Uncover the captivating history of Aptera, a once-thriving Minoan and Greco-Roman city frozen in time. Wander through its ancient ruins, marveling at the well-preserved temples, theaters, and citadel walls that whisper tales of a bygone era. But the adventure doesn’t end there – dive into the world of Cretan viticulture at the renowned Dourakis Winery, where you’ll savor the unique flavors of locally-grown grapes. As you sip on the estate’s exquisite wines, let the picturesque countryside transport you to a realm where the past and present seamlessly intertwine, offering an experience that tantalizes both the senses and the imagination.

Key Points

Explore Ancient Aptera and Taste Cretan Wine at Dourakis Winery. - Key Points

  • Visit the ancient ruins of Aptera, a former Minoan and Greco-Roman city, and explore its temples, theaters, and citadel walls.
  • Enjoy a wine tasting experience at the family-owned Dourakis Winery, featuring a selection of unique Cretan wine flavors.
  • Combine the exploration of historical sites with the opportunity to immerse in the local winemaking traditions.
  • The tour includes transportation, professional guidance, and all necessary entrance fees for a hassle-free experience.
  • Discover the scenic beauty of the Cretan countryside while savoring the region’s renowned wine and ancient cultural heritage.

Tour Overview

This private tour allows participants to explore the ancient ruins of Aptera and indulge in a wine tasting experience at the renowned Dourakis Winery in Chania, Greece.

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, or cruise, with a flexible start time. You’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle with Wi-Fi and enjoy bottled spring water from the White Mountains.

The highlights include entrance to the Archaeological Site of Ancient Aptera and a wine tasting featuring 8 limited-edition Cretan wines.

All fees and taxes are included, making this a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.

Inclusions

Explore Ancient Aptera and Taste Cretan Wine at Dourakis Winery. - Inclusions

The tour includes a professional driver and guide who’ll accompany participants throughout the experience.

Travelers will ride in a comfortable vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and enjoy bottled spring water from the White Mountains.

Entrance tickets to the Archaeological Site of Ancient Aptera are provided, as well as a wine tasting featuring 8 limited-edition wines from Dourakis Winery.

All fees and taxes are included, though personal expenses, meals, and customary tips are not.

Participants should inform the organizers of any severe allergies or medical issues prior to the tour, and travelers are advised to obtain health/travel insurance before visiting Crete.

Health and Safety

Explore Ancient Aptera and Taste Cretan Wine at Dourakis Winery. - Health and Safety

Participants should inform the organizers of any severe allergies or medical issues prior to the tour. This is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Moysidis Travel holds Professional Liability Insurance, which provides coverage for the tour. However, travelers are advised to take out their own health and travel insurance before visiting Crete. This will protect them in case of any unexpected events or emergencies during the tour.

Accessibility and Requirements

Explore Ancient Aptera and Taste Cretan Wine at Dourakis Winery. - Accessibility and Requirements

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available for those traveling with young children.

Comfortable shoes, clothing, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended to ensure a pleasant experience. Participants should also bring along some money for souvenirs and additional meals not included in the tour.

While the site may not be fully accessible, the tour provides an opportunity to explore the ancient wonders of Aptera and indulge in the renowned Cretan wines, making it a unique and memorable experience for those able to participate.

Booking Information

Explore Ancient Aptera and Taste Cretan Wine at Dourakis Winery. - Booking Information

Priced from $607.32 per group (up to 6 people), this private tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and most travelers can participate. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, a professional driver and guide, a comfortable vehicle with Wi-Fi, bottled spring water, entrance tickets, and a wine tasting featuring 8 limited-edition wines.

Participants should inform the organizers of any severe allergies or medical issues prior to the tour, and travelers are advised to have health/travel insurance before visiting Crete.

Comfortable shoes, clothing, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended, and money for souvenirs and meals is advised.

Reviews

Explore Ancient Aptera and Taste Cretan Wine at Dourakis Winery. - Reviews

Examining the tour’s overall rating of 2.0 based on a single review, it’s clear that no 5-star ratings have been received. This suggests there’s room for improvement in the overall experience.

Some key considerations for potential customers include:

  • The lone review may not provide a comprehensive picture, and more feedback could shed light on common strengths and weaknesses.

  • Factors like service quality, value for money, and alignment with expectations may need further exploration.

  • Newer or updated reviews could reveal if the tour operator has made changes to address any issues raised by the sole reviewer.

Explore Ancient Aptera and Dourakis Winery

Explore Ancient Aptera and Taste Cretan Wine at Dourakis Winery. - Explore Ancient Aptera and Dourakis Winery

Participants can explore the ancient ruins of Aptera, once a prominent Minoan and Greco-Roman city situated atop a scenic hilltop.

They’ll discover the remains of temples, theaters, and citadel walls while learning about the site’s rich history.

After the archaeological visit, the tour continues to the Dourakis Winery, where guests can enjoy a tasting of eight limited-edition Cretan wines.

The winery’s family-owned estate offers a glimpse into the region’s winemaking traditions.

Participants will have the opportunity to savor the unique flavors and aromas of the locally-grown grapes, complemented by the beautiful Cretan countryside surrounding the winery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Ancient Aptera and Taste Cretan Wine at Dourakis Winery. - Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Site?

The tour spends about 2 hours exploring the Ancient Aptera archaeological site and an additional 1 hour for the wine tasting experience at the Dourakis Winery, though the exact time spent at each location may vary.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour allows for some customization of the itinerary. Guests can discuss their interests with the tour provider and work together to adjust the schedule as needed within the overall tour structure.

What Languages Does the Guide Speak?

The tour guide speaks English and Greek fluently, allowing them to communicate effectively with both English and Greek-speaking participants throughout the experience. Guests can expect clear and informative commentary in their preferred language.

Can We Purchase Additional Wine Bottles at the Winery?

Travelers can purchase additional wine bottles at the Dourakis Winery. The tour includes a wine tasting of 8 limited-edition wines, but extra bottles can be bought during or after the tasting experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Pricing Available?

Yes, the tour offers group pricing. According to the information provided, the tour price starts at $607.32 per group of up to 6 people, which provides a discount compared to individual pricing.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey through the ancient ruins of Aptera, where you’ll explore remarkable remnants of temples, theaters, and citadel walls. Then, indulge in a delightful wine tasting at Dourakis Winery, a family-owned estate renowned for its exquisite Cretan wines. Surrounded by the breathtaking Cretan countryside, savor unique flavors crafted from locally-grown grapes, making for an unforgettable experience rich in culture and taste.