3,000 Years of History & Timeless Beauty Curated with The HISTORY Channel™
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Port
Souda (Chania), Greece
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$189
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 6¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Set out on an enriching exploration of Crete, the storied cradle of the Minoan civilization where layers of history unfold against captivating landscapes. This curated journey reveals how Crete shaped the ancient Mediterranean world through its artistry, innovation, and strategic power.
Your day begins with a scenic drive to Ancient Aptera, a commanding city state that flourished from the Minoan era through the Roman age. Perched high above Souda Bay, its remarkably preserved Roman baths, vast cisterns, and intimate theatre offer a vivid sense of daily life in a place once central to trade, defense, and maritime influence.
Continue to the Archaeological Museum of Chania, home to exquisite pottery, sculpture, and tools that trace the evolution of western Crete from the Bronze Age through the Hellenistic period. Each artifact deepens your understanding of the island's enduring cultural legacy.
A guided walk through Chania's atmospheric Old Town reveals the hidden footprint of Ancient Kydonia — one of Crete's most influential early cities. As you wander its narrow lanes and Venetian-era architecture, your guide illuminates the layers of civilization just beneath the surface.
Conclude your experience with a light lunch along the shimmering Venetian Harbor, draped in centuries of maritime history.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, inclines, gravel, grass, and many steps. Shore excursions curated with The HISTORY Channel are offered and administered exclusively by Holland America. The HISTORY Channel is a trademark of A&E Television Networks, LLC.