Things to Do in Crete

Looking to let loose in Malia? We got you. Bag your Scene Pass for access to the some of Crete's best nights out, including pool parties, beachside raves and more...

Get ready to glow at the White Party. Rock your best all-white fit and soak up the hottest urban beats from top DJs til the early hours, spicing up the Old Skool classics with new jams. With our hype MC and fire-breathing dancers in glam white, the vibe's electric. It's the ultimate blend of elegance and wild party energy, making it the must-attend event where the night's vibe is as fresh as your fit.

The Matala Beach Festival is an annual music and cultural event held in Matala, a small coastal village in Crete, Greece. The festival gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s when it became a gathering place for the hippie community.Today, it continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to enjoy live music performances, art exhibitions, workshops, and various cultural activities. The festival is free to attend and it takes place on the picturesque Matala Beach, known for its unique rock formations and caves.This is one of Crete's most important music festivals, offering a vibrant atmosphere, where attendees can soak up the sun, dance to the rhythm of music, and experience the bohemian spirit that still lingers in this charming seaside location. This excursion offers hassle-free transport to and from the Festival.

Whether you choose the morning or evening, this catamaran cruise in the Agioi Theodoroi Bay has all the ingredients for a classic Cretan outing, with coastal views, watersports in the clear waters and fresh Mediterranean food. You'll sail out of the Old Venetian Port of Chania and drop anchor near the island of Agioi Theodoroi for swimming, snorkelling, paddle-boarding or fishing. On the morning tour you'll tuck into lunch onboard, with Greek beer and Cretean wine, while on the sunset tour, there's a platter of local ham, cheese and fruit, plus a glass of fizz and canapes when you board.

Buckle up for an exciting 4x4 off-road tour, rumbling into the mountainous landscapes of Crete. You'll be awe-struck by views of the south Cretan coast from Kerame village and the drama of Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Take a cooling dip at Preveli Beach, tuck into a traditional lunch, and check out Spili's lion-head fountains. With your guide doubling as your driver, every twist and turn reveals another hidden gem of Crete.

Get a glimpse of Cretan tradition on this full-day tour. You'll start your adventure at Melidoni Cave for a look around, before stopping for a coffee. Then, call in at an olive mill to learn all about how olive oil is made, from hand-picking to bottling. Plus, you'll get to taste different varieties and pick up some tips for your cooking. Swing by a honey museum afterwards for a tasting session, before wrapping up your tour in the village of Margarites, a pottery hub with Venetian roots that's known for its centuries-old ceramic-making heritage.

Cast off on a half-day catamaran cruise, gliding over to Dia Island in Crete. As you sail, you can tuck into traditional Cretan treats. Once you arrive at the island, you can take your pick from the watersports on offer – try paddle-boarding, snorkelling, or just go for a swim. After working up an appetite, you'll have an onboard Mediterranean feast prepared by an award-winning chef. For this experience, you can choose whether to sail in the morning or evening, and if you want to opt for a little extra luxury with a private cruise.

Discover Crete's beauty on a tour across the Lasithi plateau. Explore ancient villages, taste local produce, and experience pottery making.

Sail from Gouves port to St George Bay on this sunset cruise. As you glide across the Mediterranean, you can sip on unlimited drinks, tuck into some tasty snacks, and lounge on deck – what more could you ask for? Plus, if you fancy it, you can make a splash snorkelling or try your hand at fishing – the boat has all the gear you need. Then, as the sun sets, you can take in the Insta-worthy views before heading back to port.

You're sailing to an uninhabited island steeped in Greek mythology on this day out. Legend has it that Dia Island was once a giant lizard that tried to destroy Crete until Zeus turned it to stone with a thunderbolt. You'll take a leisurely sail to Dia, where you'll visit two of the island's tucked-away bays. The first bay is a little livelier, where you can make the most of the water toys for snorkelling, fishing and swimming. Then, after a freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch onboard, it's off to a calmer, more tranquil bay to while away the afternoon sunbathing, swimming and relaxing.

Cruise to Marathi Bay at sunset on this half-day tour. Hop aboard for an evening of snorkelling, surfing, and fishing – or kick back and soak up the views Marathi Bay is known for. You'll find sandy beaches and calm, shallow waters here – ideal for all ages. Plus, there are snacks included for when you need to boost your energy levels. Then, you'll hop back on board the boat and return to the port, with the Cretan sunset as your backdrop.

Relax in Mother Nature's hands on this catamaran sailing trip. Depending on the weather, you'll be whisked off to one of two swoon-worthy bays. If it's calm, you'll sail to Octopus Bay, where the secluded pebbly coves and seabed are alive with starfish, crabs and the eight-legged friends the bay's named after – ideal for snorkelling. If it's a little rougher, then the bustling Marathi Bay is your best port of call, where you can try paddle-boarding, snorkelling and fishing by the sandy beaches. Whatever the weather, you can relax onboard with lunch and drinks.

Discover Western Crete's highlights on a private tour. Explore Chania, Agia Triada Monastery, and Marathi Beach.

Sunset on the Med? Check. Tasty spread? Check. Activities for water babies? Triple check. This sunset cruise from Hersonissos to Agios Georgios Bay has it all. You'll kick things off with Prosecco and canapés before diving into snorkelling, SUP surfing, and fishing. After working up an appetite, indulge in local cheese, nibbles, and fruit, all paired with Cretan white wine. Finally, watch the sunset steal the show – the perfect backdrop for any romantic surprises you've got planned.

Follow in the footsteps of one of Greece's most adventurous characters, Alexis Zorba, on this treasure hunt tour. An iconic character from Nikos Kazantzakis' novel Zorba the Greek, Zorba is known for helping the narrator, a young Greek intellectual, find his way to a more exciting life. On this tour, guided by Zorba's spirit, you'll delve into Heraklion's culture and history, solving riddles and uncovering clues to take you to the best bits of the city.Journey through Heraklion using the in-app gameplay as a guide. Plus, professional games masters will be on hand if you need pointing in the right direction. They'll offer clues to help you with the treasure hunt and direct you towards tasty Greek treats – you'll get to taste a traditional Cretan pastry like kaltsounia and try local 'dakos,' otherwise known as Greek bruschetta. The challenge begins at the Koules Fortress, at the entrance of the old port. From here, you'll make your way through the city, stopping at bustling markets and ancient landmarks, where you'll get to see where Zorba's larger-than-life character originated.

Quads in Crete? You bet. This tour will have you whizzing through olive groves, mountain roads, and the sparkling coast on your own off-road vehicles. Starting in Malia, you'll visit the ancient Minoa Palace for a photo-worthy glimpse of history, From there, it's all about mountain views, sheep-feeding (yes, really), and collecting fresh Cretan herbs at the beautiful Agios Georgios Monastery. Up next is a drive by the coast near Sisi before heading back.

Calling all adventure-seekers – this is your ticket to the rugged side of Crete. After a quick safety briefing, you'll head up into the mountains to roar through impressive natural gorges and splash through river crossings in a two-seater off-road buggy. There'll be plenty of pauses to take in the wild scenery and you'll get a taste of the local culture with pit stops at remote 12th-century Cretan villages. Refuel on caffeine and snacks at a traditional kafenion – a Greek coffee house – before heading back to Rethymno to put your feet up.

Heavensent Party at Luc Club is your go-to for a night with all the heat. Live DJ? Check. Insane beats? You bet. With the hottest tracks and throwback bangers, this adults-only party is all about good music, epic drinks, and even better energy. Expect a packed crowd, top-tier sound, and signature cocktails that'll keep the night going. If you're looking for a wild, nonstop night of fun, this is the spot.

Step through the looking glass into Wonderland for a night that's no short of legendary. Get ready to face the music – and a splat of paint – as you kickstart the festivities with a splash of colour. Then, let loose on the dance floor where our DJ spins a mix of the latest summer anthems. As the night heats up, a countdown leads to a confetti cannon spesh, painting the club in a rainbow of hues. And for an extra touch of magic, there'll be live sax bringing Ibiza to the heart of Malia.

Level up your bingo game at Crystal Beach Club's Barmy Bingo – you're in for a night of pure vibes as the DJ drops the hottest beats. Grab your dabbers and play for fire and funny prizes. Then, when the bingo rounds take a break, hit the dance floor and show off your moves. Plus, there'll be some insta-worthy snacks to dive into as you sip on your favourite drink.

Set sail along Crete's stunning coastline on a private motorboat experience. Navigate crystal-clear waters to discover hidden coves, secluded beaches, and charming fishing villages. Stop at perfect snorkelling and diving spots to explore the vibrant underwater world, rich with marine life and colourful reefs. Or, enjoy a day of fishing, whether for fun or to catch some delicious local seafood. Just so you know, you don't need a boating license to be able to book this experience – you're free to be your own captain and explore how you want.

Set sail along Crete's stunning coastline on a private motorboat experience. Navigate crystal-clear waters to discover hidden coves, secluded beaches, and charming fishing villages. Stop at perfect snorkelling and diving spots to explore the vibrant underwater world, rich with marine life and colourful reefs. Or, enjoy a day of fishing, whether for fun or to catch some delicious local seafood. Just so you know, you don't need a boating license to be able to book this experience – you're free to be your own captain and explore how you want.

This full-day guided tour is all about getting to grips with a few of Crete's most popular local products, olive oil and wine. You'll learn how both are made, and you'll get to sample some for yourself, all while travelling between stops in the back of a 4x4. Ioannis, one of our expert local guides says “in my opinion, there's no better way to understand the culture of a destination than by meeting the people who make local produce. They know the area better than anyone, and the produce is a reflection of the culture.”You'll kick things off at the Terra Creta Olive Mill. Here, you'll see how olives are turned into oil before a tasting session. Then, you'll be welcomed into a boutique winery for a tour of the grounds and, of course, to sample the wines produced here. You'll learn about the different grape varieties, including some experimental wines made from rare grapes. Next, you'll continue to the village of Ano Vouves, home to an ancient olive tree – it's thought to be between 2,000 and 4,000 years old, but it still produces olives to this day.Afterwards, you'll set off on an off-road adventure in a 4x4 towards the mountain village of Sebronas. As you zoom through the gorge, you'll see pretty chapels, vineyards and olive groves – and you'll have time to snap a few photos along the way. Then, once you've worked up your appetite, you'll stop for lunch at a small village tavern, where you'll tuck into some traditional dishes.

Looking for the perfect way to relax and unwind? Whether it's a special occasion or just a chill evening, this sunset cruise has you covered. Hop aboard a premium-class catamaran for a magical night with Prosecco, local bites, and a dreamy sunset over the sea. We'll pick you up from anywhere in Crete, so all that's left for you to do is sit back and enjoy—picture yourself swimming and snorkelling in Kissamos Bay, savouring local delicacies with a light dinner, and soaking up those romantic sunset vibes.

Looking for the perfect way to relax and unwind? Whether it's a special occasion or just a chill evening, this sunset cruise has you covered. Hop aboard a premium-class catamaran for a magical night with Prosecco, local bites, and a dreamy sunset over the sea. We'll pick you up from anywhere in Crete, so all that's left for you to do is sit back and enjoy—picture yourself swimming and snorkelling in Kissamos Bay, savouring local delicacies with a light dinner, and soaking up those romantic sunset vibes.

The tiny isle of Spinalonga is one of the top things to do in Crete. Take a tour of this former leper colony and discover the centuries of history packed within the walls that encircle it. What's more, you'll also visit the seaside resorts of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos for a spot of swimming and the chance to find lunch.Spinalonga has been a Venetian outpost, an Ottoman town and a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘Isle of Tears'. A guided walk will show you around the fortress and the colony – which closed in the 1950s. Spinalonga is one of Crete's best-known features and a location in Victoria Hislop's bestselling novel, The Island.Later, you'll sail back to Elounda. Swim, stretch out in the sunshine, or watch the world go by at a café. You'll also have lunch - not included - in a local taverna. And rounding off the day is a visit to Agios Nikolaos, a chic seaside town sheltered by two offshore islets.

Eastern Crete is awash with golden beaches, timeless villages and Medieval monasteries. Explore all of the east's knockout spots with this exciting tour. Highlights include the villages of Lithines and Sitia, Toplou Monastery and Europe's largest palm tree forest.Kick off with a stroll along the pretty streets in the whitewashed village of Lithines, complete with dinky chapels and churches. Next, head to Sitia on the north coast. You can opt to visit Kazama castle, the folklore or the Archaeological Museum, or just enjoy a leisurely coffee and take in the local atmosphere.You'll stop at the heavily fortified Toplou Monastery next. Stroll around and take some photos of this history-steeped 15th century retreat. We'll top off the day at the white-sand Vai beach, which is fringed by 5,000 palm trees. Take a dip or snorkel in the clear, turquoise waters. Or, if you'd prefer, you can visit a local taverna before heading back to your hotel.

This half-day experience is perfect for those who love to shop and explore. Exclusive to Robinson Club guests, you'll travel to Agios Nikolaos with a local expert, learning all about the area's history along the way. Then, it's up to you how you spend your free time. Roam the streets at your own leisure, grab a souvenir or two, or simply kick back and relax in a café.

One of the most southerly points in Europe, the uninhabited island of Chrissi is Crete's own castaway paradise. Spend the day swimming in its turquoise waters and sunbathing on virgin beaches with your very own private yacht cruise.Cast off from the old harbour of Ierapetra and after an hour's crossing over the Libyan Sea, you'll hit land on Chrissi. With a couple of hours to explore, rare cedar forest, golden beaches and shallow seas shimmering with colour are your playground.You can walk coast to coast across the island, stroll along the endless shoreline, or simply chill out by the sea. It's a perfect getaway full of wild, natural beauty. Back on board the boat, there'll be a barbecue lunch before sailing to more sun-kissed swim stops and footprint-free sands away from the crowds. It's an experience that'll stay with you long after your tan has faded.

Time stands still when exploring Cretan villages. On this excursion, you'll discover the island's laidback side. Your first stop is the village of Krista, which is widely regarded as one of the most traditional spots in Crete. You'll want to remember to bring a camera on this tour, because the vine-wrapped cobbled lanes and blue-and-white houses are as cute as they come. While you're here, you'll also wander through an olive oil farm and taste fresh virgin oil. You'll then head to Limnes for a traditional Cretan lunch, before your final stop at the Cultural Museum of Neapoli – it's housed in a 19th century house that used to be a high school.

Boasting one of Europe's most important archaeological sites, Crete's capital sets the scene for Minoan greatness. On this tour, you'll discover the Palace of Knossos, a spot veiled in mystery. Uncover this ancient civilisation and the legendary King Minos with your expert guide. Check out alluring artefacts and get in-depth historical knowledge before heading back to Heraklion for some free time.

Get ready for fun, food, and fabulous views on this Catamaran cruise in Panormos. Whether it's the morning or afternoon cruise you pick, you'll enjoy snorkelling, SUP surfing – or inflatable flamingo rides – with bay stops for swimming and sunbathing. Tuck into a delicious lunch on the morning cruise or a light dinner on the afternoon cruise, both with local delicacies and drinks. Wrap things up with a scenic sail back to the port, catching the sunset on the afternoon trip.

Get ready for fun, food, and fabulous views on this Catamaran cruise in Panormos. Whether it's the morning or afternoon cruise you pick, you'll enjoy snorkelling, SUP surfing – or inflatable flamingo rides – with bay stops for swimming and sunbathing. Tuck into a delicious lunch on the morning cruise or a light dinner on the afternoon cruise, both with local delicacies and drinks. Wrap things up with a scenic sail back to the port, catching the sunset on the afternoon trip.

Get ready for fun, food, and fabulous views on this Catamaran cruise in Panormos. Whether it's the morning or afternoon cruise you pick, you'll enjoy snorkelling, SUP surfing – or inflatable flamingo rides – with bay stops for swimming and sunbathing. Tuck into a delicious lunch on the morning cruise or a light dinner on the afternoon cruise, both with local delicacies and drinks. Wrap things up with a scenic sail back to the port, catching the sunset on the afternoon trip.

Get ready for fun, food, and fabulous views on this Catamaran cruise in Panormos. Whether it's the morning or afternoon cruise you pick, you'll enjoy snorkelling, SUP surfing – or inflatable flamingo rides – with bay stops for swimming and sunbathing. Tuck into a delicious lunch on the morning cruise or a light dinner on the afternoon cruise, both with local delicacies and drinks. Wrap things up with a scenic sail back to the port, catching the sunset on the afternoon trip.

This trip to Milos Island has everything you need. You'll start at Sarakiniko Beach, one of the island's top spots, where you can explore sea caves and take a dip in the sea. Then, you'll visit the Aggeria Mines, where bentonite and perlite were once mined. After that, you'll head to the fishing village of Pollonia for a seaside stroll and maybe some fresh seafood. Finally, you'll wrap up your visit with stops at Plaka, the island's capital, and Adamas, the main port.

This trip to Milos Island really covers all the bases. Your first stop is at one of the island's top stretches of sand, Sarakiniko Beach, where you can explore sea caves and go for a dip in the sea. From here, you'll visit the Aggeria Mines, where bentonite and perlite used to be dug up. Next up is the fishing village of Pollonia, where you can go for a seaside stroll and sample fresh seafood if you fancy it. You'll round off your visit to Milos Island with visits to Plaka, the capital, and Adamas, the island's main port.

Get ready for some serious serenity with a sunset cruise along Saint George Bay in Hersonissos. Savour a glass of wine while you watch the tranquil colours of the setting sun, accompanied by the gentle lull of the waves lapping against the boat. Let the warm breeze and impressive views create a moment of pure relaxation, making it an unforgettable experience.

Step into the world of Ancient Greece at Amnesiades historical park, where you'll explore the wonders of Minoan culture. After a warm welcome, you'll be taken on an immersive tour around the site, learning all about Minoan decoration and history.With an engaging workshop, you'll learn how to write your name in Linear B, the first form of organised writing in Europe from around 2000 BC. Linear B is a syllabic script used for Mycenaean Greek, predating the Greek alphabet by centuries. Uncover the history of this intriguing script, primarily found in the palace archives of Knossos, Kydonia, Pylos, Thebes, and Mycenae, which disappeared with the fall of the Mycenaean civilisation.Explore the mini farm and discover the traditional Minoan way of bread making. You'll even get to try freshly-baked bread combined with olive oil, salt, and oregano. Quench your thirst with Minoan ice tea, made from the finest herbs of Crete and natural water. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there's optional pony or horse rides, allowing you to experience the landscape just as the ancient Minoans did.

The volcanic island of Santorini lies north of Crete. And this daytrip by fast cat is a great chance to take a close-up look at it. Curved around a colossal, sea-filled caldera that was formed by a massive volcanic eruption 3,500 years ago, it's all black cliffs, whitewashed villages and blue-domed churches. It's picture-postcard Greece.Once you're on dry land, you'll take off on a scenic tour, exploring many of the island's attractions and learning about its history. Explore a town where whitewashed houses, cobbled streets and tavernas cascade down the cliff-face in steep terraces.You'll spend about 90 minutes in Oia – the village with the most magnificent views on Santorini. From its lofty clifftop perch, the panorama over the volcanic caldera is pure wow-factor. Then it's on to Fira, the island's capital. You'll have an hour or so to snap up treats in the quaint shops and boutiques.

Jump onboard at Kastelli and prepare to be wowed by cliffs and caves as we sail to Gramvousa Island, crossing the bay of Kissamos. Here, you've got the option to chill on deck, take a swim, or hike up Venetian castle to drink up the Insta-gold views. Next up, we're off to Tigani. With Caribbean-style beaches – you'll get to laze on the white sands and splash in the warm shallows of the Balos Lagoon before heading back to Plakias.

If there's one must-see in Crete, it's the Palace of Knossos. It's the island's most popular attraction. And for good reason – it's fascinating. Learn all about Minoan civilisation and enjoy a guided walk in the history-steeped old town of Heraklion too.After a scenic drive taking in sights of Rethymnon and the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, you'll arrive into the Cretan capital, Heraklion, for a guided walk. See the Venetian lion fountain, the loggia and more before some free time for shopping or an optional visit to the archaeological museum.Knossos was the hub of Crete's Minoan civilisation and where the fearsome Minotaur lurked in a labyrinth. Your guide will give you the lowdown on its myths and kings as you discover the throne room, royal apartments, frescoes and more.

Get ready for a day of adventure on this full-day guided tour to the city of Chania and the Koumos Stone Village. You'll visit the stone village first, known for its traditional architecture and mosaic-lined paths – see if you can spot the animal shapes carved into the stonework. You'll pause for a refreshing drink under the shade of the olive trees before stepping into Crete's past at the folklore museum. Then, it's off to Chania, where you'll have a few hours to shop, sightsee, and stroll along the harbour.

An oasis of tranquillity, Crete's Botanical Gardens provide a respite from the bustling beaches. On this morning tour, your guide will show you around the vast gardens and teach you about the local plants and wildlife. You'll also get to visit the quaint village of Spili, where you'll have around two hours of free time to browse the shops, grab a bite to eat or visit the local folklore museum.

Explore the Aradena Gorge with a 5km hike that rivals the beauty and challenge of Samaria. After a three-hour trek, enjoy a refreshing swim at Marmara Beach. From there, we'll take a boat to the picturesque village of Loutro, perfect for soaking up the local charm, and then continue to Sfakia before returning to Plakias by bus. This adventure combines jaw-dropping scenery, relaxation, and a touch of local culture.

This easygoing hike is ideal for a day out like no other. Start your day with a scenic drive from Plakias to Chora Sfakion, then hop on a ferry to Agia Roumeli. Here, you can explore the stunning Samaria Gorge at your own pace. Walk up to 4km to see the 'Iron Gate' and its towering cliffs. After your hike, take a refreshing swim, unwind on the beach, or enjoy a delicious Greek lunch at a local tavern.

Whether you're exploring ancient alleys, savouring local cuisine, or simply enjoying the beautiful views, Rethymnon at night is an experience you won't want to miss. We'll drop you into the heart of the city, where you'll have plenty of time to explore. Stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, stop by one of the many cosy cafes and tavernas for a bite to eat, or take in the postcard-worthy views of the Venetian harbour.

This full day tour lets you be at one with Cretan nature. Start your day with a scenic bus ride through Crete's stunning valleys and mountains as you head to Mili Gorge. Buckle up for an easy hike along beautiful paths, past old mills and bubbling streams, and cool off in the clear waters. After a tasty lunch at a local restaurant, spend a couple of hours exploring Rethymnon's regional market and wandering through the old town.

With plenty of free time to explore at your own pace, this trip to the romantic town of Rethymnon is as relaxing as they come. Wander around the weekly market stalls where the aroma of fresh produce will entice you to taste local flavours, and where you'll find plenty of souvenirs. The imposing fortress is also a must-see with its maze of narrow streets that wind their way around enchanting historic buildings.

Pick your way along the challenging 8km route of Imbros Gorge, surrounded by wonderful fauna and the steep vertical walls of the ravine. There's also a refreshment stop in Komitades, and the opportunity for a swim in Frangokastello. As you stroll along, take in the views over the White Mountains as you head up to the starting point – the mountain village of Imbros. Here, you'll set off on your 3-4 hour hike, following pathways through wildflower meadows. The going never get too rough underfoot and the gradient is a gentle descent.Enjoy a well-earned break at the end of the trail, with plenty of free time to take a refreshing swim in the waters off Frangokastello's tranquil beach or grab a bite to eat.