About us Where passion for Crete meets the art of authentic travel

We are not just a travel company. We are storytellers, curators, and bridge-builders between curious travelers and the true soul of Greece. Born from a deep connection to the island and a belief that travel should be meaningful, Experience Authentic Greece is an invitation to discover the country as we know and love it: genuine, vibrant, and full of life.

Our story

Our journey began with a simple idea: to share Greece beyond the postcards.

Rooted in Crete, where our story first took shape, we experienced authenticity not as a concept, but as a way of living. The laughter in a village courtyard, the aroma of freshly baked bread at dawn, the quiet majesty of the mountains in winter - these moments revealed a deeper Greece, one that goes far beyond what meets the eye.

As our journey grew, so did our vision. Today, across Greece, we continue to seek and share these genuine moments that define each place and its people.

With years of expertise in tourism, hospitality, and cultural heritage, we personally design and carefully select every experience we offer. We collaborate only with locals who share our values: a deep passion for their craft, genuine respect for the land and traditions, and a warm, heartfelt sense of hospitality.

Experience Authentic Crete People Enjoy Food

Our philosophy

For us, authenticity is not a trend. It’s a way of life.

What began in Crete as a vision to share something real has grown into a deeper journey across Greece. Today, we continue to embrace slow, sustainable travel that uplifts local communities and protects the country’s cultural and natural heritage.

Our mission remains the same: to connect you with the true essence of Greece - —its people, flavors, landscapes, and traditions - through experiences that are immersive, respectful, and unforgettable, always guided by the values that were born on the island of Crete.

Why we’re different

True Experiences

Handpicked experiences, personally tested and guided by passionate locals

Personal Connection

Small-group or private options for a truly personal connection

All Seasons

Year-round travel showcasing Crete in every season

Local Support

Sustainable practices that support local communities

The visionaries behind Experience Authentic Greece

Giorgos Sfakianakis Experience Authentic Greece

George Sfakianakis

Born in Heraklion and raised in the Cretan countryside, George Sfakianakis carries a lifelong connection to the island’s traditions, hospitality, flavors, music and culture. With a background in Tourism Management, he has led hotel operations in Crete since 2005 and today serves as President of the Pancretan Association of Hotel Managers. Passionate about local gastronomy and authentic experiences, he brings both expertise and genuine love for Crete to Experience Authentic Crete.

Dr. Akrivi Vagena

Dr. Akrivi Vagena holds a PhD in Business Administration and has built a distinguished career in sustainable tourism development. Combining academic research with hands-on projects in hospitality, education, and cultural heritage, she has designed initiatives that promote authenticity and sustainability. As Vice President of 3win Action, she continues to bridge culture, gastronomy and tourism. Through Experience Authentic Crete, she shares her vision of connecting travelers with the island’s true essence.