Crete Trail, Trek Tour and Trip Packages

Crete Tour Overview

Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, was the center of the ancient Minoans—Europe’s first advanced civilization. From stunning Mediterranean beaches to historical sites depicting Europe’s oldest culture, Crete has it all. White mountains, vast gorges, olive groves, and traditional villages add to the adventure. 

Take a trip to Crete to experience the perfect mix of natural wonders, rich ancient history, and endless adventure, all the while enjoying laid-back island life.

Crete Location

Crete, part of modern Greece, is located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Covering 3,218 square miles (8,336 sq km), it lies along the southern edge of the Aegean Sea, bordered by the Sea of Crete to the north and the Libyan Sea to the south.

Currency Accepted in Crete

The primary currency used in Crete is the Euro (€). While cash is commonly used for most transactions, debit and credit cards are also widely accepted across the island.  

Crete Attractions

Samaria Gorge: Nestled in Crete’s White Mountains, Samaria Gorge is one of the most popular hiking destinations on the island. Stretching 10 miles (16 km), it’s the longest gorge in Europe and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Elafonissi Beach: Famous for its crystal clear waters and pink sands, Elafonissi Beach is one of Crete’s most beautiful and exotic attractions. The backdrop of white mountains dotted with juniper trees adds to its charm.

The Palace of Knossos: Knossos Palace, the largest archaeological site on Crete, was once the center of the Minoan civilization. Known for its intricate architecture and frescoes, the palace is a significant historical landmark in Europe, located in Heraklion, Crete’s administrative capital.

Balos Lagoon: Situated on the northwest coast of Crete, Balos Lagoon is a very romantic Crete attraction, known for its turquoise waters and soft pink sands. You can reach it either by boat or a 6-mile (10 km) challenging hike.

The Palace of Phaistos: Another significant Minoan archaeological site, the Palace of Phaistos features ancient carvings and artifacts. You can stroll along paved walkways, exploring the ruins and admiring its ancient architecture.

The Venetian Harbor of Chania: The picturesque Venetian Harbor of Chania offers a mix of old Venetian buildings, traditional fishing boats, an old lighthouse, seafood restaurants, and stunning sea views. Stroll along the narrow streets of Chania to see medieval architecture.

Vai Palm Forest: A tropical land amid the rugged terrains of Crete’s northeast coast, Vai Palm Forest has hiking trails for adventurers and nature lovers to explore.

Spinalonga Island: Accessible via a boat from Elounda, Spinalonga Island is a former leper colony. Its buildings that once housed lepers evoke a haunting sense of melancholy even today. 

Best Time to Visit Crete, Greece

The peak season for Crete trips is from May to September, but the summer months can be very hot, especially in July and August when temperatures may exceed 32°C (90°F). The best times to visit Crete are in spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller. For a quieter experience with cooler temperatures, visit in winter (November-March), though some attractions and businesses may be closed during this time.

Essential Tips for Crete Tour

Pack Essentials: Bring layered clothing, sturdy hiking pants, hiking sticks, sun protection gear, a camera, and a first aid kit.

Stay Hydrated: Summers in Crete can be extremely hot, so bring more than enough water to avoid dehydration.

Arrive Early: Begin your hikes early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and heavy crowds, especially during peak season.

Be Patient: People in Crete live a very laid-back life, especially in remote areas. They don’t exactly follow a tight schedule so you might have to wait a little longer to get things done.

Learn the Names: Cretans use both English and Greek intermittently, so learn to recognize spellings in both languages for easier navigation and to avoid getting lost.

Bring Your Student ID: Many historical landmarks in Crete offer free or discounted entry for students, so if you’re a student, bring your ID to take advantage of these offers.

Crete Tour Cost

The best Crete tours can cost from $1,600 to $3,650, depending on the itinerary and services you choose. At AdventureTripr, we offer customizable Crete tour packages at affordable rates. Explore our Crete trek and tour packages to find one that suits your budget and preferences.

Crete Tour Accommodation

Depending on your Crete travel package, you can choose from several budget-friendly or luxury hotels in cities like Chania, Rethymno, or Heraklion. For a more vibrant experience, stay in Crete’s scenic villages and towns like Plataniaa, Elounda, or Lasithi. For a rustic adventure, stay at family-friendly campsites by the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question: Do I need a visa to visit Crete, Greece?

Answer: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in Greece, including Crete. However, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Question: How much time should I spend in Crete?

Answer: If you want to explore the key attractions in Crete, a 4-5 day trip is enough. However, for deeper exploration and to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, extend your stay for over a week.

Question: What outdoor activities are available on the Crete tour?

Answer: Crete offers many adventure activities including hiking, rock climbing, boating, jeep safaris, and mountain biking. Watersports like kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming are also quite popular on the island.

Question: Where should I hike in Crete? Answer: Crete has many popular hiking trails varying from easy and moderate to challenging. These trails include Samaria Gorge, Imbros Gorge, Agia Irini Gorge, Mount Ida, Preveli Beach, and Elafonissi Beach Trail.