Luxury 7-Day Itinerary to Explore the Gems of Crete

  1. Day 1: Historical Walk in Old Town Chania
    25 minutes (14.7 km) from Chania International Airport

    Immerse yourself in Greek history taking a walking tour of the charming old town Chania, embracing the Venetian and Ottoman influences, landmarks include Chania Lighthouse and Chania Archaeological Museum.

  2. Day 2: Palace of Knossos and Amoudara Beach Day
    1 hour 30 minutes (128.3 km) from Old Town Chania & 30 minutes (using highway) (22.7 km) from Palace of Knossos.

    Discover the iconic Palace of Knossos, home to legendary stories of Minotaur, before heading for a relaxing beach day at the Amoudara beach, lined with amazing restaurants offering luxurious food and impeccable service.

  3. Day 3: Balos Lagoon Beach & Gramvousa Island Cruise
    2 hours 10 minutes (50.6 km) from Amoudara Beach Day

    Sail a luxury catamaran from Kissamos for an amazing day at Balos lagoon, relax on pristine white sands and swim in crystal clear waters. Continue sail to Gramvousa Island where you can hike to the castle or just soak up the views.

  4. Day 4: Private Sailing in Elounda Bay
    2 hours 45 minutes (205.5 km) from Balos Lagoon Beach & Gramvousa Island Cruise

    Experience luxury in a private sailboat cruising Elounda Bay, dive into the crystal-clear waters and swim around the islands, enjoy a 5-star meal al-fresco style and take in the views.

  5. Day 5: Spa and shopping day at Hersonissos
    1 hour 10 minutes (68.8 km) from Private Sailing in Elounda Bay

    Pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment in Hersonissos, the most upscale shopping spot of the island, and explore the vibrant nightlife.

  6. Day 6: Jeep Safari and Wine Tasting Day
    1 hour 40 minutes (37.5 km) from Hersonissos

    Join a luxury Jeep tour up into the rolling hills of Crete, visit an organic vineyard and indulge in some fine wine and delicious Cretan snack platters, with a potential brief swim at Lake Kournas visit really wild off-road routes and locations, followed by full BBQ lunch.

  7. Day 7: Arkadi Monastery and Rethymno City
    1 hour 20 minutes (71.7 km) from Jeep Safari and Wine Tasting Day

    Visit the historic Arkadi Monastery before touring Rethymno, the cultural and intellectual center of Crete, adorned with glamorous retailers, sleek restaurants, and chic cafes.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Chania Archaeological Museum (2 hours, $11.82)
  • Palace of Knossos (3 hours, $20.23)
  • Balos & Gramvousa Island Cruise (8 hours, $102.45)
  • Private Sailing in Elounda Bay (5 hours, $440)
  • Hersonissos Shopping and Spa Day (6 hours, $270)
  • Jeep Safari and Wine Tasting Day (8 hours, $200)
  • Arkadi Monastery and Rethymno City (5 hours, free access)
  • Total Estimated Costs ($1,044.50)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, make a visit to the Agiofarango Gorge or the famous Samaria Gorge. For shorter trips, explore local beaches or go kayaking in Malia. If you have limited time, skip the museums and immerse yourself into luxurious food and spa treatments.

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