Trip to Crete, Greece

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation by the Beach

Welcome to Crete! On your first day, after checking into your hotel and freshening up, spend some time at one of Crete’s many stunning beaches. Sit back, relax, and soak up the sun on the golden sand while listening to the sound of waves crashing. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters or try some of the water sports such as parasailing and wind-surfing. Some of the highly recommended beaches include Elafonissi Beach, Falassarna Beach, and Balos Lagoon. Indulge in some delicious Greek food at one of the many beachfront restaurants, savoring some of the fresh seafood and traditional dishes while taking in the scenic views.

Day 2: Exploring the Old Town of Chania

Today, explore the charming Old Town of Chania, the most picturesque city in the island. Stroll through the narrow alleys of the Venetian harbor and marvel at the beautiful architecture of the buildings, churches, and mosques. Admire the colorful façades and vibrant murals on the walls of the buildings as you wander through the maze-like streets. Stop at the Etz Hayyim Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in Greece, and then visit the Archaeological Museum of Chania to learn about the island’s fascinating history and culture.

Day 3: Hiking in Samaria Gorge

For an exhilarating experience, hike through the Samaria Gorge, one of the most stunning natural attractions in Europe. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the 16-km gorge is located in the National Park of Samaria, in southwestern Crete. Trek through the rugged terrain with breathtaking views of the towering cliffs, the emerald forests, and the sparkling stream. Take your time to hike, stopping at various rest areas along the way to appreciate the unique flora and fauna. Finish off your hike in the charming village of Agia Roumeli and unwind with a refreshing drink at one of the sea-facing taverns.

Day 4: Day Tour to Knossos Palace and Heraklion City

Today, take a day tour to visit the Knossos Palace, located in the outskirts of the bustling city of Heraklion. Here you can explore the ancient ruins and learn about the fascinating history of the Minoan civilization in Crete. After visiting the palace, head over to Heraklion city, the largest city in Crete, to explore the bustling streets, shop for souvenirs, and taste some of the local cuisine. Visit the Koules Fortress, an imposing Venetian tower that served to protect the city from invasions or the Heraklion Archaeological Museum which has a great collection of Minoan artifacts.

Day 5: Wine Tasting in the Vineyards of Crete

For a more relaxing activity, enjoy some of the finest wines of Crete on a wine-tasting tour. There are many beautiful vineyards in Crete, such as Lyrarakis, Douloufakis and Manousakis, that offer wine tasting in idyllic settings. Indulge in some of the local wines such as Vidiano, Vilana and Assyrtiko, which are popular in Crete. Learn about the history and culture of winemaking in Crete and savour the different delicious wines as you soak up the gorgeous views of the vineyards, the olive groves, and the mountains.

Day 6: Beach Hopping and Water Sports in Rethymno

Spend another day hitting some of the best beaches of Crete. Rethymno, a city on the northern coast of the island is home to some of the most popular beaches. Some of the popular beaches include Preveli Beach, Bali Beach, and Agia Galini Beach. Here you can indulge in activities such as snorkeling, diving and windsurfing or take a boat to explore nearby coves or hidden bays. Relax at a beachfront restaurant and have local specialties for lunch as you dive into the clear waters of the Cretan sea.

Day 7: Nightlife in Crete

As your last day in Crete, indulge in some of the local nightlife. For a start, visit the most famous nightlife center of the island, which is the city of Chersonissos. There, you’ll find many lively bars and nightclubs, some of which stay open until dawn. Alternatively, you can head to the city of Rethymno which has a livelier nightlife with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. Listen to music from both Greek and Western tradition and enjoy the festive atmosphere that Crete has to offer.