An 8-Day Catholic Pilgrimage to St. Titus’s Crete (Heraklion Roundtrip)

After a rich buffet breakfast, we visit the Minoan Palace of Knossos, discovering the island’s historical background prior to the advent of Christianity. We then tour the historic center of Heraklion, honoring the early Christian heritage of the city where the sacred relic of St. Titus’s head is venerated. This is followed by lunch at a traditional tavern featuring regional specialties. The afternoon offers free time for quiet reflection and prayer. A venue will be arranged for Holy Mass. Dinner at the 4-star hotel and overnight in Heraklion.

A day of deep biblical exploration in southern Crete. We depart for Gortyna, the ancient Roman capital of Crete, where St. Titus served as first Bishop. We walk among the ruins of the early Christian basilica, praying for the timelessness of Faith. We then drive to Kali Limenes (Fair Havens). Gazing at the bay where St. Paul’s ship found shelter from the storm, we reflect on how God’s Grace protects us in life’s tempests. We enjoy a traditional seaside lunch at a local tavern. Return to Heraklion, dinner at the 4-star hotel, and overnight.

We leave Heraklion and head west. Our first stop is the historic Arkadi Monastery, a global symbol of faith and self-sacrifice, reminding us of the sacrificial dimension of Christian witness. We then reach the atmospheric city of Rethymno, strolling through the alleys of the Old Town and the Venetian harbor, enjoying an authentic Cretan lunch at a picturesque tavern. We continue west to Chania and check-in to our 4-star hotel in Chania. Dinner at the hotel restaurant and overnight.

Today we explore the city and region of Chania. We begin with a visit to the impressive 17th-century Agia Triada Tzagaroli Monastery on the Akrotiri peninsula, admiring its Byzantine architecture and peaceful monastic life. We then transfer to the Old Town of Chania, walking along the famous Venetian Harbor and praising God for the beauty of His creation. A traditional lunch at a local restaurant follows. Free afternoon for quiet prayer. A venue will be arranged for Holy Mass. Dinner at the 4-star hotel and overnight in Chania.

A day dedicated to spiritual renewal amidst the nature of the Cretan inland. We travel through lush valleys and traditional villages of Chania, visiting mountain sanctuaries. Your Spiritual Director will lead a prayer gathering and celebrate Holy Mass at a quiet venue. We gather for a hearty traditional lunch at a mountain tavern. Return to our 4-star hotel in Chania. Dinner at the hotel and overnight.

We depart Chania and make our way back toward Heraklion. Along the way, we visit coastal or hillside villages for a final taste of local heritage. We gather for a traditional lunch, conducting a spiritual review of this biblical pilgrimage. Check-in to our 4-star hotel in Heraklion. In the evening, we enjoy a special farewell dinner at the hotel restaurant, giving thanks for the spiritual blessings received.

Following breakfast at the hotel, and depending on your flight schedule, a final traditional lunch will be arranged before departure. Your Mazi coach and driver will transfer your group directly to Heraklion International Airport for your return flight home. You return to your parishes renewed in spirit, carrying the grace of St. Titus’s apostolic blessing.