Crete Small Group Tours
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10 best Crete small group tours
Compiled by
MelissaCrete travel expert at TourRadar
Amazing Aegean (All-Inclusive Guided Semi-Private Tour)
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This trip was worth every cent! His pre-trip communication was timely and informative.”
Cindy, traveled in May
Intimate groups wind through Crete's hidden gems. Ancient olive trees dating back 4,000 years stand as living monuments, while private cooking sessions unfold in traditional villages. The majestic Knossos Palace opens its secrets to visitors, with personalized attention from Chania to Heraklion.
Duration 8 days Destinations Athens, Chania, Rethymnon, Knossos, Santorini Age Range 16 to 85 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 6 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Pictours of Greece From
Deal- NZ$13,434
Incredible Crete!
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This was an excellent tour, giving us a wonderful experience of Crete. Would thoroughly recommend this company and tour.”
Ros, traveled in September
Six travelers at most share in Crete's diverse landscape, from Elafonisi's pink beaches to ancient Knossos. The limited size opens doors to genuine encounters in traditional villages and family tavernas. Detailed guidance enhances visits to historical sites and natural wonders.
Duration 7 days Destinations Athens, Chania, Souda, Aptera, Elafonisi, Rethymnon, Agia Roumeli, Hora Sfakion, Plakias, MatalaSee all destinations Age Range 5 to 95 year olds Operated in English, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 7 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Epos Travel & Tours From
Deal- NZ$5,949
Duration 8 days Destinations Athens, Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion Age Range 16 to 80 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 6 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Pictours of Greece From
Deal- NZ$11,515
Fifteen or more adventurers uncover Crete's diverse landscapes. The intimate setting enhances visits to Knossos Palace, peaceful walks through Samaria Gorge, and private boat rides to secluded Loutro. Local tavernas and historic monasteries welcome visitors with personal attention.
Duration 8 days Destinations Heraklion, Argyroupoli, Plakias, Rethymnon, Loutro, Agia Roumeli, Samaria Gorge, Knossos Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 14 Group Type Group Operator Grand Angle From
Deal- NZ$4,414
Exploring Crete
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We would definitely go with TUI again. The room was great.”
Allan, traveled in October
Small groups of 12-15 travelers weave through ancient Knossos Palace and Spinalonga island. The tailored size creates immersive moments in Lassithi Plateau's traditional villages, complemented by expert-led archaeological tours. Accommodations include half-board at Hotel Hersonissos Central.
Duration 8 days Destinations Heraklion, Spinalonga, Knossos, Chania, Rethymnon Age Range up to 99 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 50 Group Type Group Operator Destination Services Greece From $1,411
15% Off- NZ$1,199You save $212
Highlights of Crete
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“I don't see myself traveling any other way! I cherished each experience I had -- many of which would not have happened if I had traveled a different way.”
Sonya, traveled in September
Sixteen travelers or fewer receive focused attention at Knossos archaeological site and during Agia Irini Gorge hikes. Traditional kalitsounia workshops in Chania and wine tastings showcase authentic Cretan hospitality, perfect for travelers aged 5+.
Duration 7 days Destinations Heraklion, Knossos, Sougia, Agía Iríni, Chania Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 12 Group Type Group Operator Intrepid Travel From $4,030
15% Off- NZ$3,426You save $604
Treasures of Crete
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everything was well coordinated. The hotel was quiet but close to the water. We had a great time!!!”
Olympia, traveled in October
Intimate groups of 12-15 unveil Crete's treasures. Personal guides illuminate Knossos Palace ruins and Spinalonga Island. Land Rover adventures lead to Zeus's cave, while village visits to Kastamonitsa and authentic BBQ celebrations await in Lassithi Plateau.
Duration 7 days Destinations Heraklion, Spinalonga, Knossos, Chania, Rethymnon Age Range up to 99 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 50 Group Type Group Operator Destination Services Greece From $1,249
15% Off- NZ$1,062You save $187
Walking in Crete
43 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The walks were amazing, particularly walking through the gauges and along the coastline.”
Michele, traveled in September
Intimate parties of 8-12 hikers traverse Crete's rugged terrain. Samaria Gorge, Europe's longest gorge, beckons alongside hidden beaches near Loutro. The group size perfectly suits authentic experiences in family tavernas and boutique hotels in Chania's historic harbor.
Duration 8 days Destinations Chania, Crete, Samaria Gorge, Loutro, Hora Sfakion, Zaros, Heraklion Age Range 16 to 85 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Operator Explore! From $2,520
11% Off- NZ$2,250You save $270
Hiking Crete: Gorges & Coastal Walks
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Excellent tour with a nice mix of challenging and interesting hikes and time at the beaches of Crete.”
Sarah, traveled in September
Eight to twelve trekkers follow Crete's dramatic gorges and coastal paths with expert local guides. The route winds from Omalos plateau through Samaria Gorge to peaceful Loutro village. Intimate gatherings ensure authentic moments, from family taverna meals to flexible hiking schedules.
Duration 7 days Destinations Chania, Loutro Age Range up to 90 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 14 Operator G Adventures From $2,099
25% Off- NZ$1,574You save $525
Venetian Crete
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour is good. The communication between the tour company, the hotel and Destination Services needs improvement.”
Dalma, traveled in July
Groups of 12-15 travelers uncover Crete's cultural treasures with expert local guides. The Palace of Knossos and Spinalonga island reveal their stories in intimate settings, while Hotel Hersonissos provides comfortable rest. Traditional Cretan dinners complete the cultural immersion.
Duration 4 days Destinations Heraklion, Spinalonga, Knossos Age Range 18 to 99 year olds Group Size Max Group Size 40 Group Type Group Operator Destination Services Greece From $645
15% Off- NZ$548You save $97
What our customers ask about Crete Small Group Tours
What is the typical small group size for tours in Crete Islands?
Small group tours in Crete Islands usually include 8-12 travelers creating a more personal experience. The Hersonissos Maris in Gouves is one hotel that works well with smaller groups letting travelers connect with local culture more easily. A TourRadar traveler noted: "I am very glad my group was so small (8 people) and that we got so close. The small group environment allowed for in-depth conversation resulting in learning more about the culture and local environments."
How does the pricing compare between small group and large group tours in Crete?
Small group tours in Crete cost between 190-300 USD daily while larger groups range from 120-150 USD. The higher price includes special perks like stays at distinctive properties such as the Royal Olympic Hotel in Athens private tours of archaeological sites and dining at local family tavernas. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The small group environment allowed for authentic experiences that would be impossible with larger groups."
What type of accommodations can I expect on a small group tour in Crete?
Small group tours in Crete feature 3 to 4-star hotels in key locations like Gouves and Hersonissos. Options include the Hersonissos Central at the 3-star level or the Hersonissos Maris for 4-star comfort both near beaches and local spots. A TourRadar traveler shared "The hotel was super walking distance to lovely beaches friendly and helpful staff." These properties typically offer half-board meals with breakfast and dinner plus amenities like pools and easy access to local dining and shopping.
How intensive are the daily activities on Crete small group tours?
The pace on Crete small group tours balances structured activities with free time. Tours include full-day outings like the 8-hour Spinalonga Island visit and 7-8 hour Land Rover trips to Zeus' birthplace. According to a TourRadar traveler: "The daily tours were out sourced to TUI which meant that the tours were spread throughout the day with comfortable breaks in between." Activities mix cultural sites like Knossos Palace with time to explore towns such as Chania and Rethymnon at your own speed.
What areas of Crete are best suited for small group travel?
Small groups can access hidden corners of Crete including the White Mountains quiet villages like Loutro and Agia Roumeli and secluded southern beaches. These intimate tours can navigate narrow paths through Samaria Gorge and reach mountain communities that larger groups must skip. As one TourRadar traveler explained: "The small group size allowed us to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and really experience authentic Cretan life."
What kinds of local experiences are included in Crete small group tours?
Tours connect travelers with daily Cretan life through various local encounters. Groups visit places like Kastamonitsa where locals welcome visitors for coffee in traditional cafeneions and explore working farms on the Lassithi Plateau. A TourRadar traveler shared "Travel takes us out of our comfort zones and inspires us to see taste and try new things." Activities include meals at family restaurants in Elounda shopping at Chania's markets and meeting local craftspeople and farmers.