Vouves Olive Tree
Witness the world's oldest olive tree, a 2,000-5,000-year-old marvel still bearing fruit, a symbol of Cretan history and endurance.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Vouves Olive Tree
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the world's oldest olive tree, a 2,000-5,000-year-old marvel still bearing fruit, a symbol of Cretan history and endurance.
"Fascinating to encounter such an ancient tree, still bearing olives.
"🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Easier to reach and combine with other sites. :car:
🏛️ Visit the Free Museum
Learn about the tree's incredible history. Donations welcome! :museum:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Monumental Olive Tree of Vouves
Ano Vouves village
Witness the world's oldest olive tree, estimated to be 2,000-5,000 years old, still bearing fruit.

Olive Museum
Adjacent to the tree
Discover the history and significance of olive cultivation in Crete at this small, informative museum.

Local Cafe and Souvenir Shop
Near the tree
Enjoy a coffee or snack and purchase local olive oil, some harvested from ancient trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Vouves Olive Tree
Getting to the Ancient Olive Tree
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Easier to reach and combine with other sites.
:car:🏛️ Visit the Free Museum
Learn about the tree's incredible history. Donations welcome!
:museum:☕ Enjoy a Local Coffee
Relax at the nearby cafe with a drink and snack.
:coffee:🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Consider buying local olive oil, though prices can be higher.
:shopping_bags:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Easier to reach and combine with other sites.
:car:🏛️ Visit the Free Museum
Learn about the tree's incredible history. Donations welcome!
:museum:☕ Enjoy a Local Coffee
Relax at the nearby cafe with a drink and snack.
:coffee:🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Consider buying local olive oil, though prices can be higher.
:shopping_bags:🌳 Hug the Ancient Tree
Many visitors feel a connection and hug this ancient marvel.
:evergreen_tree:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the sheer age and enduring vitality of the Vouves Olive Tree, often calling it a 'must-see' for its historical significance. While some find the site itself modest, the free museum and the opportunity to purchase local olive oil are appreciated additions. The surrounding cafe offers a pleasant spot to relax.
"Fascinating to encounter such an ancient tree, still bearing olives. We visited coming from Terra Kreta olive factory (they have this tree as logo). Can recommend drink at nearby the tavern and free museum."
David Vaneyen
"The place is not a spectacular one, but if you are in the area it is worth a small detour to see the tree, it is different from other olive trees.
There is a small shop but the stuff they sell is quite expensive compared to local prices. It is good though for a coffee and a snack."
Tiberiu Pfiszter
"While in Crete you must visit The oldest olive tree in the world!!! Amazing! A small but well organised museum must be visited for free. There is an optional donation for the museum just to be kept alive. There is a small cafe and souvenirs shop there where you can actually buy olive oil harvested from ancient olive trees!"
Alex George
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a local bus from Chania to Ano Vouves. The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes. It's advisable to check the latest bus schedules as they can vary.
Yes, driving is a convenient option. The tree is located about 26 km west of Chania. Parking is usually available near the site.
Absolutely! The Vouves Olive Tree can easily be incorporated into a day trip exploring western Crete, perhaps combined with nearby beaches or other historical sites.
The most flexible way is by renting a car, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Buses are also an option for budget travelers.
Many local tour operators in Chania offer guided tours of western Crete that often include a stop at the Vouves Olive Tree. This can be a good option if you prefer not to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the ancient olive tree itself is free. There is a small, optional donation box for the museum.
The site is generally accessible during daylight hours. The adjacent museum and cafe may have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally.
The Olive Museum is free to enter, though donations are appreciated to help maintain it.
While the tree itself is always accessible, the museum and cafe might have altered hours or be closed on public holidays. It's best to check in advance if visiting on a holiday.
The tree is impressive year-round, but visiting during the olive harvest season (typically autumn) allows you to see it actively producing fruit.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can admire the ancient tree, visit the free Olive Museum, enjoy a coffee or snack at the cafe, and purchase local products like olive oil.
A visit to the Vouves Olive Tree, including the museum and a brief stop at the cafe, typically takes about 30-60 minutes.
The area around the tree and the museum is generally flat and accessible. However, the terrain might be uneven in places.
While touching the ancient bark is generally discouraged to preserve it, many visitors feel a strong connection and hug the tree. Be respectful of its age and fragility.
Yes, there are usually restrooms available at the cafe or near the museum.
🍽️ 🛍️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe adjacent to the tree that offers coffee, snacks, and light refreshments. You can also find tavernas in the nearby village of Ano Vouves.
You can purchase olive oil at the souvenir shop, some of which is harvested from ancient olive trees. However, prices may be higher than in other local markets.
The cafe typically serves coffee, ice cream, local pastries, and sometimes light snacks.
The cafe's offerings are generally simple, but coffee and pastries are usually vegan-friendly. Tavernas in the village might offer more traditional Cretan vegetarian dishes.
Prices at the cafe are generally reasonable for a tourist spot, though some items in the souvenir shop might be priced higher.
📸 📸 Photography
The gnarled, ancient trunk of the tree itself is the main subject. Capture its texture, scale, and the surrounding landscape.
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged. Be mindful of other visitors and respect the tree's ancient nature.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the tree's texture.
Drone usage is generally restricted in many historical and natural sites in Greece. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Photography inside the museum is usually permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature and History Enthusiasts
🚗 Road Trippers and Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit