GUIDE TO CRETE ISLAND

Located οn the southern side of the Aegean Sea, Crete is the biggest of all Greek islands. Its beauty, though, is even bigger than its size! Let us paint the scene: Just imagine enthralling natural beauty meeting rich culture and worldwide famous gastronomy, to create the most dreamy holiday paradise!
The island is separated in 4 prefectures: Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, and Lassithi.

The mythical Crete island is one of the most popular Greek destinations, thanks to its unreal Crete beaches, its amazing historical sites, such as Knossos Palace and Spinalonga islet and its mesmerizing natural landscapes.

Not to mention Chania town and Heraklion town some of the biggest towns in Crete, which boast a magnificent medieval architecture. Honestly, wandering around their warren of romantic alleys will make you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time!

Crete Greece is, hands down, one of the most magical Greek islands!

Let’s explore Crete island!
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TRAVEL GUIDES TO CRETE ISLAND

The island of Crete, in Greece, is large in size and divided in four administrational regions: Chania and Rethymno on the western side, Heraklion and Lassithi on the eastern side. The northern coasts of Crete are more developed in tourism, while the southern coasts keep a more secluded environment. Holidays in Crete can be both busy or secluded, depending on your preferences.

Heraklion
Note: Heraklion is not an island but a region of Crete island. The region of Heraklion on Crete island has lively beaches on the northern side and secluded, family places on the southern side. In between, visitors will drive by mountainous villages that keep the traditional paces of life and interesting ancient sites, including the world-famous Minoan palaces of Knossos and Phaestos.
Why Heraklion: Popular destination, family friendly, luxury hotels, party destination, archaeological sites, nightlife, great gastronomy, nice beaches.
Highlights: Knossos palace, Phaestos palace, Matala beach, Agiofaraggo beach, Malia beach.
Tips: Suggested stay: 5 nights. Car is strongly recommended. From Heraklion you can continue your trip to Rethymno and Lassithi.
Where is Heraklion: Heraklion is a region of Crete and Heraklion town is the capital of the island.
How to get there: There are frequent Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) everyday. Heraklion has also an International Airport and can be reached by plane. Furthermore, there are connections to other major towns of Crete by bus.
Chania
Note: Chania is not an island but a region of Crete island. The westernmost region of Crete island, Chania amazes visitors with the Venetian-style Town, the beautiful beaches, the interesting sightseeing and the lovely nature. Do not miss the Venetian port of Chania Town and the trips to Balos beach and Elafonissi beach, two beaches with exotic crystal water.
Why Chania: Picturesque town, architecture, family friendly destination, romantic destination, luxury hotels, exotic beaches, amazing landscapes, great gastronomy.
Highlights: Elafonissi beach, Chania old town, Ballos beach, Falassarna beach, Sfakia village, Fragocastello fortress, Samaria Gorge.
Tips: Suggested stay: a week, car is strongly recommended. From Chania you can continue your trip or make a visit to Rethymno.
Where is Chania: Chania is a region of western Crete.
How to get there: There are frequent Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) everyday. Chania has also an International Airport and can be reached by plane. Furthermore there are connections to other major towns of Crete by bus.
Rethymno
Note: Rethymno is not an island but a region of Crete island. Located between the busy regions of Heraklion and Chania, Rethymno on Crete island keeps its calm paces even in high season. Visitors will love the Venetian style of Rethymnon Town, the traditional inland villages, like Anogia and Spili, and the lovely beaches, ideal for long relaxing days under the sun.
Why Rethymno: Picturesque town, architecture, family friendly destination, romantic destination, beautiful beaches, great gastronomy.
Highlights: Old town of Rethymno, Preveli beach, Arkadi Monastery, Agia Galini beach, Fortezza fortress.
Tips: Suggested stay: 5 nights. Car strongly recommended. You can continue your trip to Chania or Heraklion.
Where is Rethymno: Rethymno is a region of Crete, between Chania and Heraklion.
How to get there: There are no direct ferries to Rethymno. So, you can travel to Rethymno through the Ports and International Airports of Heraklion and Chania and make a bus/taxi/car connection to Rethymno. Ferries and flights are very frequent to Chania and Heraklion.
Lassithi
Note: Lassithi is not an island but a region of Crete island. Outside the busy resort of Elounda, the prefecture of Lassithi on Crete island gives a true and deep sight in the traditional Cretan life. A drive around will bring you to amazing beaches, interesting monasteries and seaside villages. Even in high season, Lassithi remains the secludest region of Crete.
Why Lassithi: Family friendly, luxury hotels, great gastronomy, nice beaches, remote places, calm atmosphere, beautiful landscapes.
Highlights: Vai palm beach, Spinalonga islet, Ha gorges, Ierapetra village, Agios Nikolaos town.
Tips: Suggested stay: 4 nights. Car is recommended. You can continue your trip to Heraklion.
Where is Lassithi: Lassithi is a region of Crete. It is in the Eastern side of Crete and can be easily reached through Heraklion.
How to get there: Although Lassithi has two ports (Agios Nikolaos and Sitia), the best way to travel to Lassithi is through the port and International Airport of Heraklion. Heraklion has frequent Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) everyday and receives many flights. There are bus and taxi connections from Heraklion to Lassithi.

ABOUT CRETE GREECE

Crete Greece is the biggest island in Greece and one of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean. Boasting one of the most beautiful natural landscapes you’ve ever seen, Crete island offers views and experiences galore!

To start with, Crete beaches are out of this world. Surrounded by verdant nature, they have magical waters covering all the shades of blue and sugar-fine sand. Balos beach, Vai beach, and Elafonisi beach are some of the most scenic Crete beaches. Lay under the sun, feel the water gently lapping at your feet, gaze out to the endless sea, take a dip into the paradise waters… Visiting the best beaches in Crete is a bucket list experience!

Crete has a rich history and culture. You’ll have the first taste of its historical past just by wandering in the Chania town. Strolling around, you’ll come across noble mansions, Venetian fortresses, museums, fountains and churches, that ooze a unique charm. But, to dive even deeper into the island’s history, Knossos Palace, Phaistos Palace, and Spinalonga islet are must places to visit in Crete.

Are you a thrill-seeker? There’s a whole heap of things to do in the nature of Crete! Dramatic gorges, such as the famous Samaria gorge, trekking routes and water sports will keep your adrenaline levels high, during your Crete holidays!

And what can we say about the food? The local gastronomy is popular not only in Greece but also in the whole world. The flourishing culinary scene of Crete island is based on fresh, locally produced ingredients that are used by talented local chefs to create the most luscious traditional dishes.

It’s time to put Crete Greece in your bucket list!

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