Kritsa is a charming village in eastern Crete known for its narrow winding streets, authentic Cretan charm, and stunning natural surroundings. It’s an ideal base for exploring some of the island’s most captivating outdoor activities and cultural experiences. What makes Kritsa particularly appealing is its proximity to dramatic gorges like Kritsa Gorge and Sarakina Gorge, which offer a mix of adventure and natural beauty. We especially love the Crete: Kritsa Gorge Hike with Picnic & Swim Stop for its combination of breathtaking canyon scenery, a refreshing swim, and a relaxing picnic.
Along With outdoor adventures, Kritsa also offers cultural tours such as olive oil tastings and cooking classes, giving visitors a taste of local life. For history enthusiasts, there are visits to ancient sites like Knossos Palace and monasteries on the Lasithi Plateau. Whether you’re after rugged hiking, culture, or historical exploration, Kritsa’s diverse offerings deliver authentic experiences that showcase the best of Crete.
Below, we present the top five tours in Kritsa, each with its own unique appeal. From scenic hikes and off-road adventures to culinary delights and archaeological wonders, these options help you make the most of your time in this lovely village.
1. Crete: Kritsa Gorge Hike with Picnic & Swim Stop
At number one, this tour combines stunning scenery, moderate hiking, and a splash of relaxation. The Kritsa Gorge hike is one of the most impressive on the east side of Crete for its rugged cliffs, lush plant life, and panoramic views. Led by professional guides, you’ll explore the canyon’s twists and turns, with plenty of opportunities for photography along the way.
What sets this tour apart is the well-timed picnic at the canyon’s end, giving you a chance to enjoy local snacks amid natural surroundings. Afterward, you’ll head to a beautiful East Crete beach for a refreshing swim. The combination of canyon exploration, beach relaxation, and the chance to spot unique plant and animal species makes this a well-rounded outdoor experience. The 7-hour duration is perfect for those who enjoy active outings without feeling rushed.
The reviews are glowing, with a 5/5 rating from six travelers, praising the knowledgeable guides and the scenic route. For around $68, you get a quality experience that’s suitable for most fitness levels. If you love combining hiking, nature, and a touch of seaside lounging, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: A great pick for outdoor lovers wanting a full-day adventure with stunning views and a swim at a top Crete beach.
2. Sarakina Gorge – Southern Crete Hiking & Swim Adventure
At number two, this tour offers a mix of hiking, off-road driving, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Starting with a pickup from various locations such as Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos, you’ll visit the stunning Sarakina Gorge, where a guided hike takes you through impressive rock formations and lush greenery. This trail is perfect for those wanting a bit more adventure and less walking on paved paths.
After exploring the gorge, you’ll head to Myrtos village for a barbecue lunch—a true taste of local flavors. The highlight for many is the swim in the natural pools of Myrtos, where the water is refreshingly clear. The tour’s scenic drive through the Kroustas Pine Forest adds another layer of beauty to the day, with plenty of chances for photos.
Rated 4.6/5 from ten reviews, travelers praise the off-road journey and the well-organized stops. This full-day trip, priced at $104, is perfect for active travelers who want a mix of hiking, culture, and swimming. The tour’s comprehensive itinerary makes it especially appealing for those wanting to experience South Crete’s diverse landscapes.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who enjoy combined outdoor pursuits and authentic local tastes in a scenic mountain setting.
3. Olive Oil Experience: Cooking class & Olive Oil Tasting
Coming in at number three, this tour is ideal for food lovers eager to learn about Cretan cuisine. For 2.5 hours, you join a hands-on cooking class in the historic village of Kritsa, where you’ll prepare authentic dishes using high-quality Greek extra virgin olive oil. The experience is as much about storytelling and sharing recipes as it is about tasting.
This tour is unique in its focus on olive oil, one of Crete’s most prized products. You’ll discover how local olive oils are produced and what makes them special, then sample a variety of oils in a tasting session. The warm hospitality of the hosts makes this a memorable cultural and culinary experience. Although reviews are limited, the intimate setting and focus on local flavors make it appealing for those interested in authentic Cretan food traditions.
At a price of $95 per person, this experience offers a deeper understanding of Cretan culinary culture in a short, engaging format. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to bring home a new recipe or learn how olive oil can elevate their cooking.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for gastronomes wanting a taste of local cuisine and olive oil secrets, with a warm, personal touch.
4. Crete: Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau Small Group Tour
The fourth spot goes to this comprehensive cultural and scenic tour, which covers famous archaeological sites, monasteries, and mountain villages. Starting with a visit to the legendary Knossos Palace, you’ll walk through the ruins of the ancient Minoan civilization—an essential stop for history enthusiasts. The tour continues with a visit to the serene Kera Monastery, famed for its historic frescoes.
A highlight is the drive to the Lasithi Plateau, surrounded by pine forests and dotted with traditional villages like Tzermiado. Here, you’ll explore local pottery workshops and enjoy authentic mountain views. The tour is designed for small groups, allowing for personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
Rated on reviews, the tour is praised for its well-organized itinerary and scenic stops. The 8-hour tour, priced at competitive rates, is ideal for travelers interested in history, culture, and rural Crete. The combination of archaeological exploration and mountain scenery makes for a varied day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those wanting a well-rounded taste of Crete’s past and present, with cultural insights and beautiful landscapes.
5. Spinalonga, Kritsa, Olive Factory Tour From Heraklion
Completing our list, this tour offers a mix of island scenery, village charm, and olive oil tasting. Starting from Heraklion, you’ll take a boat ride to Spinalonga, known for its Venetian fortress and poignant past. After the boat trip, the tour continues on land with a visit to Kritsa, a picturesque mountain village famous for its narrow streets and local artisans.
The highlight is sampling local Cretan olive oils at an olive factory, where you’ll learn about traditional production methods. This 8-hour tour provides a balanced combination of historical sights, culinary experiences, and scenic boat rides, appealing to those who want variety in one day.
While reviews are not specified, the inclusion of Spinalonga makes this tour especially appealing for history and culture lovers. It’s a good pick for travelers short on time but eager for a multi-faceted experience.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a mix of history, island scenery, and cultural insights, especially if you enjoy boat trips and village walks.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Kritsa
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If outdoor adventures and scenic views are your priority, the Kritsa Gorge hike or Sarakina Gorge adventure are excellent options. For culinary enthusiasts, the olive oil cooking class offers an intimate taste of Cretan cuisine, while history buffs will love the Knossos and Lasithi Plateau or the combined Spinalonga, Kritsa, Olive Factory tours.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular experiences. Also, think about the time of day and your energy levels—hiking tours tend to be more enjoyable in cooler morning hours, while cultural tours can be a relaxing afternoon activity.
Final Thoughts
Kritsa offers a surprisingly diverse array of tours that showcase the very best of Crete’s natural beauty and cultural richness. For active travelers, the Kritsa Gorge hike and Sarakina Gorge adventure provide invigorating outdoor experiences. Those keen on seeing local culture should consider the olive oil tasting or cooking class, which offer a delicious and authentic taste of Crete.
If history and scenic drives appeal, the small-group tour to Knossos and Lasithi Plateau delivers a comprehensive day out. Meanwhile, the combined Spinalonga and village tour offers an excellent mix of island history, village charm, and olive oil tastings.
No matter your interest, booking early and choosing a tour suited to your fitness level and curiosity will ensure you make the most of your time in Kritsa. These experiences highlight the best of what Crete has to offer, making your visit truly memorable.
