Best of Crete

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Chania, Elounda

This private luxury tour of Crete features the most interesting historic towns, major archaeological sites and museums; tastings of renowned Cretan olive oil and wine; the most beautiful Cretan landscapes; and leisure time at a luxurious seaside resort.

Begin in western Crete at the historic seaside town of Chania. During private touring, explore cobblestone backstreets and see the interesting mix of architecture that reflects the island’s Venetian and Turkish occupations, such as the Venetian Harbor, Venetian lighthouse, minarets and the Mosque of the Janissaries. Also get a sense of the local lifestyle at the covered market and take an excursion to the Aptera archaeological site in the hills outside the city. Other touring options in Chania include visiting local churches, the synagogue and various museums.

One day, take a private excursion into the rolling hills to an olive estate for a private tour and olive oil tasting. Also visit a winery to sample some of Crete’s best wines. Another day, enjoy a private excursion to spectacular Samaria Gorge and the coast along southern Crete for hiking and relaxing amid beautiful mountain and seaside scenery.

Continue to eastern Crete and the resort town of Elounda. En route, if desired, stop in Rethymnon, a seaside town with an old Venetian quarter. Continue to the monumental Palace of Knossos, a sprawling archaeological site that was the center of the great Minoan civilization until around 1400 B.C. and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which has an impressive and extensive collection of Minoan artifacts.

During private touring around Elounda, visit the village of Kritsa to see Byzantine frescoes and browse for local crafts, explore the ruins of the Doric city of Lato perched in the beautiful hills, and take a boat to Spinalonga, an atmospheric island with a ruined fort and a fascinating history. There will also be time to relax at your luxurious seaside resort and enjoy the shops and restaurants in the charming nearby beach town.

Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange additional activities such as a cooking class focused on Cretan recipes, a tour of the Minoan Palace of Malia, or a visit to Lassithi to see the cave where the Greek god Zeus was born.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 Arrive Chania Private arrival transfer to hotel for 4 nights Day 2 Chania & environs Full-day private tour, including Aptera archaeological site Day 3 Chania & environs Full-day private excursion to an olive estate and winery for tours and tastings Day 4 Chania & southern Crete Full-day private excursion to Samaria Gorge and southern Crete Day 5 Chania – Elounda Private transfer to Elounda for 4 nights with touring of Rethymnon and/or Palace of Knossos en route Day 6 Elounda & environs Full-day private excursion to local villages and archaeological sites Day 7 Elounda & Spinalonga Privately guided excursion to the island of Spinalonga Day 8 Elounda At leisure at resort Day 9 Depart Crete Private airport transfer

Hotels

Chania: Domes Zeen Chania or Chania Flair Boutique Hotel Elounda: Rosewood Blue Palace or Daios Cove

Cost

$13,380 Per person (based on four travelers/two rooms) $18,070 Per person (based on two travelers/double occupancy)