Private Historical Tour Battle of Crete Heritage
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Private Historical Tour Battle of Crete Heritage

Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private tour offers a powerful and immersive journey through key locations of the Battle of Crete. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll explore historic war sites including the Allied cemetery at Souda Bay, the 42nd Street memorial, the Tavronitis Bridge, and the Maleme airfield. Along the way, you'll hear personal stories of courage and resistance from WWII, enjoy a coffee break at a seaside café in Maleme, and end with a visit to the wartime catacombs of Platanias. A perfect balance of history, reflection, and comfort — ideal for those who seek meaningful travel experiences.

• Visit key WWII landmarks of the Battle of Crete, including Souda Bay and 42nd Street
• Explore the German War Cemetery and historic Maleme airfield
• Walk across the legendary Tavronitis Bridge, a key site of the German invasion
• Discover hidden resistance shelters in the catacombs of Platanias
• Enjoy a relaxing seaside coffee break in Maleme with optional swim

Available options

Up to 10 pax

Mercedes Sprinter<br/>Pickup included

Battle of Crete

Mercedes Vito<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Entry fees (where applicable)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Water from the springs of the White Mountains “Samaria”, in bottles.
Private transportation with professional driver
Local professional guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Pick-up from your hotel in the Chania area
Travel in comfort with a local guide and private vehicle.

2

Souda Bay Allied War Cemetery.

A peaceful but powerful place to begin. Walk among the well-tended graves of British, Australian, and New Zealand soldiers. Your guide will recount stories of the Battle of Crete and Operation Mercury, and explain why this bay was so strategically vital.

3

42nd Street Memorial (Tsikalaria)
A small but deeply symbolic stop. This narrow street was the scene of intense fighting and an extraordinary bayonet charge by Australian and New Zealand troops. A simple stone memorial reminds us of the bravery shown here.

4

Tavronitis Bridge & Maleme Airfield (German Invasion Zone)
See the legendary Tavronitis bridge — the site of the German paratrooper landing. Nearby lies the airfield of Maleme, the primary objective of the invasion. Learn how the fall of this location changed the course of the battle and led to the full occupation of Crete.

5

Seaside Pause
A short coastal stop where you can enjoy a coffee, soft drink, or even a quick dip in the sea (season and time permitting). Breathe in the sea air and reflect on how this peaceful place once echoed with the sounds of war.

6

Visit the German Military Cemetery overlooking the airfield. This solemn site holds the graves of over 4,400 German soldiers, many of them paratroopers who died during Operation Mercury. A moving place to reflect on the shared losses of war, regardless of side.

7

Platanias Catacombs & Resistance Shelter
Hidden under the hills of Platanias are wartime catacombs and shelters used by locals and partisans. An emotional and often surprising end to the official tour — here, the civilian side of the Battle of Crete comes to life.

8

Return to your hotel in Chania area

What's not included

Personal expenses, drinks, lunch / dinner.
Customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts.

Available languages

Guide guide
RU EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If any participant has severe allergies (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or medical conditions that we should be aware of, please inform us before the tour. This is strictly for safety reasons — we fully respect your privacy and handle all information with discretion.
Health & Travel Insurance: Moysidis Travel is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. However, we strongly recommend that all participants arrange their own health and travel insurance prior to their visit to Crete, especially for medical coverage and trip interruptions.

About Crete

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.

Top Attractions

Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.

Historical 2-3 hours €15 (included in multi-site ticket)

Samaria Gorge

One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Nature 5-7 hours €5 entry fee

Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dakos

A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Moussaka

A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains meat

Rakomelo

A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.

Drink Alcoholic

Popular Activities

Hiking in Samaria Gorge Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon Wine tasting at local wineries Exploring the Palace of Knossos Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon Boat tours around Crete

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Greek
  • Widely spoken: English, German, French
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use licensed taxis
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering services

Getting there

By air
  • Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
  • Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus

Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.

Taxis

Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Heraklion Old Town Chania Old Town

Day trips

Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day

A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.

Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day

A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.

Festivals

Cretan Festival • June to August Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)

Pro tips

  • Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
  • Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
  • Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
  • Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
  • Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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