Villas and holiday in Crete apartments – where to stay
Crete is the largest island in Greece and the most southern point in Europe. It is considered one of the most beautiful places to visit in the world and is famed for its stunning scenery, pace of life, great food and beaches. Greek culture is heavily influenced by civilisations who have conquered the island over the centuries. Many of Crete’s most impressive historical attractions are remnants of such civilisations such as the
Palace of Knossos, Faistos and several Byzantium churches. Driving along Crete’s windy roads with snowcapped mountains in the distance and acres of olive trees stretching out in front of you is one of life’s simple pleasures. There are many beautiful things to see and do on Crete including several scenic towns, mountain plateaus and quaint villages. There is a wide range of accommodation on Crete and the island is used to accommodating tourists. There are plenty of hotels and hostels in
Heraklion and there are also plenty of apartments and guests rooms for rent. Outside of the main towns there are also beautiful apartments and villas for rent in villages and in the countryside. Experience Crete and immerse yourself in fine food and the local culture.
Fun Facts
Crete has the highest ratio of firearms per person than any other area in Europe!
The Greek God of
Zeus and Jennifer Aniston’s father were born on Crete!
It was on Crete that Icarus, son of Daedalus, tried and failed (with dreadful consequences) to fly using bird feathers.
Crete has over 3000 caves!
Crete – what to do and where to go.
Are you thinking about a holiday on Crete? Or are you planning on doing some island hopping in
Mediterranean and are considering stopping by? We really recommend you spend a few days on this unique Greek island. Here are some of the best areas of Crete and some information on what they have to offer:
Heraklion is the largest town on Crete and is the administrative and cultural centre of the island. There are many interesting historical sights to see in Heraklion and the
Heraklion Archaeological Museum sheds light on Crete’s eventful past. Visit the Minoan Palace of Knossos, thought to be the oldest city in Europe. It is located near to Heraklion. Heraklion has some good eating options, particularly in the pedestrianised centre. We recommend
Ladokolla for the amazing seafood dishes and
Pere Orexeos for the beautiful interior.
Chania is a pretty coastal town to the west Crete. Its
Venetian harbour is an impressive example of architecture from the period. Make sure you check out the arsenal, mosque and lighthouse. The
Maritime Museum will provide you with all the information you need about this ancient harbour. After you’ve finished in the museum, choose a tavern along the harbour seafront and enjoy some local Crete Raki, souvlaki or mousska. Bring some Cretan olive oil home with you if you’re able to – Crete has a reputation for making excellent olive oil!
Agios Nikolaos. This town, located in the eastern part of the island, is a pretty place with great eating and swimming options. It is only an hour drive from Heraklion making it a good location if you do not have much time. There is a good selection of
tavernas, nice souvenir shops and three beaches to choose from. The water around Crete is extremely clean and is regarded as the best in the Mediterranean. The nicest part of the town is the area surrounding the lake – there are many restaurants and cafes situated around the edge of the water. Looking out for
salingariko (snail stew) and
chrinino kritiko (pork chops) – two Cretan specialities!
Lasithi Plateau. Head west on a bus from Agios Nikolaos and you will find yourself high up in the Cretan mountains. Up there you’ll find the Lasithi Plateau, a sprawling plain of farmland and small settlements. The most startling aspect of the plateau are the
white sailed windmills that pepper the fields. Originally numbering 10,000 and used for irrigation, these windmills are now something of a feature of this area of Crete. Legend has it that Zeus was born in a cave to the west of the island – you can go and see it! We recommend you find one of the few tavernas on the plateau and try some locally made
‘stifado’ (lamb stew).
Crete has several small islands off its coast. We’d recommend you take a day trip to
Spinalonga from Elounda. A former leper colony, this island has fascinating ruins, pebble beaches and views out to sea. The island of
Gavdos is a very nice small island you can visit in the south – it is Europe’s most southerly point. There are very few tourist facilities on Gavdos but it is a beautiful island and is a popular tourist destination in the summer. Many of Crete’s beaches have been awarded a Blue Flag by the EU meaning they are very clean and safe.
Getting around
Heraklion International Airport is Crete’s main airport, located 5km to the east of Heraklion town. A short bus ride will take you into the city centre, where the bus station is located. Here you can take a bus out towards the east and
Agios Nikolaos or
Chania in the West. There are plenty of buses heading in these directions and also buses heading to the southern parts of the island. Do some research before you go so you’re aware of what bus to take upon arrival. Crete can also be reached via passenger ferry. You can reach
Athens from Crete directly on a ferry, and there are connections with nearby
Santorini. Sailing on a ferry through the Mediterranean sea is a beautiful experience and we recommend it!
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