Venetian Crete
4 Days Starting and ending in Heraklion, Greece
Visiting: Heraklion, Gouves, Chersonissos, Spinalonga, Elounda, Palace of Knossos, Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26738
Guide Type:
Partially Guided
Age range:
18-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Crete with the "Venetian Crete" tour. This immersive experience invites you to explore the island's rich history and stunning landscapes. Begin your adventure in Heraklion, where you'll settle into your accommodation in the charming areas of Gouves or Chersonissos. Discover the ancient wonders of the Palace of Knossos, delve into the vibrant streets of Heraklion, and enjoy a guided tour of the Archaeological Museum. Sail to the intriguing island of Spinalonga, once a Venetian fortress and leper colony, and savor a traditional Cretan lunch in Elounda. With comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and delicious meals included, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation in the enchanting setting of Crete.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL CRETE
Location: Heraklion, Gouves, Chersonissos
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hersonissos Central or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Upon arrival at Heraklion Airport you will be directed to the bus that will take you to the hotel in Gouves or Chersonissos area for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the delightful surroundings on your own. Dinner is included
Overnight in Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 2 : CRETE: BOAT TRIP TO THE ISLAND OF SPINALONGA (130km – 8 hrs)
Location: Spinalonga, Elounda, Gouves, Chersonissos
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hersonissos Central or similar
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 Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 3 : CRETE: THE PALACE OF KNOSSOS AND HERAKLION TOWN (42km – 7/8 hrs)
Location: Palace of Knossos, Heraklion, Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hersonissos Central or similar
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 past 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 in Gouves or Chersonissos area. Dinner included
Overnight in Gouves or Chersonissos area
Day 4 : DEPARTURE CRETE
Location: Heraklion
Meals Included: Breakfast
Indulge in a delicious breakfast at your hotel, before hopping on a modern coach to enjoy a comfortable shared transfer to Heraklion airport.
Breakfast Included
What's Included
-
Tour Guide
Operated with a qualified local English-speaking guide on a shared basis on Day 2 and 3.
-
Transport
Air-conditioned shared transportation on Day 2 and 3, including inbound/outbound air-conditioned shared transfers from/to Heraklion Airport.
-
Entrance Fees and Activities
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, including the Archaeological sites of Knossos, Archaeological Museum, the boat trip to the island of Spinalonga, and Spinalonga island tour.
What's Not Included
-
Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, and meals if not stated explicitly in the programme.
-
Flight Tickets and Visa Fees
Flight tickets or visa fees are not included.
-
Airport Taxes
Airport taxes for domestic and international flights are not included.
-
Gratuities
Gratuities for driver and guide 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.
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.Please Note
- Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice
- Hotel early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.
- The distances and travel times described in the itinerary may vary.
- No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
- Please note the clients will have to pay the TAX on the spot at the hotels
- 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.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with air-conditioned shared transportation on Day 2 and 3, including inbound and outbound transfers from Heraklion Airport. Enjoy seamless transfers to your hotel and between tour destinations, ensuring a hassle-free journey throughout your stay.Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay with 3 nights' accommodation in the Gouves or Chersonissos area, offering options in both standard and superior hotel categories. Choose between Hotel Hersonissos Central, a 3-star hotel, or Hotel Hersonissos Maris, a 4-star hotel, for a delightful experience.Accommodation options
Day 1-3 Gouves or Chersonissos area:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Hersonissos Central or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Hersonissos Maris or similar 4*
Pre - Night in Gouves or Chersonissos area:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Hersonissos Central or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Hersonissos Maris or similar 4*
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Hersonissos Central or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Hersonissos Maris or similar 4*
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of guide will accompany us during the tour?
The tour is operated with a qualified local English-speaking guide on a shared basis on Day 2 and 3.
-
What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 3 dinners, and 1 Cretan lunch on the Elounda excursion, excluding drinks.
-
What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
Air-conditioned shared transportation is provided on Day 2 and 3, along with inbound and outbound air-conditioned shared 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 Archaeological sites of Knossos, the Archaeological Museum, the boat trip to the island of Spinalonga, and the Spinalonga island tour.
-
What is the accommodation arrangement during the tour?
The tour includes 3 nights' accommodation in the Gouves or Chersonissos area, with options for a standard hotel category at Hotel Hersonissos Central or similar 3* and a superior hotel category at Hotel Hersonissos Maris or similar 4*.
-
Is there an option for additional nights before or after the tour?
Yes, there is an optional extra for pre-night and post-night stays in the Gouves or Chersonissos area, with the same accommodation options as during the tour.
-
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
1 Select your preferred date
Wednesday - Saturday
May 07, 2025 - May 10, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
May 11, 2025 - May 14, 2025Wednesday - Saturday
May 14, 2025 - May 17, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
May 18, 2025 - May 21, 2025Wednesday - Saturday
May 21, 2025 - May 24, 2025Sunday - Wednesday
May 25, 2025 - May 28, 2025Wednesday - Saturday
May 28, 2025 - May 31, 2025Book 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.
