Makrigialos-Ierapetra: Hidden Villages & Olive Oil Farm Tour

Imagine exploring some of Crete’s most picturesque villages, learning about traditional olive oil production, and enjoying a hearty Cretan lunch—all in one full-day adventure. This Makrigialos-Ierapetra: Hidden Villages & Olive Oil Farm Tour offers a rich taste of local life, with visits to an olive oil farm, Kritsa village, Limnes, and Neapoli’s cultural museum. With a 4.6-star rating from 8 reviews, it’s designed for those eager to see the island’s countryside, taste its flavors, and discover its customs.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included. Guided in Czech, German, or French, this experience balances scenic drives, cultural insights, and authentic culinary highlights. Slight limitations include a focus on more accessible, popular sites rather than deeply remote villages, and some reviewers note the visits could feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s a great choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Crete’s traditional side.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete experience with visits to traditional villages, an olive oil farm, and a cultural museum
• Includes a hearty Cretan lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients
• Expert guides in Czech, German, or French lead the way, sharing insights at each stop
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from 22 locations around Ierapetra and Makrigialos
• Multiple scenic stops, including a photo break at a hidden gem and a short hike in Kalamáfka
• Limited time at each stop may mean some sites feel rushed, especially for those wanting more in-depth exploration

You can check availability for your dates here:

From Agios Nikolaos to the Olive Oil Farm near Kakkos Beach

The journey begins with hotel pickup from more than 22 locations, including Coriva Beach Hotel, South Coast Hotel, and Ocean Beach Club. From the start, the focus is on providing a comfortable, air-conditioned transfer to the various sites. The first major stop is the olive oil farm, which lasts approximately 45 minutes.

At the olive oil farm, you’ll see how local virgin olive oil is produced and have the chance to taste oil straight from the source. This visit emphasizes freshness, and sales are available, making it a perfect place to pick up authentic products. Some reviews suggest this farm leans towards commercialism, but the experience still offers a genuine insight into olive oil production.

Exploring Kritsa: One of Crete’s Most Charming Villages

After the farm, the tour moves to Kritsa, a village renowned for its picturesque streets and historic charm. Expect around 75 minutes to stroll through its alleys, visit an old church with impressive frescoes, and enjoy a Greek coffee in the lively village square. Kritsa provides a real glimpse into traditional Cretan life with its old architecture and friendly atmosphere.

While Kritsa offers a glimpse into local customs, some reviews mention that the visit could be extended to allow more time for exploring or meeting local artisans. The village remains a highlight for its authenticity and scenic views.

Drive Through the Mountainous Landscape to Prina Village

Next, the tour features a guided walk in Prina, a smaller, quieter village with traditional architecture and scenic surroundings. This part lasts around 45 minutes and offers a more tranquil setting. Prina gives a sense of how Crete’s rural communities live, with fewer travelers and more authentic streets.

A brief photo stop follows, providing a chance to capture stunning views of the countryside and the coast. Some may find the visit to Prina brief, but it enriches the overall experience by showcasing less touristy parts of the island.

Discovering Kalamáfka and Enjoying Greek Cuisine

The journey then takes travelers to Kalamáfka, a village known for its simple Greek food and panoramic views. Here, a lunch prepared at a local taverna lasts about 105 minutes. The meal features fresh, local ingredients and offers a taste of genuine Cretan hospitality.

Along With the meal, there’s a guided tour of the area, and the opportunity for a short hike to a cross with sweeping views of a reservoir. This stop is appreciated for its authentic atmosphere and scenic setting, although some reviews suggest more time at Kritsa or Prina might be preferable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Neapoli Cultural Museum to Connect with Crete’s Heritage

The last destination is Neapoli’s cultural museum, providing an accessible overview of the island’s history, traditions, and crafts. Visitors can explore exhibits of traditional tools and artifacts that reflect Crete’s past. This museum visit lasts around 45 minutes and offers a thoughtful conclusion to the day’s sightseeing.

The museum provides valuable context about local customs and history, appealing particularly to those interested in cultural heritage. The guided explanation enhances understanding, making it a satisfying ending to the trip.

Scenic Return and Flexibility in Stops

After exploring Neapoli, the tour makes its way back to the starting points, enjoying a scenic drive through the countryside. The return journey is relaxed, leaving ample time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour’s schedule balances sightseeing and leisure but is slightly compressed, which can limit some stops’ depth.

The tour is flexible with cancelation up to 24 hours in advance and offers reserve now, pay later options. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the picturesque moments.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits those new to Crete or travelers who prefer guided visits to ensure they see key sites without the stress of planning. It’s ideal for appreciating authentic villages, enjoying local food, and learning about olive oil production and Cretan culture from knowledgeable guides. However, it may feel somewhat rushed for those wanting more time at each stop or deeper interactions with locals.

The tour’s scenic drives, scenic stops, and cultural insights create a well-rounded day. The presence of a professional guide in multiple languages adds value, especially for first-time visitors eager to learn about Crete’s traditions.

Makrigialos-Ierapetra: Hidden Villages & Olive Oil Farm Tour – Final Thoughts

This 7-hour tour offers a comprehensive look into Crete’s traditional life, combining village visits, olive oil tasting, scenic drives, and cultural museums. The included hotel transfer and expert guides in multiple languages make it a convenient choice, especially for those staying in the Ierapetra or Makrigialos area.

While some reviews note that the visit duration at each site could be longer, and question the authenticity of the olive oil farm, the overall experience delivers a good mix of sightseeing, tasting, and cultural exploration. It’s particularly suitable for travelers seeking a guided, approachable way to discover Crete’s countryside and traditions.

For those interested in local food, scenic villages, and learning about olive oil, this tour provides a solid, well-organized day out that promises enjoyable scenery, friendly guides, and a taste of Cretan life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including stops and travel time.

What is included in the price?
Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, A/C bus transfer, and an experienced guide speaking Czech, German, or French.

Are meals included?
A Cretan lunch at Kalamáfka is included, with local fresh ingredients. Lunch in Kalamáfka is on request and not included in the base price.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there is a small entrance fee at the olive oil farm (2 euros per person). Souvenirs and extra food or drinks are also at your expense.

Is the tour suitable for children or wheelchair users?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and is not recommended for those with mobility issues. Assistance dogs are allowed.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture scenic views.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak Czech, German, and French.

Is there free time at any stops?
Yes, time is allocated for walking, shopping, and refreshments at several stops, but some reviews suggest the schedule can feel tight.

How do I know where to meet the guide?
Pickup details and meeting points are provided via message after booking, with 22 locations available across Ierapetra and Makrigialos.

Is this tour recommended for those interested in local traditions?
While it offers cultural insights at the museum and traditional villages, some feel it could include more direct interaction with local artisans or families.

Enjoy your journey into Crete’s authentic villages, flavors, and heritage with this well-organized, scenic tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby