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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit on Crete

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 1, 2023

Rimmed by more than 1,000 kilometers of coastline, and with stunning beaches backed by mountains that rise more than 2,400 meters, Crete is unlike any other island in Greece. It is the largest of the Greek islands and the fifth biggest island in the Mediterranean.

The main attractions on Crete are the incredible golden-sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, but the island is also home to important Minoan archaeological sites , dramatic gorges, lovely cities with Venetian harbors and fortresses, and small coastal towns where you can escape to a leisurely pace of life.

On the north coast are the centuries-old harbor towns and cities of Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Agios Nikoloas, the most popular tourist destinations on the island. The best places to visit on Crete for shopping, nightlife, museums, and cultural attractions are all found along the north coast.

On the remote south coast, looking towards Africa across the Libyan Sea, are quaint seaside villages where you can escape from the main tourist scene. This is the best place for travelers looking for a quiet escape but still wanting to enjoy a beach vacation.

The scenic, mountainous interior is home to fertile soil and is where you'll find much of the country's agriculture, along with charming villages of whitewashed houses on narrow, twisting streets. Good roads and highways connect cities on the north coast with the towns on the south coast, and make for beautiful drives through the mountains.

Learn more about where to go and what to see with our list of the best places to visit on Crete.

1. The Beaches of Crete

2. the palace of knossos, 3. agios nikolaos, 5. samaria gorge, 6. heraklion, 7. rethymnon, 8. heraklion archaeological museum, 9. preveli monastery, 10. preveli beach, 11. plakias, 12. matala beach, 13. frangokastello, 14. diktaion (psychro) cave, crete - climate chart.

For most visitors coming to Crete between spring and fall, one of the top things to do is lounging on the island's beautiful beaches. Not all beaches here are created equal. Some of Crete's beaches are pebble, but some are among the most beautiful soft-sand beaches in the world, with crystal-clear water that glows a turquoise color under the Mediterranean sun.

The most famous beaches are Elafonissi, known for its white and pink sand , and Balos , or the Balos Lagoon as it's also frequently called. Both of these are within striking distance of Chania. And while these are must-see places, these are really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to outstanding beaches on Crete.

For dramatic scenery, head to the remote south coast. Here, you'll find Matala, a lovely small town with a fantastic stretch of beach, lined at one end by caves. Preveli beach , set at the end of a gorge and backed by huge cliffs, yet still accessibly via a short hike, is another top attraction on this side of the island.

On the north coast, you may also want to set your sights on beaches around Agios Nikolaos, on picturesque Mirabello Bay. One of the top choices here is Voulisma beach , but if you have time to explore a little further afield, Vai Beach, also known as Palm Beach , is one of the top beaches on Crete.

• Read More: Best Beaches on Crete

Knossos is the most important archeological site on Crete. A pre-Greek Bronze Age culture and the first maritime power in the Mediterranean, the Minoans were named after the legendary King Minos. Knossos, near the city of Heraklion , is believed to have been the palace of King Minos .

The Minoan palace is a monumental residential complex that centers on a vast courtyard, where it seems they staged "Bull-Leaping," an activity that involved running towards a bull, grabbing it by the horns, and somersaulting over it.

Knossos was abandoned around 1450 BC. Archaeologists are not sure why-it may have been a catastrophic earthquake following the volcanic explosion on Santorini, or perhaps Crete was ravaged by invaders. Whatever the cause, the Minoans completely disappeared.

Rimmed by beautiful beaches and looking across scenic Mirabello Bay, Agios Nikolaos is a charming small city on the north coast of eastern Crete, about 65 kilometers east of Heraklion. Although it is definitely a tourist town, it feels much less touristy than places like Chania.

Highlights of a visit here include a stroll along Lake Voulismeni , with its many waterfront cafés and restaurants, and the nearby port area, looking out to sea. A walk around the point from the port to Kitroplatia beach takes you past two famous statues and provides stunning views out across Mirabello Bay to the towering mountains of eastern Crete.

Near Agios Nikolaos, you can also visit the Diktean Cave , with its stalactites and stalagmites, or venture into the mountains to the hillside village of Kritsa , where local artisans sell traditional crafts such as leather goods, ceramics, and hand-woven rugs. On the way to Kritsa, stop by the little 13th-century church of Panagia Kera (Our Lady of Kera) to admire the superb Byzantine frescoes.

Not far from Agios Nikolaos are the posh beach hotels and villas of Elounda . You can drive out here to see Elounda and look across the bay to the see the ruins on the island of Spinalonga , which was also once used as a leper colony . Most people take a boat tour to the island, which leaves from the harbor in Agios Nikolaos.

Chania is the main town in Western Crete , and was the capital of the island until 1971 when it moved to Heraklion. Overlooking the Aegean Sea and backed by the White Mountains, which are snow-capped in winter, the old town's appearance dates from the centuries spent under Venice (1204-1645). Chania is a lovely place to explore on foot.

A warren of romantic alleys with pastel-colored buildings enclosed within the remains of 16th-century defensive walls, the town extends to a pretty fishing harbor. The Municipal Market, built in 1911, is worth a look for its fresh seasonal produce and gifts such as Cretan cheese and honey.

Chania has an airport (12 kilometers northeast of town on Akrotíri peninsula ) and is served by regular ferries from Athens' port, Piraeus. It makes a good base for visiting the beaches of Elafonissi and Balos , and hiking the Samaria Gorge .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chania

Crete is known for its outstanding gorges, but the most impressive is the Samaria Gorge. Contained within the Samaria National Park , it is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Walking the popular 16-kilometer trail that runs through the gorge is one of the most popular things to do on Crete for tourists looking to get active.

From Xylóskalo , just outside the mountain village of Omalos, the gorge descends 1,250 meters to arrive at the Libyan Sea in Agia Roumeli on Crete's sunny south coast. The river Tarraios, which dries up in summer but floods in winter, runs the length of the gorge with high rocky cliffs to each side. The gorge is open to visitors from May through mid-October.

Although the hike is mostly downhill, with most of the elevation loss occuring in the first couple of kilometers, the stony path is a bit challenging and not recommended for people with knee problems. It's a must-do for hikers who don't mind a good day hike.

The walk can take four to six hours depending on how fit you are, but with transportation, plan on a 12-hour day at a minimum from the time you leave your hotel in Chania to the time you return. This is a one-way hike, with a ferry and bus shuttling visitors back to town.

Most people do the hike as part of an organized hiking day trip from Chania, which takes care of all your transport. You can also do the Samaria Gorge hike from Heraklion, but this makes for a very long day.

Heraklion is the island's capital and a pleasant surprise for first-time visitors. The Old Town is a maze of lovely pedestrian streets lined with shops and restaurants. Huge trees provide ample shade in the squares, where you can linger over a coffee for hours at an outdoor café.

Heraklion is also an obvious base for visiting Knossos and exploring central Crete. Like many of Crete's finest coastal towns, it gained its present layout under the Venetians, who ruled from 1204 to 1669, a period which saw a considerable cultural flowering on the island, producing artists such as El Greco, from Fódele, near Heraklion.

The noted 20th-century writer, Nikos Kazantzakis (author of Zorba the Greek, 1946) was also from Heraklion, and you can see his tomb within the old town walls.

Many tourists start their trip in Heraklion, which has an international airport (five kilometers east of town), and a ferry port with service to Athens' port, Piraeus, as well as several other Greek Islands. You can also visit Santorini on a day trip from Heraklion.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Heraklion

Midway between Chania and Heraklion, Rethymnon's lovely old town is made up largely of Venetian-era buildings , though there is some evidence of the year spent under Turkish rule (1669-1898) such as the towering minaret.

A perfect place to day trip from the resorts of the north coast, Rethymnon has everything you need to justify leaving the beach for a day.

Many historic buildings have been turned into small boutique hotels, shops, and restaurants. Wandering the shady, twisty streets and alleys in a quest to find the perfect photo followed by a long lunch on the ancient Venetian Harbour is a fine way to while away an afternoon.

The mountains behind Rethymnon are home to rural villages and some excellent agritourism centers. The area makes a good base for visiting nearby attractions such as the Samaria Gorge and Mount Psiloritis .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Rethymnon

You'll be sure to get your fill of ancient Cretan history at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Artifacts spanning 550 years are displayed across 27 different halls. Things to keep an eye out for are beautiful 3,500-year-old frescoes from Knossos, and the glazed ceramic Snake Goddess dating from 1600 BC. Another item of note is the Phaistos Disc. Dating from 100 BC it is a clay disc bearing a curious spiral of symbols.

The pride of place goes to the Minoans, with their enchanting frescoes depicting proud and slender young men and women in vivid shades of terracotta-red, ochre yellow, and cobalt blue.

This world-class museum is Heraklion's principal tourist attraction and lies in the eastern part of the old town.

Set near the top of a mountain and offering extensive views over the Libyan Sea, the 17th-century Preveli Monastery makes a nice day trip from nearby towns and cities, like Rethymnon or Georgioupoli. Highlights include the courtyards and terraces, the mountain spring, and the small air-conditioned museum with a collection of religious artifacts. You'll also find a host of friendly cats here waiting to greet visitors.

A small fee is charged to enter the monastery, and modest dress is required. Skirts are provided for women if their clothing does not extend down past their knees.

The monastery is located just a short drive from the seaside village of Plakias , which makes a nice lunch stop. Not far from the monastery is Preveli Beach , another of Crete's popular tourist attractions. It's a bit of a walk down to the beach, but you can simply stop for a view over the beach and coast if you don't want to go right to the water's edge.

Official site: http://www.preveli.org/files/moni/enindex.htm

Preveli Beach is considered one of the most spectacular beaches on Crete. Located on the south coast, it is set at the mouth of a small river and hemmed in on both sides by towering cliffs, and looks out over the Libyan Sea.

Easily reached from the north coast across good roads, this beach makes for a great day trip. However, bear in mind that from the parking area, you will need to walk down 30 minutes along a rock pathway. This may not seem that difficult, however, coming back up in the blazing afternoon sun will definitely be more onerous, so bring good shoes and plan accordingly. You can also reach Preveli Beach by boat from nearby Plakias.

If you are out for a day of sightseeing, combine a trip here with a stop at nearby Preveli Monastery . Then, head over to Plakias for lunch and enjoy some traditional Greek food.

What once started as a humble fishing village has now changed into one of the most relaxed and enjoyable beach towns on the south coast. Unlike many of the northern beach areas, which are highly developed, Plakias retains a small-town feel and has some of the best dining in the surrounding area.

Here, you'll find a long crescent beach set in a very wide inlet. The beach close to the town center is a mix of pebbles and sand and is backed by tavernas and shops, but farther to the east, is quieter and has soft sand.

Plakias is a good place to base yourself for trips to Preveli Beach; Preveli Monastery; Souda Beach; and Rethymmon , which is 40 minutes away.

Matala Beach is one of the most interesting and most visited beaches on the south coast of Crete. The beach is a huge arc of sand with a rock wall on one side riddled with ancient caves that look down on impossibly blue waters.

Matala makes for a great day trip from destinations on the north coast, like Heraklion or Rethymnon. You can lounge in the sun, swim, explore the ancient caves, and have lunch at a seaside restaurant. Afterwards, do a bit of souvenir shopping at one of the shops along the pedestrian-only walkways behind the beach.

The caves were the haunt of hippies in the 1960s. Travelers of a certain age will recognize the name of the beach from the famous Joni Mitchell song called Carey.

If you are searching for a friendly small town with not a whole lot going on, FrangoKastello may be just what you're looking for. This seaside town does not have tourist shops but does have good restaurants, an ancient fort, and some lovely beaches . It's one of Crete's true hidden gems.

Located on the south coast, about a 45-minute drive west of Plakias, Frangokastello is out of the way and off the usual tourist route. The drive here either takes you via Plakias, over a mountain pass with incredible views up and down the south coast, or down through the impressive Imbros Gorge and across the small plains, with the soaring mountains on one side and the sea on the other.

In Frangokastello, you can lie on the beach and gaze out at the blue waters of the Libyan Sea, or turn your chair towards the mountains behind and be staring at the town's imposing Venetian fortress. You can also walk a short distance from town and be on a completely undeveloped beach backed by sand dunes.

As you wander around Crete (and Greece for that matter), you'll no doubt come across tales of the ancient Gods, their duties, lives, and origins. Considered the most important Greek god, Zeus was the god of the sky, thunder, and the king of all other gods and men. It's in Diktaion Cave that this famous god was brought forth for all humanity.

Legends aside, the Diktaion Cave is considered one of the best of the 4,500 caves and sinkholes found throughout Crete . Its cool environs are a pleasant escape from the sun and heat of the Crete. You'll pass through five antechambers as you make your way down deep into the earth. At the bottom of the cave is a glass-calm lake surrounded by immense stalactites and stalagmites. Across the lake in a small chamber is the area where Zeus was apparently born.

Diktaion Cave is located up on the Lasithi plateau, an area quite unlike the rest of Crete. This high area is mostly flat and is the breadbasket of the island, with orchards and extensive farms. Stop in a small village and grab a lunch consisting of the fresh, local produce capped off with a cold beverage.

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Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 15 Best Things to Do in Crete (Greece)

15 Best Things to Do in Crete (Greece)

The Mediterranean’s fifth-largest island was the birthplace of the oldest civilisation in Europe, blossoming in 2700 BC. To get to know the Minoans you can venture through Bronze Age archaeological sites across the island, and call in at the phenomenal Archaeological Museum in the capital, Heraklion.

These Minoan palaces and cities blur the lines between fact and Greek mythology, and conjure thoughts of King Minos, Daedalus and Icarus.

Many centuries later, the Venetians also made a lasting contribution to Crete’s cities, building ports, walls and fortresses that stand tall today in Heraklion, Chania and Rethymno.

And away from civilisation the island is sprinkled with mountain ranges and gorges like the life-changing Samaria, and has some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever lay your eyes on.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Crete :

A few kilometres south of Crete’s modern capital, Heraklion was the capital of Minoan Crete.

Knossos is the name of a palace and its encompassing city, which had a population of up to 100,000 in the 18th century BC. The palace was built around 3,000 years ago and features in Greek mythology as the seat of King Minos, where he had Daedalus build a labyrinth to hold his son, the Minotaur.

Knossos was affected by repeated catastrophes like invasions, earthquakes and the Theran Eruption in about 1625 BC. It was excavated for the first time in 1900 by the British Archaeologist Arthur Evans, who restored some of the architecture and frescoes.

You can check out the sweeping reception courtyard where the royal family would entertain guests, and enter the Throne Room, Sanctuary, walk a section of the Royal Way in the direction of the coast and see the Royal Apartments, built on four levels.

Recommended tour :  Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Entry with Guided Walking Tour

2. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

To fully understand the oldest civilisation in Europe, look no further than Heraklion’s outstanding archaeological museum.

This has the biggest collection of Minoan artefacts of any museum, and has 20 rooms in chronological order.

You’ll start in Neolithic times, long before Crete’s palaces were built, and in the following rooms there’s jewellery, liturgical figurines, vases, weapons and armour.

Whole frescoes have been transferred to the museum from Crete’s Minoan sites, as well as the emblematic ivory figurine of the bull leaper from Knossos Palace.

One artefact that remains a mystery is the Phaistos Disc, 15 cm in diameter and covered with symbols arranged in a spiral.

Another piece with strange inscriptions is the Arkalochori Axe, found in the cave of the same name and etched with 15 symbols.

3. Elafonisi Beach

Often cited as one of the world’s best beaches, Elafonisi Beach has to be seen to be believed.

The beach is a nature reserve on the channel between the mainland and Elafonisi, a rectangular island famed for the pink sand on its beaches and dunes.

The water between the mainland and the island is clear, shallow and lagoon-like, and often you can pass from one to the other on sand bars without getting your feet wet.

There’s an enormous natural pool where you can paddle or lie back and float in shimmering water no more than ankle or knee deep.

Add to this the white sand, turquoise water, azure sky and views to Crete’s mountainous southwest coast and you’ve got a small patch of paradise.

4. Samaria Gorge

Walking this ravine the real way, from the Omalos Plateau is something that will stay with you for a lifetime.

The 16-kilometre hike begins at a viewing platform at the bottom of a circuitous path and wooden steps, where you’ll be bowled off your feet by the walls of rock that climb to almost 300 metres.

On the way the ravine will narrow to a stretch named the “Gates” or “Iron Gates”, where the gorge tapers to just four metres across.

Look up as you walk, to catch sight of the endangered kri-kri, a kind of feral goat that makes light work of even sheer rock faces.

At the end of the gorge it’s another three kilometres to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, where you can catch the ferry to Sougia in the west or Sfakia in the east.

Recommended tour :  Samaria Gorge Trek: Full-Day Excursion from Rethymno

5. Rethymno Old Town

The third-largest city in Crete also has what may be the best preserved old town on the island.

Originally behind walls, the city’s tight cobblestone alleys were laid out in the 14th century when Crete was in the hands of the Republic of Venice, and has held onto its Renaissance mansions, arches and catholic churches.

If one building can sum up Rethymno’s tumultuous history it’s the Neratze Mosque.

This started life as a Venetian Church, before becoming a mosque for almost 300 years up to 1925. Now it’s Rethymno’s municipal odeon, staging regular music concerts.

Venetian monuments surviving in Rehtymno include the 17th-century Loggia (also converted into a mosque by the Ottomans) and the Rimondi Fountain from 1629, framed by two pairs of Corinthian columns next to a Gothic arch.

Available tour : Rethymno Old Town Segway Tour

6. Balos Lagoon

A beach to rival Elafonisi, Balos Lagoon is equally paradisiacal and is one of Crete’s most famous images.

Balos is some 60 kilometres northwest of Chania and is frequented by day-trippers by ferry from Kissamos, 18 kilometres away.

The lagoon is wedged between two capes, Gramvousa and Tigani, trapping a pool of shallow, turquoise water as beautiful as it is safe.

If you make the journey by road the walk down the rugged hillside is an experience of its own, and you’ll turn a bend to be confronted by the lagoon fringed by white sand against the rocky mass of Tigani.

By boat you’ll also have the chance to take a closer look at the Gramvousa islands, one of which, Imeri Gramvousa, has a historic fort built by the Venetians.

7. Chania’s Venetian Harbour

The Venetians started building Chania’s glorious harbour in 1320 and work would continue for the next three centuries.

From the eastern end there’s a mole, several hundred metres in length, leading all the way to the lighthouse, a symbol for the city.

This was built at the turn of the 17th century and got its minaret-like form in the Egyptian period in the 1830s.

The western part of the harbour was where goods were brought ashore, while the more sheltered eastern pocket was for ship building and maintenance.

There you can still find the terrace of dry docks and repair yards known as the Arsenali, constructed from the mid-1400s to 1599. Separated from this row, the Grand Arsenal has had many different roles over the years, as a Christian School, hospital and Chania’s Town Hall.

After post-war renovations it now hosts the Centre of Mediterranean Architecture.

8. Arkadi Monastery

Of all the memorable man-made and natural landmarks on Crete none mean quite as much to its people as this monastery just over 20 kilometres southeast of Rethymno.

Supposedly founded by the Byzantine emperor Arcadius in the 5th century, the Arkadi Monastery rests on a plateau surrounded by vineyards, olive trees and oaks.

The present architecture is from a 16th-century makeover in the early Venetian Baroque style.

In Ottoman times it was famed for its gold embroidery and an exceptionally rich library.

Then in 1866 came a watershed, when during the Cretan Revolt 943 Greeks, mainly women and children, walled themselves at the monastery holding out against the Ottomans for three days.

The siege was brought to a devastating close when the Cretans ignited their gunpowder barrels, choosing martyrdom over surrender.

The site is now a Greek national sanctuary, and 8 November, the day of the explosion, is observed in Arkadi and Rethymno.

Fun tour available : Arkadi Monastery e-Bike Tour with Lunch

9. Falassarna Beach

Often ranking as the best beach on Crete and one of the best in Europe, Falassarna beach is on the west coast where the Gramvousa Peninsula joins the mainland.

There are in fact five separate beaches here, around a large bay that was a harbour in antiquity.

The town’s acropolis is on a promontory on the north side of the bay, climbing 90 metres above the water and with the remains of wells, cisterns, fortifications and a temple going back to the 4th century BC. The main destination for sun-seekers is the centremost beach, which has a wide band of pale sand, bathed by clear shallow sea with only moderate surf.

Right on the beach you can go on a tandem paragliding trip, worthwhile because of the towering rugged hills in the background.

10. Phaistos Palace and Archaeological Site

The second largest Minoan palace on Crete after Knossos, Phaistos is in a dramatic position on a rise over the Messara plain in south central Crete.

In Greek mythology, this was the home of Radamanthus, the brother of Minos.

Phaistos is the origin of the enigmatic Phaistos Disc at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and a settlement that existed in Neolithic times and reached its apogee around 1700 BC when the fourth iteration of the palace was built on the ruins of its destroyed predecessors.

The city thrived for 17 centuries and was designed with the landscape in mind.

This is most obvious when you stand on the original paving stones of the main courtyard (above an ancient sanitation system), and marvel at the unbroken views of the plain.

11. Lake Voulismeni

This unusual body of water is ringed by boats, coffee shops and restaurants in the eastern town of Agios Nikolaos.

Lake Voulismeni is no longer strictly a lake as in 1870 a channel was laid.

connecting it with the town’s harbour and the sea.

You may notice from the darkness of the water that it’s extremely deep, despite the lake’s width of just 137 metres.

There’s a local legend that the lake is bottomless, but that’s a tall story as it descends to a maximum depth of 64 metres.

Stop by for a coffee by day to watch the fish, or see the lights on the water over a meal in the evening.

On the Saturday night before Orthodox Easter most of the town gathers on the water’s edge for a fireworks display and to light their own firecrackers.

12. Malia’s Minoan Palace

East of Heraklion, Malia is a boisterous modern resort, but a little way east is Crete’s third-largest Minoan palace.

According to tradition, Sarpedon, another of King Minos’ brothers, had his throne here.

The ruins are kept partially under a glass roof canopy, and because the site was abandoned at the end of the 2nd millennium BC and never resettled, there are no interfering newer buildings.

One artefact uncovered during French excavations in the 20th century is a gigantic vase for oil or wine, 1.75 metres in height and with a volume of more 1,000 litres.

In its day the palace had two storeys and boasted a loggia, theatre, western and central court, magazines, workshops and royal quarters.

The section under a roof is the recently excavated hypostyle crypt, where the city’s lords would sit for political meetings.

13. Holy Trinity Monastery

This 17th-century monastery is on the Akrotiri Peninsula, ensconced in vineyards, olive groves and cypress trees.

Founded towards the end of Venetian rule on Crete, it lies in a compound approached along a stairway at the end of which is a portal beneath a narrow bell tower.

Passing through you’ll be met by the three domes of the monastery church, fronted by four powerful Doric columns and two smaller Corinthian columns that flank the entranceway.

The church is a blend of Greek Orthodox and Western Mannerist architecture and has an interior lined with icons, and a dark blue ceiling sparkling with golden stars.

In the museum you can view a portable icon of St John the Theologian from the early 16th century, along with paintings and rare manuscripts.

Wine and olive products made by monks are sold at the monastery shop.

14. Lychnostatis Open Air Museum

This private museum is the brainchild of a doctor, Yiorgos Markakis, who spent six years from 1986 to 1992 building a group of traditional-style houses in the village of Hersonissos.

Equipped with an audioguide you’ll learn all about Cretan folk culture, the island’s natural wealth and its traditional trades.

There’s a distillery, a farmhouse, wine and olive presses, workshops for weaving and crafting ceramics, and a merchant’s warehouse.

You can also peruse an exhibition of minerals and stones, a gallery for Cretan folk art, and head out into gardens to see the island’s native fruit, cactuses and herbs.

Be here in September for traditional dance, concerts and grape and wine-tasting workshops.

Book online : Lychnostatis Open Air Museum

15. Aquaworld Aquarium

A change of pace from Crete’s Minoan ruins and epic landscapes, this intimate attraction in Hersonissos is one of only three aquariums in Greece.

Aquaworld’s charm comes from its modest size, with enthusiastic staff who are happy to talk about the inhabitants and let you touch many of them.

Most of the creatures at Aquaworld have been rescued and nursed back to health, or are unwanted pets.

For kids the highlight will be getting to handle harmless reptiles like iguanas, snakes and a blind tortoise.

15 Best Things to Do in Crete (Greece):

• Heraklion Archaeological Museum
• Elafonisi Beach
• Samaria Gorge
• Rethymno Old Town
• Balos Lagoon
• Chania's Venetian Harbour
• Arkadi Monastery
• Falassarna Beach
• Phaistos Palace and Archaeological Site
• Lake Voulismeni
• Malia's Minoan Palace
• Holy Trinity Monastery
• Lychnostatis Open Air Museum
• Aquaworld Aquarium

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Crete

Stunning Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands, and also the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. It boasts gorgeous beaches and mountains and is dotted with quaint villages. During the Bronze Age, this beautiful island was the home to the Minoan civilization, which is considered to be the first advanced European civilization, so there are also many historical attractions in Crete. Besides Minoan ruins, visitors can also still see the remains of Ancient Greece, the Venetian era, and the Ottoman period scattered around this island today.

10. Arkadi Monastery [SEE MAP]

The Arkadi Monastery was the site of one of the most tragic incidents in Crete’s history. In 1866, the Cretan residents, who were then under Turkish rule, decided to revolt. At one point during the rebellion, more than 940 Greeks, mostly women and children, took sanctuary in the monastery. The Turks lay siege to the monastery for three days and were finally able to break into its gates. At that point, the refugees decided to end their lives rather than be taken prisoner, and blew up barrels of gunpowder, which ended up killing hundreds of Turks and Cretans. The incident sparked sympathy and worldwide attention for the plight of the people of Crete. The monastery, which has been around since about the 12th century, was restored in 1870.

9. Rethymnon Old Town [SEE MAP]

The old town of Rethymnon (or Rethimno) is located in the midst of the modern city and features a rather unique blend of Venetian and Crete architecture. Rethymnon was established in 1204, after the Venetians had conquered Crete, so most of the remaining buildings in the old town area are of Venetian creation. The Old Town’s narrow streets and its small Venetian harbor are wonderful for walking, shopping, enjoying dinner at a small tavern and taking in Rethymnon’s remarkable architecture. Travelers will want to check out the nearby Fortezza Castle, which was built in 1590, and sits on a low hill in the middle of Rethymnon.

8. Agios Nikolaos [SEE MAP]

Situated on lovely Mirabello Bay in eastern Crete, Agios Nikolaos offers visitors a mix of the modern and the traditional. It is a medium-size port town that is extremely picturesque and has some style and charm, which it exploits to the full. The town’s Lake Voulismeni, which is lined with charming small cafes and boutiques, has been the subject of a number of legends. One myth is that the goddess Athena used to bathe in this almost perfectly circular body of water. Another legend claims that this beautiful lake is bottomless. Agios Nikolaos is one of Crete’s most popular tourist destinations.

7. Elafonisi Beach [SEE MAP]

While all of Crete’s beaches are beautiful, there is something very special about the beaches that can be found on the island of Elafonisi. Located in South-west Crete, Elafonisi is separated from Crete’s shores by a very shallow lagoon. In fact, it is so shallow that visitors can easily walk the 200 meters (650 feet) to the island. The waters around this island are crystal clear, and its sand ranges from sparkling white to a soft pink hue. This island’s beaches are very popular with locals and visitors, so it can be a bit crowded in some areas. Travelers who want to avoid the crowds can just walk a little farther in, where they’ll find plenty of nice, quiet spots.

6. Spinalonga [SEE MAP]

Spinalonga is an island fortress on the southwestern entrance to the Gulf of Elounda. It used to be part of the nearby Peninsula Spinalonga, however in 1526, the Venetians cut a canal through it to separate the two. The island was also fortified and, for many years, was the first line of defense for Elounda. From 1903 to 1957, Spinalonga, was used as a leper colony for people from all over Greece who were suffering from the disease. Today, Spinalonga is just a short boat ride away from both Elounda and Agios Nikolaos and is popular with tourists, who come to the island to see the remnants of the abandoned leper colony, the fortress and numerous old structures. However, visits to this island are limited to a few hours, as there are no accommodations on Spinalonga.

5. Heraklion Archaeological Museum [SEE MAP]

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum enjoys the reputation of being one of the most important museums in Greece, especially when it comes to its collection of Minoan artifacts and artwork. Visitors to this museum can enjoy seeing fragments of the original frescoes from the Minoan Palace of Knossos. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum also has exhibits dedicated to all of the periods of Crete prehistory and history, up until the late Roman periods. Highlights include statues of the Snake Goddess, the famous Bull-Leaping Fresco and the enigmatic Phaistos Disk. In addition, the artifacts found in this museum were all discovered in Crete.

4. Balos Lagoon [SEE MAP]

One of Crete’s most beautiful beaches, Balos Lagoon is located near the town of Kissamos. Sandwiched between the small island of Imeri Gramvousa and Crete itself, the beach is accessible by boat or car. Visitors are greeted with a stunning vista created by an outcropping of rock that is surrounded by pink sand and blue and turquoise water. This is arguably the most photographed natural attraction in Crete, which causes tourists to visit in massive numbers. The months of July and August are the busiest.

3. Chania Old Venetian Harbor [SEE MAP]

This harbor was built between the years 1320 and 1356 by the Venetians and was an important trade center until the early 20th century. The harbor could not accommodate larger ships, so the port was eventually abandoned by big vessels in favor of Souda’s harbor. Today, though, Chania’s old harbor is still used by smaller boats and yachts. The harbor’s crowning jewel is its lighthouse, which was built by the Venetians around 1595 to 1601, and is one of the oldest in the world. Most people come here to enjoy a stroll through the harbor, sip their coffee or have breakfast with a view of the lighthouse or enjoy a meal in one of the many restaurants and ouzo shops.

2. Samaria Gorge [SEE MAP]

Some sites require more effort to enjoy than others, and Samaria Gorge is one of those. Located in the National Park of Samarai in the White Mountains, this stunning gorge is a ten-mile downhill hike that ends at a black-sand beach in Agia Roumelli on the Libyan sea. It passes through forests of ancient cypresses and pines, then cuts between vertical cliffs through the mountains. Depending on a person’s speed and fitness level, this hike can take between four to seven hours. At the end of the trek, most hikers hire a boat to take them to Chora Sfakion.

1. Palace of Knossos [SEE MAP]

Located some 5 km (3 miles) south of Heraklion, the Palace of Knossos is the most important and best known Minoan site in Crete. Knossos is also often associated with the legend of the Athenian hero Theseus killing the Minotaur. The great palace was built gradually between 1700 and 1400 BC, with periodic rebuildings after destruction until it was devastated once and for all by fire. Knossos incorporated numerous rooms such as the Throne Room, named for a large chair that is built into the wall, facing several benches. The main function of the palace is still under debate. It could have been used primarily as an administrative or a religious center.

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The Best Things to Do in Crete, Greece: 18 Fabulous Attractions

Discover the very best things to do in Crete for an epic Greek trip. Here are 14 incredible things to add to your Crete bucket list.

Pink beaches, ultimate dining experiences, exquisite architecture, and azure seas — have I got your attention yet? 

Thought so. 

Well, you’re going to want to head to Crete, where you can experience all this and more.

Perhaps you’ve already explored hidden travelling gems such as Iraklia in the Cyclades , but the nearby Crete is just as full of potential, mythology, and allure. 

In fact, I guarantee you’ll find yourself wooed by its magic embrace, with touches of Venetian architecture and loads of history at every turn. 

Sounds too good to be true? I promise you it’s not. Check out these brilliant things to do in Crete and discover for yourself.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Crete? With warm and rustic stone interiors, Manili Boutique Suites & Villas will cater to your every whim – and looks hella good doing it.

Top 5 Things to Do in Crete

Hike the gorge sarakina in meskla.

It might not be an epic hike of Iliad proportions, but the short Sarakina Gorge by the village of Meskla will enchant you – and provide endless Instagram images. Which, you know, is just as cool.

The gorge is hidden in a ravine with cypress trees and (you’ll be delighted to hear) offers an easy 1-hour trek along a circular path created by local authorities. 

No need to schlepp your way up mountains for incred views of the Greek countryside, this hike is made of different kinds of paths and boasts dramatic scenery in abundance. You’ll get to wander beside a forest river before the landscape changes dramatically to boulders and sculpted striped limestone. 

Top Tip : Good hiking shoes are essential. I don’t go anywhere without my Tropicfeel Canyon shoes.

Pay A Visit to Heraklion Archaeological Museum  

Although I didn’t really expect much, I was blown away by the Archaeological Museum at Heraklion. 

Maybe it’s because I’m a little bit of a nerd (ok, that’s an understatement), but I reckon that getting to gain insight into the oldest civilisation in Europe is seriously worthy of a spot in this guide to the best things to do in Crete. 

The museum also has the largest Minoan artefact collection, so prepare for a bevy of fascinating sculptures and statues. And plenty of weird ones that will have you giggling like  a school kid. 

You’ll embark on a chronological expedition through 20 rooms. Beginning with the Neolithic era, you’ll continue to later ages with jewellery, vases, and liturgical figurines on display, not to mention weapons and armour. 

There’s the ivory Bull Leaper from Knossos Palace, the most mysterious Phaistos Disc overwhelmed with symbols, and the Arkalochori Axe etched with 15 strange inscriptions. Seriously, you can’t miss those.

Top Tip : Grab your museum e-ticket and audio guide here. 

Marvel at Balos Lagoon

One of the most beautiful things to see in Crete is the swirling canvas of colour that is the Balos Lagoon. Sitting pretty between the capes of Gramvousa and Tigani, this large shallow pool of turquoise water is a sight to behold and a pleasure to wade in. 

Arrive by car and you’ll need to walk down a rugged hillside to reach it – which gives you the perfect vantage point to see its breathtaking swirling patterns against the white sand. That said, if you take a boat tour , you’ll be able to visit the Venetian Fort on Gramvousa Island. 

Chow Down at Prima Plora Restaurant  

You know me — I’m obsessed with food and delight in the best local fare I can find when travelling. And let me tell you, the classic Cretan dishes with a twist at Prima Plora will amaze your tastebuds. 

Nestled on the western outskirts of Rethymnon, the decor and setting promise a first-class dining experience. The crashing waves below accompany the house music while you happily indulge in generous portions of ouzo-flavoured shrimp and Dakos. 

Seafood is their specialty, and the locals know it, so make a reservation in advance. 

Undertake the Samaria Gorge Trek (If Your Stamina Can Handle It)

Remember the good hiking shoes I was talking about earlier? Now’s the time to strap them on and prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime 9.9-mile hike. You’ll begin at a viewing platform at the bottom of some wooden steps, and if you look up, you’ll immediately see the towering walls of rock on either side of you. 

As you continue your trek, you’ll be able to spot the odd tree reaching towards the opening of the gorge and greenery flush on the rock walls. 

You might even catch a glimpse some endangered kri-kri, a feral goat that’ll make your light footing look like a joke compared to their impossible gymnastics on the sheer rock faces. 

The ravine narrows until you reach a section referred to as the “Gates” or the “Iron Gates.” – where the gorge cinches in its waist to a mere 13 feet across. Eventually, you’ll come to the shores of the Mediterranean. Take the easy route and go on a full-day hiking tour ; you’re on holiday, after all.

Top Tip : This hike is only open from 1st May to 30th October, although the exact dates can vary slightly according to weather. If rain is on the cards, the route is typically closed for safety reasons, so check the weather forecast carefully when planning your trek.

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Crete 

Head to chania’s venetian harbour.

Although construction began in 1320, it took three centuries to complete Chania’s beautiful harbour. I think you’ll agree it was well-worth it, though. 

The rectangular buildings painted in bright colours are spectacular, and along the eastern side, you can still see the terrace and dry docks for repairs known as Arsenali.

From the eastern end, you can walk along a long path toward the famous lighthouse, a city symbol. It has a minaret shape given to it during the Egyptian period of the 1830s, although originally built at the beginning of the 17th century. 

I highly recommend taking this tour of Old Town and the harbour and marvelling in the stunning architecture.

Wander the Streets of Rethymno Old Town

Colourful and quaint, you can’t miss Rethymnon Old Town – it’s one of the best places to visit in Crete. In fact, it’s the third largest city on the island with the best preserved Old Town. 

The winding cobblestone alleys are from as far back as the 14th century, and its Renaissance mansions, arches, and catholic churches still stand in all their glory. 

The Neratz Mosque is a particular point of interest, though. It began as a Venetian church until its conversion to a Mosque by the Ottomans for almost 300 years until 1925, and now it’s the city’s municipal odeon. Regular music concerts blast their melodies here. 

There’s also the 17th-century Venetian Loggia and the Rimondi Fountain from 1629 to see, as well as Corinthian columns and Gothic archways. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places in Crete, and you can immerse yourself further with this walking tour of Rethymnon Old Town.

Visit Apiri Greek Eatery

A visit to Crete without heading to the Apiri Greek Eatery is criminal, if you ask me. It might be small, but the atmosphere is calm and cosy, and it serves a modern take on cuisine that you can’t miss. The dishes are artistically presented, and – just as importantly – the wine list is superb.

The menu isn’t limited to Greek food, but offers a range of worldly inspirations. The beef tartare is exceptional, as is the rib-eye steak with puréed sweet potatoes. Don’t forget to try the rooster goulash or the goat stew for something different.  

Stick around and you might just get a little freebie for dessert, too.

Pretend You’re a Greek King at Knossos 

The capital of Minoan Crete, Knossos, is the name of the ancient palace and the city surrounding it. Built about 3,000 years ago, according to myth, King Minos sat upon the palace’s throne with his deadly labyrinth beneath its floors. 

Yes, the same labyrinth where the Minotaur stalked through endless darkened corridors (Greek mythology buffs – or anyone who has read Ariadne –  do I have your attention?).

There may not be a labyrinth to explore, but there is a spectacular reception courtyard, a Throne Room, Sanctuary, and the Royal Apartments if you walk along the Royal Way. 

Otherwise, there are frescoes to gaze at and all sorts of majestic ruins uncovered in the excavation in 1900. It’s the best place to go in Crete for an insight into its history.

Top Tip : Take this private tour around the Palace for a unique experience.

Wind Your Way Through Chania Old Town

Looking for things to do in Chania, Crete? This beautiful city on the island’s northwest side is a must for Crete sightseeing. The Old Town has romantic alleyways steeped in character and old-world charm, with overgrown pot plants trailing over wrought-iron railings and original brick façades.

The Venetian District is home to the most picturesque streets, thanks to the era-authentic architecture and mansions that are now boutique hotels. On the other hand, the Turkish Quarter of Old Town is where the locals indulge in sumptuous food. 

Restaurants line the streets, serving everything from traditional Cretan dishes to high-end fusion cuisine. You’ll even be able to see the Minaret of Ahmet Aga from here and perhaps catch a glimpse of the restored 16th-century monastery near it. 

Need a guiding hand? This tour will take you to all the highlights of Chania Old Town and (more importantly) show you where the good grub is. 

Spot the Roman Ruins at Gortyna

Surrounded by lush greenery, the Roman Ruins at Gortyna are an unmissable edition to your Crete bucket list.

Situated just 50km from Heraklion, the ruins here are Roman as opposed to the Minoan offerings that dot most of Crete. Make sure you snoop out the slice of wall that is marked with the Law of Gortyn (the earliest known Greek law FYI), dating from first half of the 5th century BC.

Other highlights of this site include the Odeon from 1st Century AD and the Church of St Titus from the 6th Century AD. Oh, and take five to sit under the beautiful plane tree – it’s where Zeus and Europa apparently *ahem* got busy.

Unique Things to See & Do in Crete: Hidden Gems That are Off the Beaten Track

Dine at emilia’s restaurant.

Nestled in the mountains, Emilia’s is a hidden gem slowly gaining traction with the international crowd (the locals have long been in the know and I don’t blame them for trying to keep it a secret). 

The views are incredible, but it’s the atmosphere and food that keep bringing people back for more. 

It’s a family-run endeavour with home-grown ingredients making up authentic Cretan dishes. Try the rabbit and omelet for a soul-satisfying meal, or simply drop by for a coffee and ice cream on your way back along the Sarakina Gorge hike. 

Chill Out on Spilies Beach

Unless a local or an avid traveller in the know tipped you off (you’re welcome), you’d be hard-pressed to discover Spilies Beach. Secreted away down a rural road, it’s one of the most beautiful hidden beaches and best places to go in Crete. 

With low cliffs embracing it on both sides, this pebbled beach is only 328 feet wide, but it’s fully organised. Sunbeds, umbrellas, four-poster lounges with curtains; you name it, they have it. 

There’s also a taverna and beach bar to keep you fed and watered. That is, when you aren’t basking in the crystal-clear waters. 

It’s 17 km from Rethymnon and a minute’s drive off the highway to Heraklion. The signage is easy to miss, so ensure you get good directions. 

Gawk At the Arkadi Monastery

Somehow simple and elaborate simultaneously, the Arkadi Monastery stands proudly southeast of Rethymnon and is an essential landmark for the Cretans. It rests on a plateau surrounded by olive trees, vineyards, and oaks. 

Famed for its gold embroidery and rich library in Ottoman times, it also has a tear-inducing history. During the Cretan Revolt, 943 Greeks walled themselves in the monastery for three days, holding out against the Ottomans. 

Ultimately, they chose to ignite their gunpowder barrels and martyr themselves instead of surrendering. Today, the site is a Greek national sanctuary, and the Cretans observe the day of the explosion, 8th November.   

Top Tip : This e-bike tour will take you to the monastery and neighbouring villages. 

Have a Sunbathing Sesh on Elafonisi Beach

Stuck for ideas on what to do in Crete? Visit Elafonisi Beach. It’s famous for its pink sands, which also dominate the dunes on its namesake island. Located between the mainland and Elafonisi Island, the beach’s waters are crystalline and shallow. 

You can walk comfortably through the ankle-deep pockets of water or lie back and enjoy the azure skies above with the gentle kiss of the ocean on your skin. 

Either way, bring your camera because you won’t want to forget this piece of pink paradise.   

Top Tip : You can visit Elafonisi Island on this hassle-free tour .

Explore Spinalonga Island 

Just off the northeastern coast of Crete is a little gem of an island I urge you to explore – Spinalonga Island is dotted with both Leper colony ruins and pretty pebble beaches that line the azure coastline. 

But, while sunbathing on the sand is off the cards here, there are plenty of other things to do on this small, uninhabited island. Mainly exploring the Venetian and Ottoman ruins that pepper the islet. There’s even a museum that explores the island’s fascinating (and cruel) history.

The best part? From Plaka, the boat ride to Spinalonga is just ten minutes, making it an incredible day – or even half day – trip.

Marvel at Koules Fortress

Another hidden gem you need to visit in Crete, Koules Fortress sits at the entrance of the old port of Heraklion. Dating back to the 16th century, it was built by the Republic of Venice but still stands in pretty excellent condition today.

The two story fortress originally boasted 18 cannons on the ground, with a further 25 on the top floor – if you look closely you’ll notice the different types of stone that have been built up on the fortress throughout the years.

Visiting the fortress is free between November and March, as well as a few selected sundays throughout the year. Aside from that, it costs two euros to enter, but this allows you to explore the fortress in all its glory.

Hang Out on the Beaches of the Southwest Coast

Where do I begin to rave about the beaches of the Southwest Coast of Crete? 

Maybe with Triopetra Beach, which sits surrounded by some rather kooky rock formations. Or, just up the coast, Preveli Beach feels like a little secret that only you and the other sunbathers know about.

Though a little bit out of the way, Ilingas Beach is small but worth the drive for the dramatic views alone, while Agios Pavos is larger (and slightly more busy), but this has its own benefits. The nearby Seloudas Viewpoint makes for an epic trek – in fact, this side of the island is home to many wonderful hikes, caves, and ruins to explore.

Things to Do in Crete: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How long to visit in crete .

This obviously depends on budget, time, itinerary, and all that good stuff. But, the minimum number of days I’d recommend for a stay in Crete is five days. This will allow you to see the major attractions, although your trip may be a tad rushed. 

If I’m totally honest, a ten day trip will give you the best experience, with time to visit every impressive attraction the island has to offer. Not to mention, plenty of time to chill out on those dreamy Greek beaches.

Best Time to Visit Crete

I imagine by now you’ve got Skyscanner open and you’re itching to book those flights. Hold up sunshine, let me help. 

Knowing when to visit Crete can make or break your trip. July and August are the peak tourist months as it’s the height of summer, so I recommend opting for a  mid-May to June trip. This is the perfect spring option, with wildflowers blooming everywhere and warm waters. 

Or, if you’re budget-conscious, September to October are better months as autumn ushers in a cooler climate and lower accommodation and airfare rates. It’ll also be far less tourist dense.  

Where Should I Stay in Crete? 

Galaxy iraklio hotel (mid-range) .

Delightfully modern with all the home comforts you could ask for, this five-star hotel boasts two gourmet restaurants, a free wellness centre, and a freshwater pool. 

Rooms at Galaxy Iraklio have air-conditioning and Egyptian cotton sheets, and the fitness centre is superb. On an affordable budget, you’ll fall into a luxurious stupor at Galaxy Iraklio Hotel. 

Check Rates and Availability

Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa  (Luxury) 

Luxury and old-world charm combine in this five-star hotel in Old Town Chania. This 17th-century Venetian mansion has courtyard and rooftop terraces for divine views, and each of the rooms offer luxurious bedding and marble bathrooms. 

The on-site spa will soothe your soul after a long day of sightseeing. That is, unless you’d rather take a short stroll to the beach.  

Recommended Tours in Crete 

• From Rethymno: Arkadi, Melidoni, and Margarites Tour
• Rethymno: Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks
• From Rethymno: Half-Day Quad Bike Safari
• From Rethymno: Samaria Gorge Full-Day Trek with Pickup

Things to Do in Crete: Map 

Read More Greek Travel Guides

• The Best Things to do in Crete
• The Perfect Crete Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Crete
• Gorgeous Airbnbs in Crete
• Rethymno Travel Guide
• Chania Travel Guide
• The Best Time to Visit Crete
• Gorgeous Beaches in Crete
• When’s the Best Time to Visit Greece?
• What to Pack for Greece
• Greece Travel Guide: What to See and Tips
• Brilliant Things to do in Greece

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Must-see attractions in Crete

Palace of Knossos

Crete’s most famous historical attraction is the Palace of Knossos, the grand capital of Minoan Crete, located 5km south of the city of Iraklio. The…

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

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Iraklio Province

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Phaestos was the second-most-important Minoan palace-city after Knossos and enjoys an awe-inspiring setting with panoramic views of the Messara Plain and…

Zakros Palace

Lasithi Province

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Spinalonga Island

Tiny Spinalonga Island became a leper colony in 1903 and catapulted into pop-cultural consciousness thanks to Victoria Hislop's 2005 bestselling novel The…

Moni Arkadiou

Rethymno Province

The 16th-century Arkadi Monastery, 23km southeast of Rethymno, has deep significance for Cretans. As the site where hundreds of cornered locals massacred…

Hania Province

Tucked into Crete’s southwestern corner, this symphony of fine pink-white sand, turquoise water and gentle rose dunes looks like a magical dreamscape. As…

The ruins of the ancient city of Aptera, about 13.5km east of Hania, spread over two hills that lord grandly over Souda Bay. Founded in the 7th century BC…

Hania Archaeological Museum

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Melidoni Cave

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Chrissi Island

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Venetian Harbour

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Moni Agias Triadas

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Koules Fortress

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Archaeological Museum of Rethymno

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Manousakis Winery

A family-run business for over 25 years, this pretty winery in the village of Vatolakkos – 16km southwest of the centre of Hania – is well worth a visit…

Palace of Malia

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Ancient Lato

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Moni Toplou

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Historical Museum of Crete

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Church of Panagia Kera

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This broad sweep of beach has magical-looking pink-cream sands and teal waters and is known for its stunning sunsets. Along with superb water clarity,…

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The ruins of ancient Lissos are a pleasant 3.5km hike from Sougia on the coastal (though not waterfront) path to Paleohora, which starts at the far end of…

Ancient Eleutherna

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Moni Preveli

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Rethymno’s compact historic harbour is chock-a-block with tourist-geared fish tavernas and cafes. For a more atmospheric perspective, walk along the…

Preveli Beach

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Mt Yiouhtas Peak Sanctuary

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Cretan Brewery

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Museum of Cretan Ethnology

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Throne Room

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More destinations you need to see

22°C / 71°F Rethymno

#incredible_crete, sense the authentic, welcome to our island.

The mountains and sea, the nature all around you, adventures awaiting you, the overabundant gastronomy, a culture which is expressed in many different ways, the music and art forms.

Crete is the largest Greek island and a landmark in the maritime crossroads between the West and the East, Europe and Africa, a unique and fascinating place full of transitions and surprises.

With its infinite coastline and mountain tops, a history that spans back to the end of times and a distinctive identity that bears its mark on every corner of the Cretan land, it is a one of a kind destination for every type of traveller.

Whether coming to the island for the first time or as a regular visitor, the endless beauty of Crete, either visible or out of sight, is unparalleled and yearns to be discovered.

From one side of the island to the next and from dawn to dusk, let yourself be swept away by its alluring nature and you will uncover YOUR OWN and Authentic Crete!

Necropolis of Armeni

Explore seasons.

Crete is an ideal place to visit all year round. Its mild climate and its unique mountainous features attract visitors before and after the established touristy summer season. Crete’s stunning natural beauty awakens in visitors an imperative need to discover its mountains, its gorges, its paths.

Nothing is repeated in Crete. Enormous geological contradictions and special weather conditions have formed unique landscapes, surprising the visitors and keeping senses constantly alert. Each route in Crete is unique. Variant sensations, pictures, colors, flavors, sounds accompany visitors at every step.

From the dunes of Lafonissi and Xerokambos to the tropical shores of Kedrodasos and Chrissi, from the hidden beaches in the wild gorges of Sfakia and Asteroussia to the emerald bays of Triopetra and Plakias, from Balos and Elounda lagoons to the palm groves of Preveli and Vai, from piney beaches of Ierapetra to the long organized strands of the northern coasts, Crete offers the ultimate combination of carefree holidays and natural beauty.

Crete is a heaven for nature lovers and those combining adventure and fun on their vacation. The island offers a variety of activities and opportunities for exploring nature and promises a unique and unforgettable experience for those who decide to explore it.

Explore Crete

Select an area to learn more about it., explore tastes.

The unique Cretan Diet is a healthy and tasty diet with centuries-old recipes and modern creative versions, which are always cooked, of course, with the same top quality pure products of the blessed Cretan earth. This diet is not just a variety of dishes presented on the table; it embodies a whole philosophy of life, the quality way of life of the Cretan people. The lucky ones that will visit the modern restaurants in the cities or the small taverns and cafes in the country will have wonderful experiences, participating in the life of the local people.

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Greece · May 26, 2023

15 Top Things to Do in Crete, Greece – Your Ultimate Travel Guide!

Are you planning a trip to Greece and looking to explore beyond Athens? Look no further than Crete (sometimes spelled Kreta ), the largest and most diverse of the Greek islands. With ancient landmarks, natural wonders, and delicious cuisine, Crete has something for everyone. In this ultimate guide, we will cover the 15 top things to do in Crete. From the bustling city of Heraklion to the picturesque beaches of Elafonisi and Balos Lagoon. We will also provide tips on how to get to and around Crete, as well as recommendations for wine and olive oil tasting and even a cooking class. So get ready to immerse yourself in Crete’s rich history and breathtaking beauty. And you’ll be sure come home with memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQ: What to Know Before You Go to Crete Island

Euros, but most places we went to accepted visa cards.

Electricity:

Greece requires European Plugs. So if you don’t already have a universal adaptor plug that works worldwide , I recommend bringing this on all your travels. We have this one and love it! Not only does it work with my computer and hair curler, it has the additional four USB plugs at the top, to charge all your phone and any other gadgets!

The locals told us to drink bottled water. Hopefully, this will change in the coming years. I hate buying bottled water, due to the plastic waste, which is why we always travel with our own re-usable water bottle with a built-in filter straw .

Where is Crete?

Before diving into the top attractions of Crete, it’s important to know where this magical island is located. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and sits in the southernmost part of Greece. It Is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the south and the Aegean Sea to the north. Its location makes it a popular destination for travellers looking for both beaches and history, as Crete has been inhabited since ancient times and boasts some of the oldest cities in Europe.

Now that you know where Crete is, let’s explore the four areas of the island that each offer a unique experience for visitors.

What are the Four Regions of Crete Island?

Crete is a vast island, and one of the best ways to explore it is to break it down into its four distinct regions. Starting from the northwest, Chania is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Crete, including Balos and Elafonisi. The city is rich in Venetian architecture, with charming streets and a bustling market.

Moving east, Rethymno has the perfect mix of beach and culture. The old Venetian town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and picturesque architecture. The beaches here are arguably the best on the island, with crystal-clear waters and golden sand.

Continuing along the southern coast, Heraklion is the capital of Crete and home to the ancient Minoan civilization. And one of the most iconic attractions here is the Palace of Knossos, which dates back to the Bronze Age. The city also features a vibrant nightlife scene and some fantastic dining options.

Finally, on the eastern side of the island, you’ll find Lassithi on the island’s eastern side. This region is known for its rugged coastline and stunning mountain scenery. It’s the perfect destination if you want to get away from the crowds and get in touch with the island’s natural beauty.

Now that you better understand Crete’s four regions, it’s time to plan your trip.

When to Travel to Crete Greece?

If you want to take advantage of all the beautiful beaches, April to October are the best months to travel to Crete.

We travelled to Greece in October, and I have to admit it was very windy and rainy on the islands. Plus, it got chilly at night. Although we had some sunshine, we didn’t swim as much as I wanted because it was too cool. On the flip side, it was less busy, and because of this, accommodation was cheaper. 

But, to my surprise, some Greek islands shut down for the “off-season” between November-April. Also, some of the restaurants and hotels we were looking at had already shut down for the season. So when we go back, I’d love to visit in June. This is when the days are longer, the weather is hotter, but the crowds are not at their peak.

In the next section, we’ll discuss how to get to Crete, and the best way to get around the island. Let’s dive in!

How to Get to Crete, Greece? 

Now that you better understand Crete’s top attractions, it’s time to think about how you’ll get to the island and get around once you’re there. Luckily, Crete has a few transportation options to choose from, depending on your budget and travel style.

If you’re coming from abroad, the easiest way to get to Crete is by plane. The island has three major airports: Chania International Airport, Heraklion International Airport, and Sitia Public Airport. Heraklion International is the largest and busiest airport, with flights arriving from all over Europe. If you’re coming from another Greek Island, you can also take a ferry to one of Crete’s many ports. 

How to get Around Crete Island?

Once you’re on the island, there are several ways to get around. Renting a car or scooter can be a great option if you want more flexibility. However, be aware that driving in Crete can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to narrow and winding roads. Alternatively, you can take public transportation like buses or taxis, if you prefer not to drive. Or my favourite way to get around without renting a car is to hop on a Get Your Guide Tour . Finally, if you’re staying in a larger city, walking or biking can be a great way to explore the area and see the sights.

With transportation options covered, it’s time to explore the many things to do in Heraklion.

15 Best Things to do in Crete

Things to do in heraklion region.

Heraklion, Crete’s largest city, is a bustling metropolis with plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained. Known as the birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilization, this region is steeped in history and brimming with archaeological wonders. Explore the iconic Palace of Knossos, an impressive ancient site that unveils the grandeur of the Minoan world. Immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Heraklion, with its vibrant streets, lively markets, and enchanting Venetian architecture. Indulge in the region’s delectable cuisine, sip on exquisite local wines, and soak up the sun on breathtaking beaches. The Heraklion Region is a treasure trove of cultural richness, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, making it an essential destination for any traveller exploring the wonders of Crete.

Cretan wine tasting in Heraklion

For those who appreciate a good glass of wine, a trip to Heraklion is not complete without a visit to one of the local wineries. Heraklion has a long history of winemaking, dating back to the Minoan civilization, and is now one of the top wine-producing regions in Greece .

A wine-tasting tour is a perfect way to experience the unique flavours of Cretan wine. You can sample various wines, from fruity and aromatic white wines to bold and complex reds. And, of course, no wine tasting would be complete without trying the region’s famous dessert wine, made with sun-dried grapes.

This experience also offers guided tours of their two vineyards and facilities, giving you an insider’s view of the winemaking process. Plus, you can learn about the different grape varieties grown in the region, the methods used to harvest and crush the grapes, and the aging and bottling process.

After your tasting tour , take time to explore the rest of Heraklion’s many attractions. From the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace to the vibrant city streets, there is so much to see and do in this vibrant city.

Next on our list is the famous Knossos Palace, which offers a window into the fascinating history of the Minoan civilization.

Knossos Palace – A Window to Minoan Civilization

From Heraklion’s historic city centre, it’s just a short drive to the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace , the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete. The palace was the centre of Minoan civilization and is said to have been home to King Minos and the mythical Minotaur. Stepping through the ruins of this once-great palace, visitors can catch glimpses of the grandeur and sophistication of the Minoan civilization, with intricate frescoes and well-preserved buildings. 

Knossos Palace is an iconic attraction that history buffs and culture aficionados shouldn’t miss . And once you’ve finished exploring the site, you can head to the nearby Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see even more artifacts and treasures from the Minoan era.

* Pro tip: If you plan to visit both the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, skip the ticket lines and save money by purchasing a combo e-ticket . This ticket also comes with a self-guided audio tour.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Located in the heart of Heraklion is one of the most fascinating museums in Greece – the Heraklion Archaeological Museum . The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Minoan civilization, including pottery, jewelry, and sculptures. 

The exhibition is beautifully organized and well-curated, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the history of Crete’s ancient civilization. Among the most striking exhibits is the Phaistos Disk, a mysterious artifact that has puzzled archaeologists for decades. 

Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Crete. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the Minoans and their impressive achievements in art and architecture. 

Tip: Skip the ticket lines and save money by entering the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum with a combo e-ticket . Explore the sites at your own pace with self-guided audio tours.

Koules Fortress (Rocca a Mare) in Heraklion, Greece

Located in Heraklion, the Koules Fortress is a historical gem that has stood the test of time. With a history dating back to the Venetian era, this fortress has played multiple roles. It went from a prison to a naval base, and today attracts visitors from across the world. Also known as Rocca a Mare, this ancient fortress is located just a short walk away from the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Thus, making it an ideal destination for tourists looking to indulge in the history and culture of Crete.

Visitors can stroll around the fortress, explore its various nooks and crannies, and soak in the region’s history. The views from the top of the fortress are particularly stunning, providing visitors with a panoramic view of the city, the harbour, and the surrounding countryside.

Sail from Heraklion to Dia island

For a unique experience, consider sailing on a large yacht from Heraklion to the enchanting Dia Island . Here, you can swim off of secluded beaches, enjoy a delicious meal, try water activities like SUP paddle boarding and snorkling, and sip on unlimited drinks. Choose between a morning trip or an afternoon voyage with a sunset view. Eitherway, sailing to Dia Island is a unique experience that you won’t want to miss during your stay in Crete.

After exploring all the best attractions in Heraklion, visitors can head to the next destination on their Crete itinerary – the charming town of Rethymnon. With its picturesque streets, stunning beaches, and historic landmarks, Rethymnon is a must-visit destination in Crete.

Things to do in Rethymnon

As visitors continue their journey through Crete, they will find themselves enamoured by the charming town of Rethymnon. Located on the north coast of the island, Rethymnon boasts a mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, winding streets, and a picturesque harbour. With a rich history dating back to the Minoan era, visitors can explore the numerous historic landmarks and attractions nestled within the town’s walls.

The Arkadi Monastery – A Story of Heroism

Take a break from the beach and discover small villages, rural landscapes, and the island’s oldest monastery on this group tour. The Arkadi Monastery stands as a testament to the endurance of the Cretan people in the face of occupation and oppression. During the Ottoman rule, the monastery was a refuge for locals who sought to protect their families and their way of life. In 1866, Ottomans laid siege to the monastery, trapping over 900 people inside its walls. Despite being vastly outnumbered and outgunned, the defenders of the monastery fought bravely for two days until the Ottomans finally breached the walls. What followed was a tragic scene of mass suicide, as the Cretan fighters, women, and children chose death over surrender to their oppressors.

Today, visitors to the Arkadi Monastery can witness the bullet holes and damage from the siege and pay their respects at the memorial to the fallen heroes of the resistance. The story of the Arkadi Monastery serves as a reminder of the courage and resilience of the Cretan people in their struggle for freedom.

From the Arkadi Monastery, visitors can make their way to the Venetian Fortezza Castle, towering over the city of Rethymnon.

Venetian Fortezza Castle

From the Arkadi Monastery, visitors can make their way to the Venetian Fortezza Castle, towering over Rethymnon. This imposing 16th-century fortress was built by the Venetians to protect the city from Ottoman invaders. Today, it is one of Crete’s most recognizable landmarks and a vital part of the island’s history.

The fortress offers stunning panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape, with its high walls and watchtowers. It’s also home to several fascinating exhibits, including a collection of ancient artifacts and weapons used by the Venetians and Ottomans during their battles to control the island.

For those interested in history and architecture, visiting the Venetian Fortezza Castle is a must. It’s a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and a reminder of the conflicts and struggles that shaped its past. After exploring the castle, visitors can continue their journey through Crete and discover even more of the island’s hidden treasures.

Next up, we’ll take a look at some of the top things to do in Chania and the surrounding areas.

Things to do in Chania Region

Chania and surrounding areas are a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance. From the stunning Venetian Fortezza Castle to the pristine beaches of Elafonissi and the Samaria Gorge, there is something for everyone in this part of Crete. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the Chania region has it all. In the following section, we’ll dive deeper into the top things to do in Chania. Plus, we’ll explore the unique cultural blend that makes this region so special.

Chania Old Town – A Mixture of Cultures

One of the most charming areas to explore in Chania is its old town. Here you’ll find a melting pot of cultures that have shaped the region over thousands of years. The narrow cobblestone streets filled with colourful buildings, ancient alleyways, and historical landmarks showcase the remnants of Venetian, Ottoman, and Byzantine influences. The beauty of this town lies in its unique mix of architectural styles and cultural backgrounds.

Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, marvel at the architectural wonders of the Venetian Harbour, and explore the town’s archaeological and maritime museums. As you wander the streets of Chania’s old town, you’ll see how the different cultures have influenced the town’s art, music, and dance. The city is home to many artists, musicians, and craftsmen. So be sure to explore they many workshops and galleries to appreciate their creations.

Afterwards, indulge in delectable Mediterranean cuisine, with many family-owned tavernas serving fresh seafood, Cretan wine, and traditional desserts like baklava.

Chania’s old town is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the diverse cultural heritage and essence of Crete. And if you’re looking for a natural retreat after delving into the town’s history and culture, the breathtaking Samaria Gorge is just a short drive away.

Samaria Gorge – A Walk Through Natural Beauty

A short drive from Chania lies the Samaria Gorge , a natural wonder offering a scenic and refreshing retreat from the town’s bustling streets. The gorge stretches for 18 kilometres and is an impressive sight to behold with its towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters. As you venture through the gorge, you’ll be surrounded by various flora and fauna, from wildflowers to eagles soaring overhead. This hike is challenging and can take anywhere from four to seven hours, depending on your pace. But it’s a must-do activity for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts , who are experienced and well equipped.

Afterwards, continue your adventure with a day trip to Stavros, a small village located on the northern coast of the Akrotiri Peninsula.

Take a Day Trip to Stavros

After a day of adrenaline-pumping hiking through the Samaria Gorge, it’s time to unwind in the tranquil village of Stavros. This small fishing village boasts stunning beaches and pristine waters, perfect for swimming or simply basking in the sun. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of the village’s beach restaurants, which offer a glimpse into local Cretan cuisine and culture. A day trip to Stavros is the ideal way to experience Crete’s natural beauty and hospitality.

Elafonisi Beach – A Pink Sand Paradise

Elafonisi Beach is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the breathtaking pink sand paradise in the southwestern part of Crete. The beach’s unique pink hue is caused by the tiny pink shells and coral flakes that mix with the fine white sand. The clear turquoise waters and the stunning views of the neighbouring islets of Elafonisi and Kedrodasos make the beach a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Aside from swimming and sunbathing, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on Elafonisi Beach, such as snorkelling and windsurfing. If you’re lucky enough, you might even spot some loggerhead turtles that have chosen the beach as their nesting spot.

When the day draws to a close, Elafonisi Beach transforms into a romantic spot for a sunset walk. The sky turns into a breathtaking blend of orange and pink hues that creates an alluring and calming atmosphere. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby where you can treat yourself to some delectable local dishes and indulge in the relaxed Cretan lifestyle.

Elafonisi Beach is a Crete must see attraction that showcases the natural beauty of Crete.

Balos Lagoon – A Natural Wonder

Balos Lagoon is a natural wonder and is easily one of the most beautiful places in Crete. This secluded spot is tucked away amidst rocky cliffs and turquoise waters, creating a breathtaking display that will leave you in awe. Unfortunately, the lagoon is only accessible by boat or a strenuous hike, but the effort is worth it for the stunning views that await you. 

In order to experience Balos Beach for yourself, join an unforgettable guided trip from Chania to Kissamos . On this excursion you’ll get the chance to experience the beauty of Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon Beach. Plus, you’ll skip the lines and enjoy a seamless journey with pickup from your hotel, a comfortable ferry ride, and insightful commentary on the island’s history. Take in breathtaking landscapes, hike to the Venetian fortress, and swim at the stunning Balos Lagoon for an incredible day of exploration. As you enter the lagoon, you’ll be met with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. You might even catch a glimpse of some local marine life, like dolphins or sea turtles.

Capture stunning photos and return in time for dinner. Don’t miss out on this best selling experience to create lasting memories . These were truly some of the most unique and beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen.

Swim at Seitan Limania Beach

If you aren’t sick of Crete beaches yet, head to Seitan Limania Beach. A local favourite known for its breathtaking cliffs and clear blue waters. The unique rock formations and white sand beaches create the perfect backdrop for a day of sunbathing and swimming. We went here two times, once during the day, and enjoyed hours jumping off the rocks and swimming. And another time right before sunset, when we had the beach to ourself!

Take a Cooking Class 

If you’re looking for an authentic way to experience Crete, taking a cooking class is a must . Not only will you learn how to make delicious traditional Cretan dishes, but you’ll also discover the local produce and ingredients that make the cuisine so unique. This cooking class take place in charming village of the White Mountains near Chania, allowing you to explore this area of the island that you might not have discovered otherwise.

In this cooking class, you’ll follow a local chef as they guide you through the process of making everything from tzatziki to feta cheese. In addition, you’ll learn about the history of Cretan cuisine and how it has been influenced by centuries of cultural and culinary exchange. And, of course, you’ll get to taste everything you make, plus, try some local cheese and wine.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, taking a cooking class in Crete is an experience not to be missed. And with so many delicious dishes to try, you’ll never run out of inspiration for your own cooking back home.

Go wine & olive oil tasting

After immersing yourself in Cretan cooking, why not take your taste buds on a journey with a visit to a local winery or olive oil farm ? Crete is known for producing high-quality olive oil and flavorful wines. Thus making a tasting tour a must-do activity during your stay.

You can take a tour and learn about the production process of olive oil and wine, from the trees and grapes to the bottles. Taste different varieties of olive oils and wines, and get recommendations for the perfect pairing with your favourite Cretan dishes. You might even find a new favourite flavour to bring back home with you.

These wineries and olive oil farms offer stunning views of the Cretan landscape, making for a truly unforgettable experience. So sip on a glass of wine or olive oil while enjoying the breathtaking views.

A wine and olive oil tasting tour is the perfect way to continue your culinary exploration of Crete and a fitting end to your adventure exploring the island’s top attractions.

What to Pack for Greek Island Hopping

1. sun hat:.

A stylish sun hat is a must-have accessory for your Greek island hopping adventure. Not only does it add a touch of glamour to your outfit, but it also provides much-needed shade and UPF 50 to protect your face from the scorching Mediterranean sun.

2. Lightweight Cover-ups & Towel:

From beach to bar, you’ll want a versatile cover-up to throw on over your swimsuit. Choose a breezy dress, a flowy kimono, or a cute sarong to add a touch of effortless elegance to your island-hopping wardrobe. Also, a sarong can double as a lightweight towel. But if you don’t have one, you can also bring these lightweight and quick-dry towels to use at the beach. We found a lot of our hotels/Airbnbs didn’t supply us with beach towels, so these were handy to have!

3. Comfortable Sandals:

Exploring the charming cobblestone streets and ancient ruins calls for a pair of comfortable sandals. Opt for these ones that are not only cute but also sturdy enough to keep up with your island adventures. Your feet will thank you!

4. Stylish Swimwear:

Get ready to dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Greek islands in style! Pack your favourite bikinis and one-piece suits to make a splash and feel fabulous. Don’t forget to snap those Insta-worthy beach pics!

5. Travel-sized Camera:

Capture the breathtaking beauty of the Greek islands with a compact camera that fits in your purse . From stunning sunsets to picturesque landscapes, you’ll want to preserve those special moments forever. Get snap-happy and create memories that will make you smile long after you return home.

6. Flowy Dresses & Linen sets:

Embrace the carefree island vibes with a collection of flowy dresses and this trendy linen set . Perfect for exploring charming villages or sipping cocktails by the beach. These breezy outfits will keep you stylish and comfortable throughout your island hopping adventure.

Remember, the key to a perfect Greek island hopping adventure is to pack light, stay comfortable, and embrace the carefree spirit of summer! Pack these essentials, and you’ll be ready to make unforgettable memories while looking effortlessly fabulous. 

What activities will you do in Crete Greece?

Crete, Greece, is a treasure trove of stunning natural wonders and fascinating ancient landmarks. And because it is the biggest island in Greece, there is so much to see and do. Our ultimate guide has covered the top 15 Crete attractions, from the Minoan civilization of Knossos Palace to the pink sand paradise of Elafonisi Beach. If you can see at least a few of these incredible attractions during your trip to Crete you are bound to have an amazing holiday. We hope that this guide has helped you make the most out of your visit to the beautiful Greek island of Crete.

Are you planning a trip to Crete, Greece? I hope this guide has helped you find the top things to do in Crete. But if you have any further questions, asked them in the comments below.

Travelling Onwards from Crete? Read These:

See my full range of Greece itineraries and travel guides below:

10-Days in Greece Itinerary: The Best Route for Greek Island Hopping

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Milos Travel Guide

Santorini Travel Guide for First-Time Travellers

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23 Unique Things to Do in Crete

Written By: Gabriela Ancarola

Updated On: March 14, 2024

Crete is the biggest island in Greece. It’s such a diverse place that no matter which region you choose to visit, there’s always a new landscape ready to blow your mind. There are so many amazing things to do in Crete. With high peaks and deep gorges to explore pristine beaches, and romantic urban scenes, Crete is the perfect destination for your next adventure!

Table of Contents

Not to Miss Things to do in Crete

Crete has always been my favorite Greek island, both for short escapes and for long holidays. Frequent visits made me realize that I couldn’t live anywhere else. So I packed up and found a new home on Crete. I’ve spent the last five years touring the island and I’ve learned what places are truly worth a visit. If this list of things to do in Crete manages to convince you to book your next holiday, check my Crete Travel Guide .

1. Minoan Palace of Knossos

If there’s one thing that makes Crete stand out is its millennial history and the impressive collection of archaeological sites .  Known for being the cradle of western civilization, Crete is home to ancient settlements and ruins spread all over the island.

The most important one is the Minoan Palace of Knossos . Knossos is located just 10 minutes away from the capital of the island, Heraklion. English archaeologist Arthur Evans who was a pioneer in the study of Aegean civilization in the Bronze Age, excavated Knossos at the turn of the 20th Century. The secret to avoiding the crowds of tourists is to visit the palace early in the morning or right after sunset.

2. Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

To better understand the past of the mysterious Minoans, visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum located in the center of the capital of Crete. This way, you’ll be able to appreciate the objects found on the site as well as in many other settlements around Crete. Book a private Heraklion wine and history tour.

3. Balos Beach and Lagoon

If you’ve already been doing some online research for your holiday in Crete, I bet you’ve come across a picture of this exotic shore more than once. Balos Beach is one of Crete’s most popular beaches. Planning a trip to Greece? You may want to read: Is Greece Expensive, a complete guide to costs for travel in Greece.

Balos Beach is located in the western regional unit of Chania, on the northern tip of the barren Gramvousa Peninsula.  Despite being hard to reach, which requires some off-road travel and a bit of hiking, it is worth every effort once you’re in front of this awe-inspiring sight.

Balos Lagoon is a shallow lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand. It is the highlight of any holiday to Crete if you know how to plan your trip to Balos .

4. Old Town of Chania

Crete is an island with a complex history. Located in the center of the Mediterranean, this rich land has attracted virtually every civilization ever ruling in the region. Conquered by the Romans, the Venetians, and the Ottoman Empire, the cities of Crete combine different architectural styles creating an eclectic landscape. 

The old town of Chania is one of those cities. Venetian mansions, Turkish minarets, and fortification walls give a unique character to this romantic town.

The colorful alleys, its Venetian Harbor, and the Egyptian lighthouse have nothing to do with the whitewashed landscape of other Greek islands such as Santorini . But they certainly make the old town of Chania one of the prettiest cities in Greece.

5. Pink Sand Beach of Elafonisi Beach

The exotic beaches of Crete do not end with Balos. The fantastic beach of Elafonisi is another must-visit place in any given Crete holiday.  Located on the southern coast of Crete, Elafonisi has beautiful blue shallow waters and pink sands that make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the world .

Traveling to Elafonisi can be an adventure on its own. To reach the beach you drive along the bends of the breathtaking gorge of Topolia, a unique ravine surrounded by high mountain walls and lush vegetation.

6. Samaria Gorge

One of the most popular places for adventure in Crete is the gorge of Samaria. Located in a national park and a Global Biosphere Reserve, this 13 km hike is among the best things to do in Crete.

The trail is open from May to October and can take from 4 to 7 hours to complete. The hike takes you from the Omalos Plateau to the southern coast of the island.

On the way, you may be able to catch a view of the kri-kri, t he wild goat of Crete. It roams freely on the high walls of Samaria.

7. the White Mountains

The Samaria Gorge is just one of many gorges in the Lefka Ori (White Mountains) of Crete. They got their name from the grey limestone that appears white throughout the year. (even after the snow melts in late spring.) The jagged mountain range is a striking image. You can hike through the old footpaths from short 3-5 hour hikes to multi-day treks.

8. The Extreme East

Usually underrated and overlooked, the eastern coast of Crete has unique opportunities for exploring off-the-beaten-track. The east of Crete is full of amazing things to do, starting with the fantastic beach of Vai . It’s home to Europe’s largest natural palm tree forest.

Not far from Vai is the historic monastery of Toplou . It is a beautiful fortified building with colorful gardens and an interesting museum mostly focused on the years of the Nazi occupation. 

If you want to try some authentic Greek food, make sure to go wine tasting in the winery of the monastery, or taste their super fragrant extra virgin olive oil.

9. The Leper Island of Spinalonga

Close to the city of Agios Nikolaos, there’s a small islet with a tragic history and immense beauty. Spinalonga was a former leper colony for leprosy patients during the 19th century.

Today, the island has been transformed into an archaeological site that you can tour on your own or by booking an organized trip . Inside Spinalonga, you can check out the hospital, the houses of the patients, and a small but interesting museum.

• To visit Spinalonga, you need to board a boat in the nearby resort of Elounda, or in the small fishing village of Plaka.

10. The Lasithi Plateau

Over 800 meters above the sea level, the Lasithi Plateau remains one of the highest continuously inhabited centers in southern Europe since the Minoan times . 

A drive along the circuit of the plateau will take you through small, forgotten mountain villages, apple trees, stone windmills with white sails, and one of Crete’s most impressive caves, Diktaion Andron.  Also known as the Cave of Zeus , Diktaion Andron is a grotto located in the village of Psychro.

According to the legend, it’s the place where the most important Greek god spent his early years under the care of nymphs and a nurturing goat.

11. Matala Beach

Not everyone is aware that Crete was one of the first ex-pat communities in the world. Hippies and rebels from the 1960s left everything behind to lead a light-hearted life in the caves of this southern beach. Matala never got rid of this flower-power vibe.

Every year, music festivals take place in the village gathering local and international musicians as well as a faithful tribe of hippies, in love with the carefree lifestyle of Matala.

12. Minoan Palace of Malia

If you’re not certain whether to visit a beach or an archaeological site, a day trip to the Archaeological Site of Malia can cater to both!  This Minoan settlement is located very close to Malia, one of Crete’s most popular resorts. And it is less than half an hour away from the capital of the island, Heraklion .

You can spend a morning exploring the ancient Minoan settlement, and the afternoon on the beach of Malia. Stay the night and party at one of the several discos and pubs in town.

13. Wine Region of Heraklion

Just a few kilometers inland from the capital Heraklion, you will find one of the most precious secrets of the island, the wines of Crete. The area hosts the ancient Cretan Vineyard which has been producing excellent wines for 4000 years.

With over 12 different native grape varieties, the Cretan wine scene boasts one-of-a-kind labels that you should definitely try.  Book a wine tasting session to learn everything about the wine making process in Crete. Many vineyards share how to pair Cretan wines with local cheese, olives, dry tomatoes, and Cretan rusks.

14. Traditional Villages

There are endless villages that still treasure the ancient customs of the island. One of these places is Anogeia, a small mountain village in the region of Rethymnon. It is also home to some of the best musicians in Crete.

During a visit to this village, don’t miss trying the local dish – goat meat cooked on the spit in a local taverna. Anogeia is also known for its embroidery and other crafts that old women still produce and sell in the courtyards of their homes.

15. Old Town of Rethymnon

The city of Rethymnon is home to another old town full of Venetian and Turkish landmarks. One of the places to visit in town is the Venetian Fortezza, a magnificent fortified castle built to help protect the city against recurring pirate attacks. Also in the old town, take walk along the small Venetian harbor and explore the maze of cobblestone alleys, the Ottoman balconies, and the minarets that populate Rethymnon’s skyline. 

Traditional fishing villages are other places you can visit in Crete to discover local traditions. Loutro is the most picturesque of them all . The small village of Loutro is located on the southern coast of Crete on the Libyan sea.

It is a magical place accessible only by boat or hiking a high coastal path. Take a day tour to relax on the beach, swim in the crystalline waters, and feast on seafood platters in the many seaside tavernas.

17. Seitan Limania Beach

One more beach has made its way to the collection of iconic sights of Crete and that is Seitan Limania.  Located less than 20 km from the city of Chania, the impressive lightning-bolt shape of the bay and the unique shades of blue have put Seitan Limania among the best places to visit in Crete.

There are no amenities and the beach is rather isolated, so it is a good idea to pack everything you need for the day. I suggest food and drinks, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen. 

Great Cretan Gastronomic Experiences

Greece is known all over the world for its healthy and tasty diet . The Cretan diet is not only healthy and full of flavor, it’s strictly fresh and seasonal with tons of top quality extra virgin olive oil. Here are 5 Cretan gastronomic experiences to discover the best of the local cuisine.

18. Municipal Market of Chania

The Agora or municipal market in the city of Chania is the best place on the island to learn about every staple product from Crete. Inside Chania’s public marketplace, local producers sell goat and sheep cheeses, fresh wild greens, snails, thyme honey, extra virgin olive oil, and fragrant bread fresh form the wooden oven.

You can sample the delicious food and if you visit during midday, the market is a fantastic place to have a traditional homemade meal at very convenient prices. Dishes such as moussaka, and spinach pies or zucchini pies , unique village recipes, and local soups and stews as well.

19. Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a Greek delicacy which has turned into one of Crete’s favorite sweets. Bougatsa is a pocket of phyllo pastry filled with custard or cheese, served with a topping of honey, sugar or cinnamon and usually paired with a cup of authentic Greek coffee. Two of the most traditional places to taste this sweet on the island are:

• Kirkor – located in Heraklion, it has been making bougatsa since 1921 
• Iordanis – Located in Chania, it has been open since 1924. It serves bougatsa filled with a local variety of cheese called myzithra. 

Tsikoudia, or Cretan raki is something you must try when visiting Crete. After the winemaking season is done with, the people distille tsikoudia. This high alcohol volume drink is served with appetizers at the beginning of a meal, or with fruit and yogurt as a dessert. Raki is often served on important occasions such as welcoming guests or family reunions.

21. Fine Dining in Crete

Dining in Crete can range from high-end fusion restaurants to tasty street food eaten on the go. In every case, the dishes are prepared using fresh products grown locally.

• Peskesi is the most famous restaurant in Crete located in Heraklion. It is the best place to find authentic dishes and traditional cooking methods.
• Avli is located in the heart of the old town of Rethymnon. They use an abundant use of local herbs and delicious cheeses.
• Serenissima Restaurant is located in the alleys of the old town of Chania. It is one of the best culinary gems of Crete .

22. Fast Food in Crete

Greek fast-food is synonymous with gyros and souvlaki, the famous pita bread wrap that conquers everyone with its taste and simplicity. 

• In the city of Agios Nikolaos, Karnagio is the definite king of gyros.
• In Heraklion the most traditional gyro joint is Petrousis .
• In Rethymnon, you should add O Nikos Souvlaki as a must-dine place.
• In Chania, nobody beats the over 50 years of experience that Oasis Souvlaki has serving the best wraps in town.

23. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

With over 35,000,000 olive trees cultivated on the island, Cretans consume the largest quantity of olive oil in the world. About 35 liters per person per year. To have a better idea, compare that amount to the 17 liters consumed in the rest of Greece, and the 1.2 liters used in Australia! 

When visiting Crete, it’s a great idea to book an olive oil tour to learn all about this important industry.

As you can see, Crete is one of the most exciting islands to visit in Greece. So get ready to book your dream vacation to Crete today! If you enjoyed all of the amazing things to do in Crete, Save it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Read More Greek Island Travel Guides

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• A Photography Guide to Santorini
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Travel Planning Resources

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Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Gabriela Ancarola

Gabi is the founder of The Tiny Book, a blog about the Greek island of Crete, with useful inside tips about Crete, travel guides and itineraries to discover Crete. F ollow her on Pinterest or walk with her in a gastronomic tour of Chania . Follow Gabi at: TheTinyBook / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter

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6 thoughts on “23 Unique Things to Do in Crete”

I visited Crete last summer and I loved it! It was after Milos my favorite Greek island. Reading this just makes me want to go back again, especially because I haven’t done half of the things on this list yet :))

I have a business trip to Greece this coming February next year 2021! I never knew there was this island of Crete in Greece that is so paradise-like! I hope I can pay a visit to this place within my limited time of the 1-week business trip!

Hi Gabriela

Greece is the one of the great place to visit. Thank you for the post on “Things to do in there” IF so someone is going to crete must read this post.

What a beautiful island!!

Thanks for bring this closer in front of audiences!!

very helpful article about Crete, thank you for sharing this.

ohhh wow !! Crete is so beautiful place. Thanks for sharing this knowledge and guiding us for our better tour plan in future.

Visit Crete: Top 27 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 27 best things to do in crete (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Crete during your next trip? You want to know more about the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, i have prepared this guide of the 27 best things to do in Crete , with all the must-see attractions of this beautiful island located at the very South of Greece .

In this guide, you will learn everything about the most beautiful towns such as Chania or Heraklion , the best beaches ( Balos Beach , Elafonissi “the pink beach”) and activities as well as the natural wonders such as Samaria Gorge .

So, where to go in Crete? What are the best points of interest?

Let’s find out!

2. Balos beach

3. elafonissi beach, 4. the samaria gorge, 5. heraklion and the archaeological museum, 6. the palace of knossos, 7. rethymnon, 8. vai beach, 9. preveli beach / preveli monastery, 10. the other most beautiful beaches of crete, 11. hikes in crete, 12. the botanical garden of crete, 13. akrotiri peninsula, 14. kournas lake, 15. the lassithi plateau – zeus cave, 16. monasteries to visit in crete, 17. spinalonga island, 18. agios nikolaos, 19. the most beautiful caves to see in crete, 20. richtis gorge and waterfall, 21. xerokampos and its beaches, 23. hora sfakion and the south-east coast, 24. the cretan islets, 25. activities to do in crete, 26. typical villages, 27. discover cretan gastronomy in the taverns, best things to do in crete: the tourist map, crete tours, renting a boat in crete, you’re traveling to crete these articles will help you, visit crete: the 27 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay in Crete, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Crete – Itinerary to prepare a short stay in East or West Crete
• Itinerary: One week in Crete – The perfect itinerary to visit Western Crete
• Itinerary : 7 days in Crete – The best itinerary to visit East Crete in 1 week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Crete – How to visit Crete in 10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Crete – The perfect itinerary for 14-15 days in Crete

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

You must you start this tour guide of Crete with one of the prettiest towns on the island: Chania .

Located to the North-West , it is an excellent starting point for a trip to Crete : it has one international airport and is a good base for visiting some of the most famous places, such as the lagoon of Balos, the Elafonissi beach or the Samaria Gorge, as day-trips.

Places of interest to see in Chania:

• The Venetian Old Port, with its entrance marked by its lighthouse. It is bordered by nice cafés and restaurants where you can go for a drink.
• Fort Firkas offers a beautiful view of the port from the ramparts. Access to the inner courtyard is free.
• The maritime museum of Crete , which is part of the fort. It exhibits navigational instruments, boat models and other documents related to the history of the Navy.
• The old town and the alleys around the port for leather shops, jewellery shops and traditional souvenir shops.
• The covered market also has shops selling souvenirs and local products (cheese, pastries, alcohol).
• The archaeological museum of Chania for its collection of relics from the Neolithic to the Roman period.
• The Greek Orthodox cathedral, located in a pretty square in the old town.

Near Chania , you will also find some beaches if you want to a refreshing stop:

• Nea Chora , the closest to the centre and therefore very busy, but not necessarily the prettiest because it is located on the roadside
• Hrisi Akti , ideal for surfers
• Eastern Gulf, a small protected sandy cove bordered by pine forests. For me, it’s the prettiest beach near Chania!
• Agii Apostoli / Iguana Beach that looks a lot like Eastern Gulf but bigger.

Want more information about all places to visit in Chania? You can find it in my detailed article on the city, which you can read by clicking here: The best things to see and do in Chania?

Chania is not very big, you can easily cover everything on foot (especially as the city centre only allows pedestrians).

Keep 1 morning to visit Chania.

If there is one place you should not miss when in Crete , it is the famous Balos Beach, also called Balos Lagoon

Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete , it is located about 90 minute West of Chania.

The lagoon offers a superb stretch of shallow turquoise waters where it is impossible to resist a dip!

Bordered by a beautiful beach with fine sands of pink hues, with cape Tigani in the background and a view of the island of Gramvoussa , the setting is truly sublime and heavenly.

All the detailed information to get to Balos can be found in my article here: The guide to visit the lagoon of Balos.

You can go to Balos by car or opt for a day trip from Chania or Kissamos. You will then reach Balos Beach directly by boat.

You must particularly take one of these 2 cruises (click on the orange link to get all the info and book):

• From Kissamos – Boat trip to the lagoon of Balos + swimming (with stop at the island of Gramvoussa).
• From Chania – Hotel pick-up + Bus transfer to Kissamos + Cruise to Gramvoussa and Balos.

Along with the lagoon of Balos, the Elafonissi beach is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Crete.

What makes this island’s most famous beach special , regularly ranking among the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world , is its pink sand and shallow translucent water.

Enough to stock-up with photos for your Instagram account!

But if I have one advice for you, you shouldn’t stay on the main part of the beach (where everyone is) but cross over to the other side to enjoy a wilder setting.

Here you will find turquoise waters, pink sands and big rocks, and above all you, a much quieter setting for a swim!

All the practical information about Crete’s best known pink sand beach is in my other post: Elafonissi: the definitive guide.

Elafonissi beach is quite isolated , so if you haven’ t rented a car for your tour in Crete , you will have to take a transport-included trip to get there.

These trips are offered from 3 cities (click on the orange link for information):

• From Chania – my recommendation because it is the closest to Elafonissi!
• From Rethymnon
• From Heraklion.

Are you looking to go on a hike in Crete ?

Then head to the Samaria Gorge, in West Crete, for a hike of approximately 16 km in one of the longest gorges in Europe.

The trail starts with a steep descent of 4 km through the shady forest before reaching the bottom of the Gorge and the main rest area, 7 km away.

The most spectacular and famous part of Samaria is located at km 11 . At the “ Iron Gates” , you will pass through the narrowest passage of the Gorge which barely measures 3.50 metres and whose walls reach 300 metres.

The path alternates only between downhill and flat, but you should definitely bring a good pair of shoes because there are stones everywhere and it is slippery.

The Samaria Gorge hike ends at the small seaside village of Agia Roumeli where you will have to take a boat and then a bus to return to the car park or to Chania.

Please note that if you have decided to visit to Crete out of peak season, the Samaria Gorge us closed from October 15th to May 1st.

To learn more about this hike , you must read my dedicated article by clicking on the following link: How to visit the Samaria Gorge?

Good news: if you don’t have a car, you can still visit the Samaria Gorge from Chania by booking a round-trip in a bus in advance.

Click the button below for details:

Along with Chania, Heraklion is the second main city to visit in Crete .

It also has an international airport and can be used as a starting point for your itinerary in Crete .

The best things to see and do in Heraklion?

• The archaeological museum of Heraklion and its vast collection of objects ranging from the Neolithic to the Roman period. It is one of the largest museums in Greece. Modern and well developed, I consider it an unmissable spot when visiting Crete!
• The Koules fortress and its exhibition on the history of the city. You can also enter the ramparts to enjoy the view of the port and the sea.
• A walk in the old town , along rue 1866, lined with shops and restaurants with shaded terraces
• The historical museum of Crete to know everything about the history of the island
• The Agios Minas cathedral and its ceiling covered with frescoes.

The details with all the things to do in Heraklion can be found in my dedicated article. Read here: Visit Heraklion.

Only a 10-minute drive from the centre of Heraklion, the Palace of Knossos is the most visited tourist site in Crete as of now.

The ruins of the palace were discovered in 1878, but the actual excavations only began 20 years later thanks to the archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans, who devoted 35 years of his life and most of his savings in uncovering the ruins.

The ruins uncovered a new civilisation , which Evans himself chose to name the Minoan civilisation, in reference to King Minos (the legendary king of Crete).

Today, it takes a lot of imagination to imagine the grandeur of the palace and the surrounding buildings , but you can explore:

• The famous bull fresco at the North entrance
• The Throne Room
• The megaron (the bedroom) of the Queen and its fresco with Dolphins
• The fresco room where copies of the works can be found (the originals are displayed at the archaeological museum of Heraklion)
• The mural of the Prince of the Lilies.

As you might have guessed, history buffs should not miss this archaeological site in Crete!

All the practical information can be found in my dedicated article: Visit the Palace of Knossos.

To visit the Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, you must buy a combined ticket in advance.

This will save you from queues and you will also have an included audio guide:

We will continue this guide to Crete with a small town on the road between Chania and Heraklion: Rethymnon  

I particularly enjoyed walking around the old town , which I found super pleasant and really picturesque with its charming cobbled streets lined with shops and taverns.

You can also discover the Venetian fortress of Rethymnon (€4) and go to the Old Port that has small cafés/restaurants with terraces by the water.

From Rethymnon, you can easily visit the main places of interest in Crete (Balos, Elafonissi, Samaria, Chania…) via trips.

To organise your visit to Rethymnon and not miss out on anything, you can read my article: What are the things to do in Rethymnon?

If you want to spend a day sunbathing and swimming during your holiday in Crete, I recommend Vai beach.

Located in the north-east of the island , this beautiful sandy beach bordered by palm trees and crystal clear water is one of the best known in Crete. 

You can rent deckchairs/parasols from €10 a day and practice several water sports activities: jet ski, paddle boat, buoy.

To enjoy a beautiful view, go up the stairs to the right of the beach.

To continue with the list of the famous beaches to visit in Crete , you must not miss Preveli beach.

It actually looks a lot like Vai beach because it is also a small sandy beach bordered by a palm grove. But there is a river crossing the beach, that flows into the sea.

You can also swim in fresh water!

The Preveli beach is located at the end of a rather steep path (about 15 minutes for the descent) but you can have a very nice view overlooking it at a 5-minute walk from the car park.

Just a 5-minute drive from the beach , you can also visit the Preveli Monastery (Moni Preveli) which has a pretty church and a museum displaying beautiful icons. 

To reach Preveli beach without a car, you can book this organised trip from Chania or Rethymnon:

By now, it should be clear to you that it is impossible to visit Crete without spending a little time at the beach!

In addition to the 4 unmissable beaches I just mentioned (Balos, Elafonissi, Vai and Preveli), here is my selection of the most beautiful places to swim in Crete:

• The pink sand beach of Falassarna , 40 minutes away from the lagoon of Balos
• Seitan Limani beach, 20 km from Chania, in the Akrotiri peninsula
• Kedrodasos beach, 5 minutes by car from Elafonissi
• Karavostasi beach, on the road between Rethymnon and Heraklion
• Kolokitha beach, Elounda. Much less known than the others, for me it deserves its place in the top 5 most beautiful beaches on the island!
• Voulisma beach, at Agios Nikolaos
• The beach in the small village of Mohlos
• The 2 small beaches of Itanos , not far from Vai beach
• The beaches of Xerokampos: a succession of beautiful beaches and creeks with turquoise waters, very little frequented. My favourite on my road trip in Crete !
• Red Beach in Matala
• Triopetra beach is famous for its stratified rocks – It is worth seeing if you go there before going to Preveli but the beach itself is not interesting.

The best way to discover Crete’s most beautiful beaches is to opt for a VIP boat trip, far from other tourists!

For this, you have 2 options:

1) Book a private boat trip in Crete

You can rent a boat with a captain , and he will take you to the most beautiful corners of Crete.

Motor boat, sailing boat, catamaran : you can choose the right boat for a dream day!

You must rent your boat with a captain as early as possible , since as you can imagine, this type of a VIP day at sea is greatly in demand, and it would be a shame to not have a spot!

You will find all boats with a captain in Crete by clicking on the button below:

2) Rent a boat and discover the Cretan coasts by yourself

If you have a boat licence, the 2nd solution for a great day at sea is simply to rent a boat!

Simply click on the button below and book your boat immediately:

Hiking is one of the best activities to do in Crete to discover beautiful wild landscapes.

The island is full of paths and you will be spoilt for choice, no matter your level or where you are located.

But you must particularly take the paths where you can explore the impressive Cretan Gorges.

In addition to the Samaria Gorge, here is a brief overview of the most beautiful walks in Crete:

• The Imbros Gorge – From Imbros to Hora Skafion – South-West Crete
• The Agia Irini Gorge – South-West
• The Aradena Gorge where you can go down to the Marmara creek – South-West
• The Mili Gorge, towards Rethymnon
• The Zakros Gorge in the Valley of the Dead – East Crete
• Richtis Gorge to discover the beautiful waterfall of the same name – East Crete
• The Kritsa Gorge – East Crete
• The Anydri Gorge, towards Paleohora – South-West
• The coastal path of Paleohora in Sougia
• The Rouvas Gorge from Lake Votomos (between Heraklion and Matala).

For experienced hikers , there are the following options:

• The climb up Mount Gingilos – Departure from Xiloskalo, from Samaria Gorge
• Trypiti Gorge – Departure from Omalos
• The climb up Mount Psiloritis, the highest point in Crete
• The E4 trans-European long-distance hiking trail that crosses Crete from West to East over a length of 320 km. This road, which has a total length of 10,450 km, starts in Portugal and passes through Spain , France , Switzerland , Greece and other countries before ending in Cyprus.

The hiking trails in Crete are very rocky, you really need to wear good shoes .

Bring enough drinking water, sunscreen and always check the weather before leaving.

To continue this list of the top things to see in Crete, you must visit the botanical garden of Crete.

Located in the surroundings of Chania , on the mountain-side, the 2.5 km trail, has several varieties of plants and fruit trees from Greece and also from all over the world.

A pleasant walk that takes about 90 minutes.

The garden also has a small lake with a few animals and several peacocks roam freely around the park. If you’re wondering what to do in Crete with kids , it’s a good idea for a trip.

Entrance fee is € 6, and a small water bottle is provided. More information on the official website.

You must continue with touring Crete by exploring the peninsula of Akrotiri.

The airport is located on this peninsula just outside Chania, but I can assure you that this is not the only point of interest.

Not to be missed in Akrotiri:

• Stavros beach: a beautiful and very quiet sandy beach with a part that is protected from the wind
• The Agia Triada monastery that I found really beautiful with its well developed garden and flowers
• The Governto Monastery
• Seitan Limani beach, a small canyon with turquoise waters that opens into a creek surrounded by cliffs. One of Crete’s best known tourist attractions.
• Marathi beach, a sandy beach split into 2 small coves, very crowded but which I didn’t find extraordinary
• Loutraki beach.

Lake Kournas is one of the other places to go in Crete to swim , but this time in fresh water.

Located 5 km away from Georgiopouli (between Chania and Rethymnon) and surrounded by mountains, it is the only natural lake in Crete . The water here is crystal clear and very clean, so you won’t have to when swimming.

You can also rent a paddle boat (between €7 and €12 an hour) to go around and discover the many water turtles and fish that hide there.

At the entrance to the lake you will find a few souvenir shops and taverns.

The first car park on your right costs at €2 per day, but if you continue a little further down you will have a free car parking spot.

For half a day road trip in Crete, you must complete a circuit of Lassithi plateau. 

This rural area in the East of the island is very typical with its small villages and the few windmills left out of the 20,000 used for irrigation.

Following the Lassithi plateau circuit in a car , you will visit:

• Tzermiado, the largest of the 20 villages in Lassithi
• Agios Georgios where the Cretan folk art museum is located 
• The Homo sapiens museum on the evolution of man – I won’t recommend it but the car park offers a beautiful view of the plains.
• The cave on Mount Dicte, also called the Cave of Zeus or the Psichro cave , because according to legend it is here that Zeus was born. The cave is very deep and has large stalactites and stalagmites. Entrance fee costs €6 (a 10-minute climb + descending a long staircase). It is the main tourist site in Lassithi.
• Greek Mythological Park where you can discover Greek mythology thanks to an audio guide in English and truly representative scenery. I was really surprised (well!) with the quality of the explanations and the facilities.
• Lasinthos Eco Park where you can discover weaving workshops, wood turning, pottery. Free entry.
• The ancient city of Latho offers a beautiful view of the entire bay and is a renowned archaeological site
• Kritsa village and the Panagia Kera church known for its very well preserved Byzantine frescoes.

You can’t visit the Lassithi plateau by public transport. If you don’t have a car, the only way is to book a day trip in 4*4.

You will cross villages, visit the Zeus cave and have lunch in a traditional tavern.

This trip with an English-speaking guide is available from several cities (click on the links in orange to book):

• From Heraklion – Safari by Land Rover to Lassithi
• From Malia/Elounda/Gouves/Ierapetra

If you’re still wondering what to see in Crete , you must visit some of the many monasteries on the island:

• The Agia Triada monastery, on the Akrotiri peninsula (next to Chania) – After driving all around Crete, I thought it was the prettiest.
• The Governto Monastery, also in Akrotiri
• The monastery Chrisoskalitissis (before arriving at Elafonissi beach)
• Arkadi monastery, near Rethymnon
• Moni Toplou , before visiting Vai beach
• The Preveli monastery, next to the famous beach of the same name.

If you’re planning an itinerary in East Crete , a visit to Spinalonga island is a must.

The island was once a fortress in the 16th century, occupied by the Venetians and then by the Ottomans. It was then used as a leper colony in the 1900s.

But if Spinalonga ranks among the most important tourist sites in Crete today, it is thanks to the famous novel by Victoria Hislop, “The Island”. The book, whose story takes place in Spinalonga, was successful worldwide and was later adapted into a film and series.

Today, by docking at the island, you can walk through the village ruins, the fort, the leper hospital and the church.

It takes a good hour to walk around, and don’t forget to climb up the hill to admire the view of the Plaka peninsula. 

Entrance fee for Spinalonga: €8

To go to Spinalonga, you can take the boat to Plaka or Elounda (€12). In peak season, there is a shuttle every 1/2 hours and the journey takes just 1/4 hour.

You can also visit the island of Spinalonga through an organised trip including pick -up from your hotel, transport by bus and the visit to Agios Nikolas and Elounda:

Agios Nikolaos is a small and well-known town not far from the island of Spinalonga.

You must park your car in the municipal car park and to follow the seafront promenade until you reach Voulismeni lake, the main attraction of the place.

There are plenty of restaurants and shops all around.

Sea excursions also leave from Agios Nikolaos to visit Spinalonga .

And if you’ve decided to go to Crete with your children, you can take a transparent -bottomed boat ride to observe the fish.

Close to Agios Nikolaos, there are also several beaches that are not among the most beautiful on the island but you can go there to refresh yourself.

If you are driving around Crete, there are several caves you can visit:

• The Zeus cave on the Lassithi plateau (which I have already mentioned in point 15 of this article) is the best known for its history – Entrance costs €6
• The Melidoni cave where you can admire beautiful stalactites and stalagmites and which I found very pretty – Entrance at €4
• Agia Sofia cave for a 10-minute photo stop on the road before reaching Elafonissi beach – Free entrance
• The Sfendoni cave and its 7 chambers where you can admire numerous stalactites and stalagmites – 40-min guided tour at €5
• Kronion cave (also in Lassithi): inhabited in the Neolithic and which later served as a burial site during the Minoan period – Free entry
• The Matala , caves carved into the cliff on the seashore (see point 22) – Entrance fee: €4.
• The Milatos cave where 2500 people who had taken refuge to escape the Turks were found and killed – Free entry
• The Mount Ida cave where Zeus allegedly hid to escape his father. Several offerings have been discovered here, but the cave is of no particular interest except for mythology lovers – Free entry.

For a little refreshing walk when visiting Crete, you must go on the the Richtis Gorge hike.

From the car park located at the exit of the village of Exo Mouliana , you will need about 90 mins on a shady path running through the forest and along a small river to reach the Richtis waterfall.

Apart from a patches with large, slippery rocks, there is no particular difficulty if you are wearing good shoes. Of course, if you’re wearing flip-flops (as I’ve seen some people do), things can be difficult…

The waterfall is really beautiful and if you are not feeling chilly, you can even take a swim. 

From the waterfall, you can then continue on your way to a small beach (not very pretty and very windy by the way) which takes 30 minutes.

From there, you can choose to turn back, take the tarmac road that leads to the village on foot (I wouldn’t recommend this it gets dry, the sun is high, and it’s not interesting!) or take a taxi that will take you up to the car park (the number is displayed on the trees – €25 for 2).

Note that access to the Gorge is charged: €3 per person. 

Good news for those who don’t have a car, you can visit the waterfall in a 4*4 trip with an English-speaking guide.

You can book it directly by clicking here!

If you want to walk there and back, you can save some time by parking your car closer to the waterfall.

Drive along the small road from the left of the car park to a small bridge . There are a few parking spots on the roadside (if you arrive early).

You can also access the waterfall directly from the beach in 30 minutes on foot . To reach the beach from the top of the village in a car, you have to take a very narrow and winding road.

If you want to visit an off-beat place during your stay in Crete, go to the town of Xerokampos, at the Eastern tip of the island.

Not only does the road leading to it offer splendid views , but you will also discover a succession of beaches and coves , each more beautiful than the last.

Fine sands, shallow turquoise waters and, above all, very few people, this is doubtlessly one of the most beautiful places in Crete, a true favourite!

And if I had to name the 2 most beautiful beaches of Xerokampos, I would say:

• Katsounaki beach (Maps.me name), also called “ Paralia Anola” (Google Maps): a pretty cove with fine sands accessible by car via a dirt road.
• The Ambelou beach (on Maps.me) or “Paralia Mazida Ammos” (if you search on Google Maps) which is just beautiful!

Matala is a small seaside resort known for its caves carved into a cliff by the sea-side and overlooking a pretty cove with turquoise waters in the shape of a crescent moon.

The caves, dug in the Neolithic period, served as a Roman necropolis, before being used as a squatting spot in the 1960s by a community of hippies who made them their hippy “Peace and Love” Camp.

With such a view and direct access to the beach for evenings around the fire, you can understand why they chose the place!

Entry to the caves is charged: €4

Matala also has another beach: Red Beach, a small beach with golden sands and deep and turbulent water. You can walk there in only 30 minutes along the path that starts from behind the village.

At the beginning of the Red Beach trail, on the right after the first set of stairs, you will have a magnificent view of Matala and the caves.

In South-East Crete , you’ll find some of the least accessible seaside villages on the island.

They are very isolated, and you can only reach them by taking long, winding mountain roads, and in some cases, only by boat.

What are the things to see in Crete along the South-East coast?

• Hora Sfakion: a very cute village that is the departure point for boats to Loutro, Sweet Water beach or Gavdos island (see below).
• Loutro , located in a tiny creek, the village is only accessible from Hora Sfakion by sea (by ferry in 20 minutes) or on foot (6 km).
• Agia Roumeli, the village located at the exit of the Samaria Gorge, which can only be reached on foot or by boat from Hora Sfakion, Loutro, Sougia and Paleohora.
• Sougia where the boat from Agia Roumeli arrives filled with hikers who have completed the Gorge of Samaria. Then everyone gets on the bus back to the car park or to Chania.
• Paleohora, a small picturesque village located 70 minutes by car from Elafonissi beach. From Paleohora you can take the ferry to Sougia, Agia Roumeli, Loutro, Hora Sfakion and Gavdos.

You can view the different ferry routes, schedules and rates on the official website of the boat company: Anendyk .

Visiting Crete also means taking the time to go on beautiful day trips by boat to discover one of the pretty Cretan islets:

• Gavdos is an untamed island where you will find heavenly beaches – Ferry access from Paleohora and Hora Skafion
• Chrissi, a tiny uninhabited island classified as a nature reserve and accessible by boat from Ierapetra. Day trips with transport (bus + boat) included from Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos are also available by clicking here! 
• Koufonissi where you will also find turquoise waters and a completely wild landscape – Book your cruise to Koufonissi here
• Dia accessible by boat from Heraklion
• Gramvoussa , which you can visit during the same boat trip that goes to the lagoon of Balos (click here!).

Throughout your trip, you will have the opportunity to enjoy several activities in Crete.

And I’ll start with my favourite activity, a quad bike safari to discover the traditional villages and beautiful mountain landscapes.

The best way for an authentic experience of Crete, far from the classic tourist circuits. For me, this is the best quad bike trip in Crete!

For a quad bike trip from Georgiopoulis , you must book in advance by clicking on the green button:

For a departure from Rethymnon (with an English-speaking guide!), here you go:

Here is a list of the main activities offered in various places on the island (click on the orange links to access details and make your reservation).

We’ll start with water activities/activities to do in Crete:

• 3 hour cruise with swimming stop from Chania
• Cruise on a pirate boat from Rethymnon – Also available at sunset by clicking here!
• Scuba diving with an English-speaking instructor in Heraklion – Also available in Chania
• Diving adventure for certified divers
• Paddle boat outing with an instructor + snorkelling around Chania
• Snorkelling trip with an English-speaking instructor in Heraklion
• Sea kayaking from Bali beach
• Sea kayaking in Elounda
• Sea kayaking from the magnificent Elafonissi beach
• Canyoning in Kalami gorge in South Crete – Canyoning in Portela gorge, in Viannos, South Crete – Canyoning in Seitan Limani near Chania
• Coasteering, with cliff-jump and zipline , not far from Matala
• A day at the Acqua Plus water park in Heraklion – For a family holiday in Crete!
• A day at the Limnoupolis water park with transport included from Chania or Rethymnon
• Jet ski rental in Heraklion
• Parasailing in Heraklion
• Surfing lessons
• Windsurfing lessons in Elafonissi

And here is my selection of the best land/sports activities:

• Safari by Land Rover on the Lassithi plateau with an English-speaking guide
• Land Rover safari in the White Mountains with a visit to a vineyard and an olive oil production workshop
• Jeep trip to Preveli beach from Heraklion and Rethymnon
• Buggy trip from Rethymnon
• Paragliding at Chania
• 2-hour horse ride with lunch or dinner included, near Heraklion
• Guided tour of the old town of Chania by Segway
• Guided tour of the old town of Rethymnon by Segway
• Guided tour of Heraklion on electric bikes
• Climbing session in South Crete

On your trip to Crete, you will have the opportunity to visit many traditional Cretan villages.

You should not expect charming white façades with blue shutters typical of the Cycladic islands like Santorini or Naxos for example, but more to mountain village houses made of stone.

One of the best known villages of Crete is Margarites . Nicknamed the potters’ village, there are several workshops and shops selling bowls, dishes and other terracotta objects.

And a piece of advice: you’d better rent a small car to drive around the narrow streets.

To taste the best Cretan cuisine, there’s no doubt, you have to eat in the small taverns.

They have often been run by the same family for generations and offer simple but tasty traditional cuisine.

You will always be greeted very warmly and at the end of your meal, you will be offered a small dessert and of course a glass of raki, the traditional Cretan alcohol.

Here are some examples of the culinary specialities that you should definitely try in Crete:

• Pastitsio: pasta and meat gratin, the equivalent of lasagne
• Stifado : rabbit stew with small onions and shallots
• Mezze , the Cretan version of the tapas: tomato/feta bread, tzatziki, stuffed vine leaves, meat or fish croquettes, fried zucchini flowers. Some taverns in Crete offer “Mezze” platters.
• Apaki, pork meat marinated and smoked and flavoured with local herbs
• Fish and seafood
• Keftedes: succulent, spicy meatballs
• Antikristo or “ofto” lamb, lamb slow-cooked on a spit – Some taverns also offer pork.
• Souvlakis and gyros: a pita served with chicken, pork or lamb, yoghurt sauce, salad, tomatoes, onions and chips. We tried many of these dishes and each tavern adds its own personal touch, so it never tastes exactly the same.
• Kaltsoúnia: cheese-stuffed pastries
• Raki, a traditional Cretan alcohol, served as a liqueur after every meal.

To discover all the secrets of traditional Cretan cuisine, you can also opt for a cooking class:

• Cooking classes in the traditional village of Arolithos , towards Heraklion
• Cooking lessons in the White Mountains – Pick up from Chania included.

Crete also produces excellent wines, olive oil and delicious cheeses. 

If you would like to visit the vineyards, an olive oil factory and of course wine tastings, you must book this visit from Chania: Day focused on wine and olive oil.

To help you visualize the island a bit better, I have created this tourist map of Crete , with all the places to visit and things to do in Crete.

You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a small arrow on it.

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Crete by yourself. (All my Crete guides are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Crete tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Crete tours by clicking the button below:

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Crete, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Crete? 😊

What are the places of interest that you would like for your trip to Crete?

Discover all my articles about Crete : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Crete are listed there.

• 27 Best things to do in Crete : All the best places to visit and activities
• Road trip to Crete: The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10 and 15 days
• Chania : The 15 best places to discover
• Heraklion : TOP 13 places to visit
• Rethymnon: The 13 best things to do
• Balos Beach : All my best tips to visit Balos Lagoon!
• Elafonissi Beach : The definitive guide to discover Crete’s famous pink sand beach
• Palace of Knossos: The definitive guide to visit the most famous archaeological site of Crete
• Samaria Gorge : How to plan the best hike in Crete
• Where to stay in Crete? The guide to the best hotels, ordered by city and budget

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Crete   Travel Guide

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9 Best Things To Do in Crete

Updated April 21, 2022

You'll find plenty to keep you busy in Crete. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , while those seeking the sun can soak up the rays along the island's sandy coasts. Outdoorsy types

• All Things To Do

Rethymno Old Town Rethymno Old Town free

If you're in Rethymno, then you shouldn't miss the opportunity to wander the narrow alleys of Old Town, a seaside neighborhood that dates back to the 11th century. Here, you'll find prime examples of Venetian Renaissance architecture along with splashes of Turkish influence spread throughout the city.

The food and shopping options in Old Town are seemingly endless, but the maze-like streets can be perplexing. If you do get turned around, don't despair: The area isn't huge, and once you see the Venetian Fortezza or the harbor, you can easily regain your bearings. Recent travelers have actually embraced getting lost in Old Town because the streets are so charming, the locals are so kind and the food is so good. Case in point, Old Town Rethymno is simply beautiful.

Elafonisi Elafonisi free

Located in the southwest corner of Crete, Elafonisi beach sparkles with pink-tinted sand and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters. If you're feeling adventurous, you can wade across Elafonisi's shallow lagoon to a small, uninhabited island, home only to a historic lighthouse, a chapel and more than 100 native plant species. Recent travelers hail Elafonisi as one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, if not in all of Greece.

However, Elafonisi's beauty comes with a few drawbacks. First, you must brave winding roads and harrowing mountain passes to get there. Once you arrive, your visions of pristine sandy stretches may be spoiled by the legions of tourists who have also made the trek, especially in the summer months. But never fear: You can avoid the throngs of visitors by venturing a little farther away from the parking lot. A short walk east or west and you will hit smaller yet more secluded shorelines bordered by a juniper forest. Another surefire way to beat the crowds is to visit in the off-season. From late October to April, you might just get the beach all to yourself.

Vai Beach (Palm Beach) Vai Beach (Palm Beach) free

Also known as Palm Beach, Vai Beach is mainly known for its stunning landscape. The beach is home to the largest palm grove in Europe with 4,500 palm trees that have been there for more than 2,000 years. So if you're looking to avoid renting a beach umbrella, you've come to the right place for some natural shade. The sand can get crowded with busloads of tourists, but a short hike over a hill at the south side of Vai Beach will reveal an underutilized, yet no less beautiful stretch of shore.

Recent visitors praised Vai Beach for its cleanliness and beautiful views from not only the beach but from atop the nearby hills. Travelers also lauded the picturesque drive coming into the beach. Others, however, lamented the distance and conditions of the roads, advising those who aren't staying on the east side of the island to reconsider visiting. For those who want to beat the crowds, visitors suggest hitting the sand before 2 p.m.

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The Palace of Knossos The Palace of Knossos

A labyrinth of massive columns and beautiful frescoes, the Palace of Knossos is a testament to the sophistication of the Minoan civilization that disappeared sometime in the 14th century. According to legend, it was also home to the mythical Minotaur of King Minos. The site was restored extensively by the famous archaeologist Arthur Evans in the early 1900s. Since then, it has become the biggest tourist draw on Crete.

Knossos is located about 3 miles south of Heraklion (city buses run regularly from Bus Station A). Make sure to budget a good chunk of time as the Palace of Knossos is a large site that begs for extended exploration. Many recent visitors suggested shelling out for a guided tour  — the palace's history and mythology will really come to life. (Some travelers felt the placards didn't offer up enough information about the attraction.) If you're going to visit during the summer, travelers also strongly recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and beat the intense afternoon heat.

Samaria Gorge National Park Samaria Gorge National Park

Stretching for about 10 miles through southern Chania Prefecture's White Mountains, Samaria Gorge is thought to be one of the longest canyons in Europe.  The gorge trail begins on the Omalos plateau at Xyloskalo, perched high among the mountains. It then winds its way 10 miles between some 1,600-foot vertical walls to Agia Roumeli, a small seaside village. Speedy hikers can usually make the journey in four and a half hours, while more leisurely paced walkers can spend up to eight hours in the gorge. Fast or slow, you're going to want to get an early start to beat the heat and the crowds (about 1,000 people make the hike every day during high season).

Recent visitors strongly advise bringing plenty of water and sunscreen, wearing sturdy shoes and really assessing your fitness level before embarking on this long walk. Although not a hike, travelers reported very few areas where the surface is completely flat. Since it is a gorge, rocks are everywhere and traversing them for hours may be too much for those who aren't regularly active. Despite the challenge, many fawned over the beauty of the gorge. Make sure to observe the greenery, as there are hundreds of different plant species that populate the park. Also keep an eye out  for the rare and endangered kri-kri , Crete's native goat.

Historical Museum of Crete Historical Museum of Crete

The Historical Museum of Crete, located in the capital city of Heraklion, chronicles Cretan life from early Byzantine times to the Modern period. If you're interested in the older stuff, check out the nearby Heraklion Archaeological Museum . 

Travelers noted that despite the museum's small size, there is lots to see and learn.  Two paintings by El Greco are major highlights of the museum:  The Baptism of Christ and View of Mt. Sinai and the Monastery of St. Catherine.

Venetian Fortezza Venetian Fortezza

Built atop a hill in Rethymnon Old Town , the Fortezza (for-TED-za) stands as a symbol of Crete's tempestuous past. The Venetian ruling class, who oversaw the construction of the imposing Fortezza in the late 16th century, hoped it would protect Crete against an Ottoman invasion. But all that labor was for naught — the Ottomans captured the Fortezza less than 100 years after its completion and went on to rule Crete for more than two centuries.

The Fortezza's perimeter still houses the partially restored Ibrahim Han Mosque from the Ottoman era. You will also find the church of Agios Theodoros Trichinas, a Greek Orthodox chapel built in 1899 after Turkish rule ceased, at the site. Today, the Fortezza plays host to a range of cultural events, including the Rethymnon Renaissance Festival . Recent visitors suggest checking out the Fortezza toward the end of the day when crowds start to wane. In the evening, you can enjoy the sun sparkling on the Mediterranean Sea as it sinks below the western horizon. If you don't have time to go in the evening, visitors strongly suggest bringing a hat and sunscreen. Those who didn't said it was difficult to really enjoy the attraction because the heat was so intense. 

Heraklion Archaeological Museum Heraklion Archaeological Museum

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a must-see in Crete  —  and all of Greece, even  —  for its extensive collection of Minoan art. Highlights include a mini-statue of a Snake Goddess and the Phaistos Disk, a clay tablet with symbols that have not been deciphered to this day. All artifacts (spanning some 5,000 years of history) in this museum were excavated exclusively from archaeological sites in Crete.

You'll find this museum (also known as the Archaeological Museum of Iraklio) in central Heraklion. Hours are seasonal. From November to March, the museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays, and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. From April to October, hours are 8 a.m. to 8 pm. daily. Tickets are € 6 EUR and a combination ticket, which includes admission to the Palace of Knossos, is € 10 EUR. Recent visitors highly recommend visiting both of these places, as some artifacts featured were excavated from the Palace of Knossos. 

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Cretaquarium Cretaquarium

Located approximately 9 miles east of Heraklion, the Cretaquarium is home to 2,000 sea animals and 200 different Mediterranean species. If you're an animal lover, traveling with kids or just looking to kill some time, the Cretaquarium should be on your list.

Recent visitors appreciated the aquarium's organization and cleanliness on top of the variety of sea life on display. Many travelers said that the shark tank in particular is a can't-miss spot in the aquarium.

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Effective Greece Travel

Travel to Greece with the best possible information

Crete: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide | Early 2023 Update

Your Guide To Greece

Updated on: February 16, 2023

As the largest and southernmost island in Greece, Crete offers visitors an abundance of things to see and do, from hiking the mountains to relaxing on the beach.

The warm, sunny climate and fertile agricultural fields mean Crete would prosper even without its thriving tourism industry, but its lush landscapes and Mediterranean hospitality draw millions of international visitors each year.

Crete also boasts some of the richest histories in Greece, with the relics of the ancient Minoan civilization evident throughout the island. This advanced Bronze Age population was largely wiped out by the effects of a volcanic eruption in 1450 B.C. But, the Minoan influence lives on in the tombs, palaces and other sites still visible in Crete today.

Later influences by the Ancient Greeks and Romans also survive in the Byzantine architecture and artwork of the island. Compared to islands such as Santorini and Mykonos , Crete is where to go to truly get the history.

All About Beautiful Crete

Travelers looking for a tranquil getaway will find the peace they seek in the quiet resorts and villages along the east and west coasts. The highly-developed northern coast will appeal to visitors interested in the vibrant nightlife, beach parties, and very active resorts. At the center of the island, the mountainous region is a near-total refuge from tourism.

With its plentiful sunshine and lingering high temperatures, visitors can enjoy the beaches and waters of Crete from May to November. During late summer, the northern Meltemi winds provide a welcome breeze to cool sightseers and provide a perfect environment for water sports.

Best Time To Visit Crete

Places to stay in crete, how long to stay in crete, getting around crete, things to do in crete, best locations for sunset in crete, places to eat in crete, top photo spots in crete, our final thoughts on crete.

The island’s mild climate makes Crete a lovely place to visit year-round, with optimal temperatures and manageable crowd sizes coinciding in late spring and early autumn.

Tourism begins picking up steam in late April and slows by mid-October. So, those endpoints are good times to plan your trip if you want to avoid extreme heat and crowds. However, visiting during the high season also means that restaurants, museums, and other attractions will be operating in full swing.

The “off-season” between October and March tends to be an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, although swimming and most water sports will be out of the question. The weather will still be quite pleasant, requiring only a thick sweater or jacket to keep you comfortable.

Some restaurants and other destinations do close during this slow season, but you should still be able to find plenty to keep you busy—and you’ll pay reduced prices on hotels and other expenses.

Visiting Crete in the Spring

Spring can be a great time to visit Crete, as the weather is mild and the island is not yet crowded with tourists. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re planning a trip to Crete in the spring:

• Weather : Crete has a Mediterranean climate, which means that the spring months (March, April, and May) are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. However, it can still be chilly in the evenings, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater.
• Crowds : Crete is a popular tourist destination, and the peak tourist season runs from June to August. Visiting in the spring means you’ll avoid the crowds and have a more authentic experience of the island.
• Natural Beauty : Spring is a great time to appreciate Crete’s natural beauty, as the island is in full bloom during this time. You can see wildflowers, almond and cherry trees in blossom, and green fields and hills.
• Activities : There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Crete in the spring, such as hiking in the mountains or along the coast, exploring ancient ruins and archaeological sites, and visiting local farms and wineries.
• Festivals : Spring is a time of celebration in Crete, with many festivals taking place across the island. One of the most famous is the Carnival of Rethymno, which takes place in February or March and involves colorful parades, music, and dancing.

Visiting Crete in the spring can be a wonderful experience, with mild weather, beautiful scenery, and plenty of things to see and do.

Visiting Crete in the Summer

Crete is a popular summer destination, with thousands of visitors flocking to the island to enjoy its warm weather, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re planning a trip to Crete in the summer:

• Weather : Crete has a Mediterranean climate, which means that the summer months (June, July, and August) are hot and sunny, with temperatures often reaching the mid-80s or higher. It’s important to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day.
• Crowds : The summer months are the peak tourist season in Crete, so be prepared for large crowds at popular beaches, restaurants, and tourist attractions. It’s a good idea to book accommodation and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Beaches : Crete is famous for its stunning beaches, and summer is the best time to enjoy them. From the famous pink sands of Elafonisi to the secluded coves of Balos, there’s a beach to suit every taste.
• Nightlife : Crete has a vibrant nightlife scene, with clubs and bars staying open late into the night. The island is particularly popular with young people, but there are also plenty of options for families and older visitors.
• Festivals : Summer is a time of celebration in Crete, with many festivals taking place across the island. The most famous is the Matala Beach Festival, which takes place in June and attracts thousands of music lovers from around the world.

Visiting Crete in the summer can be a fantastic experience, with warm weather, beautiful beaches, and plenty of things to see and do. Just be prepared for the crowds and the heat, and you’re sure to have a memorable trip.

Visiting Crete in the Fall

Visiting Crete in the fall can be a great option for those looking to avoid the crowds and high temperatures of the summer season, while still enjoying the island’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re planning a trip to Crete in the fall:

• Weather : Crete’s fall season (September, October, and November) tends to be mild and comfortable, with temperatures averaging in the low 70s Fahrenheit during the day and cooler in the evenings. However, it’s still a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater as the evenings can be quite chilly.
• Scenery : Fall is a great time to enjoy Crete’s stunning natural beauty, as the countryside is covered in lush greenery after the summer months. This is also a great time to enjoy hiking or biking tours, visit mountain villages, or explore the island’s breathtaking beaches.
• Harvest season : Crete is known for its delicious fresh produce, and fall is the best time to enjoy it. You can taste locally-grown grapes, figs, pomegranates, and olives at local wineries, restaurants, and markets.
• Festivals : Fall is a time of celebration in Crete, and there are many cultural festivals and events taking place throughout the season. For example, the “Chestnut Festival” in Elos is a popular event where visitors can taste locally grown chestnuts and traditional Cretan cuisine.
• Fewer crowds : Fall is a great time to visit Crete if you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere with fewer crowds at popular tourist attractions.

Visiting Crete in the fall can be a great option if you’re looking for a quieter and more relaxed travel experience. With comfortable weather, stunning scenery, and plenty of cultural events and festivals to enjoy, Crete is an ideal destination for an autumn vacation.

Visiting Crete in the Winter

Crete in winter can be a unique and interesting experience for visitors who enjoy cooler temperatures, winter sports, and cultural events. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re planning a trip to Crete in the winter:

• Weather : Crete in the winter months (December, January, and February) is cooler and wetter than other seasons, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit. There’s also a chance of rain and even snowfall in some of the higher-altitude areas of the island.
• Winter sports : Winter is a great time for outdoor activities in Crete, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. There are two ski resorts in Crete, which attract skiers from all over Greece.
• Festivals and traditions : Winter is a time of celebration in Crete, and there are many cultural events and traditions to enjoy. Christmas and New Year’s are celebrated throughout the island, and there are also events such as the “Carnival of Rethymno,” which features parades, music, and dancing.
• Indoor attractions : In the winter months, you can explore Crete’s museums, churches, and other indoor attractions without the summer crowds. Some of the popular attractions include the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and the Palace of Knossos.
• Relaxation : Winter is a great time to enjoy a more relaxed vacation in Crete, with fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy long walks on the beach, hot springs, and cozy cafes with traditional Cretan cuisine.

Visiting Crete in the winter can be a unique and rewarding experience for those who don’t mind the cooler temperatures and occasional rain. With winter sports, cultural events, indoor attractions, and a more laid-back atmosphere, Crete in the winter has something to offer for everyone.

Historically, Crete has been an affordable travel destination, with hundreds of budget-friendly hotels and beach resorts alongside more expensive luxury developments.

However, Greece’s recent economic upheaval has pushed prices upward on nearly all goods and services. Still, there remain plenty of reasonably-priced accommodations and bargains to be found if you’re willing to compare prices (and potentially visit during the off-season).

Budget Hotels in Crete: Top 5 Picks

Futura hotel.

This laid-back apartment-style hotel offers guests access to a large pool, nicely-equipped modern fitness room, daily breakfast buffet, mini-market and even cooking lessons. Rooms include balconies and kitchenettes along with the expected amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

The family-owned hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of Paralia Maleme beach and relatively close to the exotic beaches of Falasarna Elafonissi and Balos.

In the rolling hills adjacent to Mount Psiloritis in Heraklion, the Idi Hotel is a welcoming space for families and children, with a playground, tennis court, and restaurant with a daily breakfast buffet. The mountainous countryside is verdant and peaceful, with the clear springs of Zaros at its heart.

Three nearby monasteries featuring Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, and the coast is just a half-hour drive away.’In the rolling hills adjacent to Mount Psiloritis in Heraklion, the Idi Hotel is a welcoming space for families and children, with a playground, tennis court, and restaurant with a daily breakfast buffet.

The mountainous countryside is verdant and peaceful, with the clear springs of Zaros at its heart. Three nearby monasteries featuring Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, and the coast is just a half-hour drive away.

Faros Beach Hotel

The Faros Beach Hotel in Rethymnon offers guests a prime location for access to beaches as well as historic sites and museums.

The rooftop terrace delivers jaw-dropping views of the harbor and the nearby Venetian fortress, and the Folk Art Museum, Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon, and Center of Byzantine Art are minutes away. Rooms include Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a high-pressure shower as well as the promise of soundproof walls.

Hotel Anna Apartments

These casual rooms and apartments are just steps away from Kokkini Hani beach. The furnishings are simple but clean, and the apartments are equipped with a kitchenette and a modest dining area.

All rooms are air-conditioned, but not all accommodations include TVs and Wi-Fi is only available in common areas, making your stay here an excellent opportunity for unplugging.

Iliana Hotel

This hotel near Panormos Beach offers 18 studios and 13 apartments, all of which include private terraces perfect for enjoying the brilliant Mediterranean sunsets.

The units are arranged around a large courtyard with a pool, brightly-colored flowers, and dozens of lounge chairs and umbrellas for sunbathers. Each room comes with air conditioning, a TV, Wi-Fi, a fridge, and a fully-equipped kitchen.

Mid-Range Hotels in Crete: Top 5 Picks

Aphrodite beach hotel.

This family-operated beachfront hotel offers 74 air-conditioned rooms, most of them designed to accommodate two guests alongside a few larger suites for families. The property doesn’t have a pool, but guests can simply sprint across the pebbly sand of Aphrodite Beach for a plunge into the sparkling sea.

The onsite restaurant cooks delicious Mediterranean fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Rooms include flat-screen TVs and private balconies with garden or sea views.

Candia Suites

Located in the heart of Heraklion, this sleek hotel delivers suites with colorful modern designs, plush furnishings, and private balconies with excellent views. Free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, spacious beds and air conditioning are among the amenities included with each room.

The ancient palace of Knossos—a must-see attraction for any visit to Crete—is nearby, along with the restaurants, shopping, and other sights of the old town Heraklion.

Cressa Corona Boutique Hotel

This 16 th -century Venetian townhouse in Rethymnon has been transformed into a sleek, adults-only hotel with a relaxing rooftop terrace for enjoying the Mediterranean sunset.

Décor is understated and modern, and all rooms and suites include complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, satellite TV, a high-pressure shower, and more.

Casa Maistra Residence

Also located in Rethymnon, these seaside apartment-style units are set in a renovated 19 th -century building with exposed stone accents and stunning views.

The spacious suites are ideal for families with children and include a dining room and fully-equipped kitchen as well as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, kitchen utensils, and cookware.

Yiannis Retreat

Consisting of five roomy garden side villas, this peaceful retreat on the island’s east coast is perfect for longer stays in Crete. Villas are decorated with stone walls and rich hardwood trim, lending them a luxuriously rustic aesthetic.

A modest kitchenette and outdoor dining area give guests an opportunity to save on dining expenses, and the quiet, pristine beaches of Sitia are just a short walk away.

Luxury Hotels in Crete: Top 5 Picks

Creta maris beach resort.

This posh seaside resort offers a dazzling array of amenities, including a brand-new water park with slides, spray games, and a pool; a massive open-air cinema; organized sports such as tennis, mini golf, beach volleyball, and basketball; a water sports center with jet-skis, stand-up paddle boarding, flyboarding and more; and a spa and fitness center.

Rooms include high-speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a mini bar, and satellite TV, and guests can dine and relax in the six restaurants and eight bars on the property. All-inclusive packages are available.

Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel

This adults-only property overlooking Mirabello Bay in Elounda delivers five-star luxury in an eco-friendly setting. Crafted from natural Cretan stone, the complex blends seamlessly into its spectacular natural environment.

Guests can relax in the full-service spa, maintain their workout regimen in the professional-caliber fitness center, and sample the gourmet fare at seven on-site restaurants and bars. All rooms include Wi-Fi, fine Egyptian linens, a mini bar, and a private balcony or terrace.

Nana Princess

With its five-star amenities and impeccable service, every guest is treated like a VIP at the Nana Princess Resort. Nearly all of the 112 suites and villas feature access to a private pool and spacious sun deck overlooking the sea, and some also include saunas, steam rooms, or restorative spas.

Three concept restaurants provide locally-influenced fine dining, and the Spa and Wellness Center provides an opportunity for relaxation and invigoration. Guests can indulge in a little retail therapy in the resort’s mini-mall or view the original artwork on display in the gallery.

Fine linens, a “pillow menu” and plush high-end mattresses ensure a good night’s sleep after a day of play.

Casa Delfino Hotel & S pa

Set in a 17 th -century Venetian mansion, Casa Delfino Hotel and Spa has remained under the same family ownership for six generations, leading to its reputation for warm hospitality, attentive service, and luxurious accommodations. The 24 rooms and suites have been painstakingly restored to maintain the character of the original structure, blending the hotel’s architectural heritage with modern comfort.

Located in the heart of Old Town Chania, the hotel is within walking distance of many of the most popular dining, shopping, and sightseeing destinations in the city. In-room amenities include individually-controlled A/C, a mini bar, flat-screen satellite TV, a DVD player, and free Wi-Fi.

Domus Renier Boutique Hotel

This small but elegant boutique hotel sits directly on the Chania harbor facing the Egyptian Lighthouse, ensuring spectacular views from any vantage point on the property. Each of the uniquely-decorated rooms and suites offers a different aesthetic and amenities, but all pay homage to the building’s Cretan Renaissance heritage.

For example, the Markos double room includes a leather armchair and a library filled with translated works of Greek authors and poets; the Lorenzo suite boasts a queen-size bed in the loft and 2 studio couches on the lower floor, TV on both floors and views of the Venetian port and Yali Camisi mosque.

Crete is an expansive island with a wide variety of cultures, landscapes, and attractions. To truly do it justice, visitors should plan to spend at least a week here to partake in the rich Mediterranean cuisine, sun-swept beaches, verdant forests, and secluded mountains—not to mention the dozens of architectural and historical sites to be explored.

The length of time to stay in Crete really depends on your preferences and the purpose of your trip. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or a quick getaway, a week in Crete might be enough time to see the main sights and soak up some sun. However, if you’re interested in exploring the island’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty, you may want to stay for two weeks or more.

Our Recommended Length of Stay

Here are some things to consider when deciding how long to stay in Crete:

• Your itinerary : The length of your trip will depend on the places you want to visit and the activities you want to do. If you’re interested in exploring the island’s natural beauty, you may need more time to hike through the Samaria Gorge or visit some of the more remote beaches. If you’re interested in history and culture, you may need more time to explore ancient ruins and museums.
• Travel time : Keep in mind that it can take several hours to travel between different parts of the island, so you may need to budget extra time for transportation.
• Rest and relaxation : If you’re looking to unwind and relax, you may want to spend more time in one location and take it easy. This can help you to really soak up the atmosphere of the island and enjoy the slower pace of life.

In general, I would recommend staying at least a week in Crete to really experience the island and see the main sights. However, if you have the time and budget, staying for two weeks or more can allow you to see more of the island, enjoy more activities, and truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

Crete is the largest island in Greece, and there are several ways to get around the island, including:

• Renting a car: Renting a car is a popular and convenient way to explore Crete. There are several car rental companies on the island, and renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Crete on your own schedule. However, be aware that driving in Crete can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads, so be sure to take extra care while driving.
• Taking a bus: Crete has an extensive bus network, with routes that connect many of the island’s major cities and attractions. The bus service is generally reliable, affordable, and easy to use, making it a good option for budget-conscious travelers.
• Hiring a taxi: Taxis are widely available in Crete and can be a good option for short journeys or for those who prefer not to drive. However, taxis can be expensive, so it’s best to agree on a price before getting in the taxi to avoid any surprises.
• Cycling: Crete is a beautiful island, and cycling is a great way to explore it. There are several places where you can rent bicycles, and many of the island’s towns and cities have bike lanes or quiet roads that are perfect for cycling.
• Walking: Crete has many beautiful walking trails, particularly in its mountainous regions. Walking can be a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty, and there are many guided tours available for those who want to learn more about Crete’s history and culture.

Ultimately, the best way to get around Crete will depend on your personal preferences and travel style. Renting a car is often the most convenient option, but taking a bus, hiring a taxi, cycling, or walking can be more affordable and rewarding for those who are up for the adventure.

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

At this second-largest archaeological museum in Greece , artifacts and exhibits span more than 5,500 years of Greek history, with a special focus on the Cretan civilization.

Located in the Heraklion town center, the museum is open daily with reduced hours during the winter months. Admission is only six euros and worth every bit of it.

Check out Kato Zakro

Kato Zakro is a small village located on the eastern coast of Crete, known for its beautiful beaches and archaeological site. The village is situated at the end of a scenic road that winds through rugged hills and rocky gorges, offering breathtaking views of the Cretan landscape.

Kato Zakro is home to one of the most important Minoan archaeological sites on the island, the Palace of Zakros, which dates back to the Late Minoan period. The site is notable for its well-preserved frescoes and elaborate drainage system, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient civilization that once thrived on the island.

The village is also a popular destination for beach lovers, with several pristine beaches located just a short distance from the village center. Visitors to Kato Zakro can enjoy swimming in crystal clear waters, sunbathing on golden sands, and exploring the nearby hiking trails that lead through picturesque gorges and along the coast.

Visit Knossos

Knossos is an ancient archaeological site located just south of the modern city of Heraklion on the island of Crete. It is widely considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and is believed to have been the center of Minoan civilization during the Bronze Age.

The ruins of Knossos are extensive and include a large palace complex, temples, houses, and other buildings that date back to the 17th century BC. The site is famous for its impressive frescoes, which depict scenes of everyday life and religious ceremonies, as well as mythological creatures and symbols.

Visitors to Knossos can explore the ruins and learn about the history and culture of the Minoan civilization, including its advanced architectural techniques and artistic achievements. The site is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology and offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich and complex history of Crete.

Hike the Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is a natural wonder located in the White Mountains of Crete and is one of the island’s most popular attractions. It is a National Park and a World Biosphere Reserve and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.

The gorge is 18 kilometers long and up to 300 meters deep and features stunning natural scenery, including steep cliffs, crystal-clear streams, and lush vegetation. Visitors can hike through the gorge, which takes about 4-6 hours, depending on the pace.

The trail is challenging in parts, with uneven terrain and steep descents, but the stunning views and unique flora and fauna make it well worth the effort. Along the way, hikers will pass through small settlements and traditional Cretan villages, where they can rest and refuel with local food and drinks.

The Samaria Gorge is a must-visit for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts and offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Crete’s natural beauty.

Explore the Dikteon Cave

The Dikteon Cave , also known as the Psychro Cave, is an ancient and sacred cave located on the island of Crete, in the Dikti Mountains. It is believed to have been one of the most important cult sites in ancient Crete and was dedicated to the worship of the god Zeus.

The cave is famous for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites, which have formed over millions of years, and for its natural pools and underground streams. Visitors can explore the cave and see the ancient altars and offerings that were made to Zeus, as well as the impressive rock formations that line the walls and ceiling.

Legend has it that the cave was the birthplace of Zeus, and it is said that he was raised in secret here to protect him from his father, Kronos. The Dikteon Cave is a must-visit for those interested in ancient mythology and history and offers a unique and awe-inspiring glimpse into the ancient world of Crete.

Head over to Rethymnon

Rethymnon is a charming and historic town located on the north coast of the island of Crete. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and well-preserved Venetian-era old town. The town is a mix of old and new, with narrow alleys, ancient monuments, and a picturesque harbor alongside modern restaurants, cafes, and shops.

The old town is the heart of Rethymnon and features an impressive Venetian fortress, a picturesque harbor, and a maze of narrow alleys lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the town’s many museums, including the Historical and Folklore Museum and the Archaeological Museum, or relax on the nearby beaches, which are among the best on the island.

Rethymnon is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and taverns that cater to all tastes. The town is a must-visit for those interested in history, culture, and architecture, and offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Crete.

Check out Loutro

Loutro is a small and picturesque village located on the southern coast of Crete, in the Sfakia region. The village is known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere. Loutro can only be reached by boat or on foot, as there are no roads connecting it to the rest of the island, which adds to its charm and seclusion.

The village features a small port, a few traditional taverns, and a handful of accommodations, making it the perfect place for those seeking a peaceful and tranquil retreat. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the bay, explore the nearby hiking trails that lead through picturesque gorges and along the coast, or simply relax and soak up the sun on the pebble beaches.

The village is a must-visit for those seeking a quiet and idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Crete’s natural beauty.

Explore Chania

Chania is a beautiful and historic city located on the north coast of Crete. It is the second-largest city on the island and is known for its stunning Venetian-era old town, beautiful harbor, and lively atmosphere. The city is a mix of old and new, with narrow alleys, ancient monuments, and a picturesque harbor alongside modern restaurants, cafes, and shops.

The old town is the heart of Chania, and features an impressive Venetian fortress, a picturesque harbor, and a maze of narrow alleys lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the town’s many museums, including the Archaeological Museum and the Naval Museum, or relax on the nearby beaches, which are among the best on the island.

Chania is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and taverns that cater to all tastes. The city is a must-visit for those interested in history, culture, and architecture, and offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Crete.

Take a Sail to Spinalonga Island

The island of Spinalonga boasts an unusual history. Originally connected to Crete via an isthmus, the Venetians cut through it in the 16 th century to provide greater protection to the fortress, which was ultimately the final fortress to be captured by the Turks.

It was later turned into a leper colony—one of Europe’s last—in the first half of the 20 th Today, the island is a popular day destination for tourists, who take ferries from Plaka, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda to swim, sun and play on its beaches.

Get Inspired at the Toplou Monastery

The Toplou Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Panagia Akrotiriani , is a historic and important religious site located on the eastern coast of Crete, near the town of Sitia. The monastery was founded in the 15th century and has played an important role in the religious and cultural history of the island.

The monastery is known for its impressive architecture, including a fortified tower and walls, and its beautiful frescoes and religious icons. Visitors can explore the monastery’s museum, which features a collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, and artworks, or attend a religious service in the monastery’s church.

The monastery is also known for its wine and olive oil production, and visitors can sample and purchase these products at the onsite shop. The Toplou Monastery is a must-visit for those interested in religious history, culture, and architecture, and offers a unique and enlightening glimpse into the ancient world of Crete.

Crete is known for its stunning sunsets, and there are several places on the island where you can catch the sun sinking below the horizon in a blaze of colors. Here are a few of the best places to catch the sunset in Crete:

• Elafonisi Beach – This stunning beach on the southwestern coast of the island is known for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters, and it also offers a beautiful setting for watching the sunset.
• Balos Lagoon – Another beautiful beach on the northwestern coast of Crete, Balos Lagoon is surrounded by rugged cliffs and turquoise waters, making it a breathtaking spot to watch the sunset.
• Chania Old Harbor – The historic harbor of Chania is a picturesque setting for watching the sunset, with the Venetian lighthouse and the old buildings of the harbor providing a beautiful backdrop.
• Falassarna Beach – This wide and sandy beach on the western coast of Crete is known for its stunning sunsets, with the sun sinking below the sea in a dramatic display of colors.
• Phaistos Palace – This ancient Minoan palace is located on a hilltop in southern Crete, and offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape, making it a great place to watch the sunset and soak up the history of the island.

These are just a few of the many beautiful places in Crete where you can catch the sunset, so be sure to explore the island and discover your own favorite spot to watch the sun go down.

If you come to Crete seeking multi-course fine dining, you may leave disappointed—but if you take the time to explore the distinctive regional flavors and proud heritage of the island’s cuisine, you may just enjoy some of the best meals of your life.

Hole-in-the-wall tavernas often serve simple but excellent dishes, and many Cretan restaurants feature locally-sourced items like flavored rusks, cured meats, edible flowers, and raki, a clear spirit distilled from pressed grapes.

Breakfast in Crete

With locations in Rethymnon and Heraklion, Hari’s Creperie serves up a wide variety of pancakes, sweet and savory crepes and waffles, and more, seven days a week. For an indulgent breakfast, try the “Hari’s Special” waffle piled high with milk and white chocolate, vanilla cream, strawberry, banana, crushed Oreos, caramelized almonds, meringue cookies, marshmallows, and more.

For a taste of local flavor, consider one of the Cretan crepe options, which include apaki (Cretan smoked pork), feta or kefalotyri cheese, tomatoes, and spices. Vegan diners have plenty of options here, with items like the savory pancake with vegan cheese, pesto sauce, dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and almonds. Lighter choices like fruit salad and yogurt with honey and nuts are also available.

Lunch in Crete

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better tableside view than Med Café in Hersonissos Beach. If you make your reservations early, you just might snag one of the coveted rock-side tables just a few feet above the shore, where the gentle lapping of the waves on the rocks below will be your soundtrack for dinner. If not, the main outdoor dining area still offers lovely scenery and fresh sea air.

Rice, chickpeas, figs and mushrooms are all imported from the Greek mainland, while the cheese is made by a family dairy in southern Crete. To start your meal, consider one of Med’s tempting appetizers, such as grilled octopus or green melon soup with prosciutto, manouri cheese and sunflower seeds.

For your main course, the pasta dishes—such as the Cretan pasta with anthotiro cheese, cured smoked pork and portobello mushroom—make an excellent choice; the mixed souvlaki with grilled beef, pork and chicken breast, multicolored bell peppers, pita, grilled tomatoes and tzatziki foam also comes highly recommended. Seafood lovers may wish to try the wild-caught tuna steak accented with edamame, baby potatoes, mizithra cheese and a red grapefruit glaze.

Dinner in Crete

While you’re sightseeing in Chania, plan to stop for dinner at Chrisostomos , which serves flawlessly-executed traditional Cretan fare near the Old Port. The menu is heavily influenced by the cuisine of Sfakia, an isolated culture found in the rugged landscape of the White Mountains southeast of Chania.

For centuries, the residents of Skafia have adhered to a unique diet based largely on seasonally available ingredients and traditional preparation methods, which include using honey to boil meat and preparing Skafian pies with mizithra or pichtogalo cheese, flour and water.

Be sure to sample one of these unique pies as an appetizer, along with a portion of dakos (rusk, fresh tomato sauce, mizithra soft white cheese, oregano, olive oil and olives). Main courses include oven-baked lamb and suckling pig, boureki (sliced potatoes and pumpkin with soft mizithra cheese), mutton with white cheese and garlic and the classic moussaka (fried potatoes, eggplant and ground beef covered in creamy bechamel sauce).

Dessert in Crete

Since 1997, Koukouvagia has cemented its place in the Greek culinary scene, offering rich desserts and other treats with a beautiful view of Chania Harbor. In fact, Greece’s leading chefs and foodies voted Koukouvagia the top spot for dessert throughout all of Greece in 2018—quite an honor for this humble establishment on the island of Crete.

Deciding what to order can be nearly impossible, with the irresistible array of choices served fresh daily. Popular confections include the restaurant’s famous zoumero, a light chocolate cake dipped in a rich chocolate sauce and topped with whipped cream; traditional lemon and walnut cakes; mille feuille; and ekmek kataifi as well as other traditional Greek recipes.

The café is open all day, so feel free to start your day with an indulgent treat, stop by for an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of coffee or end your day on a sweet note as you watch the sunset over the water.

Considered by some to be the most photogenic of the Greek isles, Crete offers an endless array of shockingly beautiful subjects. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:

Top 5 Photo Spots in Crete

Chania Harbor: The harbor offers spectacular views of the famous Egyptian lighthouse, the pastel hues of the Venetian mansions along the water, and a charming Ottoman mosque.

The walls of Chania: Erected by the Venetians more than six centuries past to repel the invading Ottomans, the walls of Chania provide a captivating backdrop for sunset photos.

Elafonissi Lagoon: The sands of Elafonissi beach owe their striking pink hue to microscopic marine organisms, and the contrast with the azure-blue water of the Mediterranean Sea creates an unforgettable photo.

Preveli Beach: Just outside Plakias in southern Crete, this rocky beach features dramatic cliffs, rock-carved stairs, and a lush palm forest.

Knossos: The bold red, black, and yellow tones of the palatial ruins—and the ancient Minoan history they represent—are an essential photo opportunity for any visit to Crete.

Additional Spots Not to Miss

Old Town Chania: This neighborhood lives up to its name, with 2000-year-old foundations that have been transformed in turn by the Venetians, Ottomans, Arabs, and Greeks. This provides a colorful mix of cultures and architecture for the camera.

Skinaria Beach: Also near Plakias, this stunning landscape features radiant white stone formations against the deep blue sea.

Balos Lagoon: This site is likely the most-photographed beach in Crete. It has brilliant turquoise waters set against white sands and rocky cliffs.

Arkadi Monastery: Built around the 12 th century, this weathered structure was restored in 1870 after being virtually destroyed during the Cretan rebellion against Turkish rule in 1866. Its imposing stone exterior and twin bells make for a classic photo.

Agios Nikolaos: This mid-size port town on picturesque Mirabello Bay blends the modern and traditional. It has charming, brightly-hued homes that circle the boat-filled water.

Home to an incredible diversity of ecosystems and cultures, Crete has something to offer every visitor. From historic ruins filled with rare artifacts to peaceful mountain villages. From beautiful beaches to incredible food. This is all made even more memorable by the warm Mediterranean hospitality that permeates the island.

Its reasonable prices and endless opportunities for relaxing, exploring, and entertainment make it one of the best values for travelers considering a European vacation.

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Things to Do in Crete, Greece - Crete Attractions

Things to do in crete.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Kato Patisia
• Kato Petralona
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Luxurious Furs

2. Alexia Handmade Jewelry

3. Irida Family Workshop

4. The Bronze - Kelesis Yannis

5. Hatzis Leather

6. Candiashop Boutique

7. Olivia Shop

8. MoozArt - Wood Art Workshop

9. Ira Jewellery Platanias

10. Jirakis Handcrafted Leather

11. Emmanuel Jewellery

12. Soulis Furs/Fratelli Gio

14. Local Art Workshop by Manolis Tsouris

15. Elements Handmade Jewels

16. Eklektos Bookshop

17. Ergastíri Kompologioú

18. Kosmima - Gold & Silver

19. All About Oil

20. Kyveli Jewellery

21. Family Pitarokilis

22. To Kaniski

23. Maria Sanoudaki Ceramic Art

24. Ilys ceramics

25. Marianna's Workshop

26. Diamond Furs

27. Cloclo's Art Handmade Creations

28. To Meli

29. Maxis Traditional cafe and Handmade Ceramic Shop

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53 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Crete, Greece

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As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete has been welcoming throngs of eager tourists for decades, pleasantly surprising each and every one of them with its near-endless list of immersive, unforgettable activities.

With cruises, theme parks, hiking trails, historic ruins, beaches, and more, the selection of things to do in Crete is nothing short of amazing.

Considered one of Greece’s most significant points of interest, unravel ancient sites and monuments that date back to the Minoan civilization — originating in this part of the country around 3500 BC.

The main city on the island is Heraklion (where many travelers choose to make their base), but there are plentiful cute oceanic towns and local seaside villages to day trip to, or spend the night.

Explore the countryside, travel Chania’s coastline or cruise out to nearby surrounding isles and go snorkeling, diving and sea cave hunting. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, abseil down canyons, join an ATV safari or pretend to fly during a paragliding expedition.

Offering a fantastic mix of culturally-enriching experiences, adventurous activities and foodie escapades, Crete is a bustling and vibey island not to be missed.

1 – Visit the Knossos Palace

As the most important Bronze Age archaeological site on the island, Knossos Palace has welcomed nearly 600,000 curious visitors per year. The best way to explore the historic site is with an expert historian — they’re always delighted to share the real-life and mythical stories associated with this 22,000-square-meter ruin complex.

Dating back thousands of centuries, it’s believed that palace construction began around 1950 BC and through excavations, archaeologists have found that Knossos must have been renovated and added onto multiple times since its earliest days.

During a dedicated walking tour to Knossos, uncover ancient artifacts and ruins from prehistoric times, and the palace is a prime example for investigating the Minoan civilization.

• Knossos Palace tickets & tours

2 – Relax at Elafonisi Beach

Photographers, rejoice — with its champagne pink coral sand and sparkling crystalline waters, Elafonisi Beach on the island’s western shores is the definition of gorgeous.

The area is dotted with restaurants and bars, allowing you to turn a laid-back afternoon into a romantic evening with ease.

Directions in Google maps

• Day trips to Elafonisi Beach

3 – Tackle Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest gorge hike

One of the island’s most visually stunning hikes on the continent, the main trail in Samaria Gorge National Park is a must for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts. Across the roughly 15-km-long trek, towering rock faces provide both shade and beauty, with flowing streams and unique wildlife popping up along the way.

• Samaria Gorge tours from Chania

4 – Check out Spinalonga Island

Known for the Venetian-era Spinalonga fortress sitting atop the glistening Mirabello Bay, the postcard-worthy Spinalonga Island is a must for any Crete visitor — if not for the notably dark history, then for the sublime views looking out from the bastion.

Guided tours often include time to swim or snorkel, plus a couple of stops at equally impressive nearby attractions such as Agios Nikolaos or Elounda .

• boat tours in Crete

5 – Lather on the suncream at Balos Lagoon

Boasting some of the brightest turquoise waters in the Mediterranean, the Balos Lagoon —about an hour and a half’s drive from Chania — is nothing short of delightful.

The main beach, while beautiful, is shallow and clear, making it a safe, family-friendly swimming destination. Grab a sunbed, a refreshing drink, and let the serenity whisk you away.

• Balos Lagoon tours from Heraklion

6 – Stop by Amazonas Park Crete

Families on vacation with young children will especially love Amazonas Park Crete — a small, private zoo in the hillsides.

Come and say hello to your furry friends and the park focuses on habilitating rare bird species (especially parrots), as well as monkeys from places like South America. Other animals to see include donkeys and lemurs and speaking of, there are lemur feeding times in which guests can get involved in.

7 – Zoom along canyons and mountains on a jeep tour

As an island lined with rugged hills and sprawling canyons, there’s no better way to explore the great outdoors than strapped into an open-air Jeep, with a seasoned local escorting you to all the most underrated locations on Crete’s southern coast.

If a private journey to places like Preveli Palm Beach isn’t quite your style, rent your own car and explore at your own pace.

• jeep tours in Crete

8 – Head to paradise on Earth: Preveli beach

Undisputedly one of the best things to do in Crete thanks to its warm, crystal-clear waters; famous ‘Heart Rock’; and its location at the mouth of the Kourtaliotikos Gorge, a day at Preveli Beach is simply non-negotiable.

At first glance, visitors quickly realize why Preveli has developed the reputation as the island’s most famous southern beach.

Reaching this beach involves a bit of trekking, and visitors need to do a short hike from the parking lot down to the shores.

Thanks to Prevali Beach’s positioning, there are a few more activities to do, such as abseiling in Kourtaliotiko down the side of a waterfall and landing in the Megalos Potamos River. Speaking of, this waterbody is famed for the dozens of palm trees that line the banks and you can swim here too.

9 – Hike through the imposing Imbros Gorge

Running parallel to Samaria Gorge, the lesser-known yet arguably more spectacular Imbros Gorge — which starts just below the village of Imbros — runs 11 kilometers through some of southern Crete’s premier canyon landscapes.

As you hike under the steep, rocky walls, keep an eye out for curious rare birds like ravens, griffon vultures, and falcons.

• hiking tours in Crete

10 – Sail along the coast on a boat tour

You’re in the Greek islands, after all — there’s no excuse not to explore the surrounding waters! Whether you’re hoping to party like it’s 1999, sit back and relax, learn about the island’s fascinating history, or dig into a delicious feast on the water, there’s a boat tour suitable for every budget and every kind of traveler.

Choose from sailboats, pirate ships, high-speed motorboats, and plenty more!

Traveling with kids? Feel like Captain Jack Sparrow and his gang onboard the Black Rose, and spend half the day visiting St. George’s Bay. Other boating expeditions head to Dia Island instead for snorkeling and fishing trips.

You can also snorkel as well as go diving during boat tours around the Chania coastline, or opt for a sunset cruise around these waters and spot the town’s famed attractions and monuments from out at sea.

Hot tip: check out the best boat trips in Crete for the perfect boating adventure!

11 – Take a day trip to Santorini

The most renowned of all the Greek islands, Santorini is just as beautiful in real life as it is in the pictures.

With the blue water contrasting magnificently with black-sand beaches and whitewashed architecture, it’s an Instagrammer’s delight; and with fresh seafood available on every corner, it’s heaven on Earth for foodies.

To all the traveling couples, a Santorini sunset is the pinnacle of romance.

• Santorini tours from Heraklion

12 – Explore Rethymnon’s Old Town

Comprising tiny streets overflowing with amazing restaurants and unique stores, and yet, usually not as busy as the historic areas of Chania, Rethymnon’s Old Town is a regular crowd favorite.

With friendly locals, an authentic atmosphere (especially compared to the nearby beach strip), and panoramic views of the Cretan Sea, it’s not to be missed.

Make sure to check out the Venetian Harbour and the Fortezza Castle!

13 – Sail over to Chrissi Island

Sitting about 15 kilometers south of Crete, Chrissi Island is an untouched slice of Mother Nature — the ideal destination for a day trip in the outdoors that’s all about one thing: relaxation.

Transfers are available from Heraklion, Ierapetra, and a number of other Crete ports; even the journey itself is beautiful.

• Chrissi Island tours from Heraklion

14 – Experience 2,000 years of history at the Heraklion Archeological Museum

Widely considered the world’s best museum for Minoan art, the Heraklion Archeological Museum showcases countless artifacts spanning coins, plates, jewelry, sculptures, and more.

For the best bang for your buck, opt for a tour that also includes a visit to Knossos Palace (another must-see Crete destination).

• Archeological Museum tickets

Read more; Best things to do in Heraklion

15 – Explore or stay at Chersonissos Old Town

More commonly known as Hersonissos, this coastal village is a 20-minute drive from Heraklion and well-loved by travelers thanks to its quaint, seaside feel.

Once a small fishing port, it’s become a popular resort destination home to cute tavernas, boutique shops, a strew of beaches and oceanic activities.

Spend your daytime hours beach-hopping, and when the stars come out, the streets are extra vibrant. Choose to visit Chersonissos Old Town during a city tour, or spend the night if it steals your heart.

• city tours in Crete

16 – Try a wet and wild wakeboarding session

The picturesque Elounda Bay on Crete’s northeast coast offers calm crystal-clear waters and fantastic scenery. With its tranquil conditions, it’s the perfect spot for beginners to get started and for experienced riders to perfect their skills.

Join an experienced instructor to take your first steps in wakeboarding, or to nail those tricks you’ve been trying to land. Wakeboarding is ideal for those seeking an adventure-packed day out in Crete.

• wakeboarding in Crete

17 – Sightsee the capital of Crete with Heraklion bus tours

Convenient and saving you time and money, book a ticket for a hop-on-hop-off Heraklion bus tour.

Cruising around Heraklion on a double-decker bus, jump on and off the tourist coach at your own pace from one of the outlined bus stops around town, hopping back onto the bus when you’re ready.

Tickets last for 24 hours or buy a 48-hour pass instead, and there are two designated line routes that the hop-on hop-off bus tours to. Some attractions to pass include Knossos Palace, the Venetian Walls and Ammoudara Beach.

• bus tours in Crete

18 – Meet the animals at the Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre

Unlike most aquariums and animal sanctuaries, Aquaworld visitors are encouraged to get up close and personal with the creatures — feed the turtles, stroke the lizards, or (if you’re brave enough) grab a selfie with a snake around your neck!

Housing sea life and reptiles from all over the world, a couple of hours spent here is truly one of the most fun things to do in Crete.

19 – Join a wine & olive oil tasting tour!

Taste up to 15 wines, see the world’s oldest olive tree and learn more than you ever thought you could about the Cretan history of winemaking and olive oil production — all on a locally-led tour.

These unmissable tasting experiences venture off the beaten track, exploring family-run vineyard and factories, and showcasing an authentic side of the island.

In a country where food forms an important part of its culture, there are other foodie tours to enjoy while you’re in Crete.

Indulge in an afternoon of cheese and wine and learn about the process of cheese production during cheese tastings . Satiate your thirst instead with a day of beer tastings , visiting local breweries and sampling some of the best craft drafts in town.

• wine tasting tours in Crete

20 – Climb the Venetian fortress on Gramvousa Island

Make sure the camera’s fully charged because the views from Gramvousa are second to none.

From the island’s beautiful white sands and rocky peaks, you’ll see shipwrecks, the colorful Balos lagoon, and neighboring islands in the distance.

With seals and endangered sea turtles inhabiting the local caves, it’s an unbeatable swimming destination too.

• Gramvousa Island tours from Heraklion

21 – Get a bird’s eye view of Crete while paramotoring

Looking for some chilled-out yet exhilarating fun in Crete? A tandem paramotoring flight is a great choice. Join a qualified pilot for a high-flying adventure in an engine-powered paraglider. As you fly over Chania, you’ll see the city from a whole new perspective. You’ll be able to take in the stunning coastline, the rugged mountains, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. These flights take off directly from the ground so you’ll be in the air in less than a minute!

• paramotoring in Crete

22 – Spend the day at Acqua Plus Water Park

Boasting the title of Crete’s largest water park, Acqua Plus plays hosts to the island’s tallest, fastest, and most exciting slides.

Complementing the high-octane thrills, the park dishes up ample relaxation opportunities, with a lazy river, hydromassage beds, and wading pools all available.

Whether kids of age or kids at heart, it’s a perfect place to cool off on a hot day.

• Acqua Plus tickets

23 – Learn how to scuba dive!

The waters encircling Crete are temperature-perfect and magnificently transparent, making it one of Europe’s premier scuba diving regions.

Dives and dive courses are available for newbies and experts alike, with adventures exploring the surrounds of places like Chania (check out the Elephant’s Cave), Heraklion, and Karpathos (perfect for shipwrecks).

• scuba diving in Crete

24 – Visit the 16th-century Arkadi Monastery

A hilltop structure that boasts a remarkable facade, the Arkadi Monastery is adored by architecture and history buffs alike.

Sitting about 23 kilometers southeast of Rethymno , it presents as a hassle-free activity to squeeze into any afternoon. While unaccompanied visits are possible, due to the monastery’s role in the 1866 revolution, an expert guide is often appreciated.

25 – Put the pedal to the metal during bike tours

Clock in your daily exercise amidst an epic bike tour around Crete and the surrounding areas, or for those that are keen on biking but aren’t the biggest cyclists, there are E-bike tour options too.

Covering nine kilometers, spend 2.5 hours cruising around the streets of Chania on a classic bicycle with a local guide, stopping for photo opportunities and a break in between.

E-biking excursions travel to the countryside or opt for designated trails through either Rethymno or Heraklion.

• bike tours in Crete

26 – Embark on a quad bike (ATV) safari

Adventurers, if you’re hunting for fun things to do in Crete that will satisfy the urge for adrenaline, then a quad bike safari ought to do the trick. Escape the city, ditch the tourists, and head out to the fresh air of the rolling hills, with departures available from most of the popular visitor cities.

Best of all, a delicious, locally-made lunch is almost always included!

Whizzing through local villages and over mountains, you have the option of driving the quad bike yourself, or hopping on the back and letting one of the professional drivers lead the way. An alternative option to an ATV are buggy tours — often deemed safer than quads.

Buggies are favored by families as you’re sitting inside a vehicle with an open cage, but you still get to experience all of the thrills as you venture across similar terrains.

• ATV tours in Crete

27 – Snorkel with local marine life

Get up close and personal with colorful sea creatures, witness an underwater shipwreck with your very own eyes, and let the soft momentum of the waves glide you along the surface — all possible thanks to Crete’s crystal-clear waters.

For an awesome multi-activity experience, choose a tour that includes jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, or a boat cruise!

• snorkeling tours in Crete

28 – Don the chef’s hat in a Cretan cooking class

Besides its paradise beaches, if there’s anything that the island of Crete is known for, it’s its array of tantalizing local delicacies.

Despite hundreds of noteworthy restaurants available, the most authentic gastronomy experience is learning to cook the traditional meals yourself.

In a Cretan cooking class you’ll be eating dakos and loukoumades all night long — and yes, wine is included, of course…

• cooking classes in Crete

29 – Hike through the White Mountains

Occupying the majority of central and western Crete, the White Mountains are ever-popular for outdoor adventure, with over 50 rocky peaks to ascend, many soaring over 2000 meters above sea level.

Plenty of single- and multi-day trails and tours are available, with something for every level of difficulty.

In winter, when covered in snow, their beauty only intensifies.

• White Mountains tours from Chania

30 – Spend a day at Matala Beach

With golden sand, calm waters, and excellent views of the Paximadia islands, a day soaking in the sun at Matala Beach is hands-down one of the best things to do in Crete.

Adjacent to the pristine waters of the fishing village are the area’s imposing cliffs, and at their base, uniquely-curved prehistoric caves.

31 – Discover Crete from above with helicopter tours

Feel like a bird soaring high in the sky during a helicopter tour over Crete’s magnificent coastline. Honeymooners and budding travel photographers, this special ride is sure to tickle your fancy.

Spanning one hour, fly over Hersonissos or Elounda — two coastal towns located in the northern part of Crete, and most helicopters can seat up to four passengers.

Private transfers from Crete to other Greek islands are available. Arrive in style in Santorini, Athens or Mykonos, for example.

• helicopter tours in Crete

32 – Push your limits with rock climbing in Crete’s natural gorges

The limestone cliffs of Crete’s natural gorges are popular with climbers of all experience levels. If you’re a first-time climber looking to try the sport in a beautiful natural environment you won’t be disappointed.

Opt for a harder course and test your stamina and skills, or try an easier route and just take in the epic scenery of the Asterousia mountains. This is the island at its very best.

• rock climbing tours in Crete

33 – Witness glowing jellyfishes swim at CRETAquarium

Found in Thalassókosmos, not too far from Heraklion , the Mediterranean-themed CRETAquarium hosts over 2,500 creatures, featuring intimidating hunter sharks, adorable seahorses, glowing jellyfish, and everything in between. It’s an immersive indoor activity suitable for the whole family.

After checking out the vibrant sea life, why not make a beeline to the nearby Hani Kokkini beach?

• CRETAquarium tickets

34 – Watch a movie like never before at Minoan’s World 9D Cinema

After strolling through the on-site 3D museum (a worthy attraction in its own right, particularly the “I Love Crete” installation), the ultra-immersive 9D cinema awaits, ready to wow each and every Chania visitor.

The theater uses high-tech special effects, moving chairs, wind, and more to stimulate your senses for 25 minutes of amazement.

• Minoan’s World tickets

35 – Go canyoning in Portela Gorge

Considered one of the trickiest gorges to attempt in this part of Greece, a canyoning adventure at Portela Gorge is sure to get the heart pumping.

From the top of the canyon (beginning at Hondros village and ending in Keratokambos village), there are two ravines to undertake depending on your skill level.

Before you begin your descent receive safety instructions and a demonstration on how to abseil your way down the rockeries. You’re strapped in the entire time and connected to a secure rope as you bounce, jump and climb.

• canyoning in Crete

36 – Zipline into the sea with Coasteering near Lentas

An exhilarating combination of ziplining, cliff jumping, climbing, and rappelling, Coasteering is the perfect combo of sport and adventure. If you’re always looking for the next thrill, there will be enough to satisfy you here.

Clamber along rocks, swim in the sea and cliff jump from heights that will get your heart racing. Crete’s southern coast is where the fun never stops.

37 – Pop the question during a hot air balloon ride

What could be more romantic than a hot air balloon ride over Crete’s mountainous landscapes (more specifically, the Lassithi Plateau)?

Enjoy the next 40 minutes with the love of your life in a hot air balloon with the sun setting over the hills, and the basket is equipped with sweet extras like flowers and ambient music.

Float over famed sites like the Cave of Diktaion Andron (nicknamed Zeus Cave) and the Lasithi Plateau Windmills, and snap up pictures — and memories — to last a lifetime.

• hot air balloon rides in Crete

38 – Wander around Chania Old Town & Old Venetian Harbour

As one of the essential things to do in Crete, a stroll through Chania’s Old Town, whether by day or by night, is absolutely magical.

Check out the restored lighthouse, grab a few souvenirs at the shops, take a break at any of the locally-adored eateries, and plenty more — all housed on streets dating back to the 14th century.

Read more; Best things to do in Chania

39 – Swim between the cliffs at Seitan Limania Beach

Otherwise known as Stefanou Beach, this glorious cove is as picturesque as they come.

The sandy beach feels remarkable remote, however, in reality, it’s just a stone’s throw from Chania International Airport, making it an easy addition to any Crete itinerary.

To swim in a cove surrounded by towering rock formations, simply put: there’s just nothing else like it.

40 – Walk in the footsteps of a god at Zeus Cave

The infamous location where the most famous of all Greek gods was born, Zeus Cave (AKA Psychro Cave or Diktaion Andron) is a stunning portrayal of stalagmites and stalactites, kept cool even on those scorching summer days.

Don’t forget the walking shoes — in addition to the entranceway sitting on top of a mountain, there are a few hundred stairs descending into the cavern’s depths.

• Zeus Cave tours

41 – Scale Crete’s southern mountains on the Via Ferrata

The Asterousia mountains in the south of Crete offer fantastic views which extend all the way to the Libyan Sea. One of the best ways to explore them is on the Via Ferrata which offers a climbing-like experience for visitors. You’ll cross the Eligia Gorge, take in the area’s geological wonders, and see Kofinas — the Asterousia’s highest peak.

• Via Ferrata in Crete

42 – Test out stand up paddleboard in Chania

An excellent alternative to surfing, SUPing is an awesome outdoor activity to try out and stand-up paddleboarding in Chania is popular thanks to the magnificent color of the waters in this part of the island.

Using a SUP board and paddle, glide over the calm ocean and discover hidden sea caves, tiny coves, secret beaches and some of the most spectacular marine life. Jump off your board and straight into the water for snorkel time too!

• stand up paddleboard in Crete

43 – Go horse riding near Heraklion

Trot through the scenic landscapes of the Finikia Mountains on horseback, or, if you prefer, sitting in comfort on a horse-drawn carriage — either way, it’s a wonderful experience for visitors of all ages.

A freshly-prepared Creten picnic (with wine!) is included too. After a couple of hours of exploring the outdoors, they’ll go down a treat.

• horse riding in Crete

44 – Feast at the best restaurants

Dubbed a haven for foodies, there are some mouth-watering restaurants in Crete to satisfy your palettes.

Mixing traditional and contemporary design, enjoy the freshest seafood right on the marina at Salis . Focusing on Cretan flavors and ingredients, for an authentic taste of the island book a table at the ever-ambient Peskesi .

Open since 1999, Parasties never fails to impress its (loyal) customers, and Lemonokipos is another long-time standing favorite.

Feel right at home at Pelagos set inside a traditional taverna and with a great courtyard, or choose views overlooking the ocean at Herb’s Garden .

45 – Dedicate an afternoon to kayaking!

No matter where you’re staying — Rethymnon, Chania, Elounda, or anywhere in between — since Crete is an island, you’re never too far from incredible kayaking opportunities.

Float under caves, through grassy rivers, around offshore islands, or out in the open ocean; whatever floats your boat. All equipment is provided, just bring yourself!

• kayaking in Crete

46 – Spend the day at Ammoudara Beach

Be greeted by a laid-back setting and a clear ocean down at Ammoudara Beach (a 20-minute drive from Heraklion). This beach isn’t as overcrowded as some of the others in town, and the restaurants and rentals are more affordable.

It can get quite windy down at Ammoudara, however, this creates ideal conditions for watersports like jet skiing and kite surfing.

These aren’t the only two popular oceanic activities to try, and parasailing from this beach is popular.

47 – Get lost in Labyrinth Park

Inspired by Crete’s Minoan heritage, the Labyrinth theme park promises fun for visitors of all ages.

While the three-dimensional, 1300-square-meter Labyrinth is the undisputed focal point, the enormous park also boasts a high-tech ‘laser maze’, horse riding, archery, mini-golf, a pottery workshop, eco-garden, and — most impressively — a towering Trojan horse.

48 – Have a once-in-a-lifetime experience paragliding in Chania

Outdoor junkies, the bountiful thrill-seeking activities and things to do in Crete seem endless; so add paragliding in Chania to your bucket list. Sweeping over oceans, mountains and local villages, enjoy unparalleled views of the island during a 20-minute (tandem) flight.

Starting off on land, undergo a short lesson, suit up with all the necessary gear and safety equipment, and then attached in front of your pilot, prepare for lift-off in a glider. Now, it’s time to fly!

• paragliding in Crete

49 – Take a dip in Lake Kournas

With a host of snorkeling, paddle-boating, kayaking, and swimming opportunities, the calm waters of Lake Kournas are quickly gaining popularity.

In recent years, the area between Rethymno and Chania has gentrified, now hosting souvenir shops, restaurants, and bars — and while that can sometimes mean more tourists, it also means plenty more to do and see!

50 – Visit the Rocca a Mare Fortress (Heraklion)

If you’re searching for things to do in Crete that combine history with beauty and aren’t too far from the main attractions, look no further than the famed 16th-century Rocca a Mare Fortress (otherwise known as the Koules Fort).

Sitting at the mouth of the old port of Heraklion atop a natural rocky outcrop, this imposing medieval structure is a regular tourist favorite and should not be overlooked.

51 – Sit back and relax at Vai Beach

Straddling Crete’s eastern shoreline and surrounded by palm trees and rocky cliffs, Vai Beach is as stunning as it is serene, with busy crowds typically few and far between.

For those days where you want nothing more than to perfect the tan, cocktail in hand, and relax, there’s no better spot than the sands of Vai.

52 – Enjoy a traditional Cretan dance show with dinner

Not only is a Cretan dance show with dinner included a fun night out, but it’s also a fabulous way to get to learn and know more about local traditions and folklore stories surrounding the island.

Prepare for an evening filled with song, dance, live music, food and flowing wine, and there are a few options when it comes to location; pick between a small-town taverna or an outdoor setting in a local village to witness the show.

• dinners in Crete

53 – Party non-stop in Malia and Stalis

In Malia and Stalis, two adjacent villages on the island’s northeast, the energy is electric and the party never stops.

Along Beach Road, bars and clubs (most of which are free) run rampant, with paint parties and 24-hour bars always welcoming tourists from near and far.

If you want to let your hair down and unleash your wild side, this is the place.

How to get to Crete?

Flights from around the world land at one of Crete’s two airports: Heraklion International Airport and Chania International Airport.

Prior to arriving on Greece’s biggest island, pre-book airport transfers for the moment you touch down, eliminating the hassle, time and confusion of having to source taxis or tour operators to transport you to your accommodation around the island.

As you arrive, your private driver awaits and will take you directly to the stay.

Where to stay in Crete?

Crete is a large island with some incredible accommodation options.

Stylish and with contemporary finishes, KYMĀNI Boutique Hotel & Suites has a lovely guest pool and all suites have balconies overlooking Kalypso Beach.

Adults-only Inotropes Boutique Suites feels like it belongs on the cover of a travel magazine, and both suites and studios are beautiful options.

The eye-catching aparthotels at Manili Boutique Suites & Villas are done up with your typical cladded greek interiors with a mix of modern designs.

Just 100 meters from the beach in the heart of Chania, Serenissima Boutique Hotel is built inside a 15th-century Venetian home and retains an air of ancient charm.

Another adults-only stay is at the Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel loved for its excellent beachfront location and luxury finishes.

Close by tons of bars, restaurants and shopping options, Ionas Boutique Hotel is favored for its convenient address, or spend the night on the Old Venetian harborfront at the Porto Veneziano Hotel .

If you’re the type of traveler who prefers picking an apartment with plenty of private space to yourselves, book a stay at 3 Pines Design Living . Or, if vacationing as an extra large group, the private five-bedroom Villa Hara might be what you’re looking for.

• best hotels in Crete

Where to go next?

While Crete may be the largest of the Greek islands, there are other iconic destinations that should not be missed during your holiday in Greece.

As one of the oldest (and most famous) cities in the entire world, investigate the ancient sites, monuments, relics and the many other fun things to do in Athens .

If you’re craving a sun-induced vacay spending idle days on the beach, here are some of the best Greek islands to visit right now!

For your typical postcard-worthy moments, the Cyclades Islands are home to some of the most popular islands in Greece. Santorini and Mykonos are famed for their luxurious hotels, restaurants and party scenes.

Close by is Paros which is not as crowded as the other two. Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades and is a haven for travelers who love the outdoors.

Filled with colorful seaside villages and ancient castles, the Dodecanese Islands offer tourists a different perspective. Step back in time at Rhodes island or Kos is a great family destination.

Visiting the Ionian Islands on the western coast, Corfu is a popular choice for travelers heading to this part of Greece.

If your time is limited in Crete, opt for multi-day trips where you’ll cover the areas and islands in the most convenient way possible.

Final thoughts

Jammed packed with exciting outdoor activities, historic sites and attractions, endless beaches, nearby islands and some of the best food in the country, the things to do in Crete appease all types of travelers — whether young or old, traveling solo or as a group of mates.

What are your favorite places to visit in Crete or your must-see attractions? Share with us your thoughts in the comments; we’d love to hear your stories.

As always, happy and safe travels!

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Retreat to Crete: why the Greek island is a perfect escape

The unspoilt northeast of Greece’s largest island offers a restorative mix of uncrowded beaches, authentic tavernas and extraordinary views

S ometimes, when you travel, you arrive somewhere so ridiculously picturesque, so dictionary-definition of how you expect the country to look, that you half suspect it was built as a film set, or has been “Disneyfied” specifically for tourists.

I get this feeling when I walk on to the small, horseshoe-shaped bay at Mochlos, Crete. Half a dozen restaurants, all cobalt wooden chairs, whitewashed tables and blackboards offer gyros and freshly caught fish. On the slim strip of stones that fringes the low sea wall, a handful of locals is towelling off after a late dip, the last two heads bobbing in the metallic blue water, the small, humpy island behind them backlit by the apricot-gold light of the sun, slowly dipping beneath the horizon.

I settle in with a cold Mythos and order up a plate of crispy gyros, fresh pitta and tzatziki. As I gaze out over the slowly darkening Gulf of Mirabello, I feel sure that a week here, doing nothing but pottering the 10-minute walk between my hotel, the Mochlos Blue, and this ramshackle clutch of tavernas, would be more restorative than a luxurious spa hotel.

But this quiet corner of Crete is well worth exploring. The northeast, home to the Dikti mountains, is one of the island’s last unspoilt stretches of coastline, and a world away from the luxury resorts that scatter the coast around Elounda, and the 1980s sprawling hotels and apartments that characterise places such as Agios Nikolaos.

After a lazy first day, I set out to discover a good local beach (the one thing Mochlos doesn’t have), and follow a recommendation to Tholos, hidden away 3km from the main road.

It turns out to be an absolute treat of a beach: a long strip of sand that is free of sun loungers and parasols, the only shade thrown by a cluster of tamarind trees sheltering a handful of cars. As I step into the water, only one other couple is swimming. The water is sparklingly clear, shoals of tiny fish whisking through the shallows. The mountains loom to the southern end of the beach past one whitewashed house on the small road that leads over the headland to the north.

The swimming is really only an excuse for over-indulgence. Cretan food is arguably the best in Greece, the island’s diverse landscapes producing everything from mountain herbs, greens and tangy cheese to grassily delicious olive oils, freshly caught fish and crispy pastry snacks, such as spanakopita – golden flaky pastry, stuffed with salty feta and herbs. Best of all, because this area of Crete is off the mainstream tourist trail, even the most spectacularly situated taverna rarely gets overrun.

I head to the village of Mirsini, where a huddle of whitewashed houses clambers up the mountainside and Mochlos is little more than a vague white fringe along a small strip of sea, hundreds of metres below. As I climb the steps of the Taverna Kathodon , I pass circular trays of tomatoes, slowly drying in the sunshine. I emerge on to a series of small terraces, crammed with terracotta pots and mismatched chairs and tables. The bright yellow walls are covered with everything from straw hats to fake flowers and old cooking implements.

The view is so spectacular – great, scrub-faced mountains, the distant outline of Crete’s jagged northern coast like a huge sleeping alligator beside the sea – that it wouldn’t matter if the food was average. Instead, I eat crispy mizithropita – a flatbread stuffed with cheese, hot off the pan and drizzled with honey, and dolmadakia – the most succulent vine leaves I’ve ever tasted.

At the table next to me, an elderly couple is making their way through a carafe of wine, taking pictures to send to their grandchildren. On the other side of the terrace, a Greek family is squabbling over vast plates of meatballs and calamari. Beneath it all, the cicadas keep up their rhythmic chorus. It strikes me I may have reached peak Greek.

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All the eating pushes me into deciding to tackle the Richtis Gorge , a short half-hour drive from Mochlos. I take the easy option (although it’s all relative) and drive the steep, twisting road from the upper car park down to the beach, reducing the hike from two hours to about 40 minutes (and cutting out most of the uphill stretches). Even so, it’s quite a clamber and more like a rainforest walk than a gorge. Small waterfalls rush through gashes in the rock, understudies for the main event – a shimmering, aquamarine pool with kinetic tendrils of water hurling down over the rock face above.

The Richtis proves to be quite the adventure, justifying my last day of doing little except lazing by the Mochlos Blue’s tranquil pool. The hotel is adults-only (apart from summer school holidays), and with just six rooms it feels more like a spacious villa; the honesty bar is well stocked with snacks, cold beers and local wine, and the small breakfast buffet is complimented each morning by a traditional, homemade treat – scrambled eggs with tomato, spanakopita and, my absolute favourite, loukoumades – deep-fried dough balls, drenched in honey and nuts.

On my last evening, I drive up from the village for supper at the Taverna Natural , where tables are set out in a charming, tree-dotted garden. The view across the Gulf of Mirabello is perhaps one of the most stunning on the whole island. I time it just right for the sunset and watch, transfixed, as the sky flames through an extraordinary palette of colours, the sun burning slowly down towards the purple-auburn mountains. I order a tomato salad and moussaka, the aubergines lying across the dish like silk. The view is extraordinary, the food delicious, the beer perfectly chilled… Would it be wrong to stay another week?

A week at the Mochlos Blue costs from £899, including car hire and B&B accommodation, through Simpson Travel. For more details, go to simpsontravel.com

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Our tourist maps

Crete is an excellent destination if you want a holiday that combines culture and the beach. It is also a destination for outdoor activities such as mountain-biking, cave diving and canyoning. To help you plan and prepare for your trip, we have put together a range of tourist maps. First is the guide to the regions of Crete. With our map of the essential Crete, you will discover the island’s main places of interest, so you’re sure not to miss anything. Our journey map allows you to plan your tour of the island, showing times and distances between the major towns. And don’t forget our map of Crete's beaches to help you find the most beautiful beaches on the island. Now you have everything you need for a trouble free stay on the peaceful, charming island of Crete. From the palace at Knossos to the Samaria Gorge and the old Venetian ports, Crete has a range of remarkable places to visit. Check out our maps to make the most of your stay. You now have all the elements to plan a hassle free stay on the charming island of Crete. From the Knossos Palace, to the old Venetian port of Chania and the Samaria Gorge, Crete offers a range of remarkable places to discover. Take a look at all our maps to plan your trip. Discover our maps to plan your trip in the best possible way.

Crete is the largest island in Greece and full of natural and cultural treasures: ancient ruins, idyllic beaches, beautiful countryside and impressive mountains. Eastern Crete is the quieter and more arid part of the island. The Lassithi Plateau’s fields, orchards and windmills is spectacular countryside to discover. Around Agios Nikolaos are pretty bays and the magnificent Spinalonga peninsula where you can enjoy long lazy days. In the north, the Heraklion area is very busy with its famous Temple of Knossos and archaeological museum. Opt for the south of this region if you want to the calm of its vineyards and traditional little villages. The fortress and minarets dominate the bay of Rethymnon, a pretty and historic town. Picturesque villages can be found on the Messara Plain, a fertile area to the south. Western Crete is the greener and more mountainous part of the island. There are beautiful beaches and the Balos Lagoon in the north-west. Chania has retained its historic charm and is one of the most attractive towns on the island. At the island’s centre are the Samaria Gorge and the majestic White Mountains which rise to 2,450 metres. Both are essential for keen hikers.

Overview of 4 tourist regions

The west coast is an area of exceptional countryside, with numerous canyons and the famous Samaria gorge, where you can walk in a magnificent setting. To the south, don’t miss the picturesque little villages from Paleochera to Chora Skafion, passing through Loutro. In places, the mountains plunge sharply into the sea, making some of these villages accessible only by boat. As for beaches, you will find the most beautiful on the island of Elafonissi, a tropical paradise. Chania itself is said to be one of the most beautiful towns on the island. It has a rich cultural history and the town is full of resplendent monuments in the Venetian and Ottoman styles. Take the time to wander through its backstreets where you can see traditional craft stalls and stately villas. Stroll through the old Venetian port and visit the lighthouse.

Not as picturesque as Chania or Rethymnon, Crete’s largest town and its hotel complexes which line the coast also has less of interest to the tourist. The archaeological museum houses objects excavated around the island and has an international reputation. Just a few miles from Heraklion is the archaeologically impressive palace of Knossos. One of the most important in Greece, it was built around 1,900 BC and should not be missed. If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet, head further south through the Massara Plane along roads lined with olive groves, to Agio Farago. And don’t miss the Palace of Phaistos which has an exceptional view of Mount Psiloritis, the islands highest point.

Head east to the islands most untamed area. Are you the sporting type? You can walk or cycle through the Lassithi Plateau amid the windmills and the magnificent views of Mount Dikti and Mount Selena. Or is it beaches you’re looking for? There are lovely seaside resorts towards Agios Nikolaos and superb views from Mirabello Bay. Want to go exploring? There’s the Toplou Monastery, one of the oldest and most imposing in Greece, and the beautiful paintings in Panagia Kera church.

This is a region that demands time to admire it. Between Rethymnon, one of Crete’s loveliest towns of colourful backstreets and its Venetian port, to the wild beauty of the southern beaches, to the traditional villages and Mount Psiloritis, the islands highest point, you won’t have time to be bored. Visiting the monastery of Moni Arkadi is a must. Founded in the 13 th century, a few monks still go about their business there.

Attractions maps

Crete is an island filled with places to visit. From magnificent historic villages to glorious archaeological sites and the breathtaking countryside of mountains and sea. Among the essential places to visit are the Temple of Knossos, the most visited archaeological site on the island, the monasteries of Arkadi, Toplou and Preveli, and the wonderful towns of Chania and Rethymnon with their steeples and minarets. Do you want idyllic beaches? Crete has them the length of its coast. Elafanossi with its swathe of fine sand shouldn’t be missed and nor should the Balos Lagoon with its turquoise water. Discover Crete's most beautiful beaches with our map. Crete is a paradise for the sporting, especially hikers who can enjoy the many trails around the island. The Samaria Gorge, known throughout Europe, promises an unforgettable and spectacular 10 mile walk. Its narrowest point is less than 3 metres wide and is known as the “Iron Gate.” Aradena, Karanou and Irini gorges are smaller but lesser known and wilder. We have created an activity map for what to do in Crete .

Routes and distances maps

Welcome to Crete, largest island of the Greek archipelago. Its elongated shape is about 160 miles wide but less than 35 miles from north to south. So distances from one place to another are reasonably short. Getting around by car : It takes around 3 and a half hours to get from Chania (west coast) to Sitia (east coast) using the New Road, the islands main road. If you are hiring a car in Crete , you may be a little surprised by Cretan driving which is not always respectful of the rules of the road. It’s common to use the hard shoulder for overtaking, white lines are ignored, corners are cut and cars are parked anywhere at all! It’s best you know in advance. Even if Cretan driving is undisciplined, you should respect the rules of the road, especially the speed limit and wearing a seatbelt. Driving offences can be heavily penalised by the local police who have increased the number of patrols in order to reduce the frequency of accidents. Be careful of your alcohol consumption. There is a tendency to drink a little more than usual on holiday, but any more than 0.5 per litre (bac) and you’re over the limit. The roads are generally well maintained. In the less touristic areas, especially in the south, its not unusual to find roads that are deteriorating. That’s the case, for example, when visiting the magnificent Balos, where you have to drive for nearly five miles along a gravel surface. It’s the same towards Agio Farago Gorge where the gravel stretches for over two miles. It’s best to hire a vehicle which is suitable for that sort of terrain. Getting around by bus: There are no trains on Crete. The bus network run by KTEL is reasonably extensive and all the major towns are served as are the principal tourist attractions. On the other hand, it helps if your not in a hurry, as it’s not very rapid. Getting around by ferry : In the south-west, it’s possible to get from one village to another by ferry. As the mountains descend into the sea, it has not always been possible to build roads to certain places. Paleochora and Chora Skafion are two villages served by ferries.

Fabrice' secret spots, our local guide from Crete

These 3 Gorgeous Islands In Greece Are Surging In Popularity This Year

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Boasting world-famous historical landmarks, with the Parthenon and the Oracle at Delphi to name a couple, a breathtaking rugged nature, and being the proud cradle of Western civilization, Greece is one of the most popular sunny destinations in Europe.

Last year, it hosted over 32 million tourists , and according to travel agency TUI, it looks set to surpass that feat in a historic 2024 (based solely on the latest booking trends), but where are tourists headed, after all, and which destinations are seeing the biggest increase in reservations?

To TUI officials, it's these 3 gorgeous islands that will steal the spotlight in the upcoming summer, and we're sorry to break it to you, but don't expect to find Mykonos or Santorini featured here:

The largest of the Greek islands, and one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean at that, Crete exists in a microcosm of its own , with its distinct Cretan culture, comospolitan atmosphere, in stark contrast with the smaller, laid-back Aegean islands, and abundant nature.

It is home to Heraklion, a bustling capital combining ancient heritage and coastal views, Elafonisi islet, where sands are an unbelievable bubblegum-pink, the colorful port city of Chania and the nearby White Mountains, the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, and countless picturesque hilltop villages.

As you can see, Crete is a stand-alone destination: do not try to couple it with other islands as there's plenty of attractions to keep you busy for at least a couple of weeks, and even then, you still risk feeling as if you've barely scraped the surface.

Lucky for slow adventurers, landmark-packed Crete is one of the most affordable island getaways in Greece, with a two-week trip including food, accommodation, tourist attraction and transportation costing a very reasonable $1,542, against Santorini's $2,655.

Tucked away in the Eastern Mediterranean, a stone's throw from Turkish shores, Rhodes is Greece's medieval Dodecanese jewel .

It is best represented by a heavily fortified walled town that would make Croatia's world-famous Dubrovnik blush.

Rhodes (the city) is a designated UNESCO World Heritage with a perfectly-preserved medieval core , one of the most beautiful in the whole of Europe, and it's been famous since times immemorial for its now-demolished Colossus, one of the Seven Wonders of the (Ancient) World.

The wider island itself is littered with ancient monuments, most notably Lindos Acropolis , where solitary Hellenic temples are perched on a mountain overlooking the azure Med, as well as sites of outstanding natural beauty: we're talking golden-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and hidden waterfalls.

In terms of affordability, Rhodes is on the pricier end of the 227 Greek islands , though not as much as the whitewashed, powerhouse Aegean duo – a.k.a. Santorini and Mykonos – with a one-week stay here setting you back by roughly $1,025.

It's not a Greek island if there's no teal-colored waters, cobbled Old Towns bedecked with the traditional ‘evil eye' amulets and overhanging bougainvillea, and of course, some good old windmills, and we're glad to say island number three ticks all of those boxes .

Like Rhodes, Kos is part of the Dodecanese, and it's equally rich in natural and manmade wonders, from the lively Kos Town, dominated by an imposing 15th-century castle and Ancient Agora, to the pebble-and-sand, resort-dotted Limnionas Beach out west.

With its swim-friendly beaches bounded by calm waters and casual atmosphere, Kos is perfect for a relaxing summer vacay , and if you're looking to spice up your trip (literally), you can even take a ferry to fellow resort hotspot Bodrum in Turkiye – it's only 20 minutes with the boat, after all.

Kos is also remarkably cheap (by Greek island standards), as travelers pay on average $43 on meals per day, while hotel overnights range between $57 for a non-luxurious stay and $274 for five-star experiences, and total weekly expenses per person cap at $1,015 (the cheapest out of the three).

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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The post These 3 Gorgeous Islands In Greece Are Surging In Popularity This Year appeared first on Travel Off Path .