West Crete Tour from Heraklion: Rethymno-Chania-Kurnas
Active
9h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
• The city of Chania is one of the cultural centers of Greece, located at the foot of the majestic White Mountains. The former capital of the island and the second largest city of Crete, it attracts tourists from all over the world with its unique combination of Venetian, Ottoman, Byzantine and Greek cultures.
• The old town is more like an open-air museum: the splendor of medieval architecture, the beauty of Venetian-style churches, Ottoman mosques and ancient fountains.
• Picturesque Rethymno impresses every tourist with its beautiful old harbor. You can enjoy delicious local cuisine right on the waterfront, buy the best local products and explore the narrow streets of the old town.
• The final and enjoyable part of the trip will be swimming in Lake Kourna.
• This is the island's natural freshwater lake, its waters are replenished by two springs. The lake looks like a bowl, surrounded on all sides by mountains. If you're lucky, you might see waterfowl turtles.
Available options
Pick-up Area 1
From Heraklion East region:: Amudara/Heraklion/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia/Sissi<br/>Pickup included
Pick-up Area 2
From Heraklion West region:: Sises/Fodele/Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Achlada/Mades/Ammoudi/Rodia/Palaiokastro/Pantanassa /Linoperamata/Gazi<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Additional insurance for tour participants
Pick-up from your hotel (at the specific tourist bus stop, outside of the hotel)
Transfer with air-conditioned bus
Information about the island and the route during the bus ride
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Chania has the most beautiful old town in Crete and is located at the foot of the majestic White Mountains. The former capital of the island and the second largest city of Crete, it attracts tourists from all over the world for its unique blend of Venetian, Ottoman, Byzantine and Greek cultures.
You will be wandering through the maze of the ancient streets, that will fascinate you by the beauty of the colorful houses and feel as if you are travelling through time, with a variety of unforgettable sights. The old town is more like an open-air museum: splendor of the medieval architecture, beauty of churches in the Venetian style, Ottoman mosques and antique fountains.
2
Stop 2
Picturesque Rethymno impresses every tourist with its beautiful old harbor and famous lighthouse.
You can enjoy the delicious dishes of the local cuisine right on the waterfront, buy the best products of local producers and explore narrow streets and its hidden gems in the old town.
3
Stop 3
The final and enjoyable part of the trip will be swimming at Lake Kournas. The lake is like a bowl, surrounded by mountains from all sides. This is the natural freshwater lake of the island, its waters are replenished by two springs.
With some luck you may see turtles swimming around.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
PL
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.1
57 reviews
5★
28
4★
15
3★
9
2★
4
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.2
59 reviews
5★
32
4★
13
3★
9
2★
2
1★
3
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If an infant does not sit on lap in the bus, It is necessary to pay a child ticket.
Pick-up from the specific bus stops next to the hotels. From Area 1: all the villages between Fodele, Agia Pelagia, Xeropotamos(West Heraklion), Area 2: Heraklion Center and East, Carteros, Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Gournes, Hersonissos, Stalida, Malia, Sissi.
After booking we will contact you to arrange the pick-up. Please, note, if you do not provide your pick-up details up to 24 hours before the tour, we do not guarantee the pick-up. For pick-up from different location, please, contact us.
Tuesday: English, German, French
Wednesday: English, German, French
Thursday: English, German, French
Friday: English, German, French
Saturday: English, German, French
Sunday: Russian
Important notes
After clarifying the pick-up point, we will send you an additional voucher that assigns a place in a bus for you. This additional voucher (mobile or printed) will be checked at time of bus entrance.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
