Christmas in Crete

As winter settles on Crete’s hills and coastal towns, the island invites you to slow down, savour the season, and share in its festive spirit beneath soft December skies. Stroll Heraklion’s market streets, taste sweet bougatsa and local wines, and gather for Christmas lunch in a hillside taverna. From the celebrations of Agia Deka to the breath-taking views of the Aradena Ravine, this is a holiday filled with dramatic sights, local flavours and unforgettable hospitality.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Travel to Crete
Fly from London Heathrow to Heraklion. Transfer to the hotel. Evening at leisure.

Day 2: Heraklion
Walking tour of Heraklion centre and the local market. Then it’s on with our bus to a typical Greek Kafeneio for our lunch.  In the evening, we shall go out and enjoy the Christmas market that is set up on Heraklion’s central Square, where it’s possible to buy gifts and traditional decorations. Whether you want to purchase or not, you might like to try some of the delicious treats on offer, including Heraklion’s famous custard bougatsa, which can be followed with one of the local spirits also on offer.

Day 3: Southern Crete
Travel to the south of the island to the village of Agia Deka to experience the name day celebrations of the church of Agia Deka (10 Saints). Always a lively celebration especially the gathering of the locals for such an event, and fun to witness. After enjoying the celebratory atmosphere, we visit a winery, one of many in this area, which has a high reputation for excellent Greek wine. Evening at leisure.

Day 4: Rethymnon and Chania
Depart Heraklion for Chania. On the way visit Rethymnon where we will have a walk in the atmospheric old town and then there will be free time to enjoy the holiday atmosphere of this lively town. Then it’s onto Chania and check-in to the Kydon Hotel. Dinner in a local restaurant in Chania.

Day 5: Christmas Day
Christmas lunch in a village. Today we will enjoy Christmas lunch in a village taverna high in the hills, enjoying local food and wonderful views. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 6: Timeless Crete
Today we discover a ‘timeless’ Crete, visiting the pretty gorge of Therriso, and enjoying a scenic drive into the Apokoronous region of Crete where we find wonderful views and tiny villages, little touched by the hands of time, as well as a cosy taverna for a traditional lunch.

Day 7: Far Western Crete
Leisurely morning enjoying a scenic drive to far western Crete, visiting the atmospheric monastery of Asi Gonia along the way. Return to Chania for a relaxed afternoon.

Day 8: Departure
Fly from Chania Airport via Athens to London Heathrow.

NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 25 passengers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been grading as moderate due to the amount of walking involved and standing for viewing at attractions.

INCLUDED

• Return scheduled flights from London Gatwick to Heraklion, and Chania to London Gatwick 
• Three nights’ bed and breakfast at a three-star hotel in Heraklion, based on shared twin/double room
• Four nights’ bed and breakfast at the four-star Kydon Hotel in Chania, based on shared twin/double room
• Four lunches and one dinner
• Transfers and full touring itinerary as detailed
• Tour manager throughout and local guide 

 NOT INCLUDED

• Single room supplement - £330
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls 
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTELS

Excellent quality hotels are used throughout this tour, each offering a high standard of service, facilities, and comfort in ideal locations to explore the sites visited.

Galaxy Hotel, Heraklion – 3 nights
This stylish five-star hotel is in a quiet yet central location, a short walk from the Old Town. As well as two restaurants the hotel has a fitness centre and
swimming pool.
Hotel Website

Kydon Hotel, Chania – 4 nights
Situated in the heart of Chania this four-star hotel offers immediate access to the Old Town and cultural landmarks. One of the first hotels built in the town, this hotel emphasises traditional Cretan hospitality.   
Hotel Website

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