From Heraklion: Kritsa & Myrtos Villages East & South Crete

Discover Crete’s Charm on a Day Trip from Heraklion for Just $32.75

This 8-hour tour offers a well-rounded experience of Crete’s east and south regions, starting with a visit to Kritsa, one of the island’s oldest villages. Priced at $32.75 per person, the trip includes stops at an olive oil park, a picturesque village, and Myrtos Beach for relaxation and swimming. The tour is perfect for those looking to combine cultural sights with leisure, especially since it includes hotel pickup and drop-off in key locations like Heraklion and nearby areas.

While it’s a full day packed with diverse activities, it’s designed for convenience with guided commentary in multiple languages. The only considerations are that it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and meals are not included, so snacks or additional drinks should be brought along. This trip balances cultural exploration with beach time, making it an ideal choice for visitors wanting a taste of both.

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Key Points

• Visit Kritsa, one of Crete’s oldest villages with Venetian architecture and traditional crafts
• Taste authentic Greek products like extra virgin olive oil, honey, and raki at an olive oil park
• Enjoy ample free time at Myrtos Beach for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the local taverns
• Guided tour in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Russian
• Pickup and drop-off included from several central locations near Heraklion and resorts
• Cost-effective day trip at $32.75, offering a mix of culture, scenery, and relaxation

Visiting the Olive Oil Park: Tasting Authentic Greek Flavors

The day begins with a 30-minute visit to an olive oil park, where the process of standardizing extra virgin olive oil and other olives products is explained. Sampling Greek olive oils, honey, and raki gives insight into Crete’s culinary traditions. This stop highlights the island’s reputation for nutritious and flavorful products that are cherished worldwide.

Expect to learn about olive cultivation and production, and have the chance to purchase local products. This experience provides a genuine taste of Crete’s agricultural heritage, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Exploring Kritsa’s Venetian Heritage and Artisan Crafts

At around 11:15, the tour arrives in Kritsa, a village famed for its Venetian architecture and narrow streets. With about 1.5 hours of free time, visitors can stroll through the picturesque paths, browse souvenir shops, and admire the old chapels and museums.

A highlight here is observing the traditional weaving crafts created with handmade looms. The village’s timeless charm and authentic atmosphere make it a favorite spot for taking photos or relaxing at a Greek coffee shop. The guide provides historical context, enriching the walk through Kritsa’s cultural landscape.

Scenic Drive to Myrtos Beach and Greenhouse Country

Following Kritsa, the tour heads 13 km west of Ierapetra to Myrtos Beach by around 1:45 pm. The drive takes you through a lush valley filled with greenhouses and citrus groves, offering a glimpse of Crete’s agricultural richness. The coarse gray sand and crystal-clear waters of Myrtos create a peaceful setting for relaxation.

This spacious and isolated beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with plenty of taverns nearby serving traditional Greek dishes. The 2.5 hours of free time allow visitors to unwind, snorkel, or simply enjoy the scenic surroundings.

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Practical Details: Route, Timing, and Group Size

The tour covers approximately 166 km, starting early in the morning with pickups from locations like Malia, Stalis, and Hersonisos. Pickups begin up to 90 minutes before the official start, ensuring timely arrivals at each stop. The itinerary includes specific timings: olive oil tasting at 10:15, Kritsa arrival at 11:15, and reaching Myrtos at 1:45 pm.

Group sizes are managed through guided tours in multiple languages, with guides fluent in English, German, French, and Russian. The entire experience wraps up around 6 pm, with drop-offs at the same central locations.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, bus tickets, and a multilingual guide. It’s a value-packed option with no meals included, so travelers should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Personal expenses and meals are not included, so plan accordingly.

This setup ensures a smooth experience, focusing on sightseeing and tasting rather than meal arrangements. Participants should be aware that infants will share seats with parents, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

The Experience with Platanos Tours: Guided Insights and Pacing

The guides leading this tour are known for their knowledgeable commentary and friendly delivery. They help explain local traditions and history, making each stop informative yet relaxed. The paced schedule offers enough time at each location without feeling rushed, allowing genuine appreciation of Kritsa’s charm and Myrtos’ serenity.

The comfortable coach and organized itinerary contribute to a hassle-free day, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying Crete’s scenery and culture without logistical worries.

The Value of a Day Trip for Crete Visitors

At just over $32, this tour offers great value for money, combining cultural sights, authentic tastings, and beach leisure. It’s suitable for those short on time but eager to experience a slice of Crete’s countryside, coastline, and traditional life.

Given the well-paced schedule and diverse highlights, it’s an excellent option for first-time visitors or those looking for a stress-free day out of Heraklion. The guided commentary enriches the experience, giving context to each stop.

Potential Limitations to Keep in Mind

While the tour is comprehensive, the limited duration at each stop means visitors won’t have extensive free time to explore deeply. The beach time at Myrtos is adequate but not enough for a full day of sunbathing if you prefer a more relaxing pace.

Plus, since meals are not included, travelers wanting a full meal at the beach will need to plan ahead. The bus-based transportation and scheduled timings also mean it’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more flexible itinerary.

Why This Tour Continues to Receive a High Rating

With a 4.5-star rating from 8 reviews, this trip is praised for its balance of culture and leisure. The knowledgeable guides, value for money, and well-organized itinerary stand out as key strengths. Visitors appreciate the wide range of sights packed into one day, making the most of limited time in Crete.

The authentic experience at the olive oil park and the charming village of Kritsa are often highlighted as highlights, along with the relaxed atmosphere at Myrtos Beach.

The Sum Up: Ideal for Cultural and Beach Lovers

This day tour from Heraklion offers a well-rounded Crete experience, combining cultural visits, authentic tastings, and beach relaxation. It’s priced affordably and includes convenient pickups, with a friendly guide to enhance the day.

While not suited for travelers with mobility challenges or seeking full meal options, it remains a great choice for visitors wanting a taste of Crete’s countryside, charming villages, and scenic coastline. The balance of sightseeing and leisure makes it a memorable way to explore the island without the need for extensive planning or multiple trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within designated areas, along with bus tickets for the day.

How long do I spend at each stop?
You have about 30 minutes at the olive oil park, 1.5 hours in Kritsa, and 2.5 hours at Myrtos Beach.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You should bring snacks or plan to buy food at Myrtos Beach.

Can I bring young children or infants?
Yes, infants are seated with parents and do not require their own seat. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides are fluent in English, German, French, and Russian.

How long is the tour overall?
The duration is approximately 8 hours, beginning early in the morning and ending in the evening.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and comfortable shoes for walking.

Are there any physical limitations?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility difficulties.

How much does the tour cost?
It is priced at $32.75 per person.

Is this tour suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Since meals are not included, dietary restrictions are generally not an issue, but plan to bring your own snacks if needed.

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