Greece Free Time Options

Ample time is available on evenings and weekends to enjoy the numerous nearby natural and cultural attractions. You can travel east to the island's capital, Iraklion, with its Archaeological Museum and the excavated and reconstructed palace of King Minos at Knossos just south of the city. Or, in nearby Fodele, birthplace of painter El Greco, you can walk through his childhood home and see many of his famous works. There are also several short nature walks through parks and wild areas for the nature lover to explore. In addition, several shopping areas draw a significant number of tourists to this popular region. Relaxing and soaking up the Mediterranean sun at various beaches is another popular way to relax!

Hiking is a popular diversion for those who aren't beach-goers. Three mountain ranges form a sort of spine stretching across the island. The same geological forces that created the mountain ranges also created awe-inspiring gorges. Faragi Samarias (Samaria Gorge) is the most famous with a length of 16km, making it the longest gorge in Europe as well as one of the most impressive. Crete is the home of a rich variety of plants that contain, among many hundreds of others, 130 species of wild flowers and herbs which are unique to it. Most of these areas are easily accessible on the weekend.

Will Global Volunteers arrange free time options for me?
No. As a non-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, Global Volunteers is prohibited from making non-program-related arrangements for you. However, our team leaders and consultants can provide general guidance and advice, including a list of activities explored and enjoyed by previous teams.