Crete is a small island that’s huge in natural beauty. Alongside gorgeous beaches, dramatic landscapes, scenic ferry rides and fabulous walks and hikes there’s ancient history to explore and wonderful food and wine to enjoy. You can spend a week driving around this ever-changing landscape, trading high mountain peaks for the sea lapping at your feet in only 15 minutes. After exploring what feels like a continent’s worth of sights, you realize that you’ve only driven 100km (62 miles) and your tank is still three-quarters full.
Crete can pack your days as full or as empty as you want. But we’ve created four itineraries as a starting point, ranging from 6 to 10 days, to help you start building your perfect trip.
Left: The Greek Orthodox Church of the Trimartyri in Hania. Matt Munro for Lonely Planet Right: Samaria Gorge. Hivaka/Shutterstock
1. Highlights of Western Crete: a week-long itinerary
7-day itinerary Distance: 350km (217 miles)
This trip presents you with a panoply of soul-stirring attractions, including the unspoiled southern coast, higgledy-piggledy mountain villages and some of Crete’s best beaches, as well as spirit-lifting culture and dining treats in Crete’s two most attractive towns, Rethymno and Hania. It even includes some beautiful ferry rides.
Hania: 2 days
In Hania, stroll out on the long stone breakwater and take in the views of the beautiful, pastel-colored old town. Visit the Maritime and newly built Archaeological museums. The maze of streets in the Venetian quarter will keep you wandering for hours. Gird your appetite for Crete’s best food.
Detour: Leave the crowds behind at the impressive 17th-century monastery Moni Agias Triadas, on the Akrotiri Peninsula (2 hours).
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Next stop: Drive 2 hours from Hania to Paleohora.
Paleohora: 1 day
Hit the two main beaches at Paleohora and then explore the area. Start with the trip’s crowning natural glory: the pinkish-white sands of Elafonisi. On the little roads lacing this mountainous area, stop into tiny old villages such as Elos and Kefali.
Next stop: Take the 1.5-hour-long car ferry for the gorgeous ride east along sea cliffs and cove beaches to Agia Roumeli.
Agia Roumeli: 1 day
Agia Roumeli has no road access from the rest of Crete, but it does have a few short roads accessed via the regular car ferry. It’s a characterful little port town but its real appeal is that it is the endpoint for the world-class hike through the Samaria Gorge. From the waterfront, walk 2km (1.24 miles) in and back to see the highlights.
Next stop: Continue on the car ferry east to Hora Sfakion and rejoin Crete’s road system to the Amari Valley.
Amari Valley: 1 day
One of the west’s must-see regions is the Amari Valley, a heady mix of traditional villages, olive groves and fruit orchards. At Thronos, the Agia Panagia church boasts 14th-century frescoes and 4th-century mosaics. Wend your way through the fruit trees to Amari, the valley’s namesake town, which boasts a beautiful collection of Venetian buildings. Have refreshments in the cafe- and flower-filled main square.
Next stop: Drive 30 minutes from the Amari Valley to Moni Arkadiou.
Moni Arkadiou: 1 day
High on a lonely plain surrounded by mountains, Moni Arkadiou is a deeply sacred and symbolic monastery. Take time to explore the complex, starting with the 16th-century Venetian church. Then visit the spot where hundreds of Cretans in 1866 blew up stored gunpowder kegs to avoid surrendering to the Turkish army who had them under seige.
Detour: The artists’ village of Margarites has pottery workshops and cute cafes (3 hours).
Next stop: Drive 1 hour from Moni Arkadiou to Rethymno.
Rethymno: 1 day
Rethymno is second only to Hania as a top Cretan city. Roam the Venetian-Ottoman quarter and port. Climb to the Fortezza, the vast fortress perched above the old town and take in sweeping views of the region.
Detour: If heading back to Hania along the coast road, stop at Aptera, the ruins of an ancient city that dates to the 7th century BCE (2 hours).
Left: The vineyards in the Iraklio Wine Country. yiannisscheidt/Shutterstock Right: The Venetian fortress on Sinalonga Island. ciupaciups/Getty Images
2. The best of Eastern Crete: a 6-day itinerary
6-day itinerary Distance: 360km (224 miles)
Starting in Crete’s main city of Iraklio, this trip visits its premier ancient site (Knossos) and then explores the mountains, valleys, islands and beaches going east. Enjoy wine tasting and then immerse in more ancient wonders before heading up to mountain villages. A notorious island and one of Crete’s best beaches finish off your trip.
Iraklio: 1 day
In Iraklio, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum details the ancient Minoan culture in all its brilliance and beauty. Just south of the city, the Palace of Knossos, is Crete’s top attraction. A once-great palace of the Minoans, Knossos is a sprawling site of grand chambers, inspirational frescoes, hidden passages and much more.
Next stop: Drive 30 minutes from Iraklio to Iraklio Wine Country.
Iraklio Wine Country: 1 day
More than two dozen wineries spread their vines over the gently rolling landscape of Iraklio Wine Country. Stop for tastings, wander the many villages, such as Arhanes, and pause at the genteel tavernas. The grapes grown on these gently rolling hills produce 70% of Crete’s well-regarded wines. Don’t miss the Minoan wine press in Vathypetro.
Detour: Venture up Mt Yiouhtas for sweeping views of the region (4 hours).
Next stop: Drive 1.5 hours from Iraklio Wine Country to Phaestos.
Phaestos: 1 day
A trio of magnificent ancient ruins await around Phaestos. Start at the namesake palace, which is the second-most-important Minoan site after Knossos. Continue at nearby Agia Triada for the ruins of a palace and village dating to 1550 BCE. Finish at Gortyna, which was the Roman capital from 67 BCE to 824 CE.
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Detour: Matala is a funky beach down with hikes to nearby uncrowded beaches (4 hours).
Next stop: Drive 2 hours from Phaestos to Kritsa.
Kritsa: 1 day
Kritsa is an old and utterly charming mountain village in eastern Crete. The upper village with its web of narrow, car-free lanes is especially atmospheric. Look for alluring cafes, shops specializing in local products and luxe boutiques. Nearby are the Dorian ruins of Ancient Lato and the Byzantine church of Panagia Kera.
Detour: Tree-lined and dramatic, Kritsa Gorge is one of Crete’s best.
Next stop: Drive from Kritsa to Spinalonga Island.
Spinalonga Island: 1 day
Built by the Venetians to protect northern Crete from pirates, the sprawling fortress at Spinalonga Island, just off Crete’s east coast, invites exploration. In recent times, it was a place of exile for Greeks with leprosy, as told in Victoria Hislop’s best-selling novel the Island. The entire complex is up for UNESCO recognition.
Ferries for the short hop to the island leave from Elounda and Plaka and day trips depart from Agios Nikolaos.
Next stop: Ferry to the mainland and then drive 3 hours to Vaï Beach.
Vaï Beach: 1 day
Try to catch falling dates from the largest natural palm forest in Europe at Vaï Beach. Botanists think that these trees are a sub-species unique to Crete. The beach is small but perfectly framed by turquoise waters lapping at the edges of the inlet. It’s a gorgeous setting and one worth exploring. Trails lead to cliffside walks, vista points and more secluded, clothing-optional coves.
Left: Rethymno has a mix of Turkish and Venetian buildings. Matt Munro for Lonely Planet Right: The ferry from Paleochora to Agia Roumeli. ksl/Shutterstock
3. The best of Crete: a 6-day itinerary
6-day itinerary Distance: 445km (276 miles)
Bookended by two of Crete’s great cities, this route is a roller-coaster ride through the natural wonders of mountain and sea and the best of the island’s historical treasures. You’ll get to soak up Venetian architecture, frolic on alluring beaches and feast on both mountain-village and seafront cuisine.
Iraklio: 1 day
Iraklio, Crete’s largest city, boasts superb museums. Get context on Cretan life before heading a short distance south to the world-class ruins at the Palace of Knossos where the mysterious Minoans ruled about 4000 years ago.
Detour: Enjoy touring Iraklio Wine Country, where 70% of Crete’s wine is produced, and which is dotted with wineries (4 hours).
Next stop: Drive 3 hours from Iraklio to Matala.
Matala: 1 day
Stake out a base near Matala to combine trips to Gortyna, the former capital of Roman Crete, as well as the Minoan palace-city of Phaestos, second only to Knossos in importance. Visit the outstanding Cretan cultural museum at Vori. Finish the day with more beach time and watching the sunset across cave-dotted cliffs at Matala.
Detour: Have a swim at wide and sandy Kommos (1 hour).
Next stop: Drive 3 hours from Matala to Rethymno.
Rethymno: 1 day
Traveling west, head into the mountains, where the hearty scents of traditional Cretan food waft out from tavernas. Use the quaint village of Spili as your gateway to the captivating Amari Valley. Make stops at Moni Arkadiou and the ancient ruins at Eleutherna. Overnight in Rethymno, taking your sweet time ambling around its bewitching mix of Turkish and Venetian buildings.
Detour: Margarites is a village of skilled pottery makers (1 hour).
Next stop: Drive 3 hours and take a 3-hour ferry from Rethymno to Paleohora.
Paleohora: 1 day
Head west and over the mountains to the port town of Hora Sfakion and catch a ferry. Chugging along the tortuously curved cliffs with their swirls of contrasting earth tones is a beautiful way to spend an hour or two. Hop off the ferry in either Loutro, Agia Roumeli or Sougia, for some beach time and lunch (add 2 hours). Get off the ferry in the relaxed beach town of Paleohora.
Next stop: Drive 1.5 hours from Paleohora to Falasarna.
Falasarna: 1 day
Marvel at the pink sand and find your own private patch at Elafonisi, the star of Crete’s constellation of beaches. Wander north via the coastal road and hamlet-hop your way through the intriguing Innahorion villages. Catch the sunset at broad Falasarna with its rolling waves.
Detour: Take a day-trip-boat from Kissamos to the Gramvousa Peninsula. Frolic at the spectacular lagoon-like beach at Balos (6 hours).
Next stop: Drive 2 hours from Falasarna to Hania.
Hania: 1 day
Finish your jaunt at Hania, a lively modern city wrapped around a compelling Venetian harbor and atmosphere-laden Venetian quarter criss-crossed by narrow lanes. It’s Crete’s most evocative city and it offers some of the island’s best food and compelling nightlife. Remnants of Venetian and Turkish architecture abound.
Detour: Ancient Aptera prospered across 1400 years beginning in 700 BCE. Visit the ruins, where archaeological work is ongoing (2 hours).
Left: A taverna on the beachfront in Sougia. ShrimpMaster/Shutterstock Right: Damnoni beaches near Plakias. Georgios Tsichlis/Shutterstock
4. The best beaches of Crete: a 10-day itinerary
10-day itinerary Distance: 245km (152 miles)
Visit many of Crete’s best beaches on this tour, which takes a sedate pace across the south coast. Why hurry when the point of a beach is to relax? More energetically, Crete’s top gorge and many other hiking opportunities await. Ferries provide most of the transport, with just a couple of vehicle segments.
Paleohora: 1 day
Relaxed and appealing, Paleohora lies on a narrow peninsula flanked by two beaches. Shallow waters and general quietude make it a good choice for families. Walkers will find even more beaches nearby within easy and interesting hikes.
Detour: Pink sands and warm waters extending across shallow isles make Elafonisi Crete’s most magical beach. It can be reached in a rental car or on an organized day trip.
Next stop: Take a 1-hour ferry from Paleohora to Sougia.
Sougia: 2 days
Sougia is a delightful and not-over-developed beach town. Cafes and tavernas line a tamarisk-shaded beachfront promenade. Stop here to relax – you might not move on for days. Besides the very long and mostly empty beach, there are lots of active pursuits. Hike to the cove and valley of Ancient Lissos, which has Roman ruins in a remote setting, or tackle Agia Irini Gorge.
Next stop: Drive 1 hour from Sougia to the Samaria Gorge start point.
Agia Roumeli: 1 day
From Sougia, get a ride into the mountains to the start of the world-class Samaria Gorge walk. The 18km (11-mile) trek ends in the humble – and car-free – port town of Agia Roumeli. Most people catch the ferry out after the gorge. Instead, stay and enjoy the very relaxed vibe and family-run tavernas.
Next stop: Take a 1-hour ferry from Agia Roumeli and then a 3-hour ferry from Hora Sfakion to Gavdos Island.
Gavdos Island: 3 days
The southernmost spot in Europe exudes a sense of idiosyncratic isolation outside of busy August. It’s a blissful spot with only a few rooms, tavernas and unspoilt beaches, some accessible only by foot or boat. There’s little to do here except swim, walk and relax.
Next stop: Take a 3-hour boat ride from Gavdos Island to Plakias.
Plakias: 2 days
Plakias is a laid-back favorite for those who equate “beach” with “relax”, although this is another seaside town that also offers the option of a lot of water sports. The region is dotted with beaches, from buzzy to utterly deserted and idyllic. Preveli Beach has date palms at the confluence of river and sea.
Detour: Agios Pavlos is one of the most charming of the southern coast beach towns.
Next stop: Drive 3 hours from Plakias to Matala.
Matala: 1 day
On summer days, Matala feels far from its roots as an escape for hippies, but you can recapture the spirit at other nearby beaches. At night, the town empties out of day-trippers and the stunning sunsets are all yours.
Detour: The crystal-clear water of Agiofarango Beach is the reward for hiking through Agiofarango Gorge, one of Crete’s easiest treks.
EF Ultimate Break has launched itineraries crafted especially for bookworms.
The tour operator, which specializes in travel for 18- to 35-year-olds, has debuted a collection of itineraries for 2026 that are inspired by BookTok, a popular community on TikTok where users post videos about their favorite reads and tag them #booktok.
The launch of the literary itineraries comes after research EF Ultimate Break conducted among its travelers found that 62% want to visit destinations with ties to their favorite books. And across the board, travel inspired by books is becoming more popular, galvanized by the resurgence of book clubs, literary festivals and bookish celebrations, EF Ultimate Break created four itineraries, which it will operate both as scheduled group departures and private tours.
EF Ultimate Break president Heather Leisman said it was seeing a shift toward young people seeking out more meaningful travel experiences and connecting face-to-face. “Our new BookTok-inspired trips give travelers the chance to turn those online conversations into real-world friendships while exploring the places that bring their favorite stories to life,” she said.
The “Highlights of Switzerland: Inspired by ACOTAR” itinerary will take romantasy lovers across the country in nine days, inspired by the popular “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series by Sarah J. Maas. Highlights include a book club discussion of the series, a visit to the Swiss Riviera and a dinner where guests can don their finest Night Court attire (IYKYK).
Emily Henry fans, this one’s for you: a 12-day “Cruise Croatia: Inspired by People We Meet on Vacation” itinerary that will explore the country by boat. The book features multiple vacation destinations, including Croatia, and on the real-world trip, travelers will have opportunities to bond over explorations of Makarska, Split and Mljet.
The “Cairo, Athens & Rome: Inspired by Percy Jackson” itinerary will spend 11 days in three countries, starting in Egypt and ending in Italy. Ancient history is the focus of this itinerary, with time spent visiting the pyramids in Cairo, walking the same streets as gods and monsters in Athens and exploring ancient ruins in Rome.
Though not yet available for booking, EF plans a fourth itinerary for witches and wizards. The “London & Scotland Escape: Inspired by Harry Potter” will spend eight magical days in the U.K. between London and Edinburgh. Travelers will visit Harry Potter filming locations, explore London as a Muggle and visit the Scottish Highlands, which inspired Hagrid’s hut, the Forbidden Forest and Hogsmeade.
Home»TRAVEL NEWS UPDATES» Australia, New Zealand And Fiji Itineraries In South Pacific Tours: Unveiled By Globus And Cosmos For 2026
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Keeping traveler demands and trends in mind, Globus and Cosmos is introducing new itineraries in 2026. These journeys take in many of the most famous sights in the south Pacific – Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. The Globus family of brands have expanded the product line with itineraries created to provide immersive opportunities that showcase the local culture, scenic beauty and historic sites.
Globus’ New 2026 Tour Offerings
Globus has introduced two exciting new 14-day tours: Treasures of New Zealand: Heritage, Vines & Vistas and Australia’s Culture & Coastlines. Both of these tours are designed to cater to those looking for a deep cultural dive, scenic beauty, and opportunities to engage with local traditions.
Treasures of New Zealand: Heritage, Vines & Vistas
This small group tour is tailored for travelers seeking an intimate, culturally rich experience. Guests will embark on a journey across New Zealand’s picturesque landscapes while indulging in local wine tastings and culinary experiences. A highlight of the tour is a Māori walking dinner in Christchurch, which aims to provide a deeper connection to the local heritage and culture.
Australia’s Culture & Coastlines
This classic tour takes participants on an exploration of Australia’s east coast, blending cultural landmarks with breathtaking coastal views. From the vibrant cities to the pristine beaches, this itinerary offers a comprehensive look at Australia’s most iconic destinations, such as Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef.
Both tours also include the option for guests to extend their trips with a three-day visit to Fiji, adding a tropical flair to the South Pacific experience.
Cosmos’ New 2026 Tour: Classic Australia
Cosmos, known for offering more affordable tour options, has also unveiled a new 10-day itinerary titled Classic Australia. This tour is perfect for travelers looking to explore Australia’s key highlights, from the bustling cities to the expansive outback.
Adding Extensions to Enhance the Experience
For travelers seeking to further immerse themselves in the South Pacific, both Globus and Cosmos have included extensions to their core itineraries. The Classic Australia tour allows participants to choose between an Outback or Fiji extension, giving them the flexibility to tailor their experience according to their interests. The Outback extension offers a glimpse into Australia’s rugged interior, while the Fiji extension adds a relaxing tropical getaway to the itinerary.
Customer Demand for South Pacific Travel
The launch of these new tours comes as part of a larger trend in the tourism industry. According to Globus’ annual Wish List survey, Australia and New Zealand consistently rank among the most desired travel destinations worldwide. This growing interest in the South Pacific has led to the development of specialized itineraries designed to meet travelers’ evolving preferences for cultural engagement, scenic exploration, and authentic local experiences.
Immersive Cultural Experiences on Offer
The new tours are designed with a focus on authentic cultural immersion. Guests will have the chance to experience local traditions and lifestyles in ways that go beyond traditional sightseeing. Whether it’s participating in a Māori walking dinner or snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, these tours provide guests with opportunities to connect deeply with the destinations they visit.
Environmental Responsibility and Sustainable Travel
Sustainable travel continues to be a priority for tour operators, and the new South Pacific itineraries are no exception. The tourism industry has increasingly focused on reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible travel. Both Globus and Cosmos are committed to offering tours that prioritize environmental sustainability. This includes providing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local businesses, and minimizing the carbon footprint of travel.
Travel Trends in the South Pacific
As international travel continues to recover post-pandemic, more and more travelers are seeking out destinations that offer both natural beauty and cultural enrichment. The South Pacific is particularly attractive to those looking for a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural learning. With the increasing popularity of nature-based tourism and sustainable travel practices, destinations like New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji have become top choices for travelers.
Key Destinations in the South Pacific
Australia
Known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife, Australia is a dream destination for many travelers. From the iconic Great Barrier Reef to the bustling streets of Sydney, the country offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to a wide variety of interests. Australia’s combination of culture, history, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination.
New Zealand
New Zealand is a haven for nature lovers, offering everything from lush rainforests to dramatic mountain ranges. Known for its Māori culture and breathtaking scenery, New Zealand is ideal for those looking to explore both natural and cultural wonders. The country is also famous for its vineyards and culinary offerings, making it an excellent choice for food and wine enthusiasts.
Fiji
Fiji, known for its idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, is the perfect place to unwind after an active tour. With its warm tropical climate and welcoming locals, Fiji offers travelers a chance to experience a slower pace of life and enjoy the natural beauty of the islands. The addition of a Fiji extension to the South Pacific tours provides the perfect balance to the more adventure-focused elements of the itineraries.
Conclusion: A New Wave of South Pacific Tours
With these new itineraries, Globus and Cosmos are giving globetrotters the opportunity to discover the South Pacific, differently. Designed to put you in touch with local culture, food and sustainable travel practices at a minimum, these tours are perfect for today’s traveler. For more details, it is advised to visit their website. From Australia’s adventures, New Zealand’s natural beauty and Fiji’s relaxation, these new 2026 itineraries are putting a spotlight on travel.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is offering a two-night pre- or post-voyage resort stay at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands in December!
Two new itineraries will take guests aboard the 226-suite Luminara, Ritz-Carlton’s newest ship, between Mauritius and the Maldives or the Maldives and Singapore.
Guests can enjoy a pre- or post-voyage stay in an Ocean Pool Villa with private infinity pools and sundecks. The experience includes wellness treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, guided snorkeling and diving with naturalists, and diverse dining options featuring Japanese, Cantonese, Italian, and Lebanese cuisine — all within a celebrated architectural setting.
A short boat ride to Fari Marina Village offers access to James Turrell’s Amarta installation, Asian street food at Tum Tum, and Levantine cuisine at Arabesque. Offshore offerings include coral nursery dives, sailing by traditional dhoni, deep-sea fishing, and seaplane flights with views of lagoons and sandbanks.
Onboard Luminara, The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers treatments using ESPA, 111SKIN, and Pisterzi products, while dining is crafted by chefs Fabio Trabocchi and Michael Mina. The yacht also showcases artwork by Paul Klee, David Hockney, and Alexander Calder.
Itineraries
Mauritius to Maldives: Departs December 3, 2025, for nine nights, plus a two-night resort stay. Stops include Mahé, where visitors can explore Seychelles’ coral gardens and orchids, and La Digue, known for swimming among granite boulders. The final night is spent onboard in the Maldives before transferring to the resort.
Maldives to Singapore: Departs December 10, 2025, for eleven nights, plus a two-night stay at the resort. The itinerary begins with two nights in an Ocean Pool Villa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, followed by stops in Colombo and Galle Fort before arriving in Singapore.
Guests can book a cruise with two nights in an Ocean Pool Villa and daily breakfast for $12,400 per person, and villa upgrades and additional excursions are available for an added cost.
Are you excited about exploring the Maldives? Let us know in the comments!
