DAY 09,10,11: SANTORINI -HERAKLION CRETE
Crete is the largest island of Greece. A rich blend of mythology, archaeology and history, combined with the unparalleled beauty of the landscape, the people, and its traditions, make Crete one of the most seductive hideaways for today’s travellers. The remains of Minoan palaces such as Knossos Palace, Byzantine churches, the birthplace of God Zeus, Venetian buildings, beautiful beaches and the famous Mediterranean diet are a wonderful treat for you to explore the beautiful island of Crete. (See below for more details on Crete itinerary.) From Santorini board the hydrofoil to the island of Crete and spend extra nights. A minimum of 4 nights is recommended. The nights are split - 1 Night in Heraklion and 3 nights in either Western Crete or Eastern Crete. A car rental is the best way to explore the island.
Heraklion to either Western Crete or Eastern Crete
In the morning of Day 10 pickup your car rental and drive to nearby archaeological site of Knossos. Knossos Palace is one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into the Minoan civilization. It was known as the Labyrinth in Mythology. From there continue to either Western Crete or Eastern Crete.
Western Crete Chania Town/Harbour - Chania is an old Venetian town, one which will enchant almost everyone with its web of side-streets, crumbling masonry and magnificent harbor. Samaria Gorge - Take a 16km or 10-mile hike through the longest and most impressive of Europe’s limestone gorges-- also a magnificent example of Crete’s many gorges-- from the White Mountains down to the Libyan Sea. At the base of the gorge, you can enjoy a refreshing swim as well as lunch at one of the local tavernas. Rethymnon Town/Harbour - Another Venetian town about 1 ½ hours from Chania. This harbour town has an old aristocratic appearance with its buildings dating from the 16th century that feature arched doorways, stone staircases, Byzantine and Hellenic-Roman remains, and of course a beautiful Venetian harbour with narrow streets filled with tavernas and shops.
Eastern Crete Elounda : Elounda is the most famous cosmopolitan location not only in the island of Crete but also in the entire Aegean Sea much acclaimed for its outstanding establishments in a magnificent natural environment. Elounda is a famous resort place for royalty to celebrities, as it offers complete privacy and anonymity in exclusively luxurious rooms and suites. The lagoon of Elounda is shaped between the coast and a small peninsula of 7-8 km length that serves as a breakwater. During the summer, boats leave the harbour every hour, transporting visitors to the small isle of Spinaloga giving the chance to the passengers to stroll in a deserted leper colony with its Venetian Fortress. Elounda is a dream location for a luxurious relaxing holiday.