Private Venetian Crete Exploration
New
This four-day tour starts and ends in Heraklion, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation. You’ll explore the hauntingly beautiful island of Spinalonga, once a Venetian fortress and leper colony, with a guided walk through its evocative ruins. Discover the ancient Palace of Knossos, the heart of Minoan civilisation, and wander through lively Heraklion, spotting landmarks like the Venetian lion fountain and old harbour. With plenty of time to enjoy local cuisine, shopping, and even a swim, this trip balances fascinating history with laid-back moments, all wrapped up with comfortable transfers and included meals.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
4 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
HeraklionEnds
HeraklionMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Greece that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Country
GreecePassengers
$3,588.75
$1,968.00
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max Private Tour
Trip Type
Private Tours
Range
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Group Size
Min 2 / Max Private TourRange
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Private ToursAccommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Itinerary
Day 1 - Heraklion - Heraklion
Upon arrival at Heraklion airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and explore the charming surroundings at your own pace. Dinner is included this evening. You will stay overnight in Heraklion.
Day 2 - Heraklion
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, we collect you for a trip to Spinalonga, one of Crete’s most notable sites. Known as the ‘island of tears’, Spinalonga was originally a Venetian fortress before becoming a leper colony, where hundreds of patients lived in isolation. We take a guided walk around the island’s remains, including the main street lined with shops and houses where the inhabitants sought to maintain a semblance of normal life. Afterwards, we sail back to Elounda for a traditional Cretan lunch. You then have free time to explore the village at your own pace—whether shopping, swimming, or simply relaxing. The day concludes with a transfer back to your hotel in the Gouves or Chersonissos area. Lunch and dinner are included.
Day 3 - Heraklion
After breakfast at the hotel, we will transfer you to the impressive Palace of Knossos. Dating back to around 1900 BC, this site was the centre of Crete’s Minoan civilisation and is famously linked to the legend of the Minotaur and its labyrinth. Enjoy a guided tour of the palace, where your guide will share insights into its history and the myths surrounding its ancient rulers. Afterwards, visit the vibrant city of Heraklion to see notable landmarks such as the Venetian Lion Fountain and the Loggia, now serving as the Town Hall. The tour concludes at the entrance to the old harbour, where you can continue exploring independently. If you wish, you may join a guided visit to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion to deepen your understanding of the region’s rich heritage. We will then transfer you back to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4 - Heraklion
After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, we will transfer you to Heraklion airport for your onward journey.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Reviews
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Prices & Dates
'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices (if available) are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room.
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