Crete, Greece’s largest island, is a destination that perfectly balances ancient history, stunning landscapes, and breathtaking beaches. Its rich heritage includes charming towns such as Chania and Rethymno, archaeological treasures like Knossos Palace, and natural wonders like the Samaria Gorge. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or culture, Crete offers something for everyone.
In our Crete travel guide, you can find information about..
- When to visit Crete
- Flights to Crete
- Where to stay
- How to get around Crete
- How long should you stay?
- Top attractions to see
- Outdoor adventures
- Day trips
- What to eat in Crete
- Crete, Greece FAQs
When to Visit Crete
Summer (June-August)
Summer in Crete is very hot – ideal for beach lovers and those looking to enjoy warm-weather activities. During these months, the island’s beaches, such as Elafonissi, Balos, and Vai Beach, are perfect for spending time with your family and friends, sunbathing and swimming.
Spring/Autumn (March-May, September-November)
Spring and autumn are milder – with pleasant weather, making them the best seasons for sightseeing and outdoor activities. You can explore Crete’s historical sites in a more comfortable temperature, and it’s the perfect time for hiking, especially through Samaria Gorge or the lesser-known Imbros Gorge.
Getting to Crete
Crete is easily accessible, especially from the UK, with direct flights landing at Heraklion International Airport (HER). Heraklion is the island’s busiest airport, handling international flights.
At Corendon Airlines, we fly from the UK to Crete via:
How Long is the Flight to Crete from the UK?
Here’s a table of average flight durations from various UK airports to Crete:
Where to Stay
Chania
Chania’s picturesque old town is lined with charming Venetian buildings, narrow streets, and a beautiful harbour. For travellers interested in history, the area is great, offering plenty of cultural experiences, including museums, historic sites, and quaint boutique hotels. Many accommodations here provide stunning sea views and easy access to nearby beaches like Balos.
Heraklion
As Crete’s capital and largest city, Heraklion is the best base for those who want to explore the island’s archaeological sites. The famous Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological Museum are located nearby. The city has a wide range of hotels, from budget options to mid-range accommodations, convenient for all types of travellers.
Elounda
Elounda is known for its luxurious resorts and private villas. This destination is perfect for if you’re seeking relaxation in high-end settings with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. It’s a quieter spot, perfect for honeymooners or anyone looking to unwind and enjoy world-class amenities.
How to Get Around Crete
Crete is a large island, and while public transport is available, renting a car is the best way to explore more remote locations.
Buses: Crete has an extensive bus network connecting major cities like Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion. Buses are affordable and reliable for intercity travel.
Car Rental: Renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you’re looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations like the Lasithi Plateau or Balos Beach.
Taxis: Available but can be expensive for long distances. Ideal for short trips within cities.
Ferries: Ferries operate between Crete and nearby islands, as well as between coastal towns like Chania and Rethymno.
How Long Should You Stay?
3-4 Days
If you’re short on time, a 3-4 day trip is enough to explore one or two main towns like Chania or Heraklion. You can visit nearby beaches and historical sites, including Knossos Palace or Rethymno Old Town.
5-7 Days
A 5-7 day stay allows for a more immersive experience. You’ll have time to visit both the north and south coasts, hike Samaria Gorge, and explore more remote beaches, such as Balos or Elafonissi.
Top Attractions to See in Crete
Knossos Palace
One of Crete’s most famous attractions, Knossos Palace is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island. This ancient palace was the ceremonial and political centre of the Minoan civilization and offers fascinating insights into their culture and history, known for its association with the Greek myth of Theseus and the minotaur.
Samaria Gorge
Hiking Samaria Gorge is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Crete. Stretching 16 kilometres (10 miles), it’s one of Europe’s longest gorges, with great views of the rugged landscape, cliffs, and unique flora. The hike ends at the Libyan Sea, where you can relax and swim.
Rethymno Old Town
Rethymno’s Old Town is a well-preserved area featuring Venetian and Ottoman architecture. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, visit the 16th-century Fortezza, and enjoy local cafes, restaurants, and shops. The town provides a glimpse into Crete’s multicultural past.
Outdoor Adventures
Crete’s diverse landscape offers plenty of adventure activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking: Besides Samaria Gorge, you can explore quieter trails such as Imbros Gorge, which offers shorter hikes and equally beautiful views.
Beach Hopping: Balos Beach, Elafonissi Beach, and Vai Beach are some of the most stunning beaches in Crete, each offering unique scenery – from pink sand to palm forests.
Water Sports: Windsurfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving are popular in Agios Nikolaos and other coastal towns. The clear waters and rich marine life make Crete a paradise for divers.
Caving: Visit the Diktaean Cave, a mythological site associated with the legend of Zeus. This large cave features impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Day Trips
Elafonissi Beach
Known for its unique pink sand and clear turquoise waters, Elafonissi Beach is one of Crete’s most beautiful destinations. The beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in a serene environment.
Spinalonga Island
Spinalonga Island, located off the coast of Elounda, was once a leper colony and is now a popular day trip destination. The island is fascinating – you can view Crete’s history, with ruins of ancient fortifications and buildings that tell the story of its past.
Lassithi Plateau
The Lassithi Plateau is a high-altitude region famous for its windmills, fertile farmland, and traditional villages. Visitors can explore the local culture, hike the surrounding hills, and enjoy the rural landscape.
What to Eat in Crete
Traditional Cretan Cuisine
The cuisine in Crete is popular for its fresh and flavorful style, often featuring local ingredients such as olive oil, herbs, and fresh vegetables. Must-try dishes include:
Dakos: A Cretan salad made with tomatoes, feta, and barley rusks.
Moussaka: A traditional dish with layers of eggplant, potatoes, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Kalitsounia: Sweet or savoury pastries filled with cheese, herbs, or honey.
Where to Eat
Full of traditional tavernas and cafes offering local dishes. Some popular spots include:
Tamam in Chania, known for its fusion of Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine.
Peskesi in Heraklion has earned it a reputation as one of Greece’s finest restaurants, celebrated with numerous accolades for excellence.
Avli in Rethymno, a cosy taverna serving creative versions of Cretan classics.
Crete, Greece FAQs
Where is Crete?
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea.
How Far is Athens from Crete?
The flight from Athens to Crete takes approximately one hour, while ferries from Piraeus to Heraklion take about 9 hours.
How Far is Santorini from Crete?
Ferries from Crete to Santorini take around 2 hours, depending on the ferry company and route.
Is Crete Safe?
Yes, Crete is a safe destination for travellers. It’s always wise to take the usual precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings.
What Currency is Used in Crete?
Crete uses the Euro (€), the official currency of Greece.
What is the Weather Like in Crete, Greece?
Crete has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
