Crete: a week of culture and Cretan art of living

An authentic 7-day trip between nature, culture and gastronomy

Culture Gastronomy Historical Family

Crete: a week of culture and Cretan art of living - Photo principale du séjour

Crete: a week of culture and Cretan art of living - Photo 2 du séjour

Crete: a week of culture and Cretan art of living - Photo 3 du séjour

Crete: a week of culture and Cretan art of living - Photo 4 du séjour

Crete: a week of culture and Cretan art of living - Photo 5 du séjour

Treat yourself to an unforgettable 7-day stay in Crete, combining cultural discoveries, dream beaches and authentic experiences. Meet the locals, explore traditional villages, savor generous local cuisine and let yourself be charmed by the richness of Cretan history. Between turquoise sea, unspoiled landscapes and moments of sharing, enjoy a unique trip, blending relaxation, culture and true emotions.

Description du séjour

Set off on an unforgettable self-drive tour in the heart of Crete, from Heraklion to Chania, between archaeological treasures, sublime beaches and spectacular hikes. Let yourself be seduced by the richness of the local gastronomy, artisanal traditions such as pottery, and sincere encounters with the locals. Experience a unique day in the mountains, then end your trip in style on the most beautiful beaches of western Crete, between turquoise waters and postcard landscapes.

Hébergement

Accommodation in charming boutique hotels: mix of equivalent 3* and 4* hotels

Programme du séjour

jour 1
Welcome to our place!
Welcome! You pick up your rental car at the airport, then you drive to your first hotel. Depending on how much time you have left, you can have your first Cretan dinner in the picturesque village of Archanes. Enjoy your meal! 3-star hotel Kms: 16 km / 23 min
jour 2
The first European civilization
This day is dedicated to the rich history of our island. Start with the Minoan palace of Knossos, where you will find the oldest throne in Europe and the labyrinth of the Minotaur. Continue your historic day at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, the largest museum on the island, with exhibitions that cover 5 500 years of history! End your day with a walk in the city center or at the Venetian port of Heraklion, and a dinner in one of the city's excellent restaurants. You have the option of being accompanied by a certified French-speaking guide, at an additional cost. Entrance tickets to the museum and to Knossos are not included. Total journey: 30 km / 1h Meals included: breakfast Accommodation in the village of Archanes
jour 3
To Rethymnon: nature and gastronomy
Today is the time to enjoy nature! The Patsos Gorge is located not far from the city of Rethymnon, with a moderate difficulty, ideal for young and old alike. (Depending on the time of your visit, you may also be lucky enough to find water!) In the afternoon, you will enjoy a historical and gastronomic guided tour through the narrow streets of the Old Town, tasting a few local specialties in wonderful places! 3-star hotel Breakfast & dinner included Kms: 58 km / 1h35
jour 4
Preveli: beach, river and palm grove
Today, you will visit the absolute jewel of the south of Rethymnon: Preveli beach! There are two ways to get there. The first is for the bravest, via the stairs located at the top of the beach. You leave your car there, take the stairs down (20 min), then the 30-minute climb. The view is unforgettable! You can also go via the left side, with a walk that lasts only 10 minutes. On the road from Rethymnon, it is worth stopping at the historic village of Spili for a coffee on the village's central square. 3-star hotel Breakfast included Kms: 93 km / 2h
jour 5
Olive, carob and water: the three treasures of Cretan soil
Today, we suggest you spend a day combining culture and gastronomy! You will discover true Cretan extra virgin olive oil and a little-known product with a thousand and one virtues: carob. You will also enjoy a guided tour of a water museum, in one of the regions richest in spring water. You will also discover the art of weaving and visit a workshop with looms from yesteryear! At the end of the day, you will enjoy a light meal in a traditional house! 3-star hotel Breakfast & lunch included Kms: 95 km / 2h
jour 6
Chania: history and daily life
Today, it’s time for Chania! Chania’s old town is ideal for a stroll; its alleyways are full of everything: local products, gifts for family and friends, and excellent restaurants! Not far from the old town, you will find superb beaches like Marathi or the Botanical Gardens of Crete. There’s something for everyone! 3-star hotel Breakfast included Kms: 60 km / 1h30
jour 7
The Jewel of the West
Today, we recommend that you visit Balos beach (part of the NATURA 2000 plan. Please respect the area), the emblem of Cretan nature! You can access the beach in several ways: by car, then 30 minutes on foot, or by boat from a nearby port (easy, but touristy). Alternative: Falassarna beach, where you can enjoy the famous Cretan sunset! 3-star boutique hotel Breakfast included Kms: 140 km / 2h50
jour 8
End of your Cretan adventure
The time to return has arrived ! All the information for returning the car will be provided to you by the local agency's application. See you very soon ! *** In our proposals, we have chosen Heraklion airport as the arrival and departure point, because it is the largest airport on the island. However, Chania also has an airport ! Total journey: 142 km / 02h08 Meals included: breakfast