From Heraklion: Kritsa & Myrtos Villages East & South Crete

A Scenic Day Exploring Kritsa and Myrtos on Crete

This particular Crete day trip offers a delightful blend of cultural discovery and beach relaxation, making it perfect for travelers eager to experience authentic local life without the hassle of planning. I’ve come across reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the good value for money, highlighting how this tour manages to pack in a diverse range of sights in just one day. From the cobbled streets of Kritsa, with its Venetian touches, to the crystal-clear waters of Myrtos Beach, there’s plenty to enjoy.

What I especially like about this experience is the chance to sample authentic Cretan products at the olive oil park — a real treat for food lovers. The free time in Kritsa lets you wander at your own pace, soaking up the atmosphere and browsing local shops. Plus, the spacious, quiet sands of Myrtos provide a welcome break from busier beaches and a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

One potential consideration is the duration of the day—at about eight hours, it’s a full schedule that requires some stamina. Also, note that the tour is best suited for those without mobility issues, as it involves walking through narrow streets and a fair amount of standing.

This tour offers excellent value for those wanting a taste of Crete’s traditional villages, local flavors, and coastal beauty without the stress of independent travel. It’s particularly ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a balanced mix of culture and relaxation in a single day.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Crete Experience: Combines a cultural visit to Kritsa with a relaxing beach day at Myrtos.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides in multiple languages (English, German, French, Russian) enhance your understanding.
• Food and Drink: Olive oil tour and tasting offer a true taste of local Cretan products, including honey and raki.
• Flexible Free Time: Good amount of time at each stop to explore independently, shop, or simply relax.
• Value for Money: At around $32.75 per person, the tour is considered a good deal given the transport, guiding, and experiences included.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant travelers or wheelchair users, due to walking and uneven streets.

Discovering Crete’s Charm: Kritsa & Myrtos in a Day

This tour weaves together history, local flavor, and seaside leisure, making it a well-rounded way to spend a day in Crete. As someone who appreciates trips that blend culture with nature, I find this itinerary offers a satisfying snapshot of what makes southern Crete special.

Starting Point: The Olive Oil Park — A Tasty Introduction

The day kicks off with a visit to an olive oil park, where I learned how extra virgin olive oil is produced and standardized. It’s a great way to see the process up close, from olives to bottle, and to taste some of the finest Greek products—olive paste, honey, and raki, which is a traditional grape spirit. This stop not only appeals to your palate but also provides insight into an essential part of Cretan life.

Many reviews praise the guide at this stop for making the process accessible and engaging. You’re encouraged to try the tastings, which quickly reveal why Greek olive oil is renowned worldwide—rich, flavorful, and full of health benefits.

Kritsa Village: Venetian Charm in the Mountains

Next, you head to Kritsa, one of Crete’s oldest villages. The narrow, winding streets are lined with stone houses and remnants of Venetian architecture, giving it a timeless feel. You’re typically given about an hour and a half to explore on your own, which is enough to soak in the atmosphere, browse local shops, and snap photos of the picturesque surroundings.

A highlight from other travelers is the chance to see traditional weavings made on handmade looms, which adds a tangible connection to local craft traditions. The village’s many small chapels and museums also add to the feeling of walking through living history.

The guide, often named Guiseppe or similar, is noted for being informative and friendly, enhancing the experience with stories and tips. You might find the streets a bit steep or uneven, so comfortable shoes are advisable.

A Scenic Drive and Relaxing Beach Day at Myrtos

After Kritsa, the journey continues to Myrtos Beach, about 13 kilometers west of Ierapetra. The drive itself is charming—passing through lush valleys filled with orange and lemon groves, dotted with greenhouses and charming villages.

Myrtos Beach is a highlight for many. It’s spacious, quiet, and boasts crystal-clear water and coarse gray sand that doesn’t stick to your skin — a small detail but a real plus. If you love swimming or snorkeling, the calm waters here are inviting. The beach’s isolated location makes it feel like a true escape from crowds.

You have about two and a half hours to relax, eat at a local taverna, or simply soak up the sun. Many visitors appreciate that Myrtos isn’t crowded or commercialized, offering a peaceful setting to unwind.

Practical Tips & Logistics

This tour covers about 166 km and runs approximately 8 hours — a full day but one that’s thoughtfully paced. Pickup points are plentiful along the northern coast, from Heraklion to Malia, with early starts around 8 am, so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Transport is by comfortable bus, and the small group size enhances the feeling of intimacy and ease. The price includes all transportation, the olive oil tour, and guiding in multiple languages, making it a straightforward and economical option.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a blend of outdoor activities, cultural insights, and beach time without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s perfect for first-timers to Crete, families, or anyone interested in authentic local products and scenic villages.

Price and Logistics

At around $32.75, this tour offers excellent value given the inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, and multiple stops. It’s a cost-effective way to see some of Crete’s best parts efficiently.

Pickup points are multiple, making it accessible if you’re staying in popular resorts like Malia or Hersonisos. The tour begins early but provides ample free time at each stop, which balances guided activities with personal exploration.

However, keep in mind the full day can be tiring, especially for those with mobility issues or young children. The walking around Kritsa involves narrow, uneven streets, and the beach day requires some physical activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in a balanced mix of history, culture, and relaxation, this trip hits the mark. It’s best for those who enjoy guided group tours, local food tasting, and scenic drives. Not suitable for pregnant travelers or wheelchair users due to walking requirements.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Crete Day Trip

This tour offers a solid introduction to some of Crete’s most charming sights. The blend of a traditional village, olive oil tasting, and a peaceful beach makes it an appealing all-in-one package. Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and the good value, confirming that it’s a reliable choice for travelers who want to maximize their Crete experience without breaking the bank.

If you love discovering local crafts, stunning landscapes, and having some time to relax by the water, this trip is a strong contender. It provides enough variety for a full day of touring while keeping the pace manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in various locations, bus tickets, and guided commentary in multiple languages (English, German, French, Russian). You also get the olive oil tour and tasting.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 8 am, with specific times depending on your pickup point.

Is lunch provided?
No, meals are not included. You will have time in Myrtos to buy or bring your own food, and local taverns are available at the beach.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour involves walking through narrow, uneven streets in Kritsa and some physical activity at the beach. It is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

How much free time do I get?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours at Kritsa and roughly 2.5 hours at Myrtos Beach, giving you time to explore, shop, relax, or swim.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking and outdoor activities.

Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellation is free if done up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour good for families?
Yes, especially if your family enjoys outdoor exploration, cultural sites, and swimming. Just be mindful of the walking involved.

How is the guide?
Reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more enriching and enjoyable.

In the end, this tour is a thoughtful way to see a slice of genuine Crete—combining history, local flavors, and a peaceful beach. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a full, balanced day in the south of the island.