Exploring East Crete offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical sites to beautiful beaches and traditional villages. You will begin your tour from Ierapetra, the southernmost town in Europe, known for its warm climate and local products. The tour includes also a visit at the Toplou Monastery, which is located between Sitia and Vai. The monastery has a rich history, and its museum displays religious artifacts and icons.
Then you will head to Vai to visit the palm forest and relax on Vai Beach, which is definitely a unique and enchanting natural destination. The highlight of Vai is its extraordinary palm forest, which is the largest in Europe. The forest consists mainly of the Cretan Date Palm (Phoenix theophrasti), creating a tropical-like oasis in the Mediterranean. Adjacent to the palm forest is Vai Beach, a beautiful sandy stretch with crystal-clear waters. The beach is known for its golden sand and is framed by the palm trees, providing a stunning backdrop.
The last stop will be in Sitia, a quieter town with a relaxed atmosphere. Visit the Kazarma Fortress, the Archaeological Museum of Sitia, and enjoy the local cuisine at seaside tavernas.
Highlights
- Visit the town of Ierapetra, well known for its local products
- Enjoy a lazy day at Vai's well-known palm beach.
- Explore the Toplou Monastery
- Finish the tour by visiting the town of Sitia
Included
- Transportation in Air-Conditioned bus
- Professional Driver
- Tour Guide
- All the legal taxes
- Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ
Not Included
- Sunbeds / Umbrellas
- Food/Drinks
- Toplou Monastery Entrance 3 €
Know before you go
We provide pick-up from a variety of locations, including bus stops and hotels. We will get in touch with you as soon as you make the reservation to confirm the precise location and time of the pick-up, which will be closer to the hotel you are staying in.
If required, the excursion operator retains the right to rearrange the schedule in order to better accommodate guests or ensure their safety.
If ordered by the government COVID regulation, passengers must carry and wear face masks when traveling by bus and in indoor areas.
This excursion is not suitable for disabled people.
Full Description
Morning Pick up:
In the morning, we will begin collecting the passengers from the designated pick-up locations.
The bus ride will vary based on where your hotel or apartment is located.
Bus Drive to Ierapetra: 1.5-2 hours
1st stop: Ierapetra – 40 minutes stay
Visit the southernmost town in Europe, Ierapetra, known for its sunny climate. Stroll through the Old Town and spend your free time by walking on the lovely beach road.
Bus Drive : 1 hour 30 minutes
2nd stop: Toplou Monastery – 40 minutes stay
Explore the Toplou Monastery, located between Sitia and Vai. The monastery has a rich history, and its museum displays religious artifacts and icons. You will spend about 40 min of guided time and will have free time to snap pictures of the distinctive architecture and the outdoor Cretan scenery.
Bus Drive to Vai Beach: 20 minutes
3rd stop: Vai Beach – 2 hours stay
Head to Vai, famous for its palm forest and beautiful beach. You will have 2 hours to swim, relax on the sandy shores and take a stroll through the palm grove.
Bus Drive to Sitia: 30 minutes
4th stop: Sitia – 40 minutes
Travel further east to Sitia, a quieter town with a relaxed atmosphere. Visit the Kazarma Fortress, the Archaeological Museum of Sitia or enjoy the local cuisine at seaside tavernas.
End of the tour – Return to resorts:
As soon as the Buses are filled with passengers, we will head back to the hotels where we will meet up with the people attending in the morning.
The bus ride for the return will vary based on the traffic and each person's pick-up location in the morning.
Return Bus Drive to Heraklion: 2-3 hours
Here are some additional Tips:
- Comfortable Clothing & Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense.
- Swimming Gear: Pack your swimsuit, a towel, and any snorkeling gear you might want to use.
- Food and Water: Bring snacks and sufficient water. Staying hydrated is essential, especially during warm weather.
- Camera: Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
* The above mentioned tour is also on a private, custom-made basis available.
Feel free to send us an email so we can plan the most suitable trip for you.
Start at: 07:15
Ends at: 19:00-20:00
