A holiday in Crete promises ancient ruins, delicious local cuisine, quaint villages and spectacular beaches - all sprinkled with a good dose of a typical laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere.
Not only is it the largest island in Greece, but it also enjoys the longest summers and year-round sunshine. The lively northern coast is more developed and this is where you will find the vast majority of resorts as well as the best beaches. While the south is more remote and less connected, but with some stunning scenery.
Crete’s diverse landscapes hide an astonishingly rich history. It was the home of Europe’s oldest civilization, the Minoans. Ruins of their lavish palaces can be found scattered across the island and archaeologists are still uncovering new sites and artefacts. On top of this, Crete was a Venetian stronghold for centuries, leaving behind distinctive architecture and hilltops fortresses.
We are going to take a journey along the thriving northern coast, from the mountainous in the west to the pristine beaches in the east, stopping off along the way at some of our favourite resorts. For the delight of our more intrepid travellers, our journey will end with a dip into the rugged wild south.
With the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) as a backdrop, Chania is undoubtedly the prettiest of Crete’s cities. The exquisite Venetian harbour front, dotted with colourful buildings, boutique shops and inviting restaurants, is a reason in itself to visit Chania. While you’re here, don’t miss the impressive domes of Yiali Tzami, the 17th Century Turkish mosque sitting on the waterfront.
The surrounding coast is somewhat rugged and rocky, but there are some fabulous sandy beaches on the peninsula just in front of the city where Chania International airport is located. And if you’re feeling active, you can go for a hike in the white mountains and walk through the awe-inspiring Samaria Gorge – the largest in Europe!
Where to stay: Mr & Mrs White Crete Holiday Resort
Rethymnon boasts the island’s longest beach stretching 12 km from the city. It’s lined with cafes, taverns and bars, so finding a spot for a cocktail and some good old holiday people-watching is no trouble at all. The waters here are crystal-clear and shallow, perfect for children.
The city itself is packed with history from both the Venetian and Ottoman rule. Make your way through the maze of narrow alleyways to the vibrant harbour and watch the sunset from the old fortress ruins on the hilltop. Rethymnon is also a great location to explore some of the attractions of the west coast like Preveli Beach with its perfect Palm Trees and the lush natural springs of Argyroupoli.
Where to stay: Grecotel Caramel Boutique Resort
Bang on in the centre of the northern coastline, Crete’s busy capital city is nothing to write home about in itself. However, it does have an electric nightlife, the best market on the island and an outstanding Archaeological museum!
Just outside the city, you will find Crete’s most famous site, the Knossos Palace. Built by the Minoans, it appears in Greek mythology as the home of the Minotaur. It was controversially reconstructed by Sir Arthur Evans, a British archaeologist, so you can get a good idea of what this lavish palace may have looked like.
And, if you want to see the best preserved ruins of a Minoan palace (minus the reconstruction), take a day trip to Phaistos in the south. It’s about an hour’s drive from Heraklion and the trek out means you will be rewarded with much fewer people. As you are already in the South and nearby the area of Matala, explore the amazing caves here which was a very well popular spot in the '60s and '70s. As you venture across the countryside, why not stop off at a local vineyard to sample the delicious prestigious local wines.
Since Heraklion is very well positioned for visiting some of the island’s top sites, we recommend staying at one of the nearby resort areas so you can easily explore while getting your fix of beach time.
Aghia Pelagia
Aghia Pelagia is located in a protected bay to the west of Heraklion with calm warm waters. It’s a typical peaceful Greek seaside town, packed with charming traditional taverns.
Where to stay: Sea Side Resort & Spa
Analipsi
Analipsi is a little known resort town to the east of Heraklion. It’s less developed for tourism compared to some of the other resorts in the area, preserving the feel of an authentic Cretan village. It’s easily recognisable by its tiny white and blue church on the waterfront.
Where to stay: Stella Island Luxury Resort
Hersonissos
As the largest resort on the island, Hersonissos has some of the best nightlife in Crete. Enthralling restaurants, bars and clubs attract a younger crowd. However, the wide range of accommodation in the area caters to all ages. To experience local life, the three villages behind Hersonissos, Koutouloufari, Piskopiano and Old Hersonissos, all within walking distance from the resort are all well worth the hike.
Where to stay: Papadakis Villas
Stalis
Near the party capital resort of Malia, Stalis is a quieter outpost with a gorgeous golden beach and no shortage of English Breakfasts and Irish pubs. It’s a great option for families or groups, with plenty of fun activities, water sports and entertainment on offer.
Where to stay: Horizon Beach Hotel
Continuing along the coast eastbound, you will stumble upon the quaint fishing village of Sissi. During the summer it attracts a lot of people during the day arriving on boat trips, but once the visitors disperse in the evening, serenity descends on the town.
For those wishing to enjoy a romantic seafood feast, there are a number of traditional restaurants to choose from. The twinkling lights of the town and the sound of the waves, create an enchanting atmosphere.
At just 15 minutes’ drive from bustling Malia and 45 minutes from Knossos, Sissi is ideal if you are looking for a relaxing holiday with the opportunity of a little nightlife or sightseeing whenever it tickles your fancy.
Where to stay: Marigianna Studios & Apartments
We have reached the exclusive eastern side of Crete. Small, yet lively Elounda is nestled in a protected bay with barely any wind so the waters are exceptionally calm. Here you will find a mix of traditional and upmarket restaurants, shops and accommodation.
An absolute must, while you are here, is a trip to the Spinalonga peninsula directly in front of the town. The peninsula is almost entirely covered by the ruins of a Venetian fortress from the 16th century that are incredibly well preserved.
There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained in the area with lots of scenic routes for walking or horse-riding and the authentic village of Plaka. However, one of the best things to do in Elounda is just to sit back and watch the sailboats coming and going from the bay.
Where to stay: Elounda Kavos Bay Apartments
Set in the attractive Mirabello bay with colourful buildings lining the waterfront, Agios Nikolaos is a lively town with plenty to offer. Its cosmopolitan harbour bursts with life at night without losing its traditional charm. Right next to it, you will find the city’s most famous site Lake Voulismeni or ‘bottomless lake’, reaching 64 metres in depth. According to myth, this is where the Greek goddess Athena would go for a refreshing bath.
Agios Nikolaos is also a great base to explore the beautiful scenery of Crete’s eastern coastline as well as the Lasithi plateau in the interior, dotted with iconic white windmills; or hop on a boat for the day and discover Crete’s exotic sea life.
Where to stay: Mare Hotel Apartments
Finally, we head to the more remote wild south, where the coast is mostly rocky and roads are more sparse, attracting fewer visitors. If you are looking for a peaceful holiday with great hiking and a taste of authentic Crete, Plakias is a great option for you. With a Blue flag beach and striking mountains rising behind, it makes quite an impression.
If you would like to explore your surroundings, why not hike to one of the hidden coves or secluded bays nearby. Alternatively, head into the mountains and visit traditional villages like Myrthios or Selia, where you will be rewarded with an authentic glimpse into local life on Crete as well as jaw-dropping views.
Where to stay: Dora Studios
Crete certainly offers a wide variety of activities as well as places of such outstanding natural beauty that any visitor will be delighted with a stay on the island.