Crete is the largest island in Greece located in the southern Aegean Sea neighboring three continents Europe, Asia and Africa. Crete is a land of great history that can be traced back to the first myths and legends. According to Greek mythology, Crete was the birthplace of Zeus “The Father of Gods and Humans” who later abducted the beautiful nymph from Phoenicia Europa and moved her to Crete. Through marital bliss she then gave birth to Minos, who then became the “King of the Minoans” and King to the first European civilization named after his mother Europa who gave her name to the continent known as Europe.
Why should you visit Crete?
Crete is the biggest Greek island and it will be very difficult for you to see all the attractions during one holiday unless you are planning a "road journey." If you remain next to Heraklion, you will have a wonderful chance to explore the eastern portion of Crete. If you are more interested in the western part, stay close to Hania. Wherever you decide to spend your holiday in Crete, you won't get bored. You will discover lovely, Caribbean-like beaches, crystal clear water, magnificent hills, traces of ancient Greek culture, finest olive oil, aromatic thyme honey, delicious oranges... and great Greek wine!
Top Destinations
Lasithi Plateau
If you believe Crete looks like a large beach... well, you might be amazed. Visit the Lasithi Plateau where you can admire the views of genuine, agrarian Crete, complete of olive and almond trees. Here you will find famous irrigating windmills with canvas–there were as many as 20,000 of them in the seventeenth century! Unfortunately, they are rather uncommon nowadays, but taking a short break here is definitely one of the most amazing things to do in Crete.
Spinalonga Island
Although the island itself is extremely picturesque–the Venetian fortress and the beautiful sea panorama all around, you shouldn't forget about its rather murky past. There was a colony for lepers until 1973. Walking between ruined houses, you can feel the depressing atmosphere of isolation that followed the sick.
The Palace of Knossos
Knossos Palace used to be a great capital of Minoans, ruling this portion of the globe about 3,000 years ago. Are you familiar with Minotaur's myth? According to legend, Dedal constructed a labyrinth in Knossos as a prison for Minotaur half-bull and half-man. You may be amazed to see that ruins are in such a good condition when you visit this location.
Kritsa
Kritsa is located a bit off the beaten track trails – a tiny village in the mountains, where life takes its slow Greek rhythm. This is also a great place to buy original Cretan handicrafts.
Chrissi Island
If you're close to Ierapetra or Myrtos, be sure to take a trip to Chrissi's uninhabited island. This is an exceptional location where you have the chance to see the only natural cedar forest in Europe and ... the beach filled with millions of shells!
Vai Beach
If you want to take pictures like on the Caribbean islands but still spend your holiday in Crete, go to Vai beach. It is renowned for its palms and highly fine, powder-like white sand. The beach itself is unfortunately quite crowded, but after 5 pm the crowds disappear–just in time to admire the romantic sunset!
Samaria Gorge
Walking this longest (16 km) gorge in Europe is definitely one of the most spectacular things to do in Crete. The gorge's slopes reach 500 m! At the start of the tourist season, you may have to cross the shallow stream that flows through the center of it. This is an incredible place where you can feel the true wilderness.
Elafonisi Beach
Things to do in Crete? Beach all day! Turquoise lagoon, pink-white sand, and a tiny islet nearby – this is world-famous Elafonissi beach. You can easily access the tiny island next to the beach by crossing over the shallow water. The islet offers extraordinary landscapes of the Elafonisi beach itself, mystic mountains, and sun-soaked, shimmering sea. How not to fall in love with such views!
Heraklion
Although the city itself isn’t the most beautiful in Crete and looks a bit touristy, you should stop here even for a couple of hours. We were impressed by the waterfront with the Venetian Fortress. History-lovers should visit the Archaeological Museum – surprise! The majority of the frescoes you admired in Knossos are actually displayed here – which means, you saw copies in Knossos. You may also enjoy a local market, near the Morosini Fountain, where you can buy delicious olives, aromatic honey or the famous “mountain tea” straight from the producers.
Chania
Chania is the second largest city in Crete, located on the northwest coast of the island. The gateway to western Crete with an international airport and a ferry port. Chania is a unique city bearing a rich history and culture. Journey through the narrow streets of the old town that offer nostalgic images from the past and admire the beautiful architecture. Then visit the Old Venetian Harbor, the most photographed place in all of Greece that features an old lighthouse, the trademark of the city. Stop at any of the waterfront taverns and taste the exquisite Cretan gastronomy and local wine. Be sure to visit the ancient archeological sites and historic monuments along the way.
Hersonissos
This fascinating destination hosts some of the most famous resorts in all of Crete, located on the north east coast of the island. Begin your adventure at this fun filled location and visit all the sites including the Golf Club, Hersonissos Aquarium, Labyrinth Theme Park and Dinosauria Park. Stop at one of the many beach resorts where you can soak in the sun, take a swim in the crystal clear sea waters and walk in the golden sand.
Rethymno
Visiting Rethymno should definitely make it to the top of your list of "things to do in Crete." Narrow streets packed with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, mosque minarets, Greek vibes, magnificent Venetian fortress, and in the center of the town... pedestrian promenade with palm trees and beach. All in one place! Moreover, in July there is the Wine Festival here! In fact, you can spend your entire holidays not leaving this place.
Agios Nikolaos
Many people decide to spend all their holidays here. An incredibly scenic town situated on the so-called bottomless lake Voulismeni salt. Walking along the waterfront, you will have the chance to see the renowned Mirabello Bay, regarded to be the most picturesque in Crete. Agios Nikolaos looks a little less "Greek" than the rest of Crete, but it's still worth staying here for a while.
Getting Around in Crete
The island of Crete can be easily accessed by plane from one of the international airports located in Heraklion and Chania and from one of the many ports that caters to cruise ships from around the world and ferries from mainland Greece. Because Crete is one of the most popular and the largest islands in Greece that hosts millions of locals and tourists from around the world, be prepared and rent a car in Crete . Avoid the inconvenience of waiting for a bus or taxi that will delay you from enjoying your time on the island. You can easily hire a car Crete hire a car Crete from one of the well-known rent a car agencies including Hertz, Avis, Budget and Imperial Car Rental. Reserve your car rentals Crete in advance and enjoy the discounted prices. With your Crete rent a car you will be able to explore and discover all that this fascinating island has to offer you!