Beautiful beaches, blue seas and sunshine may be what first bring many visitors to Crete. But travel just a little further inland and another island begins to appear: mountain roads, olive groves, traditional villages, dramatic gorges and places where everyday Cretan life continues far away from the busy resorts.
This is the hidden side of Crete. And for many visitors, discovering it becomes one of the most memorable parts of their holiday.
October on Crete has a character of its own. The intense heat of midsummer has passed, the island becomes quieter and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Yet the Cretan sun, landscapes, villages and history are all still here waiting to be discovered.
If you are visiting Crete in October, don't think the excursion season is already over. In fact, this can be a wonderful time to leave the resort behind and see another side of the island.
Staying in Gouves gives you an excellent base for discovering much more of Crete. Its location on the north coast, east of Heraklion, makes it easy to combine relaxing days by the sea with excursions into the mountains, traditional villages, historic sites and some of the island's most beautiful landscapes.
Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, nature or a relaxing day on the water, there are plenty of excursions from Gouves to choose from. Here are some of our favourite ways to discover more of Crete during your holiday.
Crete offers an incredible variety of experiences. You can explore mountain roads by Jeep, spend a relaxing day at sea, walk through a spectacular gorge, discover thousands of years of history or leave the planning behind and enjoy a private tour.
But with so many possibilities, which excursion is right for you? The answer depends on what you want to experience during your holiday. Here are some of the best ways to discover Crete and find the trip that suits you.
Choosing the right excursion can make the difference between simply seeing Crete and truly experiencing it. At Eye Travel, we believe the best days are about more than visiting famous places. They are about discovering the island, meeting people, enjoying the journey and returning with memories that stay with you long after your holiday.
In 2026, Eye Travel celebrates 30 years of organising excursions on Crete. During those years, thousands of guests have joined us to explore the mountains, villages, beaches, gorges and cultural treasures of our island.
Staying in Stalis (Stalida) and looking for the best excursions in Crete? Eye Travel offers a wide selection of unforgettable day trips departing from Stalis (Stalida). Whether you want to explore traditional villages, discover ancient history, enjoy crystal-clear waters or experience the beauty of the Cretan mountains, there's an excursion for everyone.
From Stalis (Stalida), you can easily join our most popular excursions in Crete, including exciting Jeep Safaris, relaxing boat trips, cultural day tours and private experiences. Our experienced local team will make sure your day is comfortable, enjoyable and full of unforgettable moments.