WWII – The Battle Of Crete 2 Days Private Tour
fromDiscover the greatness of Cretan history and learn about one of the most critical battles in WWII. Visit the battlegrounds of Chania, the war cemeteries & monuments, private collections with original relics, the evacuation port of Sfakia & discover the unknown stories of the Battle of Crete!
All pick-up points for this tour are within Chania region. For pick-up from the other regions in Crete, please contact us.
Please book the first day of your tour online and contact us about the second one. It can be the next or any other day you prefer.
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Vacation Style Holiday Type
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Culture
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Activity Level
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Private
Tour Highlights
- Visit the Maleme airfield from above and Tavronitis historical bridge
- Discover the battle of Galatas and Ayia prison valley
- War monuments around the area of the battle
- Explore the WWII exhibitions in small museums and secret shelters
- Visit the German and British Commonwealth war cemeteries
- Ports and key-locations of South Crete
- Discover the evacuation route of the British forces after the battle
- Visit hidden spots and unknown locations along with war exhibitions
- Analytic details about the historical battle of Crete
- Chauffeured private tour ensures a more relaxing and personal experience
Description
[…]Turning to Student, the Fuhrer said quietly: “Of course, General, you know that after Crete we shall never do another Airborne operation. The parachute arm relies entirely on surprise. That surprise factor has now exhausted itself…the day of the Paratroops is over”.
Adolf Hitler, Wolfschanze July 1941…
Our tour will start from the beginning of WWII and how the world’s greatest war has ever seen affected East-South Europe, Greece and Crete. We will analyze the operation “Marita”, the glorious Greek-Italian war of 1940 and under what circumstances the operation “Mercury” began. Crete’s battle was one of the most important war theatres in WWII, and the resistance played a significant role in reviving the allied troops’ morale around the world.
Day One – The war theatre of Chania
On the first day of this tour, you will have the chance to see the key-locations of Crete’s battle. A few kilometres from Chania is Maleme, Tavronitis and Galatas, where we start. We will analyze the battle, and there will be a detailed schedule for the rest of our day. We will visit some of the locations we will visit: the German and Allies war cemeteries, high spots to have panoramic views and understand everything about the battle on a live map, secret shelters, and monuments.
Day Two – The Evacuation
The end of the battle is close, and general Fryberg orders all his troops to withdraw. He has an evacuation plan. That was a life bet for Fryberg and Wavell to save the allies during the retreat. The Cretan partisans helped and led the allied troops through the mountains to the South harbours, where the warships were waiting for them. The narrow mountain paths were extremely dangerous and unknown, but not for the locals. We will follow the route through the mountain from the North to the South, reaching Sfakia, the port that saved thousands of privates. You will also visit places where the allied troops passed and their signs are still alive, in South Rethymnon and from high spots, we will discover the area where the great evacuation took place.
The general historical facts of the battle of Crete are known. Together we will discover the original details and the unknown stories behind the scenes. You will have the chance to tour around the places where heroism and hope was a life goal for the Cretan partisans and the Greek, British, Australian and New Zealand troops. The battle of Crete changed the world in many different ways. Join us and explore the legendary and glorious WWII history of Crete.
If you wish to explore more options return to the Cultural & Historical Tours page.
- Hotel pick up and drop off
- English speaking, local escort
- All entrance fees
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Bottled water & Snacks per person (for both days)
- Gratuities (optional)
- Accommodation
- Schedule All Year
- Location Tour starts from
- Duration of the tour Including pick-up and drop-off time
- Booking & Cancellation Policies Please Read Carefully
- Pick up times Departures
- What to bring with you for this tour ...except your best mood & smile :)
- Meals & Alternatives Vegetarian - Vegan- Allergies
- Covid-19 Info Tour regulations