or same boat/time
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
  • Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed  
  • In many hotels in Greece, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
  • Please note that the inbound airport-hotel transfers are included only as part of the package and if pre and post-night stay is booked as an extra. Otherwise additional transfers should be purchased separately.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with air-conditioned private transportation throughout the tour, including inbound and outbound transfers from Heraklion International Airport. Enjoy seamless travel from Day 2 to Day 7, ensuring a hassle-free experience as you explore the beautiful island of Crete.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation in Heraklion, with options ranging from the 3-star Hotel Olympic Heraklion to the 4-star Hotel Olive Green Heraklion. Both standard and superior hotel categories are available, ensuring a pleasant stay throughout your tour.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
  • Day 1-7 Heraklion:     
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4*
OPTIONAL EXTRA: 
  • Pre/ Post-stay in Heraklion, on a half-board basis:
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4*

Check out our Q&As

  • What languages are available for the tour guide?

    The tour guide is available in English, German, or French on a private basis from Day 2 to Day 4, and there is an English, German, or French-speaking private escort on Day 7.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners, and 2 lunches at local taverns.

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes air-conditioned private transportation throughout the tour from Day 2 to Day 7, as well as inbound and outbound air-conditioned private transfers from/to Heraklion International Airport.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour package?

    Yes, all entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included, such as the Spinalonga island tour, the Archaeological site of Knossos, Heraklion Museum, Rethymnon and Chania visits, Land Rover tour, and the wine experience in Kounavoi.

  • Is the entrance fee to the Cave of Zeus included?

    No, the entrance fee to the Cave of Zeus is not included in the tour package.

  • What is the accommodation arrangement during the tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights' accommodation in Heraklion. You can choose between a standard hotel category, such as Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3-star, and a superior hotel category, such as Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4-star.

  • What activities are included on Day 6 of the tour?

    On Day 6, the tour includes a Land Rover tour to the Potamies Reservoir water dam, the Roman aqueduct of Lyttos, the village of Kastamonitsa, and the Cave of Zeus. It also includes a BBQ lunch with unlimited wine and a visit to the village of Krassi.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Archanes village?

    During the visit to Archanes village, you will explore a settlement more than 4000 years old, characterized by its traditional architecture and urban interest. You will also visit Titakis Fabrica wines for a wine tasting experience.

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival

Reviews of this operator

Indra  

Best Tpur Operator for Greece

06-Jul-2023

The best Tour Operator. The planning and timing by the agency was great. Accommodation was also good. The package was reasonable. Thanks to Destination Services Greece

Giovanni B.  

Great

27-Jul-2022

Very committed service with proper follow-up. Service provided as per their schedule with a hassle free journey... thanks to ITS tours and travels for providing services

Duran  

Excellent company

15-Jun-2022

Based on their very positive reviews, we booked with Destination Services Greece. I found the service and response of this travel agency to be excellent. Easily 5-stars. My emails were promptly responded to, and everyone showed up when they were supposed to.

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 01, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 11, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Oct 07, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 08, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 18, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Oct 14, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 15, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Oct 16, 2025 - Oct 23, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 25, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Oct 20, 2025 - Oct 27, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Oct 21, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
$3677 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 22, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Oct 23, 2025 - Oct 30, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Oct 24, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Oct 25, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Oct 27, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Oct 28, 2025 - Nov 04, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 29, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Oct 30, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
$3587 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Greece requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 35 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services greece charges.

    Up to 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Similar Tours