From Heraklion: Kritsa & Myrtos Villages East & South Crete

Discover Crete’s Hidden Gems: Kritsa & Myrtos Villages on an Authentic Guided Tour

Venturing into Crete often means encountering a blend of ancient ruins, lively markets, and stunning beaches. This tour from Heraklion offers a delightful mix of both culture and leisure. It’s a well-structured day that takes you through historic villages, authentic local tastes, and finally, some well-deserved beach time at Myrtos.

What we really love about this experience is its focus on authentic Crete—from visiting a traditional olive oil park to wandering through Kritsa’s narrow, winding streets. Plus, the beach break at Myrtos lets you truly unwind in crystal-clear waters without feeling rushed.

A potential consideration is the long day’s schedule—covering approximately 166 km—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace with plenty of free time, this trip might feel slightly packed. But for those eager to see both cultural sights and a gorgeous beach in one day, it’s a fantastic choice.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a value-packed, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with leisure. It’s particularly suited for those who want to learn about Cretan traditions and enjoy some quality beach time without spending a fortune.

Key Points

Authentic Crete experience: Visits to Kritsa and Myrtos showcase true local charm.
Educational stops: Olive oil tasting and insight into traditional Greek products.
Balanced itinerary: Time for sightseeing, shopping, and relaxing at the beach.
Guided comfort: Multilingual guides ensure informative commentary throughout the day.
Affordable price: At around $33, the value is notable for a full-day tour with transport included.
Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned bus with hotel pickup and drop-off in key areas.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour kicks off early from various central pickup points around Heraklion, including locations such as Ammoudara, Karteros, Gouves, and other nearby resorts. Pickup times start as early as 8:00 AM, with some areas being picked up up to 90 minutes before the tour’s official start. This flexibility is great, especially for those staying in different parts of the region.

The transportation is via an air-conditioned bus, which helps make the long drive comfortable. While the total route covers about 166 km, the convenience of hotel pickup means you won’t need to worry about logistics—just sit back and enjoy the scenery as the guide shares insights.

Olive Oil Park: A Tasty Introduction to Crete’s Olive Heritage

The day begins with a visit to an olive oil park, where you’ll gain a glimpse into the traditional process of making extra virgin olive oil. Here, you’ll get to taste authentic Greek products like locally produced honey, raki, and table olives. The guide, likely knowledgeable about olive cultivation and production, enhances the experience by explaining what makes Cretan olive oil globally renowned.

This part of the tour isn’t just about tasting; it’s educational. You’ll learn about the standardization process and what sets Greek olive oil apart. Reviewers mention that the guide’s explanations helped deepen their appreciation for this staple ingredient, making it more than just a tasting session.

Kritsa Village: Wandering Through Time

Next, the tour moves to Kritsa—one of Crete’s oldest villages. The narrow streets and Venetian architecture evoke a sense of stepping back in time. Travelers have about an hour and a half here to explore at their own pace, and it’s enough to soak up the atmosphere.

Many visitors mention how delightful it is to stroll past little souvenir shops, old chapels, and local craft stalls. Some reviewers note that Kritsa’s traditional weavings, made on hand-operated looms, are a highlight—so don’t forget to look out for these authentic textiles.

Some travelers particularly appreciate the relaxed free time, which allows for spontaneous discoveries, like a cozy Greek coffee shop or a quick visit to the local museum. The guide’s local insights often point out the best streets for photos or where to find handcrafted souvenirs.

Lunch and Leisure in Myrtos

After Kritsa, the journey continues toward Myrtos Beach, located about 13 km west of Ierapetra. The drive through lush greenhouses and citrus groves sets the scene for the relaxing part of the day.

Once at Myrtos, you’ll find a spacious stretch of coarse gray sand and crystal-clear water—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Reviewers love the quiet, isolated feeling of the beach, away from crowded tourist spots. The water is described as being very clear, inviting you to dip in and cool off.

You’ll have roughly two and a half hours here, which is ample time to unwind, explore the shoreline, or enjoy a meal at one of the local taverns. Many appreciate the variety of traditional Greek dishes served at the beachfront taverns, making it a perfect spot to refuel.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour wraps up around 6:00 PM, with drop-offs in the same locations from which you were picked up. The entire day is about 8 hours, making it a comprehensive yet manageable way to see parts of eastern Crete without feeling overwhelmed.

What makes this tour especially appealing is its value for money—at just over $30 per person, it offers a mix of cultural insights, scenic beauty, and relaxation, all guided by multilingual experts. The reviews highlight it as a good option for those wanting an authentic experience without breaking the bank.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Guests consistently mention the guides’ knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, helping to keep the day engaging and informative. They often clarify complex historical or cultural details, making the sights more meaningful.

While some reviewers note that the schedule is tight—especially with travel time between stops—you get a well-rounded taste of Crete’s essentials. The long drive is balanced by the richness of the stops: authentic local products, charming villages, and a beautiful beach.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day combining culture, local flavors, and beach time. If you enjoy wandering charming villages and savoring traditional foods, this tour hits the mark. It’s also suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and value-packed experiences.

Keep in mind that it’s a full day, so those who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed, especially if they’re slow walkers or want more time at each stop. Families with children or those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved in Kritsa and the bus timings.

The Sum Up

This tour from Heraklion to Kritsa and Myrtos offers a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s culture, tradition, and natural beauty. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to see authentic villages, learn about local products, and relax at one of Crete’s lovely beaches all in one day.

The value for money is obvious, given the inclusion of hotel pick-up, guided commentary, and ample free time at key spots. The experienced guides, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, make the day not just educational but genuinely enjoyable.

While it’s a full schedule, most guests find it rewarding—especially those eager to experience Crete beyond the typical tourist trail. If you’re after a day that combines sightseeing with downtime, this tour balances both perfectly.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in key areas, bus tickets, and a guide available in English, French, and German.

How long is the free time at Kritsa?
You get about 1.5 hours to stroll through Kritsa, explore shops, visit chapels, or enjoy a coffee.

How much time do we spend at Myrtos Beach?
Approximately 2.83 hours is allocated for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing at the beach.

Is lunch included?
No, meals are not included, but there are taverns at Myrtos where you can enjoy traditional Greek dishes.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the sunny Crete day.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, but be aware it’s a full day with some walking involved. It’s best suited for families comfortable with a busy schedule.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This full-day excursion offers a thoughtfully curated experience of Crete’s heritage and relaxation opportunities, making it perfect for anyone wanting a taste of the island’s best without a hefty price tag.