Taste of Crete: Soap, Olive Oil, Wine, Raki, Cretan Delicacies
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What sets our tour apart? Simple: it’s not a show — it’s real life, the way it’s been lived in Crete for generations. This isn’t a rushed sightseeing checklist. It’s a day stitched together with soul: soap-making with hands that smell like thyme and olive oil, olive groves older than your family tree, raki that bites back (the good kind), and a meal in Archanes that tastes like it was made by your yiayia — if she happened to be a village chef with a wicked sense of humor.
Our journey isn’t just about tasting Cretan life — it’s about understanding it. You’ll walk the land, meet the people, and share a table, not with actors, but with farmers, makers, and storytellers. You won’t leave with a fridge magnet; you’ll leave with olive oil under your nails, a new appreciation for rakomelo, and maybe a dance step or two you didn’t plan on learning. This is Crete with the volume turned up. Ready?
Available options
Pick-up from Gouves to Malia
Pick-up Areas:: Gournes, Gouves, Analypsi, Anissaras, Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari, Stalis, Malia<br/>Soap Workshop<br/>Small Group Tour<br/>Duration: 7 hours<br/>Full Course Lunch<br/>Minivan or SUV<br/>Pickup included
Pick-Up Agia Pelagia, Lygaria
Pick-up Areas:: Agia Pelagia, Lygaria<br/>Soap Workshop<br/>Small Group Tour<br/>Duration: 6 hours<br/>Full Course Meal<br/>Minivan or SUV<br/>Pickup included
Pick-up from Heraklion Areas
Pick-up Areas: Amoudara, Heraklion, Karteros, Kokkini<br/>Soap Workshop<br/>Small Group Tour<br/>Duration: 6 hours<br/>Full Course Lunch<br/>MiniVan or SUV<br/>Pickup included
What's included
English Speaking Driver - Guided Tour
Soap Workshop Admission (Learning the process of soap making from olive oil)
Full Course Meal including Wine and Raki
7-Seater Minivan or SUV
Winery and Raki Distillery Admission with Tasting of Raki and 3 Wines
OLive Mill And Olive Grove Admission with Tastings
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your day with a fragrant visit to a small artisanal soap workshop. Discover the old-world craft of soap-making using cold process techniques and pure Cretan olive oil.
2
Immerse yourself in the world of Cretan olive oil! Visit a charming olive grove farm and an Olive Mill Factory, where an expert will guide you through the traditional and modern methods of olive oil production.
3
Get a taste of Crete’s most famous spirit – Raki! Visit a traditional raki distillery where you will learn about the distillation process and the deep-rooted cultural significance of this beloved drink.
Step into the world of Cretan wines at a family-owned winery. Walk and spend time with the owner, learning about indigenous grape varieties from a local winemaker.
4
Conclude your day with a delicious, authentic Cretan meal at a charming taverna in the picturesque village of Archanes. Indulge in farm-to-table dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
