trips in crete

Insider tips before your trip to Crete

Jul 10, 2022 • 5 min read

Visiting Crete is a pleasure – and even easier by familiarizing yourself with a few simple tips © alexandros petrakis / Shutterstock

Crete is easy. There’s little you need to do to prepare for your trip to this glorious Greek island beyond making a few advance bookings. Packing is simple – and if you forget something, you can buy it there.

The island is safe. The local economy counts on tourists, and the Cretans – like most Greeks – are friendly and welcoming. In any business where tourists turn up (which even includes tiny family-run eateries high in the hills), someone will speak English. A little common sense and politeness will go a long way as you navigate the etiquette of the place.

Here’s all you need to know before you take your trip to Crete. (Lucky you.) 

Reserve your rooms and rental cars (well) in advance

As travelers continue to make up for missed trips during the pandemic, Crete is a favorite destination. From April to October, the best places to stay at all price levels book up early. Don’t wait, expecting prices to fall. They won’t.

This is even more true for rental cars, thanks to the global car shortage. If you’re driving the entire time you’re on the island, shop around and reserve the best deal you can find. One exception: if you’ll just be hiring a car for the occasional day trip, you can wait until you’re on the island and then arrange for a day rental with a local outfit. (Keep in mind that this may be a friend of the hotel owner with a fleet of three Fiats.)

Know your season – and layer up

Images of sun-drenched beaches and balmy nights in cafes underpin Cretan tourism cliches. But outside of summer, it’s not always warm. Winter can be blustery, chilly and wet. Nights outside of July and August can be brisk. Bring layers.

Bring some cash

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted for purchases large and small, and ATMs are common on Crete. But you might encounter offline machines or cash-only vendors, so we recommend carrying about €200 in cash in various smaller-euro denominations. Don’t be that person who hands the elderly ex-fisherman running the beach ferry a €50 note for a €5 fare.

Fill your phone with maps before you take the wheel

Many mapping apps allow you to download data in advance that you can then use for navigation when your phone is offline. This can be a lifeline when you’re at the junction of two unmarked roads deep in the mountains and you don’t know which way to turn.

Cover up in churches

Letting it (almost) all hang out is fine on many beaches (there are a few completely nude ones on the island) but when you’re stopping into Crete’s many historic, incense-filled churches, show some respect. Cover your shoulders, have shorts or a skirt that goes below the knees, and don’t enter barefoot.

Stay coolly stylish at night

Balmy nights call for airy, floaty duds – yet don’t expect to get into that cool cafe, top restaurant or heaving club with a singlet and short shorts. Longer shorts and dresses are good almost anywhere at night; a crisp designer T-shirt or something with a collar will work for men.

Cretans rarely go naked or topless on the beach

Island residents fully expect the clothes to fall away from their beach-loving visitors. Yet you should still exercise some discretion. Near town centers and along beach promenades, polite exposure maintains a shred of modesty. Elsewhere, women often go topless and designated nude areas abound. When in doubt, check out the prevailing fashion around you (or lack thereof).

Expect long and languid dinners

Crete has some of the best food in Mediterranean Europe . Meals are an event  – and can extend over two or more very enjoyable hours. Friends share dishes large and small, which are served to the entire table, family style. On a busy summer evening, restaurants can get slammed and courses may meander out of the kitchen only after long gaps. Trying to hurry things along is bad form and the antithesis of a lovely, relaxed night out.

In contrast, lunch can be enjoyed fairly quickly at a cafe or savored for much longer, especially at a seaside taverna, where a shady table and fresh seafood meal is the ideal antidote to the scorchingly hot midday sun.

Be sure to tip – but don’t overtip

As an island with a huge tourism industry, Crete has more of a tipping culture than more un-touristed parts of Greece. In restaurants and cafes, 5% is a good median amount, with 10% very generous. Locals will round up to an even number in a restaurant (eg leave €35 for a tab of €33) or leave small change in a cafe.

Leaving some euros for your room cleaner is always appreciated. If someone helps you with your bags, €1 to €3 per bag is appropriate – unless it’s a taxi driver, in which case the bag handling fee is added to the fare. You only need to tip a taxi driver a couple of euros at most.

Pay the asked price

Outside of open-air markets, bargaining over prices is not the norm in Crete. Expect to pay the marked price in shops and galleries.

Feel free to drink the water

Tap water in Crete is safe to drink. Remember to refill your water bottles whenever you can, as it gets very hot in summer. You’ll need plenty of hydration for the beach, hiking trails, bus and car rides, and more.

Don’t stress about crime

Crete is a safe place to travel and you shouldn’t lose sleep over the risk of crime. As anywhere, though, common sense should always prevail: lock your doors, don’t leave valuables in the rental car and never leave your phone or other treasures unattended on the beach or at the cafe.

Frustrate the mosquitos

Mosquitos buzz about ceaselessly at dusk. If you like anti-bug sprays or balms, bring them with you – repellants can be surprisingly tough to find on Crete. Mosquito coils are widely available, as well as electric gizmos that plug into the wall of hotel rooms. But the efficacy of these methods is variable at best.

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Greece's Largest Island Is Packed With Ancient History, Gorgeous Resorts, and a Stunning Pink-sand Beach

Get ready for plenty of fun in the Grecian sun.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Cities to visit, best things to do, best beaches, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Crete, Greece's largest island, clocks in at more than 3,000 square miles and offers plenty of ancient history, incredible food, and natural beauty to explore. But you don't have to take my word for just how special Crete is. 

"I often describe Crete as a compact, island version of California. We have surfing and backcountry skiing in winter. In summer, we have canyon hiking, mountaineering, and, my personal favorite, hidden beaches only accessible by boat. And the shoulder seasons are — chef's kiss — perfection," Anastasia Sotiropulos, a tour guide based in Chania, Crete, shared. "The real treasure of Crete, though, are the people. The farmers, cheesemakers, fishmongers, artists, restaurateurs, winemakers, musicians, and homemakers create unique experiences for those lucky enough to visit this incredible island." 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Stay at a hotel with stunning Mediterranean views, like Elounda Bay Palace or Domes of Elounda. 
• Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos. 
• Catch some sun on Elafonissi Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful pink-sand beaches. 
• Wander the streets of Chania’s Old Town to admire Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. 
• Visit during the shoulder season to avoid the hottest temperatures and largest crowds.

Ready to start exploring for yourself? Here's everything you need to know to plan a trip to Crete.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Elounda Bay Palace

This luxury hotel has long been beloved for its mix of elegance and charm. The rooms and suites here open up to sweeping views of the azure Mediterranean waters, and the hotel's private beaches ensure you can always find a chair (and an umbrella). Make an appointment at the Chenot Spa, which offers massages, facials, and body treatments using science-forward ingredients and techniques. 

Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection

Looking to stretch out? Domes of Elounda is the place to be. Known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the historic island of Spinalonga, the resort is home to just suites and villas, which open to fantastic patios with private plunge pools. Yes, this hotel comes with its own spa, but guests can also indulge in an in-room treatment to truly never lift a finger. 

Courtesy of Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

Blue Palace

Blue Palace was named a Travel + Leisure reader favorite in the 2023 World's Best Awards , and in 2024, it's getting a whole new look. The renowned hotel is reopening as a modernist boutique hotel with just 47 bungalows and suites, all with brand-new interiors and some with private plunge pools. But even if you don't book a room with a pool, that's okay, as the hotel sits just steps from the beach anyway. 

Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa

Find yourself in a 17th-century Venetian mansion-turned-boutique hotel at Casa Delfino . The hotel, located in the heart of Chania's Old Town, allows travelers to stay amid the action while also offering a retreat-worthy rooftop garden that comes with sweeping views of the sea. It's a perfect place for families thanks to its one and two-bedroom suites. 

A visit to Chania's Old Town is a must, thanks to its charming Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. To make the most of your time in Old Town, book a tour with a guide who can show you all the best sights and all the prime spots to get a great meal. 

Get in a little more Venetian architecture at Rethymno Old Town , one of the best-preserved historical districts in Crete. The city is built around the Venetian fortress, which provides fantastic panoramic views from its hilltop location. Don't skip the artisan shops where you can find the perfect souvenir. 

No visit to Crete is complete without a visit to its capital, Heraklion . Here, visitors can check out numerous historic sites, the Archaeological Museum mentioned below, and all the city's bustling markets, cafes, and bars. And as a bonus, the Palace of Knossos is just a short drive away. 

Elisanth_/Getty Images

Explore the Palace of Knossos.

Dive into more than 4,000 years of Greek history at the Palace of Knossos , Crete's most iconic archaeological site. The ancient complex is absolutely massive, and it comes with a gorgeous view of the sea thanks to its position high on the hill. "Crete's most famous archaeological site is the great Minoan Palace of Knossos, the oldest, largest, and most elaborate of these sites," Peter Sommer of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. "In its wide courts, shaded colonnades, and intricate arrangements of room after room, floor after floor, one can really come to grips with a civilization from far back in the Bronze Age, and grapple with questions that are still hotly debated – what did these palaces look like, what were they for, who lived in them, and how did they function?"

Hike the Samaria Gorge.

Outdoor lovers will adore spending a day hiking through the Samaria Gorge, a lengthy hike through Crete's White Mountains. The hike stretches on for nearly 10 miles through ancient cypress and pine forests and the abandoned village of Samaria before ending at the sea. However, the most famous part of the hike has to be the "Gates," where the gorge is just 13 feet apart but is more than 1,500 feet high. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time if you plan to hike the entire trail. The park's official site estimates that it takes about five hours to complete the journey. 

David C Tomlinson/Getty Images

Visit the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania.

Take a stroll through the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania and take in all the colors of Greece. Travelers can walk past homes and buildings showcasing Crete's unique melding of history, including all its Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. Shop in its boutiques, grab a frappe in a cafe, view the massive fortress, and dine on plenty of fresh ingredients (hello, Greek salads) at its waterfront restaurants. Just make sure to have your camera ready, as its colorful buildings make for the perfect Instagram backdrop. 

Learn something new at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Get an even deeper education on the island's history with a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , which houses the world's most comprehensive collection of artifacts from the Minoan civilization. Its most famous exhibit is the Phaistos Disc, a clay disc sporting more than 240 symbols that is said to be more than 3,000 years old. As the museum notes, "experts have not yet a definitive conclusion of the contents of the inscription," so maybe you can uncover what it all means during your visit.

Elafonissi Beach

Get ready to step foot on one of the world's most beautiful and romantic beaches, Elafonissi Beach . The stretch of shoreline is well-known for its pink sand — created by millions of crushed seashells —that disappears into shallow, turquoise waters. The beach, which is part of a nature reserve, is an ideal spot for families with small children thanks to the calm waters, but there are also plenty of spots for adults to put down their towels and umbrellas for a quiet day at the beach. 

Balos Lagoon

One more brilliant beach to visit is Balos Lagoon , a beach made up of brilliant white sand that's lapped by unbelievably blue water. "One of the most popular must-see places in the Chania region is the Balos Lagoon with hypnotizing turquoise waters and a panoramic landscape," Alonso Marly, a travel expert at Skylux Travel , said. "I suggest visiting the beach early in the morning to experience the lagoon at its most tranquil and skip the tourist crowds." 

Find a different style of landscape at Vai Beach , famous for the palm forest lining the coast. Once again, it's a spot where travelers can find warm, sandy beaches and beautiful blue waters, just this time with the bonus of tree shade for the perfect beach snooze. 

Related: 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

The best time to visit Crete is from June to August when the weather on the island is at its prime. As WeatherSpark notes, the warmest weather can be found between early June and late September, when the average daily high temperature hits above 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Things get particularly hot in July, when the average temperature hits 84 degrees. 

"When it comes to the best times to visit Crete, keep in mind that the island is seasonal, and during winter months, most of its attractions are closed," Marly added. "However, throughout the high season, it is full of life day and night." 

But, if you're looking to escape the crowds, try plotting a visit during the island's shoulder seasons, which fall over April to May and September to early October.  

 "If possible, I recommend visiting the island during the shoulder season when it's not too hot and crowded – from April to June or September through October — to make the most of your authentic Greek holiday, full of sunshine and unforgettable experiences," Marly said.  

Crete is accessible via its international airports in Heraklion (Heraklion International Airport, HER) and Chania (Chania International Airport, CHQ). Heraklion is the island's busiest airport, and it is also the second-largest airport in Greece, just behind Athens. Several major airlines fly into the airport, including Emirates, Aegean, RyanAir, EasyJet, and KLM. 

For those looking to avoid the airport, there is a ferry option, but be warned: It's a long ride. Travelers can hop aboard a ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens to Heraklion or Chania, but the ride can take between nine and 10 hours.

Related: Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Perfect Greek Islands Vacation

The best and easiest way to get around Crete is with your own car. Remember, this is Greece's largest island, so if you want to explore more widely, you will need some wheels. There are a ton of rental car companies on the island, including big names like Avis, Budget, and Hertz, all ready to loan you a ride. 

Public Transit

Crete also has a robust public bus system that can get you to most points of interest. Just note the buses here tend to move more slowly than cars, but it's also a rather affordable option, with rides starting at just a few euros. 

Scooters are also a rather popular mode of transportation here, as they are in almost all of the Greek islands. Visitors do need a valid license to rent scooters and must wear a helmet while riding. 

Related Articles

Crete   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Mustang_79 | Getty Images

Why Go To Crete

If there was one word to describe the Greek island of Crete, it would be "diverse." Sandy beaches hide among soaring mountains, palm tree forests grow in the middle of sprawling plains, bustling modern cities share coastlines with centuries-old structures. And speaking of cities — in Crete, they reflect the people that came before. The streets are lined with architecture mirroring the styles of the Minoans, the Venetians and the Ottomans, as well as contemporary Greeks. Despite the visible contradictions, this island maintains a sense of unity, felt whenever you step onto the street, dine at a local taverna , or enjoy a glass of raki at a sidewalk café.

Crete's experiences are as assorted as its history, so take some time to decide what type of vacation you're looking to have before you set anything in stone. For an urban setting with a variety of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, consider staying along the northern coast in Chania or Heraklion. Those who prefer the great outdoors should head to Rethymnon or Agios Nikolaos for the many beautiful beaches.

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• # 5 in Which Greek Island Should You Visit? Our 2024 Top Picks
• # 7 in Best Places to Visit in November 2024
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See All 5 Rankings

Best of Crete

Best hotels in crete.

• # 1 in Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa
• # 2 in Nana Princess Suites, Villas & Spa
• # 3 in Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort, Crete

Best Things to Do in Crete

• # 1 in Rethymno Old Town
• # 2 in Elafonisi
• # 3 in Vai Beach (Palm Beach)

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Crete Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Crete is from mid-May to June or from September to October. May brings with it warmer waters and beautiful wildflowers that can be spotted throughout the island's natural attractions. If you plan on going during the summer, travel experts strongly suggest to take your vacation in June, as July and August usher in lots of crowds, which may compromise the comfort of visitors who traveled to the island to escape. The heat from the high season cools down in September and October, along with room rates and tourists, making this the best time to visit.

What You Need to Know

Plan ahead Crete is larger than its fellow Greek islands, so you could waste a lot of time traveling from site to site. Create an itinerary before you head out to make sure you budget enough time to do and see everything on your list.

Drive very carefully Aside from the island's main highway, many roads outside of the big cities, especially in the rural areas are underdeveloped or poorly marked.

Bring a change of clothes It's important to dress appropriately at the religious sites: long pants and skirts, and shirts that cover your shoulders and chest. If you're bouncing between the beach and the sites, pack an extra pair of clothing.

How to Save Money in Crete

Bring your own toiletries Shampoo, toothpaste, suntan lotion … all of these things cost more in Crete than they do in the U.S. And as long as they're not in your carry-on, you'll have no trouble getting them from point A to point B.

Eat like a local When it comes to dining on a dime, you can't go wrong with a taverna . These unpretentious eateries serve up all the Greek favorites for a fraction of the cost of a fine restaurant.

Determine your route in advance Gas prices tend to be high in Crete. If you're renting a car, avoid excess fuel use by mapping out your route and your itinerary.

Culture & Customs

Greeks are known for their hospitality and Crete is regarded as a friendly tourist destination. However, understanding Greek etiquette will help you interact and blend in with the locals.

Understanding body language is key. Be aware of your gestures; for example, the hand signal for "OK" using the thumb and index finger, is offensive in Greece. Greeks indicate "yes" (a slight downward nod) or "no" (a slight upward nod) differently than Americans.

Because of Crete's warm climate, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable when walking around the cities or the beaches. However, if you are planning to visit any religious sites, make sure to dress more conservatively in long pants or skirts, and shirts that cover the shoulders and the chest area. You should dress more formally when dining at restaurants as Greeks tend to get dressed up when they go out. 

Cretan restaurants are used to serving foreigners and generally accept most major credit cards. However, Cretans themselves generally pay in cash (the official currency of Greece is the euro). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to  check what the current exchange rate is  before you go. Like residents of many other countries in Europe, Greeks don't tend to tip, so you don't have to either. Service charges are often added to restaurant bills, but if you want to give something extra, a 10 percent tip is sufficient. 

What to Eat

Don't expect any Caesar salads here — Cretan cuisine bears very little resemblance to Olive Garden. In fact, food on Crete often doesn't even resemble food on mainland Greece. Feta, a Greek staple cheese, isn't produced or popular on Crete. Instead, look for graviera , a hard cheese (similar to Swiss gruyere) aged in caves in the White Mountains. The soft, ricotta-like mizithra is also a Cretan mainstay.

It's hard to go wrong with a meal at a local taverna . Because of its proximity to the sea, Crete's most traditional dishes contain snails; they may look alien, but eating them will gain you some serious Cretan cred. However, if griddled gastropods don't make your mouth water, don't worry: You will find some less adventurous dishes like souvlaki and rice pilaf. Another quintessentially Cretan dish is dakos , a twice-baked hard bread sprinkled with tomato, cheese, oregano and olive oil. If you're feeling lost when it comes to finding a truly authentic taverna , just ask a resident; Cretans are known for being friendly and helpful to tourists. Travelers suggest the Ferryman Taverna and Lotus Eaters, both located in the northeast town of Elounda, for an excellent dinner experience.

One final note: You're in Crete. Don't even try to avoid the olive oil. Home to more than 1.5 million olive trees, Crete is famous for producing olive oil and it's a staple ingredient in most dishes. Even desserts contain olive oil: loukoumades , similar to doughnut holes, are deep-fried in the stuff. Wash 'em down with some raki , an alcoholic beverage distilled from leftover wine grapes.

Crete is renowned for its safety, however, one safety concern of note is for those who decide to rent a car. Aside from the main highway that runs through the main cities in Crete's northern coast, the more rural mountainous areas can be a challenge for drivers, as many of those roads are underdeveloped and, in some cases, lack proper signage. Cretans strongly advise driving very carefully through these areas and asking locals for the best way to navigate. 

Getting Around Crete

The best way to get around Crete is via car. There are public buses that connect visitors to the major cities of Heraklion, Rethymnon, Chania and Agios Nikolaos. There are also a few lines that transport visitors to southern cities, but since all public bus timetables are subject to seasonal needs, the service may be too sporadic for those on vacation. You can rent a car in any major city as well as at Heraklion International Airport (HER) and Chania International Airport (CHQ). If you plan to do a lot of exploring, keep in mind that the island is larger than it may appear; you can avoid spending excessive amounts of time behind the wheel by planning your itinerary in advance.

Driving in Crete, however, can be challenging depending on where you are. In the major cities along the northern coast, there are usually road signs in Greek and English. However when visiting more remote areas, especially in the more rural south, travelers are likely to run into unpaved roads lacking signs. Travel experts strongly recommend driving very cautiously among mountain roads and seeking advice from locals beforehand if possible. 

Entry & Exit Requirements

To enter Greece, your passport must be valid through your stay and for at least three months after. You won't need a visa, however, unless your stay exceeds 90 days. Visit the U.S. Department of State's website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

Fortunately, the city of Sitia remains under the radar from developers and crowds of tourists.

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Crete Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

When I finally got to Crete , it exceeded all my expectations. There’s a lot to love about Crete beyond its ancient ruins: a beautiful variety of stunning beaches, excellent hiking, quaint historic towns, and incredible food and wine.

Plus, it’s affordable, making it an excellent budget destination to visit. And the island’s size ensures you can explore freely and escape the crowds that flock here during the busy summer months.

This travel guide to Crete can help you plan the perfect visit to this ancient island and ensure you save money in the process!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Crete

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Crete

1. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

This is Greece’s second-largest archaeological museum. The collection here spans over 5,500 years of history. The museum houses elaborate pottery, jewelry, sarcophagi, colorful frescoes from Knossos, and more. Its Minoan collection is the most extensive in the world. Overall, the museum is incredibly detailed and should not be missed. Tickets are 12 EUR in the summer and 6 EUR in the winter.

2. Relax on the Pink Beach

Elafonisi Beach is located in the southwest corner of Crete, about 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Chania. The waters are crystal clear and the beach has rose-colored sand (hence the name). It is super popular in the summer (so get here early), with rentable sunbeds and umbrellas lining the beach. There are plenty of secluded coves nearby if you want to get away from the crowds. The water is shallow enough that you can walk out to the small island of Elafonisi, which has a tiny lighthouse and unobstructed views of the Mediterranean.

3. Explore Chania

This area has been inhabited since Neolithic times and was a major Minoan settlement named Kydonia. Today, Chania is the second-largest city in Crete and has a scenic Venetian quarter and harborfront lined with tavernas (small Greek restaurants), cafes, and shops. While here, check out the historic Firka Fortress (built in 1620) as well as the Maritime Museum located inside the fortress.

4. Visit Knossos

Knossos was the ancient capital of the Minoan empire and its Bronze Age ruins are some of the oldest in Greece (it’s considered the oldest city in Europe). The area has been inhabited since at least 7000 BCE, flourishing between the 19th-14th centuries BCE. You need a few hours here to roam the rebuilt palaces, courtyards, private apartments, baths, villas, tombs, and more. Admission is 15 EUR (free admission on the first Sunday of every month during the winter).

5. Hike Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is one of Greece’s National Parks and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The main hike is a 16-kilometer (10-mile) trek that offers wonderful views of the White Mountains and finishes at the beach town of Agia Roumeli. Keep in mind that this is a fairly long, rocky trek that takes around 5-7 hours to complete. Because of the length of the trek, you aren’t allowed to start it after around 2pm (you can still do part of it, but you will have to turn around at a certain point). But for nature lovers, it’s well worth it, and you can grab a beer at one of the seaside tavernas when finished. Try to avoid mid-summer as temps can reach up to 40°C (104°F) and there’s no shade. The park is open May-October and admission is 5 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Crete

1. take a trip to spinalonga island.

Located in northeastern Crete, the Venetians built a large fortress here in 1579 to protect Mirabello Bay and Elounda Bay from the Ottomans. The defenses held strong until 1715 when the Ottomans sieged the island. When the Ottomans left in the late 19th century, the island became a leper colony and remained that way for decades. Visitors can now take a boat there and walk a short trail that takes you through the ruined church, a leper disinfection room, a hospital, and a cemetery. Admission is 8 EUR and it’s open from April-October.

2. Explore Koules Fortress

Located in Heraklion, Koules Fortress was built in the 13th century when Crete was under Venetian rule. It was designed to protect the city from invasion and at its height housed a mill, bakery, prison, barracks, and more. Nowadays, you can walk through the tunnels and visit the various rooms. There are a lot of informative exhibits explaining the history of the castle and area too. Admission is 4 EUR (closed on Tuesdays).

3. Visit Aptera

This ancient 12th-century monastery is located just 13 kilometers (8 miles) outside of Chania. During your visit, you can admire the restored monastery as well as the remains of the original fortified tower, a temple from the 5th century BCE, a city gate, monastic walls, Roman cisterns and baths, and an amphitheater. There was also a Turkish fortress built here in 1872 that overlooks Souda Bay. Admission is 4 EUR.

4. See the Lassithi Plateau

The Lassithi Plateau in eastern Crete stands 900 meters (2,952 feet) above sea level. To get there, you have to drive up winding mountain roads overlooking the Dikti mountain range (which is dotted with white windmills). While here, you can visit Psychro, home to the Dikteon Cave that, according to Greek mythology, is the birthplace of Zeus and the place where he was hidden as an infant to be protected from his father. It’s 6 EUR to visit the cave, or you can combine it with a full-day ATV experience across the plateau for 75 EUR.

5. Wander Rethymnon

Located in northwestern Crete, this city is the third-largest in Crete (after Heraklion and Chania). Rethymnon is famous for its spectacular 11-kilometer (7-mile) long beach as well as its Venetian old town, port, and fortress. I love getting lost in the streets here, exploring the 16th-century fortress, and eating all the tasty food the city has to offer. It has a phenomenal food scene!

6. Tour the Historical Museum of Crete

If you’re interested in the more modern history of Crete (from the early Christian period to the mid-20th century), this museum in Heraklion is awesome. It’s small, but there’s a lot to see, including two stunning paintings by El Greco: The Baptism of Christ and View of Mt. Sinai and the Monastery of St. Catherine . There’s also a giant model of the city from the Venetian era (around 1650 CE) before its Turkish occupation, and a re-creation of author Nikos Kazantzakis’s study where he wrote Zorba the Greek (a popular novel-turned-film written in 1946). Admission is 5 EUR.

7. Hit Balos Beach

Balos Beach in the northwest corner of Crete offers a nice mix of white and pink sand, as well as a lagoon that is a warm place for a swim. It’s a peaceful place to hang out and soak up the sun, though it does get very crowded in the summer as it is one of the most popular beaches on Crete. You can get here by car (and then hike down to the beach), ferry (though it doesn’t leave a lot of time at the beach), or private boat. There are no places to buy food here so bring your own.

8. Take a wine tour

Crete is one of the oldest wine-producing areas in Europe, with a history that dates back 4,000 years. There are some 30 wineries around the island and you can explore many of them as day trips from Chania or Heraklion. If you don’t have a car, there are several wine tours that leave from both cities, including Chania Wine Tours and Made in Crete (Heraklion). Both offer dedicated wine tours as well as wine and olive oil tours. Tours start from 85 EUR per person.

9. Wander Chrissi Island

Located 15 kilometers (9 miles) off the coast of southeastern Crete, this Caribbean-looking island is a protected nature reserve with a unique cedar forest covering most of the island. Its deep blue waters and white sand beach make it a popular spot to spend the day, snorkeling, swimming, and lounging around. Ferries leave from the mainland in the morning and come back starting around 3pm in the afternoon. The island is completely uninhabited, meaning that there are no services, so bring everything you need (though you can buy food and drinks on the ferries if you need to). The round-trip ferry costs around 25 EUR.

10. Visit Plakias

Located 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Rethymno in the southern part of the island, this little town is popular with older tourists looking for a quiet time. I don’t really love the beach here (too rocky for me) but there are some phenomenal sunsets and a few nearby hikes that make it worth a visit. It’s a good base to visit nearby beaches (a boat taxi hops between a bunch of them).

11. Relax at Preveli Beach

Located close to Plakias, this beach is famous for its palm trees and swimmable river. It starts a few kilometers up and runs through a gorge before emptying out into the sea. Legend says the palm trees were brought here by pirates. It’s one of the nicer beaches and the river is super nice to swim in. You can sometimes hike through the gorge depending on trail and river conditions. Be sure to check beforehand. It’s a hugely popular day-trip destination so expect crowds.

12. Take a Cretan cooking class

Greek food is legendary, and after eating your way around the island, you might want to bring a taste of your trip home with you. By taking a cooking class, you can learn how to make uniquely Cretan dishes like dakos (a Cretan version of bruschetta), kalitsounia (sweet cheese pastries), and tsigariasto (a stewed meat dish). Vamos Village and Cretan Cooking Classes both offer a variety of classes starting at 75 EUR per person.

13. Visit a Cretan olive oil farm

Dive deep into the island’s olive oil tradition by visiting a farm and taking a tour to learn more about this iconic staple. The aptly named Cretan Olive Oil Farm and The Olive Farm in Chania both offer tours of the groves and production facilities, which also include tastings. Both farms also offer a variety of other classes and workshops, including wine tastings, cheese making, and other cooking classes. Tours start at 45 EUR.

  For more information on other destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Crete Travel Costs

For those traveling with a tent, basic plots without electricity for one person start at 13.50 EUR per night in the summer and 11 EUR per night off-season.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 25 EUR in any of the main cities during the summer. In the off-season, prices start around 20 EUR per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and free breakfast.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Crete. For a private room, expect to pay at least 40 EUR, while an entire home/apartment averages closer to 150 EUR per night (you can find them for half that if you book early though).

Food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy with a lot of fresh vegetables, olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, cheeses (especially feta), and yogurts. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

Crete also has its own unique dishes, such as snails in cracked wheat ( kohli bourbouristi ), slow-cooked pork with potatoes ( psitos ), Cretan dakos (Crete’s version of the Greek salad), and horta (wild greens).

Street food like gyros or souvlaki costs about 4.50 EUR each, or less. A hearty Greek salad also costs about 4.50 EUR, while a warm cheese pie (called kalitsounia ) is about 2 EUR. A combo meal at McDonald’s costs about 11 EUR.

If you stick mostly to traditional Greek dishes, you can eat very well on a budget in Crete. A plate of pork souvlaki is around 9 EUR while calamari is about 7.50 EUR. A hearty dish of moussaka starts at 7 EUR, while a platter of grilled chicken or beef costs between 8-11 EUR. A beer to go with it costs from 3.50 EUR.

At a higher-end restaurant, you can get an appetizer and a seafood or steak entree for about 25 EUR. Pasta dishes are about 16 EUR, while a vegetarian main starts from about 12 EUR. A glass of local wine is another 4.50 EUR.

If you’re cooking your own meals, expect to spend around 45-50 EUR on groceries per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, veggies, eggs, cheese, and some meat.

Backpacking Crete Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Crete, expect to spend about 55 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a dorm, cooking some meals and eating some cheap fast food, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and mostly sticking to free activities like hanging out on the beach and hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 115 EUR per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for all your meals, take the occasional taxi, drink more, and do some paid activities like visiting the Archeological Museum and Knossos.

On a “luxury” budget of 205 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, enjoy some drinks, get a scooter rental, take more taxis, and do all the tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Crete Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Crete, like the rest of Greece, is very budget-friendly. But if you’re looking to cut down your expenses even more, here are some of my favorite ways to save money in Crete:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. Use this rule to figure out how to eat at cheap restaurants.
• Travel in the off-season – Crete is one of the rare Greek islands that has a sizeable year-round tourist population, so hotels and attractions are almost always open (unlike places like Santorini and Mykonos). If you come during the shoulder season or off-season, you can find lower accommodation rates and tour prices while still getting the best of what the Greek islands have to offer.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host that can host you for your stay. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you’ll get access to a local that can share their insider tips and information. Just be sure to send your requests early as there are not a lot of hosts here.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros (and other street snacks) usually only cost a few euros. They are quick and easy and can keep you full for less than 10 EUR per day!

Where to Stay in Crete

Crete’s a big island and you’ll likely book a few different places if you’re planning on exploring the full extent of the island. These are my recommended places to stay while you’re here:

• Youth Hostel Plakias
• Rethymno Youth Hostel
• Cocoon City
• Intra Muros

How to Get Around Crete

Most buses cost between 4-10 EUR per trip. For example, a 90-minute trip from Heraklion to Rethymnon costs around 6 EUR, while a three-hour trip from Heraklion to Chania is about 10 EUR.

Boat Scooter Rental – If you want more flexibility in getting around, a scooter rental is the way to go. They cost as little as 14 EUR per day. There are lots of rental companies, but I recommend Greenways.

Bicycle – Daily rentals start from about 20 EUR per day for a mountain bike or road bike but decrease the longer you rent them for. Joyride is an excellent company to rent from, though since scooter rentals are cheaper you might as well get one of them instead!

Taxi – Taxis in Crete charge about 1.20 EUR per kilometer and have a 1.80 EUR starting charge. There is usually a surcharge to and from the airport. In short, skip the taxis if you can as they add up!

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental when booked in advance. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have had their license for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars

When to Go to Crete

Crete has lovely weather year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 12°C (61°F) in the coldest months and averaging 26°C (79°F) daily during the summer.

May to the end of September are the busiest tourist months, so if you want to avoid the crowds and inflated prices, come during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn). October is a particularly nice time to visit, as the average daily temperature is still pleasant 21°C (69°F), and the crowds are virtually gone.

That said, it’s a big island so there are always places here during peak season without crowds if you don’t mind getting off the beaten path.

Unlike other Greek islands, Crete has a large year-round population. While some businesses are seasonal, you won’t have any problem finding a place to stay, and most museums and attractions are open all year.

How to Stay Safe on Crete

Crete is a very safe place to travel. Violent crime is rare and petty crime (like pick-pocketing) is your only real concern (and even that is uncommon). Keep your valuables close at tourist attractions and while on the beach and you should be fine.

If you’re driving, be extra cautious on Crete’s winding roads. Locals drivers can be erratic. Moreover, some of the roads are under-developed and there’s no real signage. Drive cautiously.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

If you’re going hiking, bring lots of water and always wear sunscreen and bring a hat too. It can get sweltering in the summer!

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Crete Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.

Crete Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Greece and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
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Top Tours in Crete, Greece

Crete tours.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Samaria Gorge Hiking from Chania

2. Sailing Cruise to Dia Island with Meal and Water Activities

3. Full-Day Private Adventure: Knossos, Zeus Cave & Lassithi Plateau

4. The Real Cretan Cooking Experience

5. Daily Cruise - Koufonissia & Rina Cave

6. Day Tour to Santorini Island from Heraklion Crete

7. Crete Wine and Olive Oil Tour

8. Full-Day Private Custom Tour to Elafonisi the Pink Sand Beach

9. Rethymnon Sunset Cruise with a Pirate Boat

10. Full-Day Gramvousa and Balos Tour from Rethymno

11. Walking “Food tasting tour” in the town of Chania

12. Half-Day Rethymno Quad Safari

13. Road-trip to Lasithi: Zeus Cave, Vidiani, Krasi, &Olive Mill Farm

14. Private Tour: 4 Hours Mykonos Island Tour - Like a Local

15. Comfort cruise - sailing catamaran trips from Heraklion, Crete

16. Cooking Class and Meal at our Family Olive Farm (the Cretan Vibes Farm)!

17. Zeus Cave-Traditional-Villages-Old Wind Mills-Olive Oil Factory-Small Group.

18. Explore Chania's Old Town through the eyes of a local

19. Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island

20. Full Day Boat Cruise to 3 Islands with optional pickup

21. Snorkeling and Boat Tour in Crete

22. Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket (Shared Tour - Small group)

23. Boat Experience in Almyrida

24. Private Boat Trip Kissamos Balos (price per group - up to 10 people)

25. Luxe boat trip on sailing catamaran, Heraklion, Crete

26. West Crete Tour from Heraklion: Rethymno-Chania-Kurnas

27. Santorini Island: Guided Tour From Heraklion Crete

28. Day Tour to Elafonisi Beach from Heraklion with Pickup Included

29. Historical Heraklion City Tour with Knossos Palace & Old Market

30. RENT A BOAT 5,5m-30hp LICENCE FREE MARATHI

What travellers are saying.

• Gerald B 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience and a tour must try!! George our driver was wonderful. He showed up on time drawers around to see everything that we wanted. Pointed out a lot of near facts and made sure we were having a good time , also private tour is much better going on the large group on a tour bus !! Read more Review of: Private Tour: 4 Hours Mykonos Island Tour - Like a Local Written 10 May 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Sailing Cruise to Dia Island with Meal and Water Activities
• Walking “Food tasting tour” in the town of Chania
• Half-Day Rethymno Quad Safari
• Full-Day Private Adventure: Knossos, Zeus Cave & Lassithi Plateau
• Samaria Gorge Hiking from Chania
• Happy Train
• Autoway Crete Car Rental
• See Crete VIP Tours
• Traitorakis Travel
• Archagelos cruises-ierapetra boat-chrissi-island
• Sailing Exploring & Driving Creta
• B&S LUXURY CRETE TRAVEL SERVICES
• DanEri Yachts - Luxury Catamaran Cruises on Crete & Milos, Greece
• Notos Mare Marine Adventures
• Fantasia Yachting
• Cretan Safari Land Rover Experience
• Chania Adventures
• Finikia Horseriding
• Sailing South Crete
• Sail in... Chania
• Beanie's Boat Hire
• JoyRide.Bike

22°C / 72°F Heraklion

#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.

The Cretan Vineyard

Certified companies & products, traditional cretan recipes, latest news, keep what you love.

Create your own personalised experience using our guide. Log in to our website and add your loved posts and locations to your personal favourites page. Create your personal travel guide for your upcoming visit. it’s your Crete, your Experiences!

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The CRETE FESTIVAL – Arts travel to the monuments of Crete

Race of sitia 2022, korissia international regatta canoe kayak sprint & sup in kournas lake, 6ο sitia geopark trail.

The 11 best things to do in Crete

T he  beaches  are beautiful on Greece’s largest island, but the birthplace of Zeus has plenty to tempt visitors away from those golden sands. Crete’s off-the-beaten-track sights, split into four very different regions, are best explored via exhilarating four-wheel drive safaris into remote mountain villages, or boat trips to tiny, shell-strewn islands. With many well-organised museums and more than a dozen world class archaeological sites, there are also innumerable ways to get to grips with the local history and culture, whilst a plethora of food-themed tours and activities offer a taste-packed insight into the celebrated Cretan diet.

For further Crete inspiration, see our guides to the island's best  hotels ,  restaurants ,  nightlife  and  beaches . For further inspiration plan the  perfect Greek island-hopping holiday with our itinerary.

Linger on The Island

A traditional wooden fishing boat whisks you over (sometimes choppy) waves from Elounda’s pretty harbour to visit Spinalonga, a barren atoll in sheltered Mirabello Bay where Greece’s lepers were kept in quarantine until 1957. You can easily spend an hour exploring the Venetian forts, tunnel and stone buildings of this island which was the setting for Victoria Hislop’s poignant novel 'The Island'. A recommended company to go with is  Elounda Boat Cooperative , who can be found in Elounda harbour. 

Insider tip: It’s well worth hiring one of the personable professional guides who’ll be waiting as you get off the boat: they know fascinating anecdotes about life on this island, which was already a place of exile during the Ottoman occupation.

Contact:  00 30 69743 85854

Opening times:  Daily, 9am-5pm (Apr 1st-Oct 31st)

Hike through Death Valley

Leave your vehicle in the cryptically signposted ‘Dead’s Gorge’ car park beneath the bustling mountain village of Zakros village, then hike down to Kato Zakros between towering, cave-pocked cliff faces where the Minoans once buried their dead. The trail winds down, over worn pebbles and stony outcroppings hung with pungent oregano, to the remote resorts’ 16th-century BC Minoan Palace.

Insider tip: Hike early and plan to spend the day in this gloriously pretty (and gorgeously isolated) cove. There’s a sprinkling of taverns lining the waterfront.

Contact: 00 30 28430 26897

Opening times: Daily, 8am-7.45pm in summer (varies in winter)

Forage for your supper

Get off the beaten track and learn about the Cretan diet on a foraging expedition with biologist Dr Haris Saslis of Forage Crete. Leaping from crag to crag, personable Haris imparts anecdotes about mountain goats, local flora – and London's Kew Gardens where he used to work – whilst guiding participants to harvest edible wild green xorta (green leaves).

Insider tip: Don’t eat too much beforehand - after the foraging expedition participants cook their own surprisingly filling lunch so leave space for the flaky filo pastry pies stuffed with dock leaves and steamed wild asparagus drizzled with olive oil.

Contact: foragecrete.com

Meet the Minoans

If you’ve ever wondered what the mysterious Minoans were really like, this carefully choreographed performance might give you some idea. Based on expert evidence and purporting ot offer an accurate historical experience, the colourful three-hour show introduces you to King Minos and other mythical characters, whilst demonstrating ritual dances of the time, including bull-leaping. 

Insider tip: it’s worth booking the Minoan Night Experience which includes a meal based on olive oil, wine, honey and other elements of the Minoan diet.  

Contact: minoantheater.gr

Visit a fascinating museum

If you only visit one museum, it has to be Heraklion’s archaeological museum, which houses the worlds best collection of artefacts hailing from Crete’s mysterious Minoan civilisation. It’s well presented with detailed labels in English: look out for the famous dolphin frescoes, the minutely detailed gold bee pendant from Malia, and the yet-to-be-deciphered Phaistos disc.

Insider tip:  For better value, combine this visit with  Knossos Palace  and buy one ticket which gives entry to both. The amount of breathtaking artefacts on show here is astounding - plan to spend at least two hours.

Contact: 

heraklionmuseum.gr

Set out on safari

Heading for the hills on a safari adventure is a great way to explore corners of Crete where only goats get to roam. The Minoan trail winds through high flung villages to Zeus’s cave (with stops for raki tasting en route), whilst the Preveli route thunders between Spili’s picturesque lion head fountains and shops, to Preveli’s palm tree-lined beach.

Insider tip:  Bring binoculars to spot the wildlife that haunt these remoter regions: impressive griffon vultures (their wingspan is over two metres) hang above the crags of Patsos Gorge and deer-like Kri Kri goats hide out near Samaria’s gorge.

Contact: safariclub.gr

Meet and eat with locals

Cretan food specialties abound, but it can be tough to seek them out without insider help. Local born guides with Crete Urban Adventures lead gourmet walking tours through Heraklion’s busy backstreets and herb-and leather-scented bazaars to visit the city’s oldest custard pie bougatsa shop, meet the man behind Heraklion’s best tripe restaurant, and plenty more (expect lots of mezes en route).

Insider tip:  Wear flat shoes – the city’s cobbled, potholed streets are merciless on heels –and make sure to ask to see the statue (and hear the tale) of Crete’s star-crossed lovers from the celebrated 17th-century poem Erotokritos.

Contact: intrepidtravel.com

Hang out with big fish

A real unsung gem, Crete’s Thalassokosmos aquarium is one of the largest centres for marine research, technology and entertainment in the Mediterranean. Housed amidst houses and barracks of the (very atmospheric) abandoned American base at Gournes it’s easily overlooked, so keep an eye out for the signs. Plan a couple of hours to visit all the different tanks: there are 60 of them containing everything from local to tropical species - there’s even a small shark tunnel and a breezy open air cafe overlooking Gournes’sandy beach: it’s also well worth booking a behind-the-scenes tour where you’ll get up close and friendly with the different fish. 

Insider tip: Close to several sandy beaches and a string of cafes and tavernas, Crete's only aquarium also sits next door to Dinosauria Park (a quirky dino-themed  attraction which includes a fossil exhibition and animatronic dinosaur models)- so why not bring swimwear and spend the day here?

Contact:  cretaquarium.gr

Explore Europe’s longest gorge

You’ll need to be fairly fit to make the five-hour hike through the 16 kilometre-long (10 miles) Samaria Gorge, but it’s worth it for the chance to spot feral kri kri goats and soaring griffon vultures. Enjoy the viewing platform before the trail plunges into the rubble-strewn gorge, which narrows to three metres at the claustrophobic cleft known as sideresportes (‘iron gates’).

Insider tip: An easier alternative is to take a boat from Hora Sfakion to Agia Roumeli and hike through the bottom end of the gorge. Alternatively, spend the night in Agia Roumeli and explore this stunning gorge in the cool of morning. Accommodation in Agia Roumeli is fairly basic but Artemis Studios is one of the best and closest to the gorge.

Contact:   samaria.gr

Voyage to Golden Island

A boat sails once a day to visit the pristine, sea daffodil-studded dunes, gold sand beaches, ancient salt pans and Minoan remains on eastern Crete’s Natura 2000-protected Chrissi Island. Apart from dozens of parasols dotting the shell-strewn beach, shade is provided by a small forest of juniper trees – some are more than 300 years old. According to new conservation laws, however, boats can only approach to within 50 metres of the beach and you’ll have to swim the rest of the way.

Insider tip:  Umbrellas, food, water and even souvenirs are for sale/rent on the island, but they’re expensive so it's a good idea to bring your own – even the showers are charged for. At the height of summer beaches are crowded – especially at weekends.

Contact: cretandailycruises.com

Visit the seat of Cretan Revolution

A potent symbol of resistance for Cretans, Arkadi is an incense-scented haven of peace. This 17th-century monastery, hidden behind high stone walls, has a large courtyard surrounded by monachal cells and an elegant 16th-century church. Most moving is the old gunpowder magazine where local families fleeing Ottoman troops in 1866 blew themselves up, rather than surrender.

Insider tip:  The monks are generally willing to show visitors around, and on special feast days they’ll even share a tumbler of raki. Make sure to see the ossuary across from the monastery where some of the victims' skulls are conserved behind glass.

Contact:  arkadimonastery.gr

How we choose

Every attraction and activity in this curated list has been tried and tested by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of budgets and styles, from world-class museums to family-friendly theme parks – to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up to date recommendations.

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Road trip in Crete: The best itineraries for 4, 5, 7, 10, and 15 days

Visiting crete by car: the 5 best road trip itineraries.

You’re planning to do a road trip in Crete ?

Great idea!

Visiting Crete by car is the best way to optimize your itinerary , discover the most beautiful beaches such as Elafonissi or to reach the starting point of the hike in the Gorge.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this travel guide with the 5 best road trips itineraries in Crete depending on the duration of your stay (5, 7, 10 days and 15 days).

For each duration, I will give you a summary of the itinerary as well as the link to read the detailed itinerary article.

And at the end of this guide, I will also give you my list of the best accommodations in Crete depending on your budget as well as my best tips to enjoy the perfect road trip.

Let’s plan your road trip in Crete!

What’s the best airport to start a road-trip in Crete?

Which port to choose to make a road trip in crete, rent a car for your road trip in crete, road trip in crete: 4 or 5 days, road trip in crete: a week in the west, road trip in crete: 7 days in the east, 1) chania and its surroundings (5 days), 2) preveli and matala (1 day), 3) heraklion and its surroundings (2 days), 4) rethymnon (1 day), 1) west crete (6 days), 2) east crete (5 days), 3) south crete (3 days), where to stay in crete during your road trip, when should you go on a road trip in crete, road trip in crete with a travel agency, renting a boat in crete, you’re traveling to crete these articles will help you.

Crete has 2 international airports:

• Chania in the West
• Heraklion in the East.

These 2 cities are therefore the most practical ones to travel around Crete by car and to make a circuit, that is why I chose to start all my tours in Crete either in Chania or Heraklion.

You can go to Crete by boat from many Greek islands located in the Cyclades ( Santorini , Naxos , Paros , Mykonos, Tinos ) and from the island of Rhodes .

It is also possible to go to Crete by ferry from Athens . The journey is quite long, but if you are interested, here is the information you need:

• Chania is connected by ferries from the port of Piraeus in Athens. However, it takes 9 hours for the crossing.
• Heraklion is connected by ferries from the port of Piraeus in Athens. The crossing takes between 8.5 and 9.5 hours.

Compare prices for ferries to Crete by clicking on the button below:

There can’t be a road trip without a car! And since, unlike in Corsica , even when you arrive by ferry, you cannot come with your personal vehicle for this itinerary in Crete , you will have to rent a car.

In order to benefit from the best rates and to have the choice of the category, you must book your car as early as possible.

You must use Rentalcars.com which allows you to directly compare the prices offered by all the rental companies present at the airport of Chania or Heraklion.

It’s really convenient and fast to check the cheapest options , the best reputation and the conditions offered (unlimited mileage, 2nd driver, etc.).

Rentalcars also offers their comprehensive insurance coverage (covering the expenses incurred in the event of an accident or theft). If you do not have insurance included with your credit card, it is a good option to take it because it is much cheaper than the one offered by the rental company.

Finally, you should know that for some rentals, the free modification or cancellation are available until 24 hours before your departure.

To compare car rental prices in Crete now, click on the green button below:

If you only have a few vacation days and have chosen a short stay in Crete , you must stay in one place and discover the surroundings through small one-day car trips.

To visit West Crete during your road trip, you will have to arrive in Chania. 

To visit East Crete by car , the best way is to start from Heraklion.

I have prepared all the details to organise your stay in Crete for 4 or 5 days depending on your city of arrival.

For each option, you will find my recommendations for daily activities so as not to miss out on the unmissable places of interest and my selection of the best hotels to stay during your holidays in Crete.

To read this guide, just click on the following link: Itineraries recommended for a short stay in Crete.

Here’s an example of a road trip from Chania to visit West Crete by car for a week.

On the agenda for this 1 week road trip in Crete:

• Chania (1 day)
• The lagoon of Balos (1 day)
• Samaria Gorge (1 day)
• Elafonissi beach (1 day)
• Akrotiri (1 day)
• Rethymnon (1 day)

First day – Exploring Chania on foot

• The covered market
• The Greek Orthodox Cathedral
• The Old Venetian Port
• The Fikras fortress and the maritime museum
• The religious buildings
• Eastern Gulf beach or Agii Apostoli/Iguana Beach , which are located next to each other.

I have designed a 1 day tour of Chania for you in this article: Visit Chania.

Day 2 – Discovery of Lagoon of Balos, one of the most beautiful places on the island.

For more information, read my dedicated article: Visit the lagoon of Balos.

And if you just want to book your cruise to Balos now , click on the green button below:

Day three of this one-week road trip in Crete – Samaria Gorge hike

For a complete description of the route and all the detailed practical information, you must read my dedicated article: Samaria Gorge: the definitive guide.

For day four , head for the other unmissable beach during your week-long road trip in Crete: the famous pink beach of Elafonissi!

The information you need to go to this beach is here: Guide to discover the beach of Elafonissi.

On day five , head to the Akrotiri peninsula where you can discover:

• Stavros beach
• Agia Triada monastery
• The Governto Monastery
• Seitan Limani beach
• Marathi beach.

Day 6 – Visit Rethymnon , where you can explore its beautiful historical centre on foot.

Then go to the Agia Triada monastery for a short visit before spending the rest of the day at Lake Kournas.

Day 7 – End of the holiday, go to the airport of Chania for the return trip.

Do you want to go on a week-long road trip in Crete? Please read my detailed article: One-week itinerary in Crete.  

Very practical, you will also find lots of good deals and hotels to stay in Chania.  This is the best way to organise your trip easily! 

For those who prefer to go on a 7-day road trip to Crete to explore the East of the island instead, you can consider this itinerary: 7-day itinerary in Crete. 

If you are arriving in Heraklion , here are the places that you must visit during 7-day road trip in Crete: Heraklion, Knossos, Elounda, Spinalonga, Sitia, Chrissi and Matala.

I have prepared a summary of this road trip so you can to organise your days for a 7-day trip to Crete:

• 1 day in Heraklion to visit the city and especially the 2 must-see sights of a tour in Crete: the archaeological museum and the palace of Knossos. 
• 1 day to explore the Lassithi plateau, with visit to the Zeus cave
• 1 day in Elounda to go on a cruise to the island of Spinalonga and swim at the beach of Kolokitha
• 1 day to reach Sitia with visits to the Voulisma beach , the village of Mohlos and a hike in the Richtis Gorge
• 1 day to explore the most beautiful beaches of the East , an unmissable part of a 7-day road trip in Crete: the beaches of Itanos, Vai beach , the sublime beaches of Xerokampos . And if you want to add a little more athletic activities, you must go on the Zakros Gorge hike.
• 1 day to reach Matala with an optional boat trip to Chrissi Island. 

Wondering where to stay during this 7-8 day Crete road trip ?

The list of the best hotels for each leg can also be found in my detailed itinerary (click here)!

In addition to my itinerary, you can also read my specific articles on some of the places to visit during your road trip to East Crete:

• Heraklion: The 13 places to visit
• Palace of Knossos: The guide to visit the most famous archaeological site in Crete

Road trip in Crete: 10 days

For this itinerary , I would suggest a road trip to visit Crete by car in 10 days.

This route starts in Chania (but you can also change it easily if you arrive in Heraklion) and allows you to complete a circuit to explore the West of the island and a part of the East.

This circuit is very complete and offers a good combination of cities , beaches and hikes.

On the agenda of this 10-day road trip in Crete:

• Akrotiri peninsula

I will summarise the main parts of this road trip below but all the details can be found here: 10-day itinerary in Crete.

Let’s start this 10-day road trip in Crete with a visit to Chania . As it is quite small, one day is enough to discover the main tourist attractions.

Day one – Things to see in Chania:

• The old town
• The Old Port
• Fort Fikras
• The lighthouse of Chania

Spend the night in Chania.

To organise your trip to Chania in the best possible way, ready my article: The 15 things to do in Chania.

The second day , continue this 10-day road trip in Crete, going all the way West to the lagoon of Balos.

You will discover a superb stretch of turquoise waters and white sands where it is impossible not to swim!

As there are several little things to know when you go to Balos by car or boat, you really must read my complete guide to the lagoon, which you can find here: Visit Balos Beach.

Spend another night in Chania.

For day three , you must go hiking in the Samaria Gorge.

It is the best- known hike in Crete and is 16 km long. It takes between 5 and 7 hours to walk the entire path that first passes through the forest before reaching the bottom of the Gorge.

As this must-do during your road trip in Crete cannot be just done impromptu and requires some organisation, you can find my complete guide to prepare for everything here: How to visit the Samaria Gorge?

Day four, go to Elafonissi beach , in the south-east of the island for a relaxing day on one of the most beautiful beaches of Crete . After yesterday’s walk, you deserve to relax by the turquoise waters.

Here are the details:   Elafonissi: the definitive guide.

Stay another night in Chania.

On day five , you must explore the Akrotiri peninsula, which is just outside Chania. Here you will find several beaches including the famous Seitan Limani cove and 2 monasteries you must visit: the Agia Triada monastery and Governto monastery.

Spend one last night in Chania.

On day six of your road trip in Crete, it’s time to leave Chania to continue exploring the island for a while.

On the agenda:

• Stop at the Kourtaliotiko Gorge
• Visit the Preveli monastery
• Swimming at Preveli beach, ranked among the most beautiful beaches on the island
• Visit to Matala and its caves.

Overnight stay in Matala.

On day seven , you must visit one of the best known cities of the island: Heraklion. 

During your walk in the historical centre, you must visit the historical museum of Crete, the fortress of Koules, the rue 25 Avgostou and especially the archaeological museum of Heraklion. Crete’s most famous museum is home to many objects covering a vast period and is really excellent.

You’ll end the day with another iconic visit: the archaeological site of the palace of Knossos, which in the Minoan era, had vast royal apartments, residences of priests, thermal baths… 

You will find information about Knossos and Heraklion in my 2 articles:

• What are the things to do in Heraklion?
• Visit the Minoan Palace in Knossos.

Spend the night in Heraklion.

Day eight , hit the road to go to Elounda where you will embark on a boat trip to the island of Spinalonga . Here you will discover its fortress and the old buildings that were used to house lepers during the epidemic that struck around the 1900s.

In the afternoon , still in Elounda, you must go swimming at Kolokitha beach . This is one of my favourite beaches of this 10-day road trip in Crete!

To return to Heraklion in the late afternoon, take the road that passes through the Lassithi plateau. You will be able to stop at the cave of Zeus, where the famous Greek god is said to be born.

Spend one last night in Heraklion.

On day nine, the penultimate day of your 10-day Crete road trip, leave Heraklion for Rethymnon.

On the way, you can stop at 3 places:

• The Melidoni cave is really worth the visit for its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites
• The village of Margarites , famous for its many pottery workshops
• Arkadi monastery and its 16th century church.

Once you arrive in Rethymnon, you will have plenty of time to peacefully explore the old town. It is not very big but it is really nice to walk around the alleys lined with shops and taverns.

For all the details about Rethymnon, please read my dedicated article: Visit Rethymnon.

Spend the night in Rethymnon or Chania if your flight takes off early in the morning.

Day ten marks the end of this road trip in Crete!

If you want more details about this 10-day road trip in Crete , please read our detailed article: 10-day itinerary in Crete.

You will also find our list of the best accommodations for each leg. As you’ll see, planning your 9-10 day trip to Crete is fast and easy!

Road trip in Crete: 2 weeks

If you have 15 days for a road trip in Crete , this is really the best option because you’ll be able to explore the entire island!

This 2-week road trip in Crete that I propose leaves from Chania, in the West but you can start from Heraklion and complete the same circuit.

All the details for organising this drive around Crete can be found in my article: 2-week itinerary in Crete.

I’ll give you a short summary of the journey legs below:

For this two-week road trip in Crete, you must start at the West of the island for 6 days.

Day one – Discover the city of Chania on foot: the market, the cathedral, the old town, the Old Port, Fort Firkas and the lighthouse.

You will certainly have time to see a majority of the things I discuss in my Best Places to See Chania.

Day Two – Lagoon of Balos

Cruise from Kissamos to Balos can be booked here:

This is a must-see sight on this 2 week road trip in Crete!

More about Balos in my article: Visit the lagoon of Balos.

Day three – Samaria Gorge

The information to prepare for your hike can be found here: Visit the Samaria Gorge.

On day four of your 15-day road trip to Crete will be devoted to relaxing on the famous pink sand beach of Elafonissi.

More information can be found here: Visit Elafonissi.

Day 5 – Drive to the Akrotiri peninsula with stops to visit monasteries and swim at the Seitan Limani beach.

Day 6 – Visit the Kournas lake before reaching the city of Rethymnon for a pleasant walk in the city. In the afternoon, visit the Arkadi monastery, the potters’ village of Margarites and the Melidoni cave.

I have explained everything in this article: What are the things to do in Rethymnon?

For the rest of your 15-day road trip in Crete, you will now explore the Eastern part of the island.

Day seven – Visit to the city of Heraklion : the historical museum of Crete, the fortress of Koules, the archaeological museum and the palace of Knossos.

More about Heraklion in my post: The guide to visit Heraklion.

Day eight – Travel from Heraklion to Elounda via the Lassithi plateau.

On day nine , you must take the boat from the port of Elounda and visit Spinalonga island. In the afternoon, you can swim at Kolokitha beach.

Day 10 – Today, you’ll continue this 15-day road trip in Crete by going further East, towards Sitia. On the road, you will discover the splendid Voulisma beach before stopping for lunch in the seafront hamlet of Mohlos and continue with a small hike to the Richtis waterfall.

Day 11 – Enjoy the beaches of the East , some of which are ranked among the best of Crete’s most beautiful beaches. My recommendations: Itanos, Vai and Xerokampos. The more motivated among you can also go hiking in the Zakros Gorge.

On day twelve , continue this two-week road trip in Crete by heading south. From Ierapetra you can take a boat that will take you to spend the day on Chrissi island. 

At the end of the day, take the road to Matala , famous for its caves carved into the cliff at the water’s edge. Matala also has 2 beaches.

On day thirteen , here are the places you must visit:

• Triopetra beach
• The Kourtaliotiko Gorge
• The Preveli beach, another unmissable and beautiful beach during a road trip in Crete!
• Preveli monastery.

At the end of the day, you will arrive in Plakias for the night.

Day 14 – Today you can choose between one last hike in a Gorge (Imbros for example), a boat trip from Hora Sfakion, a day at the beach or water park or a a super quad bike trip (book here!).

On day fifteen, the last day of this 2-week road trip in Crete: head to Chania airport to end the holiday!

And remember, this road trip is explained in detail in our article:  15-day itinerary in Crete .  You will also find plenty of tips and our selection of the best accommodations according to your budget for each leg.

There you go! You now know where to go and what to see during your road trip in Crete . Now all that’s left is accommodation for each leg.

So I’ve selected the best accommodations in Crete for each step.

They are categorised by city and budget and are already included in the articles I just mentioned, which list the various available routes depending on the length of your stay.

You can also click here (alphabetical order):

• Elounda: all the best places to stay
• Heraklion: the best hotels
• Chania: list of the best accommodations
• Matala: where to stay?
• Plakias: my accommodation suggestions
• Rethymnon: the best places to stay
• Sitia: the best hotels

For a road trip in Crete , you must go during months of May – June – July – August – September and early October.

This is when you can make the most of your stay thanks to the many attractions of the island: beaches, hiking, natural landscapes, walks in historical centres and boat trips.

And of course, it won’t surprise you that July and August experience the highest volume of tourists . If you have decided to make your road trip to Crete in summer, you must book your accommodation and activities in advance .

To visit Crete by car, the best time is the month of September . The summer holidays are over, so there are fewer people but it is still as beautiful and warm! September indeed is the best month for a road trip in Crete.

Note that between October and the end of April:

• Boat trips like the one from the lagoon of Balos are not operational
• The Samaria Gorge is closed
• The water is too cold to swim
• Many hotels and restaurants are closed.

Going on a road trip in Crete in winter is not a great idea!

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? 😊

So what have you planned to see on your road trip in 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
• 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
• 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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