Description
Vai Palm Forest Excursion: East Crete Tour to Vai, Toplou Monastery, and Sitia Town
Discover the Hidden Treasures of East Crete: A Journey Through Time and Nature
Imagine a place where time stands still—a land where ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and the charm of traditional Cretan life come together in perfect harmony. This is East Crete, an unspoiled gem waiting to be uncovered.
Your journey begins as the sun rises over the rugged Cretan mountains, painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson. The air is fresh, filled with the scent of wild herbs and the distant echo of waves crashing against the shore. This is no ordinary day; it's the start of an adventure that will take you to some of the most awe-inspiring and lesser-known corners of Crete.
First stop: The Vai Palm Forest. Hidden away on the northeastern tip of the island, this enchanting oasis is the only natural palm forest in Europe. As you step onto the soft, golden sands, you'll feel like you've been transported to a tropical paradise. The rustle of palm leaves in the breeze, the sparkle of turquoise waters—it’s a place where the worries of the world simply melt away. Here, the past and present intertwine as you walk the same paths that ancient Minoans once did, leaving their mark on this magical land.
Next, you’ll journey to the historic Monastery of Toplou. Perched on a hillside with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, this 15th-century monastery is more than just a place of worship—it’s a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Cretan people. Within its ancient walls, stories of faith, courage, and defiance against invaders come to life. As you explore the monastery’s frescoes and artifacts, you'll be transported back in time, feeling the echoes of history that have shaped Crete’s unique identity.
Your final destination is the charming town of Sitia. Here, the soul of Crete is alive in every cobblestone street, every friendly smile, and every glass of local wine. Stroll through the picturesque harbor, where colorful fishing boats bob gently in the water, and discover the town’s hidden gems—from traditional tavernas serving homemade delicacies to local artisans crafting treasures from the island’s natural resources. Sitia is a place to savor the simple pleasures of life, to connect with the warmth of the Cretan people, and to create memories that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
As the day comes to a close and you make your way back, you'll carry with you more than just souvenirs. You'll leave with stories—stories of a day well spent, of places that took your breath away, and of an island that touched your heart.
Are you ready to embark on this unforgettable adventure? East Crete is calling, and its hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered by those who seek the extraordinary.
VAI PALM FOREST EXCURSION: Discover the beauty of East Crete with this full-day tour! Explore the historic Toplou Monastery, relax on the famous Vai Palm Beach (Europe's largest palm forest), and wander the charming town of Sitia.
Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia. [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]
Operating Days:
Every Sunday
Languages:
English, French, German: All days
Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort throughout the tour
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour
Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot: Entrance to Toplou Monastery: 3 Euros, all your meals and drinks
Tour highlights:
• Explore the Toplou Monastery
• Spend a relaxing day at the famous palm beach of Vai
• End the tour by visiting the town of Sitia
Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Swimsuit/ BeachTowel
• Comfortable shoes
• Water
Direction:
Southeast Crete
Duration:
11-13 hours approximately 360 km. (depending on where you get on)
Overview:
Your journey begins with a visit to Toplou, a 15th-century monastery nestled in a serene landscape. Next, we'll head to Vai Palm Beach, a stunning oasis with thousands of palm trees and a gorgeous sandy beach. Your day concludes in the lovely town of Sitia, where you can stroll along the beach road, explore a Venetian castle, or simply relax at a café.
Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old (Free of charge)
Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below
Pricing
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from/to your hotel, and the tour. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).
Pick-up Locations
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:
|
EAST CRETE EXCURSION
Pickup timetable
|
| Pick up Location |
Pick-up Time |
| Sissi |
08:50 AM |
| Nikos hotel - Filipidis S/M |
08:50 AM |
| Malia church |
08:45 AM |
| Malia Bay - Malia Park - Sirens |
08:50 AM |
| Drossia - Kernos Beach - Ikaros Village |
08:45 AM |
| Alexander - Ariadni |
08:45 AM |
| Cactus - I Resort |
08:40 AM |
| Mochos Cross (Bus Stop #29) |
08:35 AM |
| Stalis (Bus Stop #28) - Blue sea |
08:35 AM |
| Nana B/S - Mediterraneo |
08:30 AM |
| Belvedere - Eri bus stop |
08:30 AM |
| Silva Beach - Pela Maria |
08:25 AM |
| National Bank (Ethniki Bank) - Chalkiadakis S/M |
08:25 AM |
| Koutouloufari (Esperides Resort) |
08:25 AM |
| Piscopiano well (pigadi) |
08:25 AM |
| Mathioudakis (Kritikos S/M) - Albatros Corner - Creta Maris |
08:20 AM |
| Hersonissos Village (Hotel Accommodation) |
08:20 AM |
| Knossos Royal - Royal Mare - Annabelle |
08:15 AM |
| Cretan Village - Laguna - Chrissi Amoudia |
08:10 AM |
| Serita - Zorbas - Anissa - Bella - Lytos |
08:05 AM |
| Analipsi Beach Road |
08:00 AM |
| Analipsi Bus stop |
08:00 AM |
| Amirantes Bus stop |
07:55 AM |
| Gouves Beach Road |
07:50 AM |
| Gouves Cross - Lavris |
07:45 AM |
| Gournes church |
07:35 AM |
| Rinela - Hatzis |
07:35 AM |
| Knossos beach - Arina |
07:30 AM |
| Karteros - Amnsissos |
07:20 AM |
| Astoria Hotel - Galaxy Hotel |
07:15 AM |
| Heraklion port - 18 Agglon Sq. (Koules fortress roundabout) |
07:05 AM |
| Natural History Museum |
07:05 AM |
| Talos Plaza (outside Envy Cafe) |
07:05 AM |
| Giofyros (Meliriton) |
06:55 AM |
| Amoudara (Gazi) |
06:50 AM |
Lygaria: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Lygaria via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up.
|
06:10 AM |
| Agia Pelagia: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Agia Pelagia via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up. |
06:20 AM |
LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!
CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.
IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organiser tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.
Special Offer: Book now and save up to 20%!
Explore more and enjoy unbeatable discounts! Click to learn more.
For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560
Need HELP? Check if we are online & chat with us!
We LOVE to answer questions...
East Crete (Vai Palm Forest)
from: €50.00
Tour info
Accompanied service
Schedule
Morning Pick-up: We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning. Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive will differ.
Bus Drive to Toplou: almost 2 hours and 30 minutes
1st stop: Toplou Monastery - 40 minutes: Our participants will enjoy a visit to the historical and beautiful Monastery of Toplou. There they will spend about 40' of guided time and free time to take photos of the unique architecture and the Cretan Natural landscape outdoors.
Bus Drive to Vai Beach: 20 minutes
2nd stop: Vai Beach – 2 hours and 30 minutes: Stop at Vai, the biggest natural palm forest in Europe. Enjoy 2.5 hours of free time to swim, sunbathe, have lunch, and take photos of this exotic landscape of Crete.
Bus Drive to Sitia: 30 minutes
3rd stop: Sitia– 1 hour and 20 minutes: Participants will enjoy some free time to explore the town on their own pace, walk by the cosmopolitan beach road, have a coffee at a traditional cafe or taste the delicious local homemade sweets
End of the tour – Return to resorts: Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning. Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.
Return Bus Drive to Heraklion: Around 2 – 3 hours hours
Special offer
Description
Vai Palm Forest Excursion: East Crete Tour to Vai, Toplou Monastery, and Sitia Town
Discover the Hidden Treasures of East Crete: A Journey Through Time and Nature
Imagine a place where time stands still—a land where ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and the charm of traditional Cretan life come together in perfect harmony. This is East Crete, an unspoiled gem waiting to be uncovered.
Your journey begins as the sun rises over the rugged Cretan mountains, painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson. The air is fresh, filled with the scent of wild herbs and the distant echo of waves crashing against the shore. This is no ordinary day; it's the start of an adventure that will take you to some of the most awe-inspiring and lesser-known corners of Crete.
First stop: The Vai Palm Forest. Hidden away on the northeastern tip of the island, this enchanting oasis is the only natural palm forest in Europe. As you step onto the soft, golden sands, you'll feel like you've been transported to a tropical paradise. The rustle of palm leaves in the breeze, the sparkle of turquoise waters—it’s a place where the worries of the world simply melt away. Here, the past and present intertwine as you walk the same paths that ancient Minoans once did, leaving their mark on this magical land.
Next, you’ll journey to the historic Monastery of Toplou. Perched on a hillside with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, this 15th-century monastery is more than just a place of worship—it’s a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Cretan people. Within its ancient walls, stories of faith, courage, and defiance against invaders come to life. As you explore the monastery’s frescoes and artifacts, you'll be transported back in time, feeling the echoes of history that have shaped Crete’s unique identity.
Your final destination is the charming town of Sitia. Here, the soul of Crete is alive in every cobblestone street, every friendly smile, and every glass of local wine. Stroll through the picturesque harbor, where colorful fishing boats bob gently in the water, and discover the town’s hidden gems—from traditional tavernas serving homemade delicacies to local artisans crafting treasures from the island’s natural resources. Sitia is a place to savor the simple pleasures of life, to connect with the warmth of the Cretan people, and to create memories that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
As the day comes to a close and you make your way back, you'll carry with you more than just souvenirs. You'll leave with stories—stories of a day well spent, of places that took your breath away, and of an island that touched your heart.
Are you ready to embark on this unforgettable adventure? East Crete is calling, and its hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered by those who seek the extraordinary.
VAI PALM FOREST EXCURSION: Discover the beauty of East Crete with this full-day tour! Explore the historic Toplou Monastery, relax on the famous Vai Palm Beach (Europe's largest palm forest), and wander the charming town of Sitia.
Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia. [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]
Operating Days:
Every Sunday
Languages:
English, French, German: All days
Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort throughout the tour
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour
Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot: Entrance to Toplou Monastery: 3 Euros, all your meals and drinks
Tour highlights:
• Explore the Toplou Monastery
• Spend a relaxing day at the famous palm beach of Vai
• End the tour by visiting the town of Sitia
Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Swimsuit/ BeachTowel
• Comfortable shoes
• Water
Direction:
Southeast Crete
Duration:
11-13 hours approximately 360 km. (depending on where you get on)
Overview:
Your journey begins with a visit to Toplou, a 15th-century monastery nestled in a serene landscape. Next, we'll head to Vai Palm Beach, a stunning oasis with thousands of palm trees and a gorgeous sandy beach. Your day concludes in the lovely town of Sitia, where you can stroll along the beach road, explore a Venetian castle, or simply relax at a café.
Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old (Free of charge)
Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below
Pricing
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from/to your hotel, and the tour. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).
Pick-up Locations
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:
EAST CRETE EXCURSION
Pickup timetable
LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!
CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.
IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organiser tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.
Special Offer: Book now and save up to 20%!
Explore more and enjoy unbeatable discounts! Click to learn more.
For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560
Need HELP? Check if we are online & chat with us!
We LOVE to answer questions...
Additional information
HER – Agia Pelagia, HER – Amnissos, HER – Amoudara (Gazi), HER – Analipsis, HER – Anissaras, HER – Gournes, HER – Gouves, HER – Heraklion City, HER – Hersonissos, HER – Karteros, HER – Kokkini Hani, HER – Koutouloufari, HER – Lygaria, HER – Malia, HER – Piskopiano, HER – Stalis, LAS – Sissi
AG.PEL: Alexander House Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: Ambelos Apts. (Main Road), AG.PEL: Bella Vista Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: Blue Bay (Reception), AG.PEL: Blue Bay Resort Hotel (Main Road), AG.PEL: EKO – Ag. Pelagia Gas Station, AG.PEL: Happy Cretan (Main Road), AG.PEL: Irida Hotel Apartments (Main Road), AG.PEL: Laundry, AG.PEL: My hotel (add it in the comments), AG.PEL: Nicolas Villas, AG.PEL: Out Of The Blue Resort (Entrance), AG.PEL: Panorama (Main Road), AG.PEL: Pela Mare Ag. Pelagia, AG.PEL: Peninsula Resort & Spa (Main Road), AG.PEL: Sea Side Resort & Spa (Reception), AG.PEL: Shell Gas Station, AMNIS: AKS Minoa Palace (Main Road), AMOUD: Agapi Beach (Main Road – Taxi Station), AMOUD: Apollonia Beach Resort & Spa (Main Road – Bus Stop), AMOUD: Candia Maris (Main Road), AMOUD: Creta Beach (Main Road), AMOUD: Dessole Dolphin Bay Resort, AMOUD: Neptuno Beach Resort (Main Road – Bus Stop), AMOUD: Roxani Hotel, AMOUD: Santa Marina (Main Road), AMOUD: Shell Gas Station, ANALPS: Analipsis church, ANALPS: Anthoula Village Hotel (Main Road), ANALPS: Atlantica Caldera Palace (Main Road), ANALPS: Europa Beach Hotel, ANALPS: Golden Star Hotel, ANALPS: Stella Village Hotel & Bungalows (Beach Main Road), ANISSR: Aldemar Knossos Royal (Main Road), ANISSR: Anissa Beach & Village Hotel, ANISSR: Annabelle Beach Resort, ANISSR: Bella Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Chrissi Ammoudia Hotel (main road), ANISSR: Galini Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Kosta Mare Palace Resort & Spa, ANISSR: Laguna Resort & Spa (Reception), ANISSR: Lyttos Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Mitsis Cretan Village (Reception), ANISSR: Mitsis Royal Mare Thalasso & Spa Resort (Main Road), ANISSR: Paradise Island Villas – (Crossroad), ANISSR: Serita Beach Hotel (Main Road), ANISSR: Zorbas Village Hotel, GOURN: Gournes Church, GOUVES: Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort (Bus Stop), GOUVES: Aphrodite Beach Club (Beach Road), GOUVES: EKO Gas Station – (Lavris), GOUVES: Gouves Church, GOUVES: Hotel Diogenis Blue Palace (Beach Road), GOUVES: Marina Beach Resort (Beach Road), GOUVES: The Island Hotel (Beach Road), HERAKL: Capsis Astoria Hotel, HERAKL: Galaxy Hotel, HERAKL: Koules Fortress / 18 Agglon Sq. (Roundabout), HERAKL: Natural History Museum, HERAKL: Talos Plaza (outside ENVY cafe), HERSON: Albatros Spa Resort Hotel (Corner), HERSON: Creta Maris Beach Resort (Bus Stop), HERSON: Hersonissos Village, HERSON: Mediterraneo (Main Road), HERSON: National Bank, HERSON: Pela Maria Hotel (Bus Stop #22), HERSON: Royal Belvedere Bus Stop / Eris Bus Stop, HERSON: S/M Chalkiadakis, HERSON: S/M Mathioudakis, HERSON: Silva Beach, KARTER: Karteros Corner, KOKHAN: Arina Beach Resort (Main Road – Bus Stop #2), KOKHAN: Knossos Beach Bungalows & Suites (Main Road), KOKHAN: Rinela Beach Resort & Spa (Main Road), KOKHAN: S/M Hatzis (Bus Stop #4), KOKHAN: Shotels Sunset Beach Hotel, MALIA: Amvrosia Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Drossia, MALIA: Ikaros Village Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Kernos Beach Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: Main Church (St. Nektarios / Taxi Rank), MALIA: Malia Bay Hotel, MALIA: Malia Park Hotel (Main Road), MALIA: McDonalds Fastfood, MALIA: Nikos Hotel, MALIA: S/M Filipidis, MALIA: Sirens Hotel (Main Road), PISKOP: Pigadi Piskopiano (Well), SISSI: Bella Vista Apartments (Main Road), SISSI: Castello Village Resort (Main Road), SISSI: Grecotel Meli Palace (Main Road), SISSI: Kalimera Kriti Hotel & Village (Main Road), SISSI: Maritimo Beach Hotel (Main Road), SISSI: Sissi Bay (Main Road), SISSI: Sissi Church, SISSI: Sissi Mare Apartments (Main Road), STALIS: Alexander Beach Hotel & Village, STALIS: Blue Sea Beach Hotel, STALIS: Cactus Royal Spa Hotel, STALIS: I Resort Beach Hotel & Spa (main road entrance), STALIS: Mochos Cross Road (Bus Stop #29), STALIS: Nana Beach, STALIS: Stalis (Bus Stop #28)
Ierapetra, Monastery of Toplou, Sitia, Vai Palm Forest
Culture Tour, Land Excursion
English, French, German
1 Day
May, June, July, August, September, October
Sunday