GPS Maps
Detailed maps of your daily itinerary so you never get lost or lose time
Our rates are based on the rental of one car per 4 people, one double room per 2 people, one triple room per 3 people and one quadruple room per 4 people. In case your group has different requirements please contact us for a customized offer.
We will be happy to answer any question you may have.
Heraklion
10 days
1.041 km
Crete is a world unto itself. From remnants of Minoan palaces and traces of Europe's oldest literate civilization to authentic mountain villages,
secluded southern beaches and the lively and welcoming historic cities of the island's northern shore, Crete is Greece's most complete island destination. You’ll visit all of Crete’s most famous ancient sites, as well as lesser-known archaeological gems. And you’ll have plenty of time to escape the crowds and experience the timeless rural way of life in authentic, small villages too.
Nine accommodations at boutique hotels
Nine traditional Greek breakfasts
Rental of category D car for 10 full days
With tips for local activities, restaurants, places to visit, audio storytelling, support.
Our itinerary includes all must-visit locations, but through our app you can customize it with points of interest & activities, based on your personal interests.
On our first day in Crete, we will discover the hubs most important to the island, from antiquity to the present day. We set off from the city of Heraklion, the largest, most crowded city in Crete and the centre of decision-making and contemporary life on the island. Next, we visit Knossos, one of the most powerful and palatial ancient cities, which marks the beginning of sophisticated civilisation on the European continent.
Overnight in Heraklion
Today is a ride through an impressively wide variety of terrain through eastern Crete and the prefecture of Lassithi: dry land, seaside, cities, villages, valleys and caves! We will visit the islet of Spinalonga, which for years was home to the most misunderstood patients: lepers. Eventually, we’ll reach the most famous cave in the ancient world, Diktaion Andron: the place where Zeus, the king of the ancient gods, spent his childhood.
Overnight in Heraklion
Away from the crowds of tourists, we’ll explore Anogia, the village that gave birth to Greece's most beloved musicians. Then we continue to the picturesque cave of Melidoni and the beautiful resort of Bali which make up the dazzling mosaic of coastal Crete and offer many opportunities to enjoy the Cretan sea and Cretan cuisine – just like the locals do.
Overnight in Rethymno
The day opens with a visit to the most intriguing archaeological site in Crete, Ancient Eleftherna. We continue to the Arkadi Monastery, one of the most emblematic sites of the heroic spirit of the Cretans and their struggle for freedom. In the village of Margarites, we marvel at the artistry of the local people and their love for crafts, before returning to the charming and cosmopolitan city of Rethymno.
Overnight in Rethymno
We head to the monastery of Preveli, a stronghold of faith and the Greek sense of freedom. On our return, we’ll follow a fascinating route through the forests of Rethymno prefecture, visiting the traditional village of Spili, known for its cooling, shady square and running waters. Our final stop is the gorge of Patsos, a smaller and less crowded gorge that the famous Samaria gorge.
Overnight in Rethymno
This day is dedicated to the exploration of Apokoronas, the geographical bridge between Chania and the rest of the island. Apokoronas is one of the most interesting on the island, as it combines wild coastal beauty with traditional village architecture. We will visit the most beautiful of its villages, Vrisses and Vamos, that sit at a semi-mountainous altitude and are surrounded by farmland and a wild nature, as well as the remarkable archaeological site of Aptera, before arriving in enchanting Chania.
Overnight in Chania
We will visit the fairytale castle of Frangokastello, where the ghosts of the Drosoulites warriors, appear at dawn each May. We will continue to explore the picturesque region of Sfakia, a group of small villages backed by the steep White Mountains, the most rebellious part of Crete where the conquerors never lived. Finally take a dive in one of the many beautiful beaches of southern Crete.
Overnight in Chania
Discover one of the most breathtaking beaches and biosites of Crete, Elafonissi, famous for its clear blue waters and pink sand. As we cross the island to reach its southernmost and westernmost point, we’ll visit the Monastery of Chrysoskalitissa, built on the rocks overlooking the sea and protecting travelers. Our final stop will be Elos, a tiny, picturesque village, full of plane and chestnut trees.
Overnight in Chania
We set off on a day trip from Chania to enjoy the two most famous and enchanting beaches of Crete: Balos and Falassarna. They are the two most exotic and extraordinary places on the island, which make memories of Crete unforgettable and offer relaxation for soul and body.
Overnight in Chania
We left two very special places until last: Lake Kournas and the traditional village of Gavalochori. The coexistence of a traditional urban settlement with the rich natural landscape is a fitting way to end this adventure through such a diverse and bountiful island.
All the places and things to do that are not to be missed during this trip!
We have carefully selected boutique hotels and family-run guest houses in great locations, with lots of character. Here are some photos of the hotels we use in this trip (hotel selection is based on availability at the time of the booking)
You have the freedom to modify and adjust your itinerary according to your interests and pace, while maximizing your time.
Detailed maps of your daily itinerary so you never get lost or lose time
Original stories created by our guides for you to listen on the go
Insider tips at every location, as if you had a guide with you
Itineraries based on what not miss, but also optional stops you can choose according to your interests.
A list of our favorite restaurants and activities in each area you visit
All information in our App works both with or without internet
Back to the Routes is a personal journey, or better, a collection of personal journeys in the land of Greece. It is the collection of our childhood journeys that we started with our parents, who taught us to love and appreciate simple things in life and that we later continued ourselves.
Discover Greece’s true history, culture and nature with stories, tips & recommendations.
Use our app to customize your itinerary on the go, with suggested points of interest, activities & restaurants.
Explore responsibly with our carbon-neutral trips, options to visit lesser tourist destinations and family-run accommodations.
Read more