Crete Island: A Guide for Your Vacation.
- Лилия Денисенко
- 2 days ago
- 17 min read
Crete is the fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and also the largest island in Greece. Situated in the southernmost part of the Aegean Sea, it boasts a coastline stretching over 1,060 kilometers. Crete is considered a miniature version of Greece, with beautiful beaches, fertile plateaus, historic towns, and quiet mountain villages.
“Anyone who has ever visited the island of Crete will be charmed by the hospitality of the locals with their Greek joy of life and infectious Siga-Siga mentality.”
Crete is today considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, attracting numerous vacationers every year. However, in many places, Cretans are not afraid of the hustle and bustle of foreign tourists and often live by the "Siga-Siga" principle, which translates from Greek as "never stress."
In this digital guide to Crete, I want to give you a general overview of the island and introduce you to its popular sites and attractions. Furthermore, this guide can be an excellent source of helpful tips for your vacation in Crete:
Contents
#1 Who is Crete suitable for?
#2 Length of stay in Crete
#3 How to get to Crete
#4 Weather in Crete
#5 Important places in Crete
#6 Attractions in Crete
#7 Popular beaches in Crete
#8 Car rental in Crete
#9 Tips for choosing a hotel in Crete
#1 Who is Crete suitable for?
Crete is a versatile destination, suitable for virtually any type of vacation. First-time visitors to Greece feel right at home, but both independent travelers and active holiday enthusiasts will find the best deals here.
Families with children will find magnificent sandy beaches and club hotels on Crete, while hikers will appreciate wild gorges and alpine landscapes. Crete quickly captures the hearts of those who immerse themselves in the unique culture and way of life of the Cretans and escape the tourist crowds.
Crete's many natural treasures and attractions await exploration. Rent a car and embark on a fascinating journey through Crete—it's the best way to soak up its unique atmosphere.
For partygoers, Crete is only partially suitable. The areas around Heraklion and Malia, where much of Crete's nightlife is concentrated, offer clubs and beach bars, but for wilder parties, Mykonos or Ios are the best destinations..
→ My favorite places in Crete, which I'll share with you in this article: Sights of Crete
#2 Length of Stay in Crete
Crete is the largest island in Greece, and it offers many wonderful places to explore. If you want to explore the island thoroughly and get a feel for its rhythm, we recommend spending at least 10 days in Crete. Two weeks or more is ideal to explore the many sights and get to know the Cretan traditions.
In Crete's authentic areas, life moves at a slower pace. Visit a small mountain village and drink raki with the locals or spend a secluded day on the beach in a secluded cove. By then, the island will have enchanted you, and you'll want to return again and again.
#3 How to get to Crete
Crete has two major airports: Heraklion and Chania, which are serviced seasonally.
Off-season, from November to March, Crete can only be reached via Athens. After that, we'll fly to the island on a small plane. Crete is the most popular Greek island, and many airlines compete for the favor of vacationers. Airlines like Eurowings and TuiFly offer special deals on Greece.
Crete Airport in Heraklion HER
Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, the largest airport, is located in the central part of Crete, east of the capital, Heraklion.
Crete resorts such as Malia and Hersonissos, in the north of the island, are approximately 35-45 minutes by bus. The journey to the south, to Ierapetra, takes about an hour and a half to two hours.
If you've booked a hotel in western Crete, it's best to fly directly to Chania. If you do land in Heraklion, you'll need to plan on a bus transfer of at least two hours.
Getting to Crete by ferry
Of course, you can also reach Crete by sea from the port of Piraeus. The ferry crossing from Piraeus to Crete takes approximately 7-9 hours and allows you to bring your own car or camper.
→ Taking a ferry to Crete? This article will provide you with all the information you need: Ferries in Greece.
Ferries to Crete usually depart overnight and cost between €50 and €90 without a car.
#4 Weather on Crete
Like other Greek islands, Crete has a predominantly Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry. Winters, on the other hand, are mild, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. With over 300 hours of sunshine per day, Crete is one of the sunniest regions in Europe.
If you're looking for long hikes, I recommend spring in Crete, which is especially beautiful in April and May. During this time, Crete is in full bloom, and temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius are very comfortable for sports.
Although some cafes and restaurants are closed until mid-May, Crete and its many dreamy beaches are practically yours to enjoy. However, swimming in the sea at this time of year is an activity only for the most experienced, since the sea water in Crete is still quite cool.
From June onwards, the island fills with tourists, and with the start of the summer holidays, many of Crete's beaches and major cities, such as Chania, Heraklion, and Rethymno, become popular. June is already hot, with temperatures exceeding 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit), and by August, the mercury rises even higher. Personally, I don't recommend visiting Crete in the summer unless you want to lounge by the sea all day.
Best Time to Visit Crete
For sun and beach lovers, July and August are ideal in Crete. There is almost no rain, and the skies are cloudless. These months mark the peak tourist season on the island, and you'll have to share Crete with other vacationers. Particularly in the southeast of the island, midsummer can be very hot, reaching over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
From mid-September onwards, a lull sets in, and a significant portion of the vacationers leave. The sea is still warm and pleasant for swimming, and the temperature remains a pleasant 25–28 degrees Celsius. When vacationing in Crete in autumn, it's worth bringing a jacket for the evenings, as the north wind can make it chilly.
Alternatively, you can take advantage of an October vacation in Crete. There are fewer tourists this month, so you can occasionally find really good deals on flights and accommodations. On the other hand, at the end of summer, the natural environment here is sparse and dry.
Nevertheless, this month is very popular among outdoor enthusiasts, as daytime temperatures are a pleasant 25 degrees Celsius, just like in May. It's ideal for long hikes, mountain biking, or rock climbing. Evenings are usually quite cool, but the water is still very warm for swimming.
#5 Important Places in Crete
The island of Crete can be divided into four regions: Chania in the west, Rethymno and Heraklion in the center, and Lasithi with its capital, Agios Nikolaos, in the east. The northern coast, with the capital Heraklion, is the region with the largest number of hotels offering package deals and is therefore very popular among tourists.
Northern Crete
At the very heart of the island are the Ida Mountains, one of Crete's four mountain ranges, stretching from Rethymno to Heraklion. Psiloritis, at 2,456 meters, is Crete's highest mountain, sometimes covered in snow until summer. The diverse northern coast offers everything a vacationer could desire.
Heraklion/Iraklion
The capital of Crete is located on the northern coast and is considered the island's economic hub. Home to over 170,000 people, Heraklion boasts several museums and interesting sights (including the Koules Fortress). A pedestrian-only zone with limited traffic and a historic city center runs through Heraklion..
The rest of the capital consists of numerous concrete buildings destroyed during World War II and earthquakes. About five kilometers north of Heraklion lies ancient Knossos, Crete's most famous archaeological site. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this vast complex, dating back to the Minoan era (2000 BC).
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*:Heraklion Hotels*
Click on the GetYourGuide* link to check prices and availability for tours to Knossos:
Rethymno
This port city is located northwest of Heraklion and is the third largest city on the island of Crete. Among the most important attractions are the historic old town and the Venetian port of Rethymno. Its picturesque streets are lined with cafes, shops, and tavernas.
Rethymno is a wonderful town for strolling, although the alleys can get crowded during high season. To the east of the town is a nearly 10-kilometer-long sandy beach, very popular with vacationers. Rethymno is an excellent starting point for exploring central Crete.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Rethymno Hotels*
Georgioupoli
The coastal town of Georgioupoli, located between Chania and Rethymno, is today one of Crete's most popular resorts. Numerous Cretan hotels line its kilometer-long sandy beach. Situated at the foot of the White Mountains, the town is an excellent starting point for a hike to the Samaria Gorge.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Georgioupoli Hotels*
Limenas Hersonissos (Hersonissos)
The coastal town of Limenas Hersonissos, also known as Hersonissos, has seen a boom in mass tourism in recent years. Accommodations are typically scarce here. Along the golden sandy beach, one hotel stands next to another. If proximity to the beach isn't enough, consider visiting the villages of Ano Hersonissos, Piskopiano, and Koutouloufari.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Hersonissos Hotels*
Western Crete
In addition to beautiful beaches and bays, western Crete boasts the so-called White Mountains – Lefka Ori – a true paradise for nature lovers. With the exception of the Samaria Gorge, the southwest of the island remains inaccessible in parts. This region's wild landscape can be explored on a jeep safari, bookable through GetYourGuide*:
Chania
Crete's second-largest city enchants with its historic architecture, picturesque alleys of the old town, and the old Venetian harbor. Many locals and tourists consider Chania the most beautiful city in Crete. Much of the old town is pedestrianized.
Chania offers countless cafes, restaurants, and excellent boutiques to explore. The Venetian harbor with its lighthouse—Chania's tourist hub—invites you for a long stroll.
During the summer months, the city is often crowded due to the large influx of tourists. Therefore, a visit is especially advisable in the morning or evening, when most daytime tourists have already departed. Chania's hinterland is covered in lush greenery, making it worthwhile to take a culinary tour of Crete's olive region, which can be booked through GetYourGuide*:
Kissamos
In the northwest of the region, on the shores of the bay of the same name, lies the coastal town of Kissamos. It is usually just a stopover en route to Balos, the main attraction of western Crete. Kissamos has retained its original appearance: between the Archaeological Museum and the Church of Saint Spyridon (1865), there are numerous interesting bars and restaurants.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*:Hotels in Kissamos*
Paleochora
Paleochora is located in the southwesternmost part of Crete. For decades, it has been a popular destination for those seeking a private getaway. The area's beautiful beaches (mostly gray, sandy and pebble) invite you to enjoy a leisurely swim. Elafonisi Lagoon, one of Crete's top attractions, is about an hour's drive away.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Hotels in Paleochora*
Southern Crete
The southern coast of Crete is quiet and not yet as developed by tourists as the rest of the island. Agia Galini and Plakias are well-known destinations that attract many Cretan tourists. Small villages such as Pavlos and Lentas are especially charming. You can relax on quiet beaches, while the island's interior invites you on educational excursions.
Agia Galini
The coastal town of Agia Galini, at the foot of Mount Psiloritis, is about an hour's drive from Rethymno. Guidebooks often call Agia Galini the pearl of southern Crete. The surrounding landscape, including the idyllic waterfront, is impressive, even though some of the modern concrete buildings were built decades ago.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Agia Galini Hotels *
Matala
About an hour's drive east of Agia Galini, nestled among mighty sandstone cliffs, lies Matala. This former hippie village in Crete is now bustling with life, and its ancient cave dwellings are considered its main attraction. In summer, the village beach is packed with sun loungers, so we recommend heading to Komos Beach.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Matala Hotels*
Ierapetra
Ierapetra is the southernmost town of Crete, located at the island's narrowest point. The entire coastline around the town is uninviting due to numerous greenhouses. When we first arrived, we were also a bit alarmed by the ruined landscape.
The 17th-century Venetian castle and the waterfront with its numerous cafes and restaurants are worth exploring. The rest of the town consists mainly of new buildings, as Ierapetra has been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt due to earthquakes. From Ierapetra, it's worth taking a boat trip to Chrissi Island with its magnificent beaches.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Ierapetra Hotels *
East of Crete
The Dikti Mountains in eastern Crete surround the fertile Lasithi Plateau. The third-highest mountain range stretches for over 30 kilometers and reaches a width of 14 kilometers. Numerous quiet mountain villages are located at the foot of the mountains.
The most important places in eastern Crete are Agios Nikolaos and Sitia, as well as the palm-fringed beach of Vai. Northeast of Ierapetra lie the Thripti Mountains. The southeast of the island, especially the southeast, still offers pristine beaches with turquoise waters.
Agios Nikolaos
This coastal town of 11,000 residents on the northeastern coast of Crete has a modern character. Thanks to Lake Voulismeni and its picturesque sea of houses, Agios Nikolaos attracts many tourists every year. It features a pedestrian street with several shops, a public beach, and numerous cafes and restaurants located around the lake.
The lake offers magnificent views of the city and Mirabello Bay. An exclusive Crete getaway can be found in Elounda, about 15 minutes' drive north of Agios Nikolaos. The resort is idyllically framed by a lagoon and overlooks the Spinalonga Peninsula.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Hotels Agios Nikolaos*
Sitia
Sitia is located about two hours' drive from Heraklion. This coastal town in the far northeast of Crete hasn't yet been overtaken by large tourist influxes. Even today, Sitia feels somewhat sleepy: the bay is lined with mostly new buildings.
You can stroll along the picturesque waterfront and stop at one of the many cafes and taverns. The Venetian fortress of Kazarma rises above the village, offering a beautiful view of Sitia. The small archaeological museum displaying finds from excavations is also worth a visit.
→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*:Hotels in Sitia*
#6 Sights of Crete
Crete boasts a wealth of attractions: the Samaria Gorge, the Palace of Knossos, Elafonisi Beach, and the Lassithi Plateau are absolute masterpieces. These places are perfect for exploring on your own, preferably with a rental car.
If you're looking for more information, you can join guided tours that will reveal new and interesting places. Whether you're traveling alone or with a group, Crete offers nature, history, and authentic charm at every turn. We've compiled a list of the most interesting places in Crete for you.
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the most important archaeological site on Crete. Unfortunately, due to the volcanic eruption on Santorini, as well as earthquakes and destruction, only ruins remain of the Minoan center. Some buildings and frescoes were restored in subsequent years.
In summer, it can be very hot and crowded. Therefore, we recommend visiting Knossos early in the morning, around 8:00 AM. We recommend using a professional guide to get the most complete understanding of the complex and Minoan culture. You can book a tour through our partner GetYourGuide*:
Samaria Gorge
The Samaria Gorge is one of the longest landmarks on the island of Crete, stretching over 17 kilometers. It is one of the longest gorges in Europe. Up to 4,000 people make the pilgrimage through the Samaria Gorge daily. In spring, the 16-kilometer hike through flowering vegetation is especially beautiful.
If you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend starting the hike before 7:00 AM or after 12:00 PM. In midsummer, the Samaria Gorge hike should be avoided due to the intense heat..
In spring, Crete is subject to severe storms, and the gorge may be closed to tourists. It's best to check with your accommodation or the tourist office to see if the gorge will be open again at the start of the season. If you'd like, you can take a tour of the Samaria Gorge from Chania or Rethymno.
You can book a tour through GetYourGuide*:
Elafonisi and Balos Lagoons
The Elafonisi and Balos Lagoons in the southwest and northwest of the island are among the most popular attractions in Crete.
Chania Old Town
The picturesque Old Town of Chania is famous for its beautiful promenades and the Venetian harbor, whose lighthouse offers fantastic views of the city. Numerous cafes and restaurants line the picturesque waterfront.
The palm-fringed beaches of Vai and Preveli
These two beaches—Vai in the northeast and Preveli in the south—are among the last large beaches in Crete's palm groves.
Lassithi Plateau and Psychro Cave
This Lassithi Plateau is considered Crete's largest plateau and is ideal for exploring by rental car. The ring road leads around small villages and fertile fields, where agriculture is still the primary occupation. You can book a tour of Lassithi here through GetYourGuide*:
The Lassithi Plateau is approximately 10 kilometers long and sits at an altitude of over 800 meters. The region's signature landmarks are the white-winged wind turbines, which once served as a source of water, but are now few in number. The Lassithi Plateau is surrounded by majestic mountains.
One of the gems of the Lassithi Plateau is the Cave of Zeus near Psychro (Dikteon Cave or Dikteon Grotto), believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the father of the gods. A visit to this captivating cave with its numerous stalactites and stalagmites is not only fascinating but also interesting.
Spinalonga-Kalidon Leper Island
Spinalonga-Kalidon Island is located off the coastal town of Plaka, not far from Elounda. In the 16th century, the Venetians built a powerful fortress here. Around 1903, a leper colony was established on the island. With the invention of antibiotics, the leper colony was closed around 1957.
The old fortress and several residential buildings still remain. Tours to the historic island are offered daily. A fascinating boat trip to Spinalonga can be booked from Agios Nikolaos or independently from the port town of Plaka near Elounda. Check prices and availability on the GetYourGuide* website:
Matala Caves
The sandstone caves are Matala's most famous landmark. They were inhabited in ancient times and are now considered an archaeological site. In the 1970s, hippies and "flower children" lived here. Today, entrance to these (unguarded) cave dwellings requires a fee. The view from the Matala caves is simply stunning.
#7 Popular Beaches in Crete
Crete boasts countless sandy and pebble beaches, secluded coves, and, of course, crowded seaside resorts. A complete list is impossible here, so we'll list the most famous beaches in Crete and our favorites. Some of Crete's most beautiful beaches can be visited on an organized day trip, bookable through GetYourGuide*:
Vai Palm Beach
The island of Crete still boasts dense palm forests of the indigenous "Phoenix-Theophrastii" palm species. Vai Bay, in the east of the island, is undoubtedly Crete's most famous palm beach. Here, over 3,000 Cretan date palms stretch across a wide valley to the beach.
From the observation deck on the hill next to the Vai palm forest, a magnificent view opens up over the valley and the sea. The beach is one of Crete's main tourist attractions, so this Caribbean destination is bustling with activity in the summer.
Vai has paid parking, restrooms, and several tavernas for its large number of guests. If you prefer a quieter holiday, arrive early. The nearby Toplou Monastery is also worth a visit.
Preveli Beach
Equally popular is the palm-fringed Preveli Beach in southwest Crete. Here, the Megalopotamos River flows through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and empties into the sea at the beautiful palm-fringed Preveli Beach. You can walk through the gorge or take a pedal boat ride down the river.
Sturdy footwear is highly recommended for the steep descent from the parking lot. There is a snack bar and umbrella rentals on site. Both beaches are among Crete's most popular attractions, but despite the crowds, they are still worth a visit, especially during the low season.
Elafonisi and Balos Beaches
The Caribbean beach of Elafonisi and the Balos Lagoon in western Crete are almost too good to be true. Unfortunately, in recent years, rumors of them have spread worldwide, and from June to September, the beaches are completely overrun by mass tourism. Finding a free spot is difficult, and the view is limited by the numerous umbrellas.
If you're looking for peace and quiet, head to Elafonisi and Balos either very early in the morning or during the low season (late April and October). It's less crowded then, and you can enjoy Crete's heavenly beaches virtually alone.
Falassarna Beach
A very large and long beach on the west coast of Crete, about an hour's drive from Chania. From afar, Falassarna Beach sparkles with the most beautiful shades of blue. The seawater here is amazingly clear, and the beach is divided into small sandy coves.
Some sections of Falassarna Beach are still undisturbed, without umbrellas. There are tavernas and restrooms on site. Although strong winds blow here occasionally, the beach is still more popular with beachgoers than the crowded lagoons of Balos and Elafonisi.
Seitan Limani
Seitan Limani is a winding bay with turquoise waters, seemingly straight out of a picture. It has only a small sandy beach, which, especially during high season, attracts crowds of tourists. The descent to the beach is steep and rocky, but Seitan Limani is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. The bay has a natural topography and has no restrooms or food outlets.
The view from above over Seitan Limania Bay is particularly impressive, worth the short detour. Parking can be quite chaotic during high season. We arrived before 11:00 AM and got a free space.
Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos)
Kokkini Ammos is a beautiful beach with reddish sand, located about a 15-minute walk from Matala in southern Crete. There's a beach bar, sun loungers, and umbrellas on site. The water is amazingly clear, and the bay is picturesquely nestled between sandstone cliffs. At the far end of the beach is a nudist area.
Xerokambos Beaches
Xerokambos is a paradise in the southeasternmost part of Crete. The turquoise-blue waters create a Caribbean feel in Crete. The drive to the farthest tip of the island is long, but there are fewer tourists here than other Cretan beaches, even during high season.
The beaches of Xerokambos are enchanting with white sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for families with children. There are several tavernas and umbrella rentals on site. Otherwise, it's quite sleepy. In midsummer, it can get very hot here due to its location right on the Libyan Sea. In August, we had temperatures of almost 40 degrees Celsius.
#8 Car Rental in Crete
Around the World in a Rental Car in Crete
Crete is Greece's largest island, rich in natural resources and attractions. Stretching over 250 kilometers from west to east, you'll need mobility to explore it in detail. The best way to do this is to rent a car in Crete, booking it in advance and picking it up at the airport upon arrival.
This means you won't have to rely on the shuttle bus that usually departs from numerous hotel complexes to take you to your accommodation. Cars are available from both international car rental companies in Crete and regional providers.
Local car rental companies in Crete typically offer lower prices. You can contact them through their website or by email from Germany to book a car. We have had very good experiences with Kafetzakis Car Rental in Heraklion.
Above, you can compare prices for cheap car rentals*:
➲ To book a car rental on Billiger-Mietwagen*
This family-run business has been in business for over 30 years, and the staff is very friendly and helpful. The car was delivered to our location, and we could simply park it at the airport for return. In August, we paid about 50 euros per day for a week's rental for a new compact car. More information at kafetzakis.gr
Discover Crete by Bus
There are several KTEL bus companies on the island of Crete, providing fairly reliable service between individual cities. This allows you to reach many beaches, towns, and attractions, even while on vacation. Bus departure times vary largely depending on local residents.
Most people on Crete travel by bus in the morning and afternoon. Tickets can be purchased from ticket machines or kiosks in major cities. In the provinces, tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver. Fares on most routes are very affordable.
In major cities, there is a bus station; otherwise, bus stops are unobtrusively marked. If a bus needs to stop, signal the driver with your hand. The capital, Heraklion, has two bus stations: one for the western part of the island and one for the eastern part.
→Bus schedules for western Crete are available from KTEL Chania-Rethymno at:KTEL Chania Rethymno Bus Timetable
The bus schedule for Northern Crete, operated by KTEL Heraklio-Lasithi, can be found on the website: Bus Schedule: Bus schedule KTEL Heraklion
#9 Tips for Choosing a Hotel on the Island of Crete
In addition to numerous package hotels, club complexes, and resorts, there are also wonderful private houses and apartments for individual vacations. Crete has options for every budget. Booking.com and Airbnb offer a wide selection of accommodations for every traveler.
→ I book hotels and apartments in Crete on this portal: Booking.com*
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