Ultimate 7-Day Crete Adventure

Day 1: History in Heraklion

Heraklion, Crete

8:00AM

Breakfast at To Paradosiako

Start your day with a traditional Cretan breakfast of dakos and Greek coffee at To Paradosiako.
To Paradosiako is located in the heart of Heraklion, easily accessible from most accommodations.
EUR 10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Knossos Palace

Explore the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace, the center of Minoan civilization dating back to 2000 BC.
Knossos Palace is a short drive from Heraklion or accessible by bus.
EUR 15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Peskesi

Enjoy a delicious meal at Peskesi, known for its authentic Cretan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Peskesi is a popular restaurant in Heraklion, reservations recommended.
EUR 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Exploring Heraklion Old Town

Stroll through the charming streets of Heraklion Old Town, visit the Archaeological Museum and shop for souvenirs.
Heraklion Old Town is best explored on foot.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Erganos

Indulge in authentic Cretan cuisine with a modern twist at Erganos restaurant.
Erganos is a short walk from Heraklion Old Town.
EUR 25, 2 hours
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Day 2: Beach Day at Matala

Matala, Crete

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mitato

Start your day with a hearty breakfast overlooking the sea at Mitato in Matala.
Mitato is a beachfront cafe in Matala, perfect for a relaxing morning.
EUR 12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Relax on Matala Beach

Spend the day soaking up the sun on the beautiful beach of Matala, known for its crystal-clear waters and caves.
Matala Beach is easily accessible from the town center.
Free, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Salty Bag

Try the delicious seafood dishes at Salty Bag restaurant near Matala Beach.
Salty Bag is a popular seafood restaurant with stunning views.
EUR 30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Matala Caves

Discover the hippie caves of Matala, once inhabited by the flower children of the 60s and 70s.
The Matala Caves are a short walk from the beach.
EUR 5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Avli

Enjoy a traditional Cretan dinner at Avli, a charming restaurant in the heart of Matala.
Avli offers a cozy atmosphere and authentic Cretan cuisine.
EUR 25, 2 hours
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Day 3: Charming Chania

Chania, Crete

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bougatsa Iordanis

Start your day with a sweet or savory bougatsa pastry at Bougatsa Iordanis, a local favorite in Chania.
Bougatsa Iordanis is located in Chania Old Town, easily accessible on foot.
EUR 5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Chania Old Town

Wander through the picturesque alleys of Chania Old Town, visit the historic lighthouse and shop for handmade crafts.
Chania Old Town is best explored on foot, don't miss the Venetian Harbor.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tamam

Indulge in a Mediterranean feast at Tamam, a popular restaurant serving traditional dishes with a modern twist.
Tamam is located in Chania Old Town, reservations recommended.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Balos Beach

Embark on a boat trip to the stunning Balos Beach, known for its turquoise waters and dramatic landscape.
Boat tours to Balos Beach depart from the port near Chania Old Town.
EUR 30, 5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Chrisostomos

Savor fresh seafood and traditional Cretan dishes at Chrisostomos, a hidden gem restaurant overlooking Chania's harbor.
Chrisostomos is a short walk from the harbor, offering a romantic setting for dinner.
EUR 35, 2 hours
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Day 4: Rethymno Discovery

Rethymno, Crete

9:00AM

Breakfast at Lemonokipos

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast surrounded by greenery at Lemonokipos, a charming cafe in Rethymno.
Lemonokipos is located near Rethymno Old Town, known for its peaceful atmosphere.
EUR 10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Rethymno Old Town

Immerse yourself in the Venetian charm of Rethymno Old Town, visit the Fortezza castle and narrow cobbled streets.
Rethymno Old Town is best explored on foot, don't miss the Rimondi Fountain.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Prima Plora

Indulge in a Mediterranean seafood lunch with a view at Prima Plora, a seaside restaurant in Rethymno.
Prima Plora offers stunning views of the sea, reservations recommended.
EUR 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Beach Time at Preveli

Relax on the golden sands of Preveli Beach and take a refreshing dip in the Libyan Sea, surrounded by palm trees and a river.
Preveli Beach is a short drive from Rethymno, parking available near the beach.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Prima Plora

Return to Prima Plora for a cozy dinner by the sea, watching the sunset over Rethymno's coastline.
Prima Plora transforms into a romantic setting in the evening, offering a memorable dining experience.
EUR 40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Samaria Gorge Hike

Samaria Gorge, Crete

7:00AM

Breakfast to Go

Grab some breakfast to go from your accommodation or a local bakery, as you'll need energy for the day ahead.
Prepare a packed breakfast or pick up pastries from a bakery near your stay.
EUR 5, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Hike through Samaria Gorge

Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike through Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Europe with breathtaking views.
Start the hike early to avoid crowds and allow plenty of time for the 16 km trek.
EUR 20 (entrance fee), 6-8 hours

4:00PM

Refreshment at Agia Roumeli

Arrive at Agia Roumeli at the end of the hike for a well-deserved break with a cold drink or ice cream by the sea.
Agia Roumeli has cafes and tavernas perfect for relaxing after the hike.
EUR 5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Agia Roumeli Taverna

Savor traditional Greek dishes at a local taverna in Agia Roumeli, celebrating your achievement of completing the hike.
Agia Roumeli Taverna offers fresh seafood and hearty Cretan cuisine.
EUR 25, 2 hours
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Day 6: Relaxation in Elounda

Elounda, Crete

9:00AM

Rejuvenating Breakfast at Ferryman Taverna

Start your day with a nourishing breakfast at Ferryman Taverna, known for its stunning views of Elounda Bay.
Ferryman Taverna is a scenic spot overlooking the water, perfect for a relaxing morning.
EUR 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Boat Trip to Spinalonga

Embark on a boat trip to the historic island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony with a rich and poignant history.
Boat tours to Spinalonga depart from Elounda Harbor, offering insightful guided tours.
EUR 25, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Kanali

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at Kanali restaurant, overlooking the azure waters of Mirabello Bay.
Kanali is a popular seafood restaurant with a relaxing seaside setting.
EUR 30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax on Elounda Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores of Elounda Beach, basking in the Mediterranean sun and taking a refreshing swim in the clear waters.
Elounda Beach is a pristine spot for relaxation, with sun loungers and umbrellas available.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Cocktails at Blue Palace Resort

Head to the Blue Palace Resort for sunset cocktails with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands.
The Blue Palace Resort offers a luxurious setting for enjoying the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
EUR 20, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Ferryman Taverna

End your day with a delectable dinner at Ferryman Taverna, savoring Mediterranean dishes with a local touch.
Ferryman Taverna serves fresh seafood and traditional Cretan cuisine, perfect for a relaxing evening by the sea.
EUR 35, 2 hours
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Day 7: Farewell to Crete

Heraklion, Crete

8:00AM

Breakfast at Erganos

Enjoy a final Crete breakfast at Erganos, reminiscing about your adventures and savoring the flavors of the island.
Erganos offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious Cretan breakfast options to start your day.
EUR 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visiting Heraklion Market

Explore the bustling Heraklion Market, filled with local produce, spices, and traditional Cretan products for souvenirs.
Heraklion Market is a vibrant hub of activity, perfect for picking up some last-minute gifts.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Peskesi

Indulge in one final Cretan meal at Peskesi, savoring the authentic flavors of the island before your departure.
Peskesi offers a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine, a fitting farewell to your memorable trip.
EUR 25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Explore the rich history of Crete at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to a vast collection of Minoan artifacts.
The museum is located in Heraklion, providing a glimpse into the ancient past of the island.
EUR 12, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Erganos

End your Crete adventure with a farewell dinner at Erganos, raising a glass to the memories made on this beautiful island.
Erganos offers a warm and welcoming ambiance, perfect for a final evening in Crete.
EUR 30, 2 hours
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