Crete Labyrinth Experience
New
This 5-day tour starts in Heraklion and finishes at Heraklion Airport, offering a fantastic blend of history, culture and stunning scenery. You’ll explore the haunting island of Spinalonga, wander through the ancient Palace of Knossos with its legendary labyrinth, and discover lively Heraklion’s Venetian charm. The journey also takes you off the beaten track to the Lassithi Plateau, where you’ll enjoy local tastings, mountain views and an authentic shepherd’s welcome. With plenty of time to relax and soak up the Cretan atmosphere in Gouves or Chersonissos, this trip perfectly balances adventure and leisure.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
5 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
R 11 523,75
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 50
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
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 50Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
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
Group ToursAccommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Itinerary
Day 1 - Welcome to Crete
Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport, you will be guided to a coach that transfers you to your hotel in the Gouves or Chersonissos area for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and explore the charming surroundings at your own pace. Dinner is included this evening.
Travel time and distance for the day: 25km; 30 minutes
Day 2 - Spinalonga Island & Elounda Boat Trip
After breakfast, we will collect you from your hotel to explore some of Crete’s lesser-known treasures. Our first stop is Spinalonga, often called the ‘island of tears’ due to its history as a leper colony. Originally a Venetian fortress, it later became home to hundreds of leprosy patients who lived here in isolation. We will take a guided walk through the haunting remains of the colony, including its main street lined with shops and houses where residents sought to maintain a semblance of normal life.
Afterwards, we sail back to Elounda for a traditional Cretan lunch. You will then have free time to stroll around, shop, or enjoy a swim.
Travel time and distance for the day: 130km; 8 hours
Day 3 - Knossos Palace & Heraklion City
After a hearty breakfast, we collect you from the hotel for a visit to the impressive Palace of Knossos. Dating back to around 1900 BC, this archaeological site was the centre of Minoan civilisation and is famously linked to the legend of the Minotaur’s labyrinth. During a guided tour, you will explore the palace’s fascinating ruins while learning about the myths and history of its ancient rulers.
Afterwards, we head to vibrant Heraklion, where you can see 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 are free to explore independently. For those interested, there is an optional guided visit to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion to deepen your understanding of the region’s past.
Travel time and distance for the day: 42km; 8 hours
Day 4 - Land Rover Safari through Central Crete
After breakfast, we travel to central Crete to explore its rich mythology, culture, flora and fauna, as well as local life. Our first stop is the Aposelemi Dam, followed by a visit to the ruins of the Roman aqueduct at Lyttos. We then head to the village of Kastamonitsa to join the locals for tastings of raki and olive oil.
Next, the off-road adventure begins as we ascend into the mountains along an ancient Minoan path to visit a local shepherd. Here, you can sample homemade cheese and observe native wildlife. From a nearby viewpoint, we take in views of the Minoan path and the eastern edge of the Lassithi Plateau. We then descend onto the plateau itself to explore before crossing it to enjoy a traditional lunch with unlimited wine (vegetarian options available).
Our final stop is the village of Krassi, where we see a 2,000-year-old plane tree and learn about its natural spring water. The day concludes with a transfer back to your hotel in the Gouves or Chersonissos area.
Travel time and distance for the day: 120km; 8 hours
Day 5 - Farewell Crete
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we transfer you to Heraklion Airport to continue with your onward travel arrangements.
Travel time and distance for the day: 25km; 30 minutes
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Reviews
Accommodation Standard
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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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