Pappagiannades is a quiet spot in Crete that might not be as famous as Heraklion or Chania, but it offers some fantastic options for those looking to explore the island’s charms. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat trip, a deep dive into Cretan culture, or a journey through ancient sites, you’ll find something here that fits your travel style. One of our favorites is the Georgioupolis Rent a Boat Safari Sea Tour, which offers an unforgettable way to see the Sea of Crete’s caves and coastline—perfect for anyone craving a mix of adventure and scenery.
The area’s landscape and the diverse range of tours make Pappagiannades a practical base for various adventures. We love the blend of scenic nature, cultural richness, and history, all accessible through these well-curated tours. Whether you’re traveling with family, a history enthusiast, or simply want a fun day on the water, the options below will help you decide what suits you best.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find boat safaris, full-day cultural explorations, history-focused trips, and beach and archaeological tours. Each offers a different way to experience Crete’s natural beauty and cultural depth. For example, the Lasithi Villages, Pottery Art & Knossos Palace tour combines heritage sites with scenic villages, while the Matala – Ancient Phaistos – Faistos & Gortyn tour explores ancient ruins and the coast. Keep reading to find the right fit for your trip.
1. Georgioupolis: Rent a Boat Safari Sea Tour
At number 1, this Rent a Boat Safari Sea Tour lets you cruise along the crystal blue waters of the Sea of Crete. This is a guided, rent-a-boat experience that lasts around 3.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the coastline and enjoy swimming in the sea. The tour covers a variety of highlights like sea caves, a lighthouse, and a swim stop at Omprogialos.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and intimacy—small groups of up to 2 people for $169 make for a personalized experience. Reviewers rave about the guide’s knowledge and the stunning scenery, with one calling it “better than we expected” and describing the caves as “gorgeous.” Even if the wind isn’t perfect, the experience remains memorable thanks to the peaceful waters and the chance to jump into the sea. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a quick, scenic escape with a dash of adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for water lovers, couples, or small groups looking for a private, scenic boat trip without the crowds. Book early to secure your spot, especially in summer.
2. Heraklion: Lasithi Villages, Pottery Art & Knossos Palace
At number 2, the Lasithi Villages, Pottery Art & Knossos Palace offers a deep dive into Crete’s cultural and archaeological heritage. This full-day tour takes you from the Lasithi Plateau’s scenic mountain villages to the legendary Knossos Palace. Starting with a visit to the Kera Monastery, the tour emphasizes the Virgin Mary’s legendary image, adding a spiritual touch.
The itinerary includes exploring the mountain village of Psychro, renowned for its traditional pottery-making, where artisans craft items using age-old techniques. After a hearty lunch in Tzermiado, the tour continues with a guided visit to Knossos, the prime site of the Minoan civilization. You’ll get about 2 hours of sightseeing, plus free time in villages, making this a well-rounded exploration of history, art, and scenic nature.
Rated 4.4/5 by ten reviews, it’s praised for its enriching itinerary and knowledgeable guides. The long day might be tiring but rewarding for those interested in Crete’s past and rural charm. The tour’s value is high considering the extensive sights covered, and it’s suited for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive day trip that combines archaeological wonders with authentic Cretan villages, ideal for curious travelers prepared for a full day.
3. A Time Travel to the Past
Number 3 on the list is the A Time Travel to the Past tour, which provides an immersive journey through Crete’s historical sites in about 6 hours. Starting from Rethymno, Heraklion, or Chania, the tour visits key locations like Melidoni Cave, Margarites Village, and Arkadi Monastery. It’s perfect for those eager to see a broad spectrum of the island’s history, from Minoan times to medieval Venetian influences.
This tour is especially notable for its visits to Melidoni Cave, associated with local legends, and Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of resistance and resilience. The guide, George, is praised for making the experience lively and informative. The tour includes scenic drives and stops that combine cultural insight with natural beauty.
Rated 3.9/5, the tour offers a rich, historical experience at a premium price ($452 for up to 3 people). It’s best suited for travelers with a keen interest in history and willing to spend a full day exploring. Keep in mind, the long drives mean it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a deep culture and historical perspective, this tour hits all the right notes, especially if you’re traveling with a small group.
$452 per group up to 3
4. Matala – Ancient Phaistos – Faistos & Gortyn – South Crete
Number 4, the Matala – Ancient Phaistos – Faistos & Gortyn tour, covers archaeological sites and coastal scenery over a full day. For around $813, you get a comprehensive trip from north to south Crete featuring notable ancient ruins and some of the island’s best beaches. It involves a lot of travel—about 8 hours—but offers a rich blend of history, local traditions, and scenic stops.
Highlights include visits to Phaistos, one of Crete’s most important Minoan palaces, and the Gortyn archaeological site, famous for its ancient law code. The tour also features time in Matala Bay, known for its hippie history and caves. The itinerary is flexible, allowing some customizations based on your interests, which adds to its appeal.
Rated 4.3/5, this tour suits travelers eager to explore Crete’s ancient past and coastal beauty in one package. The long day is ideal for history lovers who enjoy a more comprehensive experience. The price reflects the extensive itinerary and private transportation, making it a good value for those seeking a full immersion.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts who want to see major archaeological sites and relax at a beautiful beach afterward.
$813 per group up to 2
5. Rethymnon: Private Trip Arkadi – Eleftherna – Margarite – Melidoni
Number 5 offers intimate, personalized exploration of Rethymnon’s key sites. The Private Trip Arkadi – Eleftherna – Margarite – Melidoni is a flexible 4.5 to 8-hour tour for about $124 per person, tailored to your interests and pace.
Starting from a pick-up point of your choice, the tour visits Arkadi Monastery, known for its role in Cretan resistance, and the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna, which displays artifacts from Homeric times. It also includes a stop at the ceramic village of Margarites, famed for its pottery. The last highlight is the Melidoni Cave, associated with local legends. The itinerary can be adjusted, making it ideal for travelers who want a customized experience.
Rated 4.4/5, travelers appreciate the personalized attention and the driver’s informative commentary. It’s best suited for those wanting a relaxed, in-depth look at Rethymnon’s history and culture without rushing through sites.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history and culture lovers seeking a private, flexible tour with a friendly guide.
$124 per person
6. Chania, Kalyves – The Elephant Route
Finally, number 6 is the Chania, Kalyves-The Elephant Route, a 4-hour private tour focusing on prehistoric and WWII history. Starting from Kalyves port, this experience explores caves, Ombrogialos Bay, and snorkeling spots. It’s a fascinating journey into Crete’s ancient past and wartime history, all through stops along the coast.
Rated 5/5, this tour is praised for its engaging storytelling and friendly guides, with one reviewer noting, “Manuel and Dimitri are the best! They had water and snacks for us.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a shorter but meaningful cultural and historical outing, especially if interested in prehistoric caves or coastal scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and ocean lovers wanting a compact, engaging tour with a personal touch.
$519 per group up to 6
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you’re after a quick, scenic escape, the Boat Safari in Georgioupolis offers a personalized experience on the water. For a full-day culture, the Lasithi Villages and Knossos tour combines history, art, and scenic mountain villages.
History enthusiasts or those seeking a more private experience might prefer the Arkadi and Eleftherna private trip, especially if you want flexibility. Meanwhile, the Ancient Sites and Beaches** tour suits travelers interested in archaeology and a day at the coast.
Remember to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times and guide availability. Also, check each tour’s duration and physical requirements—some involve lengthy drives or walking on uneven terrain.
Final Thoughts
Pappagiannades offers a surprisingly wide array of tours that cater to different tastes and schedules. For a quick splash of adventure, the boat safari stands out. If you want to soak up Crete’s soul through its villages and archaeological sites, the combo tours hit the mark. Those with a passion for history will find meaningful and personalized options, while beach lovers can enjoy a scenic coastal tour with snorkeling. Whatever your interest, these tours make exploring Crete engaging and manageable—just remember to book ahead and plan for what excites you most about this diverse island.