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CHARMING CRETE | 8-Day All-Inclusive & Guided Tour

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8 DAYS

START & END in ATHENS

SMALL GROUP

UP to 6 PEOPLE (Age 16+) More upon request

LOCAL MEALS

BREAKFAST - LUNCH - DINNER

LICENSED GUIDE

ENGLISH-SPEAKING

ACCOMMODATION

4–5★ HOTELS

PERSONAL MANAGER

AVAILABLE 24/7

CHARMING CRETE

Welcome to a magical journey through Greece!

Let us take you by the hand and immerse you in the vibrant spirit of Greek life through exploration, adventure, flavors, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Traveling in Greece is more than just indulging in exquisite food and wine; it’s about stepping beyond your comfort zone, embracing unforgettable experiences, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As we guide you through the diverse wonders of our homeland, you’ll be captivated by its endless beauty, history, and culture. Greece is more than just a destination—it’s a rich mosaic of traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and a timeless spirit.

Unwind, explore, and let Greece awaken your senses, ignite your passion for nature, and inspire a newfound love for life.

THE JOURNEY

Our Charming Crete tour begins in Athens, the heart of civilization and a city of captivating contrasts. We welcome you under the stars, offering dramatic views of the Acropolis and a delicious Greek dinner to kick off your adventure. The next day, embark on an in-depth private guided tour of Athens, where you’ll delve into the city’s rich history, ancient landmarks, and vibrant culture with our expert local guide. Visit iconic sites like the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic stadium, while uncovering the fascinating stories behind each. Visit the Acropolis Museum, where you’ll marvel at the treasures that bring Athens’ ancient past to life. Explore charming neighborhoods and hidden historical gems, with personalized insights along the way. This exclusive experience invites you to immerse yourself in Athens at your own pace, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Greece’s timeless capital. The same evening you travel to unspoiled Crete by boat, gazing at the endless blue horizon and its incredible islet spots. You enjoy a romantic dinner on board and spend the night in luxury cabins.

Begin your day with an authentic Cretan breakfast in a charming traditional village, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Immerse yourself in a hands-on cooking class using fresh, organic ingredients from the kitchen garden, and savor the flavors of your creations. Enjoy a guided visit to a typical local home, where a warm Cretan welcome awaits, along with captivating stories of the island’s past, present, and traditions. On the way, make a brief stop at the wood workshop of Manolis, a must-visit artisan and true embodiment of Cretan craftsmanship. Then, follow the journey of Cretan honey from beehive to jar, indulging in its rich, natural sweetness. Conclude your day in one of the island’s most exquisite hotels, where you can unwind and soak up the serene ambiance by its spacious swimming pool.

Start your day with a delightful buffet breakfast at your luxury hotel before embarking on a journey through Crete’s rich history and natural beauty. Begin with a visit to the world’s oldest olive tree, estimated to be over 4,000 years old, a living testament to the island’s deep-rooted traditions. Next, awaken your senses with a leisurely stroll through the Botanical Park of Chania, where you’ll discover an array of unique plant species native to the island. Savor a delicious lunch crafted from the freshest local ingredients, straight from the garden. Continue to the picturesque Venetian port of Chania, a charming blend of history and coastal beauty.

Discover the ancient ruins of Aptera, a once-flourishing city-state dating back to the 14th century BC. Experience the natural beauty of the Springs of Argyroupolis, where lush greenery and cascading waters create a serene retreat, and enjoy a delightful lunch at a local tavern. Conclude your enchanting day in Rethymno, where the blend of Ottoman influences and Renaissance-style Venetian architecture creates a captivating ambiance for exploration and relaxation. Wander through the charming narrow streets of Rethymno’s small Venetian harbor, where colorful fishing boats bob along the waterfront beneath the imposing Venetian Fortress. Uncover the secrets of Greece’s famed liquid gold—extra virgin olive oil—before indulging in a unique gastronomic experience featuring surprising Cretan flavors.

Visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance and a masterpiece of Venetian architecture, set amidst serene surroundings. Explore the ancient city of Eleutherna, where centuries-old ruins, fascinating artifacts, and a rich history bring Crete’s past to life. Discover the art of traditional Cretan ceramics at the Tsikalario Pottery Workshop, where skilled artisans craft beautiful handmade pottery using age-old techniques. Take a captivating tour of the El Greco Museum, where you can explore the life and masterpieces of the renowned painter, gaining insight into his unique style and the influence of his Cretan heritage. Enjoy a memorable dinner and savor exquisite Cretan cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients in a charming, welcoming atmosphere.

Journey to the iconic Palace of Knossos, the legendary capital of King Minos. This awe-inspiring archaeological site offers a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations, making it an unforgettable highlight of your Cretan adventure. Embark on a fascinating tour of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of Minoan artifacts, offering a deep dive into Crete’s ancient history and culture. Catch the ferry back to Piraeus, relishing a scenic voyage across the Aegean Sea as you bid farewell to the stunning beauty of Crete.

PersonsDiscountCost per person
1 - 30%6.000€
4 - 55%5.700€
615%5.100€
PERSONAL MANAGER
LICENSED GUIDE
LUXURY HOTELS
FULL BOARD DAILY
COOKING LESSON
PRIVATE MINIVAN
PRIVATE TOURS
MUSEUM TICKETS
TRAVEL INSURANCE
CREDIT CARD FEES

Off-the-beaten-track itinerary

Walk through history with our private guided tours

Discover and savor the rich flavors of Cretan cuisine

Visit the Palace of Knossos, the capital of the legendary King Minos

Level 1: Flat route and leisurely walks

Level 2: Well-established footpaths and a few short hilly sections

Level 3: Uneven rural paths and a few sections over rough ground

A detailed description of each day’s pace level can be found under our weekly plan.

OUR WEEKLY PLAN

(Friday) - ATHENS

Pace level: 1

(Saturday) - ATHENS

Pace level: 3

(Sunday) - CHANIA

Pace level: 1

(Monday) - CHANIA

Pace level: 3

(Tuesday) - RETHYMNO

Pace level: 2

(Wednesday) - HERAKLION

Pace level: 2

(Thursday) - HERAKLION

Pace level: 2

(Friday) - ATHENS

Pace level: 1

TOUR INFORMATION

Traveling in a group

All hotel accommodations are in twin, double, or triple rooms, with tour pricing based on a minimum of two people per room. If you’re a group of three, we recommend booking a triple room. For families of more than three, you’ll be accommodated in a combination of the available room types, or—subject to hotel availability—you may be upgraded to a family suite. Please let us know your room preferences at the time of booking.

Traveling solo

Solo travelers are subject to a single supplement of €1000.

Group Size

This tour is designed for groups of 2 to 6 people. For a private experience or larger groups, please contact us to arrange a customized tour.

Group Discount

We offer a 5% discount for groups of 4 to 5 people and a 15% discount for groups of 6 people. The discount is automatically applied when booking. If you’re booking separately as a group of friends or family, simply let us know, and we’ll manually apply the discount to your reservation. Please note that the discount does not apply to extra services (e.g., private transfers, pre/post accommodation).

Payment Methods

We offer three payment methods: online payments, payment links, and bank transfers. If you wish to make an online payment please note that we accept VISA, MASTERCARD, and MAESTRO cards. If you make a bank transfer you can submit the payment receipt from your bank on your dashboard page and wait for the verification process. Your booking will be automatically canceled if the payment is not processed within 7 days.

After communicating with PICTOURS OF GREECE, a tailor-made payment plan (number of installments, due dates, etc.) can be arranged.

For more information about payments, deadlines, and cancellation fees please see our Terms & Conditions.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel or modify your booking (departure date, passenger name, etc.), a fee may apply unless the request is made at least 60 days before departure. All requests must be submitted in writing.

Cancellation Fees (as a percentage of the amount paid):

  • More than 60 days before departure: 0%

  • 59–50 days before departure: 20%

  • 49–40 days before departure: 40%

  • 39–30 days before departure: 60%

  • 29–20 days before departure: 80%

  • Less than 19 days or no-show: 100%

For full details on payments, deadlines, and cancellation policies, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

Currency Information

The EURO (€) is the official currency of Greece as part of the European Union.

Visa Information

A Greece tourist visa is required in some cases depending on your country of origin. Please check at https://greece.visahq.com/

Passport Requirements

Ensure your passport has at least six months of remaining validity. Although Greek law requires only three months beyond your departure date, connecting flights or destinations may require more. You may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds (credit cards typically suffice) and a return flight. We recommend carrying a copy of your passport and leaving the original safely stored in your hotel room.

Travel Insurance

All our packages are covered by a Travel Insurance program that covers common situations such as trip cancellation, travel delays, or the loss/delay of luggage and/or documents, as well as 24/7 medical assistance providing help in case of any emergency during the trip.

Dietary Needs

Our tours emphasize authentic local Greek cuisine, which is a key part of the overall experience. However, if you have specific dietary needs, we are happy to provide vegetarian options. If you have any questions or special requests regarding food, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

Physical Demands

While the itinerary includes downtime, this is still an active trip with considerable walking. If you have mobility concerns, please contact us ahead of time to determine if this trip is right for you. A detailed description of each day’s pace level can be found under our weekly plan.

Accommodation

In Athens, our guests spend one night at the Royal Olympic Hotel, a modern 5-star property located in the heart of the city, offering stunning views of the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. During the overnight boat trips from Piraeus to Chania and from Heraklion back to Piraeus, you’ll stay in private en-suite double cabins. While in Crete, accommodations are in carefully selected 4 or 5-star hotels, providing outstanding service and amenities for a truly memorable experience tailored to the well-traveled guest.

Meals

Each day, we offer traditional Greek breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared with authentic recipes at top-tier restaurants, wineries, and private hotels. For more details, please refer to the daily itinerary of our journeys. While our menus offer a wide selection, additional dishes may be ordered at an extra cost. Please note that drinks are not included.

Museum Tickets

All museum tickets are included in our trip packages.

Guide

Your tour will be led by an English-speaking licensed guide, authorized to conduct private tours in museums and archaeological sites. With deep expertise in both Ancient and Modern Greek history, they offer insightful and engaging commentary throughout your journey.

For tailor-made trips, you can request a guide who speaks your language.

Transportation

For our group transportation, we provide the most modern fleet of minivans. Our highly experienced staff is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of service and safety. All minivans are fully air-conditioned, equipped with comfortable seating, and feature large panoramic windows for an enjoyable journey.

Luggage

Please avoid oversized luggage. Due to frequent changes in destinations and the potential need to manage your own bags, we recommend packing one normal-sized bag and a smaller one, both of which should be more manageable.

Hygiene Measures

Our vehicles are thoroughly sanitized before the start of each tour and we will be cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces daily. Furthermore, we offer hand sanitizer throughout the whole tour. All our accommodation and restaurant partners follow hygiene protocols, and appropriate physical distancing of tables, in the lobby, and other public areas. All museums and sites we will visit during the tour fully comply with the hygiene standards.

Smoking Policy

Smoking is not allowed inside our vehicles, the archaeological sites, museums, and restaurants we visit. Generally, it is also not allowed on hotel premises but you can smoke on your balcony.

Weather

Before you pack for the trip please check the average weather conditions and bring the appropriate clothing with you.

What you Should Bring

Here is a rundown of what items you may want to pack:

  • Lightweight, layerable clothing

  • Long-sleeved shirts

  • Sweaters or a fleece jacket

  • Casual wear, plus one or two smart-casual outfits for select restaurants

  • Bathing suit

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat or sun visor

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • Compact umbrella

  • Electric converters/adapters (Greece uses types C and F sockets, 230V/50Hz)

  • A copy of your prescription if bringing medication

Arrival Information

When booking your flight to Athens, please note that the tour begins on Friday at 8 PM in the lobby of the Royal Olympic Hotel (Athanasiou Diakou 28, Athina 117 43), with a welcome meeting followed by your first Greek dining experience. Check-in is available from 3 PM, but if you arrive earlier, you can store your luggage in the hotel’s storage room—just ask the front desk for assistance. Early check-in before 3 PM is subject to hotel availability. If you encounter any issues upon arrival, please call our emergency number: 0030 6972026519 (available 24/7).

Departure Information

When booking your return flight, please note that the tour concludes on Friday at 7 AM upon our return to Athens. Since it takes approximately an hour and a half to reach Athens International Airport, we recommend booking a flight for 11 AM or later. Alternatively, you may choose to stay an additional night in Athens. If you need hotel recommendations, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Transfer from/to the airport

You always have the option to add our private airport transfer service between Athens International Airport and your hotel. If you wish to include this service, kindly provide your flight details (including flight number and schedule) when booking one of our trip packages, or email us at least two days before your arrival. Our professional driver will meet you at the arrivals gate, holding a placard with our company logo and your name. To ensure a smooth pickup, please make sure your phone is turned on and connected to the airport’s free Wi-Fi.

Communication

During our introduction meeting, we will set up a WhatsApp group to send important updates if necessary and to facilitate communication among group members and tour leaders during the trip.

Safety and Medical Information

Our staff will have a first aid kit and medical information for each participant. We take every reasonable precaution to ensure the health and safety of all participants. Emergencies will be handled with due urgency and care. Of course, an emergency may incur additional costs to the participant which are beyond our control.

Traveling with children

To ensure a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all, our tours are designed for guests aged 16 and above, in accordance with some hotel policies. If you’re traveling with children, we can arrange customized trips for your group—please reach out with your request.

Traveling with pets

No pets allowed.

Reviews

You may leave a review describing your personal experience after completing one of our trip packages by logging into your account, which helps us protect our website from fake reviews.

Tipping Information

If you are pleased with our services you can tip your tour guide and your manager separately at the end of the trip.

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