Four-Day Cultural Tour of Crete from Heraklion

4 days Free CancellationMin 2 participantsPickup availableInstant confirmationGuided by Destination Services Greece

Why we love it?

The Crete Island Escape offers a four-day immersive experience in Greece, perfect for French-speaking travelers seeking a blend of history and natural beauty. Participants will explore the ancient Palace of Knossos, delve into the rich culture of Heraklion, and enjoy a scenic boat trip to the island of Spinalonga. With three nights of accommodation, daily meals, and the guidance of a local French-speaking expert on two of the days, this tour provides a distinctive opportunity to engage with Crete's heritage while enjoying the island's stunning landscapes.

Inclusions

  • Operated with a local French-speaking guide on Day 2 and 3
  • 3 nights' accommodation
  • 3 Breakfasts
  • 3 Dinners
  • 1 Lunch (Day 2)
  • Air-conditioned shared transportation throughout the tour
  • Inbound/Outbound air-conditioned shared transfers from/to Heraklion Airport
  • All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: boat trip and Spinalonga Island tour (Day 2); guided tour of Knossos Palace and walking tour of Heraklion (Day 3)
  • Meet & Greet

Exclusions

  • Day 2: the entrance fee to the Spinalonga archaeological site (€20 per person, payable locally)
  • Day 3: the entrance fee to the Knossos Palace (€20 per person, payable locally), visit and entrance at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
  • Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals if not stated explicitly in the programme
  • Flight tickets or visa fees
  • Airport taxes for domestic and international flights
  • Gratuities for driver and guide
  • Climate Change Resilience Fee. Clients will have to pay the Fee on the spot at the hotels.

Itinerary

Pickup from Heraklion Airport

Day 1

ARRIVAL CRETE

  • Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport, you will be directed to the bus that will take you to the hotel in the Central Area (Chersonissos, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Gournes, Stalida, Malia) for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the delightful surroundings on your own. Dinner is included.

    Overnight in the Central Area on Crete.

Day 2
  • After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel for a full-day excursion combining the natural beauty, history and seaside charm of eastern Crete.

    Your day begins in Agios Nikolaos, where you will board a boat and set sail across the beautiful waters of Mirabello Bay. Enjoy the scenic coastline and crystal-clear waters as you cruise towards the historic island of Spinalonga. Once on the island, a guided tour will take you through the fascinating remains of one of the world’s last leper colonies, revealing the history and stories behind this remarkable Venetian fortress and former settlement. The entrance fee to the Spinalonga archaeological site is not included (€20 per person, payable locally).

    The cruise then continues to Kolokytha Bay, where you will enjoy a swim in its crystal-clear waters and lunch on board by the beach. The excursion concludes with a visit to Agios Nikolaos, including its picturesque Lake Voulismeni, before returning to your hotel.

    Overnight in the Central Area on Crete.

Day 3
  • After breakfast, depart for Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete and a city rich in history and culture. The day begins with a visit to Knossos, the legendary centre of Minoan civilization and one of the island's most important archaeological sites. Discover the remains of the ancient palace and learn about the fascinating history of the Minoan world, whose origins date back more than 5,000 years. The entrance fee to the Knossos Palace is not included (€20 per person, payable locally).

    Continue to Heraklion city centre for a guided walking tour through the historic heart of the city. Explore its lively streets and discover landmarks including the Venetian Harbour and the atmospheric Old Town. There will also be an opportunity to visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion (on your own), home to an exceptional collection tracing the history of Crete, or to explore the city's old market and enjoy some time at leisure.

    After the tour, return to your hotel.

    Overnight in the Central Area on Crete.

Day 4
  • After a tasty breakfast, enjoy a shared transfer from your hotel to Heraklion Airport and continue with your travel arrangements.

Please Note

  • Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice
  • Hotel early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed

Cancellation Policy

Fully refundable until 7 days before start

Non-refundable after 7 days before start

From $758.66 Per 2 adults