Book your Authentic Southern Crete Experience. Visit Moni Odigitrias, Mountain of Psiloritis, Zaros, Lake, Gergeri Village, and Grammeni Fortress with a magical view!
Experience Overview: The Authentic Southern Crete Experience
Southern Crete is a land of untamed beauty, and this tour invites you to escape the ordinary while immersing yourself in its authentic soul. This curated Southern Crete journey is not just a typical sightseeing trip; it is a deep dive into the hidden gems of the island. Join us as we leave the busy resorts behind, heading towards the wild landscapes of Southern Crete at the roots of Mt. Psiloritis.
Your Southern Crete adventure starts at the fortified Odigitria Monastery, a 14th-century spiritual sanctuary where history and devotion meet within stone walls. From there, we ascend to the “Balcony of Southern Crete“—the majestic Grammeni Fortress in Magarikari. Here, you will stand where heroes stood, overlooking a breathtaking 360° panorama that stretches from the fertile Messara Plain to the deep blue of the Libyan Sea.
But a Southern Crete experience is as much about the senses as it is about the sights. Relax by the emerald, crystal-clear springs of Zaros Lake (Votomos), a natural oasis in Southern Crete perfect for a traditional local lunch. To wrap up this immersion into the culture of Southern Crete, we visit the historic village of Gergeri. Here, the Roman-era springs and the timeless hospitality of a traditional “Kafenio” offer a true taste of Southern Crete Philoxenia.
Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, this Southern Crete journey offers the perfect blend of heroic heritage and Mediterranean tranquility. Discover the magic of Southern Crete with Porto Planet.
MONI ODIGITRIAS
GERGERI VILLAGE
GRAMMENI FORTRESS
ZAROS LAKE
We provide
Semi-Private Small Group: Maximum of 14 guests for a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
Tailored Luxury Fleet: Air-conditioned vehicles adapted to the group size for premium comfort:
1–4 Guests: Premium Private Vehicle (SUV)
5–8 Guests: Luxury Minivan
9–14 Guests: High-end Mini-Bus
Professional English-Speaking Driver: Your local expert and host who ensures a smooth journey and provides essential insights into the sites.
Convenient Meeting Point: Heraklion Archaeological Museum (Hotel pickup available for private bookings).
Refreshments: Chilled bottled water provided throughout the day.
All Taxes: 24% VAT and all local fees included.
We do not provide
Traditional Lunch: Optional authentic Cretan feast at Zaros Lake (+€25 per person).
Entrance Fees: Small fees for the Monastery or other sites.
Personal Expenses: Extra drinks, souvenirs, or shopping.
Gratuities (Tips): A customary way to show appreciation for your driver’s service.
Not mention above
UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES
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The Fortress of Faith: Explore the 14th-century Odigitria Monastery
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The Balcony of Crete: Panoramic 360° views from Grammeni Fortress (Magarikari)
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Small-group comfort for a personalized experience
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Nature’s Oasis: Relaxed lunch by the emerald waters of Zaros Lake
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Village Soul: Coffee at a traditional “Kafenio” in the historic Gergeri
Southern Crete Unveiled: A Semi-Private Journey 🏔️
Escape the crowds and discover the authentic soul of Crete on this premium Southern Crete Tour. From the fortified peace of Odigitria Monastery to the legendary 360° views of Grammeni Fortress, we take you deep into the island’s heroic history. Relax by the emerald waters of Zaros Lake and experience the warmth of a traditional kafenio in Gergeri village.
Led by a professional English-speaking private driver, this semi-private experience (max 14 guests) offers the perfect blend of rugged nature, spiritual heritage, and genuine Cretan hospitality at the roots of Mt. Psiloritis.
🏨 Meeting Point: Archaeological Museum or from your Hotel if it is a private tour ● ⏰ Departure: 09:30 am | ● 📅 Availability: All year ● 👥 Max Capacity: 14 pax ● 💰 Price: €135 pp ● 💰 For Private Tour:2 pax: €490 (total) | 3 pax: €580 (total) | 4-7 pax: €175 pp| 8-11 pax: €115 pp ● ✅ Included: Private Transfers, Professional Tour Leader, Bottled Water, All Taxes ● 🍴 Optional: Full Traditional Lunch in Zaros (+€25 pp) ● ❌ Excluded: Personal expenses & tips 🎒 What to Bring: Walking shoes, Camera, Modest clothing for the Monastery (covered shoulders & knees)
09:30 | Departure from Heraklion 🚐 Start your journey heading south, leaving the city behind for the rugged landscapes of the Messara Plain. Enjoy the scenic drive as your private driver introduces you to the day’s adventure.
10:45 | Odigitria Monastery: The Fortress of Faith ⛪ Arrive at the historic 14th-century Monastery. Explore the fortified complex and the famous Tower of Xopateras. A place of absolute serenity and deep history.
12:15 | Grammeni Fortress: The Balcony of the South 🏰 A short, scenic drive and a light walk lead you to the majestic fortress in Magarikari. Stand at the top for a breathtaking 360° panoramic view that connects Mt. Psiloritis with the Libyan Sea.
13:45 | Zaros Lake: Emerald Waters & Gastronomy 🌿 Reach the beautiful Votomos Lake. Enjoy free time to walk around the emerald waters or indulge in an optional traditional Cretan lunch featuring fresh trout or “Antikristo” lamb under the shade of plane trees.
15:30 | Gergeri Village: Coffee & Philoxenia 🏺 Visit the historic village of Gergeri. We stop at a traditional “Kafenio” to mingle with locals and enjoy a Greek coffee. Discover the ancient Roman-era springs that still flow through the village.
16:30 | Scenic Return Journey 🛣️ Relax in your premium vehicle as we drive back, passing through beautiful vineyards and olive groves of the Cretan hinterland.
17:15 | Arrival at Heraklion 🏨 Drop-off at the Archaeological Museum or your hotel, filled with memories of the “authentic” South.
Premium Semi-Private Tour € 135 per person
Includes: Premium Vehicle, Private Professional Driver, Bottled Water, and all Taxes.
Our specialist tours allow us to share every aspect of Greece with you, so you can enjoy unique experiences.
For any interest you have, be it culture, wine, cuisine, history, or something more specialized, Porto Planet has the perfect tour for you.
Why PORTO PLANET?
Outstanding Service
We specialise in helping you plan your custom itinerary to suit your interests, whether they be personal or professional
Guaranteed Quality
We frequently review our selection of hotels, accommodation, resorts, tour operators, vineyards, businesses and restaurants to ensure that everything we recommend offers you, the customer, a superior experience.
Your ideas and feedback will help us design your perfect trip.
ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 is our premier 10-day pilgrimage dedicated to the 85th Anniversary of the Greek Campaign. This ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 offers a deeply personal journey through Athens, Lemnos, and Crete, retracing the exact footsteps of the 2nd ANZAC Corps in 1941. Join us on the ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 for a unique tribute to courage and sacrifice.
Porto Planet invites you on a sacred 10-day pilgrimage across the Aegean. This ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 is not a typical sightseeing trip; it is a meticulously planned historical odyssey. We designed the ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 for those who wish to walk the exact ground where the Diggers stood during the desperate defensive actions of 1941. We honor the enduring spirit of the original ANZACs by visiting the very trenches, airfields, and mountain passes where they fought for freedom alongside their Greek allies.
As we approach the 85th Anniversary, the bond between the people of Greece and the families of Australia and New Zealand remains a living legacy. On our ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026, you will experience the legendary “Philoxenia” (hospitality)
of the local communities. Many Greek families still recount stories passed down through generations about the brave soldiers from the Southern Cross. This ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 serves as a bridge across time, connecting the 1915 legacy of Lemnos with the fierce resistance on mainland Greece and the heroic defense of Crete.
What to Expect on our ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026
The ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 is a specialized journey that connects the legendary ‘Gallipoli Connection’ in Lemnos with the mainland defense at Thermopylae and the final, fierce resistance on the island of Crete. On the ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026, we don’t just visit monuments; we immerse you in the history of the 1941 campaign.
From the quiet, olive-shaded Commonwealth War Cemeteries to the rugged mountain passes where the rearguard actions took place, every stop on the ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 is chosen for its historical significance. You will stand at the Corinth Canal, walk the airfield at Maleme, and visit the remote Preveli Monastery, where hidden ANZACs once waited for the roar of Allied submarines.
Why our ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 is Unique
Personalized Approach: We believe every family story is different. You can customize your trip to include specific sites of interest.
Expert Historical Insights: Gain deep, tactical insights into the 2nd ANZAC Corps through our expert historians.
The Lemnos & Crete Connection: Our ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 includes Lemnos to honor the nursing sisters and the 1915 legacy, before heading to Crete.
Individual Research & Ancestry: We provide free preliminary research to make your ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 truly unique. Knowing exactly where your grandfather stood makes the experience unforgettable.
Secure Your Spot on the ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 Early
The 85th Anniversary in 2026 is expected to draw thousands of visitors to Greece. Due to the boutique nature of our services, seats for the ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 are strictly limited to 16 guests per departure.
By booking your ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 in advance, you ensure priority access to official memorial services at Souda Bay and Phaleron. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this historic milestone. Ensure your place in history today and join a community of travelers dedicated to keeping the ANZAC legend alive on our ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026.
ATHENS
ATHENS
ARKADION MONASTERY
Historic Tavronitis River Bridge
CHANIA
PHALERON WAR CEMETERY
SOUDA CEMETERY WAR
We provide
Accommodation 9 nights in a hand-picked
4-star boutique hotels.
Transport: All private transfers via luxury AC coach & internal flights (Lemnos & Crete).
Expert Guides: Full-time professional Military Historian & local guides.
Meals: Daily Breakfast, 4 Featured Lunches, Welcome & Farewell Gala Dinners.
Historical FocusPrivate wreath-laying, Hill 107, Preveli Monastery, & Gallipoli link in Lemnos.
Personalization Free Ancestry Research for your Digger’s service records.
Wine & Culture Sunset Wine Tasting (Lemnos) & Live Cretan Music (Chania).
We do not provide
International Flights: To/from Athens.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive cover is mandatory.
Personal Costs: Drinks, laundry, souvenirs, and tips
Daily Tax: Greece’s “Climate Resilience Fee” (payable at hotels).
Optional Meals: Lunches on free days (Day 8).
Anything not mentioned above or below
Overnight taxes
UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES
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85th Anniversary Commemorations: Attend official memorial services at Phaleron and Souda Bay.
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The Lemnos Connection: Explore Mudros Bay and the ANZAC Research Centre in Portianou.
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Thermopylae Expedition: Visit the historic pass where the 2nd ANZAC Corps echoed the bravery of the 300 Spartans.
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The Battle of Crete Trail: Stand on Hill 107 in Maleme and visit the Preveli Monastery, the site of the great submarine escape.
“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old…”
In May 1941, the olive groves of Greece and the rugged cliffs of Crete witnessed a display of courage that would define a generation. To mark the 85th Anniversary, Porto Planet presents the ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026—a boutique 10-day pilgrimage designed for those who seek a profound connection with history.
Our ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026 is more than a holiday; it is a meticulously researched journey that traces the “Spirit of the Diggers” from the ancient monuments of Athens to the sacred Gallipoli base of Lemnos and the final battlefields of Crete.
With expert historical guides, luxury 4-star boutique accommodation, and a focus on small-group intimacy, we provide an environment for reflection and discovery. Whether you are tracing the steps of a specific family member through our Individual Research Service or simply wishing to honor the legacy of the 2nd ANZAC Corps, this tour offers an unparalleled commemorative experience.
Join us in 2026 for the ANZAC Day Greece Tour and stand where legends stood. Secure your place on this historic 85th Anniversary departure and ensure the story of the ANZACs in Greece is never forgotten.
Detailed Itinerary: The 85th Anniversary ANZAC Trail
Day 1: Arrival in Athens – The Legacy Begins Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, your private driver will escort you to your hotel in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, we gather for a welcoming briefing and a gentle stroll through the historic Plaka district, walking the same streets where ANZAC soldiers spent their final nights of leave in 1941.
Dinner: Welcome Dinner at a traditional tavern with a majestic view of the Acropolis.
Accommodation:Hotel Athens (4*).
Day 2: Athens – Phaleron & The Acropolis. We start our pilgrimage at the Phaleron War Cemetery. We will attend a private wreath-laying ceremony among the 2,000+ Commonwealth graves, paying our respects to the fallen Australians and New Zealanders. In the afternoon, we ascend the Acropolis to witness the Parthenon, a symbol of democracy that the ANZACs were sent to protect.
Lunch: Traditional Greek “Meze” in the historic center.
Accommodation:Hotel Athens (4*).
Day 3: The Thermopylae Line & Brallos Pass A full-day expedition to the mainland. We visit the historic pass of Thermopylae, where in 1941, the 2nd ANZAC Corps echoed the legendary bravery of Leonidas and his 300 Spartans. We will explore the Brallos Pass, where the 6th Australian Division held a heroic rearguard action against overwhelming odds to allow the evacuation of Allied forces.
Lunch: Rural lunch at a traditional mountain village.
Accommodation:Hotel Athens (4*).
Day 4: Flight to Lemnos – The Gallipoli Connection. We take a short internal flight to the island of Lemnos. This island was the primary base for the 1915 Gallipoli campaign. We visit Mudros Bay, the vast natural harbor that once held hundreds of Allied ships, and walk the shores where the ANZAC legend was born.
Lunch: Fresh seafood at the picturesque Mudros Port.
Accommodation:Varos Village Boutique Hotel (4*).
Day 5: Lemnos – The Nursing Sisters & Portianou Today is dedicated to the medical history of the ANZACs. We visit the East Mudros Military Cemetery and pay tribute to the Australian Nursing Sisters who served under unimaginable conditions. We also visit the Lemnos ANZAC Research Centre in Portianou to see rare archives and photos.
Special: Sunset wine tasting featuring the island’s world-renowned Muscat wine.
Accommodation:Varos Village Boutique Hotel (4*).
Day 6: Flight to Crete – The “Great Island” We fly to Chania, Crete, via Athens. Upon arrival, you will feel the unique energy of the “Great Island.” After checking in, enjoy free time to explore the Venetian Harbor, where history meets the turquoise Cretan sea.
Dinner: Group dinner featuring authentic Cretan “Farm-to-Table” cuisine.
Accommodation:Hotel Chania (4*).
Day 7: The Battle of Crete – Maleme & Hill 107 A day of deep historical significance. We walk the Maleme Airfield, the epicenter of the German paratrooper invasion in May 1941. Standing on Hill 107, you will gain a tactical understanding of the fierce battle. We also visit the German War Cemetery to reflect on the immense scale of the conflict.
Lunch: Private lunch at a local winery surrounded by olive groves.
Accommodation: Hotel Chania (4*).
Day 8: Souda Bay & The Galatas Heights. We visit the Souda Bay War Cemetery, often cited as the most beautiful Commonwealth cemetery in the world. We then head to the village of Galatas, the site of some of the most intense hand-to-hand combat of the campaign, where the bond between Cretans and ANZACs was forged in blood.
Lunch: On your own in the charming alleys of Chania.
Accommodation:Hotel Chania (4*).
Day 9: Preveli Monastery & The Great Escape. We travel to the rugged south coast of Crete to visit the Preveli Monastery. This sacred site was a hub for the resistance; we will learn about the daring Allied submarine evacuations and meet locals whose families risked everything to hide ANZAC soldiers in caves and sheepfolds.
Dinner: Farewell Gala Dinner with live traditional Cretan music and dancing.
Accommodation:Hotel Chania (4*).
Day 10: Conclusion of the ANZAC Day Greece Tour 2026. After breakfast, we provide a group transfer to Chania Airport for your return flight to Athens, where you can connect with your international flight home, carrying the memories of the ANZAC spirit with you.
Arranging transportation and excursions upon visitor request. Provide information and recommendations on local features, attractions, shopping, restaurants, dining, entertainment, nightlife, and recreation. Arranging tours and activities. Making dinner/event reservations for guests. Our luxury bespoke travel services can offer tailor-made services which include ground luxury VIP transfers, luxury hotel booking, resort or private villa booking, restaurant reservations, luxury cruises, event planning, accommodation, and many more remarkable moments. For those who look for unique and authentic experiences. Curating the essentials of destinations, with insight into local life, is my greatest pleasure – allowing you to push beyond the commonplace and navigate with confidence as well as context.
Our specialist tours allow us to share every aspect of Greece with you, so you can enjoy unique experiences.
For any interest you have, be it culture, wine, cuisine, history, or something more specialized, Porto Planet has the perfect tour for you.
Why PORTO PLANET?
Outstanding Service
We specialise in helping you plan your custom itinerary to suit your interests, whether they be personal or professional
Guaranteed Quality
We frequently review our selection of hotels, accommodation, resorts, tour operators, vineyards, businesses and restaurants to ensure that everything we recommend offers you, the customer, a superior experience.
Your ideas and feedback will help us design your perfect trip.
Book your Food tour and City Tour in Heraklion to discover all the best eateries and hotspots of the city!
Book a Food Tour in Heraklion – Discover Authentic Cretan Flavors
First of all, book a Food Tour in Heraklion and uncover the most authentic flavors of the Cretan capital. At the same time, explore local eateries and popular culinary hotspots. In addition, this immersive walking experience is perfect for travelers who want to explore the city through taste, culture, and local stories. As a result, the Food Tour in Heraklion offers a rich combination of gastronomy, history, and everyday Cretan life.
Start Your Food Tour in Heraklion
To begin with, your Food Tour in Heraklion starts with a warm welcome from a knowledgeable local host outside the famous Heraklion Archaeological Museum. From there, the tour continues through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
City Landmarks
Next, you will visit the imposing Koules Fortress (Castello del Molo) and the picturesque Old Venetian Harbor. Then, walk through the bustling Central Market. In addition, the grand Cathedral of Agios Minas and the historic Church of Agios Titos are included. Because of this, every stop during the Food Tour in Heraklion City offers fascinating insights into Heraklion’s past and present.
Taste Traditional Cretan Flavors
At first, the culinary adventure of the Food Tour in Heraklion City begins with the beloved Cretan bougatsa paired with strong Greek coffee. Moreover, tastings of premium local honey and Traditional Cretan Sweets. In this way, every bite during the Food Tour in Heraklion City reflects the island’s deep connection to the land and its traditions.
Cultural Experience Beyond Food
Besides food, a special highlight of the Food Tour in Heraklion City is a visit to a family-run workshop. For example, guests discover the craftsmanship behind stivania, the traditional leather boots worn by Cretan shepherds. As a result, this hands-on cultural experience adds depth to the Food Tour in Heraklion City and offers an authentic glimpse into local life.
End Your Tour at a Traditional Taverna
Finally, the Food Tour in Heraklion City concludes at a vibrant traditional taverna. There, a generous selection of classic Cretan meze is served.
What You Will Taste
Guests savor dishes such as creamy eggplant salad, slow-cooked goat or pork in red wine, flavorful Cretan sausages, and meatballs finished with a subtle vinegar touch, and carefully selected artisan cheeses highlight Crete’s long-standing gastronomic heritage. Of course, no Food Tour in Heraklion City would be complete without raising a glass of raki to celebrate the experience.
An Unforgettable Food Experience
In the end, the memories created during the Food Tour in Heraklion City remain unforgettable. Instead of a simple tasting experience, the tour is a meaningful connection to Crete’s culture, people, and culinary identity. Therefore, from lively markets to hidden local gems, the Food Tour in Heraklion City tells the story of Heraklion through food, tradition, and hospitality.
Book Your Food Tour in Heraklion Today
So, reserve your spot today and experience the Food Tour in Heraklion City. Now, enjoy a perfect fusion of history and gastronomy that showcases the true essence of Crete. Without a doubt, the Food Tour in Heraklion City is waiting to welcome you on an unforgettable journey of flavors.
Book a food tour in Heraklion to discover all the best eateries and hotspots of the city! This walking tasting and food tour is a fantastic array of dining that Heraklion has to offer. E xplore the heart of Heraklion on a delightful walking journey filled with unique flavors, rich stories, and a taste of Cretan life. Begin your adventure by meeting your friendly local host outside the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Embark on a tour of the city’s captivating landmarks, including the impressive Castello del Molo (Koules), the scenic Old Venetian Harbor, the vibrant Central Market, the elegant Church of Agios Minas, and the historic Agios Titos Church.
Indulge in a culinary exploration that kicks off with the traditional pastry bougatsa and strong Greek coffee, setting the tone for a flavorful day. Sample a shot of raki, Crete’s beloved spirit, before enjoying the subtle delights of local honey and artisan cheeses, essential components of the island’s gastronomic tradition.
Embark on a unique cultural experience with a visit to a family-operated workshop where you’ll learn the art of crafting stivania, the iconic leather boots worn by Cretan shepherds. Immerse yourself in local heritage and gain firsthand knowledge in this hands-on session. Conclude your enriching journey by dining at a lively traditional taverna, where a delightful spread of Cretan meze awaits. Delight in flavors such as earthy eggplant salad, tender goat or pork cooked in red wine, and Cretan sausages or savory meatballs with a tangy vinegar twist. And don’t forget to raise a toast with raki, a customary drink that enhances the dining experience.
This comprehensive tour of Heraklion combines cultural exploration and culinary delight, providing a well-rounded experience of the city. Join us for a day filled with unforgettable flavors, fascinating stories, and warm Cretan hospitality. Reserve your place now to participate in this exceptional journey through Heraklion, a perfect blend of history and gastronomy that showcases the very best of Crete. Secure your booking and embark on this adventure today.
Book a food tour in Heraklion to discover all the best eateries and hotspots of the city! This walking tasting and food tour is a fantastic array of dining that Heraklion has to offer. E xplore the heart of Heraklion on a delightful walking journey filled with unique flavors, rich stories, and a taste of Cretan life. Begin your adventure by meeting your friendly local host outside the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Embark on a tour of the city’s captivating landmarks, including the impressive Castello del Molo (Koules), the scenic Old Venetian Harbor, the vibrant Central Market, the elegant Church of Agios Minas, and the historic Agios Titos Church.
Indulge in a culinary exploration that kicks off with the traditional pastry bougatsa and strong Greek coffee, setting the tone for a flavorful day. Sample a shot of raki, Crete’s beloved spirit, before enjoying the subtle delights of local honey and artisan cheeses, essential components of the island’s gastronomic tradition.
Embark on a unique cultural experience with a visit to a family-operated workshop where you’ll learn the art of crafting stivania, the iconic leather boots worn by Cretan shepherds. Immerse yourself in local heritage and gain firsthand knowledge in this hands-on session. Conclude your enriching journey by dining at a lively traditional taverna, where a delightful spread of Cretan meze awaits. Delight in flavors such as earthy eggplant salad, tender goat or pork cooked in red wine, and Cretan sausages or savory meatballs with a tangy vinegar twist. And don’t forget to raise a toast with raki, a customary drink that enhances the dining experience.
This comprehensive tour of Heraklion combines cultural exploration and culinary delight, providing a well-rounded experience of the city. Join us for a day filled with unforgettable flavors, fascinating stories, and warm Cretan hospitality. Reserve your place now to participate in this exceptional journey through Heraklion, a perfect blend of history and gastronomy that showcases the very best of Crete. Secure your booking and embark on this adventure today.
Our specialist tours allow us to share every aspect of Greece with you, so you can enjoy unique experiences.
For any interest you have, be it culture, wine, cuisine, history, or something more specialized, Porto Planet has the perfect tour for you.
Why PORTO PLANET?
Outstanding Service
We specialise in helping you plan your custom itinerary to suit your interests, whether they be personal or professional
Guaranteed Quality
We frequently review our selection of hotels, accommodation, resorts, tour operators, vineyards, businesses and restaurants to ensure that everything we recommend offers you, the customer, a superior experience.
Your ideas and feedback will help us design your perfect trip.
