From Heraklion: Kritsa & Myrtos Villages East & South Crete

Crete’s east and south regions offer a captivating blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders. The "From Heraklion: Kritsa & Myrtos Villages" tour promises an enriching 8-hour experience, guiding visitors through the charming Kritsa village and the stunning Myrtos Beach. With convenient pickup options, multilingual guides, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides a hassle-free way to take in the island’s traditions and breathtaking landscapes. From exploring olive oil production to relaxing on the unique gray sands, this tour unveils the essence of Crete’s allure. Discover why this excursion might be the perfect addition to your Cretan adventure.

Key Points

This is an 8-hour full-day cultural excursion from Heraklion, Crete, focusing on the villages of Kritsa and Myrtos in the eastern and southern parts of the island.
The tour offers a multilingual guided experience, showcasing Cretan history, traditions, and natural beauty, suitable for solo travelers, couples, and groups.
Participants will visit an olive oil park, learn about olive oil production, and enjoy traditional Cretan delicacies, providing insights into the region’s agricultural heritage.
The tour includes 110 minutes of free time in the picturesque Venetian-influenced Kritsa village and 2.5 hours at the stunning Myrtos Beach for swimming and relaxation.
Convenient pickup and drop-off from multiple locations in Heraklion and nearby beach resorts, with a flexible cancellation policy, ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Name and Price

The tour is titled "From Heraklion: Kritsa & Myrtos Villages East & South Crete" and is priced at a reasonable starting point of €29.00 per person.

This full-day excursion takes travelers on a journey through the picturesque villages of Kritsa and Myrtos, located in the eastern and southern regions of Crete.

The tour duration is 8 hours, catering to visitors seeking an in-depth cultural experience and immersion in the island’s natural beauty.

The multilingual tour is available in English, German, Russian, and French, ensuring a seamless experience for a diverse range of guests.

Tour Duration and Languages

This full-day excursion lasts 8 hours, catering to visitors seeking an in-depth cultural experience and immersion in the island’s natural beauty.

It’s offered in multiple languages, including English, German, Russian, and French, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey for guests from around the world.

The multilingual tour guides provide captivating insights into the history, traditions, and hidden gems of the destinations, enriching the overall experience.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a group, this tour caters to a diverse range of preferences and needs, making it an ideal way to explore the enchanting villages of Kritsa and Myrtos in Crete.

Pickup Locations and Cancellation Policy

Pickup locations for this tour span across Heraklion city and surrounding beach resorts, including Ammoudara, Malia, Agia Pelagia, and Stalida, ensuring convenient access for guests.

A total of 17 pickup points are available, allowing travelers to join the tour from their accommodation.

The tour also features a flexible cancellation policy, providing guests with the option to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This allows for last-minute changes in plans or weather-related adjustments, adding to the overall convenience and peace of mind for participants.

Olive Oil Park Experience

One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the Olive Oil Park, where guests have the opportunity to tour and taste a variety of local products.

The experience includes:

A guided tour of the olive oil production process, showcasing the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Tastings of premium extra virgin olive oil, allowing visitors to appreciate the distinct flavors and aromas.
Sampling of traditional Cretan delicacies, including table olives, local honey, and the potent spirit "raki," providing a true taste of the island’s culinary traditions.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the heart of Cretan culture, leaving guests with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the island’s renowned olive oil and local specialties.

Exploring Kritsa Village

After experiencing the flavors of Crete’s agricultural heritage at the Olive Oil Park, the tour moves on to Kritsa Village, one of the oldest settlements on the island.

Kritsa’s Venetian architecture offers a glimpse into Crete’s storied past. Visitors can explore the charming streets, browse local shops, and stop for refreshments at traditional cafes.

With 110 minutes of free time, there’s ample opportunity to take in the village’s unique character and culture.

From admiring the ornate churches to discovering hidden artisan workshops, Kritsa provides an authentic taste of authentic Cretan life away from the bustle of more touristy areas.

Myrtos Beach Activities

Following the tour of Kritsa Village, the group heads to the iconic Myrtos Beach, known for its dramatic gray sand and crystalline waters.

Visitors can spend the allotted 2.5 hours swimming, sunbathing, and dining at the local taverns.

Some key activities at Myrtos Beach include:

Cooling off in the refreshing, clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Exploring the unique pebbles and rock formations along the shoreline.
Enjoying a relaxed meal or beverage at one of the beachside taverns.

With its stunning natural beauty, Myrtos Beach provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and soak up the Cretan sun.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off services from central locations near hotels in Heraklion City, Ammoudara beach resorts, and 14 other areas including Malia, Agia Pelagia, and Stalida.

Pickup begins 90 minutes before the tour starts, ensuring a timely departure.

Bus transportation is provided throughout the tour, with guided travel between the Olive Oil Park, Kritsa Village, and Myrtos Beach.

Upon completion, you’ll be dropped off at the same location as your pickup, making for a hassle-free return journey.

This comprehensive logistics plan ensures a seamless experience from start to finish.

Inclusion, Exclusion, and Suitability

The tour includes pickup and drop-off services, as well as bus tickets and guide services.

However, it doesn’t cover personal expenses or meals.

Plus, the tour may not be suitable for:

Pregnant women, as the activities may be strenuous.
Wheelchair users, as the terrain and accessibility might be challenging.
Those seeking a completely relaxing day, as the itinerary involves some walking and exploring.

Participants are advised to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to make the most of their time at the beautiful Myrtos Beach.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. The 8-hour itinerary is fixed, covering the Olive Oil Park, Kritsa Village, and Myrtos Beach. Customers should book the tour if they’re satisfied with the provided duration and activities.

Can I Book the Tour in Another Language Not Listed?

Unfortunately, the tour only offers the languages listed – English, German, Russian, and French. It doesn’t seem possible to book the tour in any other languages. The company likely can’t accommodate additional language requests beyond their standard offerings.

Can I Request a Private Transfer Instead of a Group Pickup?

While group pickups are offered, private transfers can be requested for an additional fee. Customers should inquire about private transfer options when booking to determine availability and pricing.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Local Products Tasting?

The tour doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions for the local products tasting. Travelers can likely enjoy the olive oil, olives, honey, and other Cretan specialties without issue, unless they have specific allergies or dietary needs.

Can I Rent Equipment for Water Activities at Myrtos Beach?

Yes, visitors can rent water sports equipment like snorkeling gear, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards at Myrtos Beach. Rental shops are available along the beach, offering convenient access to enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

The "From Heraklion: Kritsa & Myrtos Villages East & South Crete" tour offers a comprehensive and hassle-free way to explore Crete’s cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. With convenient pickups, multilingual guides, and a flexible cancellation policy, this 8-hour excursion provides an enriching experience visiting the historic Kritsa village and the picturesque Myrtos Beach. It’s a must-do for those seeking to enjoy Crete’s traditions and natural beauty.