Discover Crete: Independent Island Exploration
Discover Crete’s timeless beauty and history with our self-guided tour, designed so you can explore at your own pace. Start in Heraklion at Lions Square, the city’s center, then visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see Minoan treasures. Step into myth at Knossos Palace, where frescoes and ruins evoke Crete’s ancient civilization, before sampling local wines in the colorful village of Archanes. Take a boat to Dia Island for swimming and snorkeling, then head to the Lasithi Plateau, a landscape of windmills and mountain villages. Descend into the legendary Cave of Zeus and sail from Elounda to Spinalonga Island to explore its fortress and unique history. Relax on Matala Beach, famed for its golden sand and caves, and stroll through peaceful Pitsidia. Discover the ancient sites of Phaistos and Gortyna, then head to Chania’s old town, Venetian harbor, and the Egyptian Lighthouse. Finish your journey at Elafonissi’s pink sands, Balos Lagoon, and the tranquil village of Loutro.
Options
Discover Crete: Independent Island Exploration
What's included in Discover Crete: Independent Island Exploration
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Heraklion
Begin in Heraklion’s lively center, home to the Morosini Fountain, bustling café culture, and historic avenues lined with neoclassical buildings and the Agios Titos Church.
Heraklion Archaeological MuseumPass-by Only
This museum is a must for history fans, housing the Phaistos Disc, Minoan frescoes, and treasures from Knossos and Phaistos. Its exhibits provide insight into Crete’s ancient civilizations. The layout makes it easy to follow the island’s story through its artifacts.
The Palace of KnossosPass-by Only
Explore the ruins of King Minos’ palace, famous for its colorful frescoes and labyrinthine layout. Learn about the myths of the Minotaur and the significance of this ancient site. The reconstructed sections help visitors imagine life during the Minoan era.
Inclusions
- Self-guided walking tour (app)
- Private transportation
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Meet at Lions Square (Lionataria), in the heart of Heraklion, right by the Morosini Fountain—a central and easily recognized spot in the city. Coordinates: Latitude: 35.3401° N, Longitude: 25.1332° E
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
INSTRUCTIONS •You will receive a message through Viator Chat and an automatic email from Viator with all the instructions 24 hours before your tour starts. Please check your Spam folder. This email will contain all the necessary information to download the audioguide. • If any issues arise or you don't receive the email/message with the code, please contact us as soon as possible to our support team: [email protected] • Download the CloudGuide App ( https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cloudguide/id876009906 or https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.cloudguide.app&hl=en&gl=US ) • To ensure you have the best experience on your self-guided tour, please familiarize yourself with our user guide: https://www.cloudguide.me/l/howtouse To activate your self-guided tour, head to the start point open the CloudGuide app, and enter the unique code you received after booking. Once activated, the app will guide you through the enchanting streets of Crete. Visitors are encouraged to personalize their experience by choosing their own starting point and the order in which they wish to explore.
