Unspoilt, understated and underrated. Crete is the perfect destination for a relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle of home. The largest of the Greek islands and arguably the most enchanting, Crete is more like a small country than an island. Cretan culture is strong and the history is rich, but the island’s vibe is laidback.
Crete has the perfect mix of party and culture.
Crete is a big island with many places to discover. Heraklion is the largest town and the administrative and cultural centre of the island. It is also the main hub and is home to the ferry port which connects Crete with Athens and other Greek Islands. Chania, which lies to the west, is a pretty coastal town. Its Venetian harbour is an impressive example of architecture from the period. The town’s arsenal, mosque and lighthouse are worth exploring too. Agios Nikolaos, located in the east, is a pretty place with great eating and swimming options. It is an hour’s drive from Heraklion making it a good location if you don’t have much time. There is a selection of tavernas, souvenir shops and three beaches to choose from. The nicest part of the town is the area surrounding the lake, where restaurants and cafes are situated at the edge of the water.
Crete is steeped in history - bustling Heraklion has a major archaeological museum and the Minoan Palace of Knossos which is thought to be the oldest city in Europe. Chania still has a lot of its Venetian history intact, whilst Rethymno has an interesting castle dating back to the 16th century. One of the island’s most intriguing spots is the Lasithi Plateau which is located high up in the Cretan mountains. A sprawling plain of farmland and small settlements, its most startling feature are the white sailed windmills that pepper the fields. Legend has it that Zeus was born in a cave on the plateau. Crete has several small islands off its coast. 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.
Cretan cuisine is hearty, delicious and unique. Typical dishes include ‘stifado salingariko’ (snail stew) and ‘chrinino kritiko’ (pork chops). After you’ve finished exploring, choose a tavern along the harbour seafront and enjoy some local Cretan Raki, souvlaki or moussaka. Bring some Cretan olive oil home with you if you are able to – Crete has a reputation for making excellent olive oil! We recommend you find one of the few tavernas on the plateau and try some locally made ‘stifado’ (lamb stew). 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. There is a large variety of holiday accommodation available in Heraklion.
Heraklion International Airport is Crete’s main airport, located 5 kilometres 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 Agios Nikolaos in the east 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 - you'll be able to get to your villa or apartment in no time. Crete can also be reached via passenger ferry. You can travel from Athens to Crete directly on a ferry, and there are daily connections with nearby Santorini. Sailing on a ferry through the Mediterranean sea is a beautiful experience and Crete is often on the itineraries of cruise ship companies and island hoppers.
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