Crete Pre-Voyage Extension

Extend your voyage with an immersive exploration of Crete that captures the essence of the island’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Discover the palace of King Minos, the treasures of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the mythical birthplace of Zeus, and the rustic charm of the traditional village, Arolithos. Indulge in authentic Greek flavors during a cooking class and olive oil tasting, hear our expert guides bring the stories of ancient ruins to life, and explore the mystical places that make picturesque Crete unique.

Note: a minimum of six guests must be booked in order to operate this extension.

This extension can be taken before select departures of Crossroads of the Ancient World: Exploring Greece and Turkey, Greek Isles Odyssey: Mythology, History, and Cerulean Seas or Ancient Mediterranean Odyssey: Exploring Greece, Croatia, and Albania.

A post-voyage extension is also available. View here: Crete Post-Voyage Extension

Day 1 - Heraklion / Arolithos

Fly to Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and tour the city’s Archaeological Museum, home to the world’s most impressive collection of Minoan artifacts, including jewelry, pottery, and frescoes. This evening, visit Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village, modeled after a historical island town to depict daily life of both rural and affluent classes. Prepare authentic Cretan dishes at a cooking class and then sit down to a dinner featuring your creations. We’ll also peruse the town museum, with exhibits on the daily life, traditions, and folklore of Crete. (B,L,D)

Day 2 - Knossos / Archanes

Today, get immersed in the history of King Minos during a visit to the reconstructed Palace of Knossos, the largest and most spectacular of all Minoan palaces and an excellent illustration of the impressive advancements made by the Minoans. See the royal living quarters, a theater, and workshops, and gain unique insight into Europe’s oldest known civilization. Following our visit to Knossos, experience the archaeological site and rolling hills of Archanes, and have lunch at the renovated, modern-day village by the same name. This afternoon, choose to go on a hike or visit an olive oil farm for a tasting and a history lesson on the olive grove.

Day 3 - Lassithi Plateau, Cave of Zeus (Psychro)

Explore the Plateau of Lassithi, a patchwork of green hemmed in on all sides by the Diktean Mountains. Continue to the village of Psychro and the mythical birthplace of Zeus—the Diktean Cave. Rich in stalagmites and stalactites, the cavern is one of the most beautiful of Crete’s more than 3,000 caves. Tackle the steep climb to the entrance, then make the steep but short descent into the cave. Later, return to the Lassithi Plateau to visit the Lasinthos Eco Park, showcasing Cretan arts and crafts, and enjoy a lunch of local specialties. This evening, indulge in a delicious Greek dinner at a restaurant overlooking Heraklion’s Venetian port and the illuminated castle of Koule. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Heraklion / Athens / Lavrio

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Athens. Upon arrival, join the main expedition, which embarks in Lavrio. (B)

Costs & What's Included

Occupancy

Cost per person 2025

Double Occupancy

$2,690

Single Occupancy

$2,990

Cost Includes:

Local flights Athens/Crete and Crete/Athens; accommodations as shown in the itinerary, or similar; meals as shown in the itinerary; local guides on all excursions; tips to local guides, to porters and to waiters for included meals; airport departure transfer if traveling on the recommended flight.