Venetian Crete, Private Tour

Venetian Crete, Private Tour

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4 Days From

$1485

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Tour Overview

Discover the enchanting island of Crete on the "Venetian Crete, Private Tour." Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Greece as you explore the Palace of Knossos, the heart of the Minoan civilization, and wander the vibrant streets of Heraklion. Enjoy a memorable boat trip to the historic island of Spinalonga, once a Venetian fortress and later a leper colony, and relax in the picturesque fishing village of Elounda. With comfortable accommodations in Heraklion, guided tours, and delicious meals included, this private tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and leisure in one of Greece's most captivating destinations. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Palace of Knossos: Get closer to the rich Greek past and visit the highlights of the Minoan civilization

  • Heraklion city: Wander around the streets of Crete's largest city and its administrative capital

  • Agios Nikolaos: Agios Nikolaos is a charming coastal town, located close to the island’s capital, Heraklion

  • Spinalonga: Enjoy a memorable boat trip to the magnificent island of Spinalonga and admire the impressive fortresses dating from the Venetian period

  • Elounda: Unwind while visiting the picturesque fishing village in the lovely Mirabello Bay

Itinerary

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Day 1 : ARRIVAL CRETE (6km – 15 min)

Location: Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or Hotel Olive Green Heraklion

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive at the airport, where our representative will meet and greet you. Then transfer from Heraklion airport to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the delightful surroundings on your own. Dinner is included.

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 2 : CRETE: BOAT TRIP TO THE ISLAND OF SPINALONGA (130km – 8 hrs)

Location: Crete

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or Hotel Olive Green Heraklion

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at your selected hotel, getting ready for a memorable day. You will be picked up after breakfast, heading towards Spinalonga, one of the most famous parts of Crete. The beautiful island is known by many as the ‘island of tears’, gaining this nickname because of its past as a leper colony. It was initially a Venetian fortress, and it became the home for hundreds of Greece’s lepers who were shipped there and formed a colony. Arrive on the intriguing island and enjoy an interesting guided walk around the remains of the colony. Catch sight of its main street, still lined with the shops and houses where the lepers attempted to live ordinary lives. After getting in touch with the dark past of Spinalonga, sail back to Elounda to satisfy your taste buds with a typical Cretan lunch. After the delightful meal, explore the village on your own, luxuriate in some shopping, or go for a reinvigorating swim. The day ends with a transfer back to your hotel in Gouves or Chersonissos area. Lunch and dinner are included.

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 3 : CRETE: THE PALACE OF KNOSSOS AND HERAKLION TOWN (42km – 7/8 hrs)

Location: Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Hotel Olympic Heraklion or Hotel Olive Green Heraklion

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After the tasty breakfast served at the hotel, you will be picked up and transferred to the imposing Palace of Knossos. The landmark dates back to 1900 BC, and it was the hub of Crete’s Minoan civilization and the place where the fearsome Minotaur was said to have lurked in the labyrinth. Admire the treasures of this fascinating palace during an interesting tour, while your guide explains the myths surrounding it and its kings. Afterwards, visit lively Heraklion, see the Venetian lion fountain and the loggia that is now the Town Hall. The magnificent tour ends at the entrance to the old harbour, the place where you begin to explore on your own. If you want to get even closer to the stunning part of the Greeks, take advantage of the guided tour in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. Your day ends with a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Dinner included.

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 4 : DEPARTURE CRETE (6km – 15 min)

Location: Heraklion

Meals Included: Breakfast

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at your hotel, before hopping on the transfer to Heraklion airport.


What's Included

  • Tour Guide

    Operated with English or German or French-speaking local guide (Day 2, 3) on a private basis.

  • Accommodation

    3 nights' accommodation in Heraklion.

  • Meals

    3 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch (non-exclusivity on a local tavern), and 3 Dinners.

  • Transport

    Air-conditioned private transportation (Day 2-3) and Inbound/Outbound air-conditioned private transfers from/to Heraklion Airport.

  • Entrance Fees and Activities

    All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Spinalonga island tour & Elounda Port (boat trip on shared basis) (Day 2); the Archaeological site of Knossos and Heraklion Museum (Day 3).

  • Other

    Meet & Greet.

What's Not Included

  • Zeus' Cave Entrance Fee

    Zeus' cave entrance fee is not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees are not included.

  • Domestic Flights

    Domestic flights are not included.

  • International Flights

    International flights are not included.

  • Drinks During Meals

    Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise) are not included.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours (if any) are not included.

  • Unmentioned Visits

    Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    Porterage and gratuities are not included.

  • Personal Expenditures

    Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.

  • Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks

    Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. are not included.

  • Overnight City Tax

    Overnight city tax for the hotel overnights effective from January 1st 2018. Clients will have to pay the TAX on the spot at the hotels.

  • Additional Transfers

    Please note that the inbound and outbound transfers are included only as part of the package or if pre and post-night stay is booked as an extra. Otherwise, additional transfers should be purchased separately.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Greece. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sun glasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
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Please Note

  • Private group transfers require all participants to arrive and depart with the same flight/time or same boat/time
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
  • Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed  
  • In many hotels in Greece, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
  • Please note that the inbound airport-hotel transfers are included only as part of the package and if pre and post-night stay is booked as an extra. Otherwise additional transfers should be purchased separately.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-3 Heraklion:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4*

OPTIONAL EXTRA:

  • Pre/ Post-stay in Heraklion, on a half-board basis:
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with air-conditioned private transportation for all transfers and tours, including inbound and outbound transfers from Heraklion Airport.

Accommodation

Enjoy 3 nights' accommodation in Heraklion with options ranging from the 3-star Hotel Olympic Heraklion to the 4-star Hotel Olive Green Heraklion, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-3 Heraklion:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4*

OPTIONAL EXTRA:

  • Pre/ Post-stay in Heraklion, on a half-board basis:
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4

Check out our Q&As

  • What languages are available for the tour guide?

    The tour is operated with an English, German, or French-speaking local guide on a private basis.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch at a local tavern, and 3 dinners.

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides air-conditioned private transportation on Day 2 and Day 3, as well as inbound and outbound air-conditioned private transfers from/to Heraklion Airport.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour package?

    Yes, all entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included, such as the Spinalonga island tour, Elounda Port boat trip, the Archaeological site of Knossos, and Heraklion Museum.

  • What are the accommodation options available?

    Accommodation options include a Standard Hotel Category (Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3*) and a Superior Hotel Category (Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4*).

  • Is there an option for a pre or post-stay in Heraklion?

    Yes, there is an optional extra for a pre or post-stay in Heraklion on a half-board basis, with accommodation options in either the Standard Hotel Category (Hotel Olympic Heraklion or similar 3*) or the Superior Hotel Category (Hotel Olive Green Heraklion or similar 4*).

  • What should I wear when visiting temples or religious buildings in Greece?

    Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings.

  • Are there any exclusions in the tour package?

    Yes, exclusions include Zeus' cave entrance fee, visa fees, domestic and international flights, drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise), optional tours, any visit not mentioned in the program, porterage and gratuities, personal expenditures, travel insurance, and overnight city tax for hotel overnights.

  • What happens if there are unused services during the tour?

    There is no refund for unused services, and splitting of the package is not allowed.

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival

Reviews of this operator

Indra  

Best Tpur Operator for Greece

06-Jul-2023

The best Tour Operator. The planning and timing by the agency was great. Accommodation was also good. The package was reasonable. Thanks to Destination Services Greece

Giovanni B.  

Great

27-Jul-2022

Very committed service with proper follow-up. Service provided as per their schedule with a hassle free journey... thanks to ITS tours and travels for providing services

Duran  

Excellent company

15-Jun-2022

Based on their very positive reviews, we booked with Destination Services Greece. I found the service and response of this travel agency to be excellent. Easily 5-stars. My emails were promptly responded to, and everyone showed up when they were supposed to. ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 08, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Sunday - Wednesday

Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 09, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Monday - Thursday

Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 10, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 08, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Wednesday - Saturday

Apr 09, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Thursday - Sunday

Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Sunday - Wednesday

Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Monday - Thursday

Apr 14, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 15, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025
$1485 (USD)

Wednesday - Saturday

Apr 16, 2025 - Apr 19, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Thursday - Sunday

Apr 17, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Apr 18, 2025 - Apr 21, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Sunday - Wednesday

Apr 20, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Monday - Thursday

Apr 21, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 22, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Wednesday - Saturday

Apr 23, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Thursday - Sunday

Apr 24, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Apr 25, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 26, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Sunday - Wednesday

Apr 27, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Monday - Thursday

Apr 28, 2025 - May 01, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 29, 2025 - May 02, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Wednesday - Saturday

Apr 30, 2025 - May 03, 2025
$1522 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Greece requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 35 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services greece charges.

    Up to 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Venetian Crete, Private Tour

4 Days Starting and ending in Heraklion, Greece

Visiting: Heraklion, Crete

Tour code:

441383

Group Type:

Private

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

VERY_EASY

Age range:

18-99

Tour operated in:

English , French , German

Trip Styles:

Small Group

From: $1485 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 28-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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