Private tour of East Crete With Retro Classic Luxury Car

Introduction

Our review of the Private Tour of East Crete with a Retro Classic Luxury Car offers you a glimpse into how you can explore this beautiful island in style. If you’re a traveler who values a combination of comfort, authenticity, and flexibility, this experience might be just what you’re looking for. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to cruise around in a vintage Mercedes, turning a typical island sightseeing day into a cinematic adventure. Plus, the itinerary is highly flexible and packed with iconic sights and hidden gems.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the scenic drives along the coast and the opportunity for a personalized, private experience. The classic car adds a touch of glamour, and the private setting means your group can customize the stops to suit your interests. One possible drawback is that tickets to certain attractions, like Spinalonga, aren’t included in the price — so you’ll want to budget for those additional costs. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a blend of history, stunning scenery, and a bit of luxury with their sightseeing. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to explore East Crete in comfort and style.

Key Points

• Stylish transportation in a vintage Mercedes turns a regular tour into a memorable experience.
• Flexible itinerary allows you to customize your stops and spend more time at the places you love.
• Rich mix of sights including Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Spinalonga, and the Sunken City of Olous.
• Authentic local flavor with visits to traditional villages, cafes, and scenic coastal drives.
• Cost considerations include extras like boat tickets and entrance fees, but the value lies in the personalized experience.
• Excellent for travelers who prioritize comfort, privacy, and unique experiences over large group tours.

Exploring Crete in Style: The Private Classic Car Experience

This private tour offers a delightful way to explore the eastern part of Crete, combining scenic drives, historical sites, and charming villages with the fun of traveling in a vintage Mercedes. It’s designed for small groups (up to four people), making it both intimate and flexible. The experience is priced at around $360.27 per group, which, when you factor in private transportation, personalized service, and the fun of cruising in style, offers solid value—especially for those who enjoy a touch of luxury.

The tour’s duration stretches from about 7 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore at a relaxed pace. The tour provider, Diamonds Are Forever, offers the convenience of hotel pickup, WiFi on board, bottled water, and an entirely private experience, meaning your group won’t be sharing the road or sights with strangers. That level of exclusivity makes it particularly suitable for couples celebrating a special occasion, small families, or friends seeking a personalized adventure.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Agios Nikolaos

Your journey begins in Agios Nikolaos, a compact yet cosmopolitan town that feels more like a lively village. We loved the way this town balances traditional charm with a modern vibe. Its narrow streets, lake cafes, and local agora create a perfect morning walk. The town’s size means you can quickly get a sense of daily life in Crete, and the lively atmosphere is contagious. Expect about two hours here, with free admission, giving ample time to stroll, sip coffee, or browse local shops.

Scenic Coastal Drive & Mirabello Bay

On your way to Elounda, you’ll pass by Mirabello Bay, offering stunning views of the shimmering waters. These coastal drives are what make this tour special; you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your vintage car, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos. The flexibility of this tour means if a view or a quiet cove catches your eye, you can linger longer.

Stop 2: Elounda

Next, we visit Elounda, one of the most beautiful spots on the north coast. This area was once the site of the sunken city of Olous and later became a Venetian port. Today, Elounda’s bay is renowned for its azure waters and scenic resorts. Two hours here give you time to admire the views, wander the streets, or enjoy a coffee by the waterfront. The setting is perfect for a relaxed exploration.

Sunken City of Olous

A highlight is the Sunken City of Olous, visible from the coast and steeped in legend. Mentioned in Homer’s epics, Olous was once a thriving city-state before being submerged. Standing near the ruins, you can appreciate the ancient history that still echoes through the stones and water. Although these are free to view from the shore, the story alone makes it worth the stop. Just 30 minutes here, but it’s a powerful glimpse into the past.

Stop 3: Plaka & Spinalonga

The quaint fishing village of Plaka marks the starting point for the boat trip to Spinalonga. You’ll have about 30 minutes to wander this simple, authentic village. From here, most visitors take the boat (ticket not included in the tour price) to the famous island. Spinalonga is a fortress-turned-leper colony, made famous by Victoria Hislop’s novel. The one-hour visit is a chance to walk its narrow alleys, explore the Venetian walls, and reflect on its dramatic history. The boat ride costs roughly €12 per person and is well worth the effort for the iconic views and stories.

Optional Stops & Flexibility

Throughout the day, the tour allows for spontaneous stops, whether you want to visit traditional villages like Fourni or linger longer at a favorite spot. This flexibility is a real advantage, as you’re not tied to a rigid schedule. The private nature of the tour means you control the pace, making it ideal for travelers who prefer personalized experiences over group tours.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The vintage Mercedes adds a cinematic touch; it’s fun to imagine cruising through Crete like a star of a classic film. The scenic drives along the coast are genuinely breathtaking, showcasing some of the most beautiful views in northern Crete. Plus, the private guide and vehicle provide a level of comfort and customization you won’t find on larger bus tours.

Authenticity is key here. The stops at Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka are genuine local spots, not heavily commercialized. The tour’s flexibility means you can decide whether to spend more or less time at each location, which is a big plus for travelers who want control over their experience.

Considerations on Value

While the tour price covers private transportation, WiFi, and bottled water, extras like boat tickets (€12) and entrance fees to Spinalonga (around €4-8) are paid separately. Still, many travelers reported the experience exceeded expectations, especially with the vintage car and scenic drives adding a special touch.

Authentic Experiences & Trip Highlights

Travelers praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, noting how these added to the overall enjoyment. One reviewer mentioned, “Traveling around with the classic Merc felt like playing in a movie scene,” which perfectly captures the allure of the experience. The combination of scenic drives, historical sites, and the ability to customize makes this tour appealing.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This private tour is ideal for those who want to see East Crete in comfort and style. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or anyone craving a more personal, boutique experience. If you love scenic drives, historic sites, and authentic local towns, you’ll appreciate how this itinerary showcases the best of eastern Crete without the rush of a large group. The vintage Mercedes makes it feel special, while the flexible schedule lets you tailor your day.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized exploration with a dash of glamour, this tour offers it all in spades. It’s a chance to discover Crete’s coastal beauty, historical depth, and charming villages in a memorable way.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your accommodation, making it easy to start your day without any hassle.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 to 9 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop at a relaxed pace.

What’s the price per group?
It costs around $360.27 for up to four people, which includes private transportation, WiFi, and bottled water.

Are tickets to Spinalonga included?
No, the entrance fee (about €4-8) and boat tickets (~€12) are paid directly on the day.

What if I want to skip a stop?
Since it’s a private tour, you can customize your route and choose to linger longer at places you prefer or skip certain stops altogether.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private setup makes it flexible for families with children, provided they’re comfortable with the schedule.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing peace of mind.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera. Everyone gets bottled water, but you might want to bring extra snacks if you prefer.

This private tour of East Crete in a vintage Mercedes offers a beautifully balanced mix of scenic drives, historical sites, and local charm. Its flexibility, comfort, and the allure of traveling in style make it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a personalized adventure. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it promises a memorable day on this captivating Greek island.