Welcome to Crete! The largest and one of the most popular islands of Greece! It owes its popularity to its atmospheric harbors, small charming villages, beautiful beaches, as well as magnificent monuments.

Crete is the perfect place for a “Great Greek Vacation” with family and friends. The island is large, so there is something for everyone. From those who seek relaxation on quiet, wild beaches, those who prefer visiting the towns, as well as those who love adventure.

In this post you will learn about 15 places to visit during your stay on this amazing island, so you can easily plan the perfect Greek vacation.

Many times we have heard the admiration of the Greek island of Crete, as well as stories of our relatives who have returned to Crete several times. What is it about this island that makes someone return to it so eagerly, every year? We have often wondered this ourselves.

Well, after 12 days on this wonderful island, we understand the admiration and know that this was our first, but definitely not the last stay on Crete. And although we visited only a small part of the island, our days were packed with amazing experiences from morning to evening.

We have already explored and learned a bit about the island, so we are happy to share this knowledge with you and we hope that reading this post will encourage you to book your tickets to Crete.

#1 Chania

The charming city of Chania, is one of the most important places in Crete. Full of colorful buildings overgrown with pink Bugwilla flowers, and with colorful windows shutters makes a walk through the city even more pleasant. You will not feel this atmosphere in any other place in Greece!

Chania’s main promenade, right on the harbor, is where you’ll find the most bars and restaurants serving delicious food, as well as souvenir stores. Here you can admire the Venetian Harbor, the Faros Lighthouse, also known as the Egyptian Lighthouse, the Venetian Shipyards, and the Turkish-built Kutik Hassan Mosque, which looks beautiful in the setting sun.

But don’t forget to go deep into the city, strolling through the many charming streets. Admire the cute little churches. Choose small local craft stores for a place to buy souvenirs for your loved ones.

Be sure to try the ice cream at Domenico’s. The combination of flavors cannot be faked. Or enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the small cafes. Try the dishes at a local taverna. But above all, enjoy the moment and the beauty that surrounds you in this charming city.

#2 Church of Agios Dionysios of Olymbos

Driving from Platanias to Chania, on the left side of the street, you will see a charming little chapel. Painted in white, with a blue roof, it looks like it was taken straight out of a postcard. It also reminds us on the beautiful buildings in Santorini.

The chapel is small in size, but you can easily go inside to admire the sacred icons. Since the chapel is located at the end of the marina it is very photogenic. It looks equally nice during the day and at sunset.

#3 The Olive tree of Vouves

In the village of Ano Vouves is a beautiful and huge ancient olive tree. It is probably one of the oldest olive trees in the world that still bears olives. The age of the tree is hard to determine, but research indicates that the tree is two to four thousand years old! As of 1997, the tree was declared as a natural monument.

It is worth coming to this place to see this magnificent tree and visit the small nearby museum dedicated to oil production.

#4 Falasarna Beach

Falasarna Beach is a long and wide beach, dividing into several beaches. On a sunny day the water, with medium waves, turns turquoise in color. It is crystal clear and invites to swim. On a slightly cloudy day it can be very choppy and the wind incredibly strong, but this does not discourage lovers of swimming.

Falasarna by its size has a very large number of sun loungers and umbrellas, which you can rent for $10.75 (€10) per set. On site there are also changing rooms and public toilets, as well as a bar with snacks and drinks.

#5 Balos Lagoon

The showpiece of Crete – Lagoon Balos is probably the most popular place on the island. The beautiful lagoon looks amazing and the color of the water is at times bluish and at times turquoise to dark blue.

It looks most beautiful from above, of course, and you don’t need a drone to admire this natural wonder, because if you come to Balos by car, you will pass by the lookout point, if you arrive by boat, you have to climb up to the lookout point and it will take you about 25 minutes.

The beach itself is very popular, so there is no need to count on lonely beaches, but remember that the earlier you arrive, the longer you will enjoy this place without a crowd of tourists.

How to get to Balos

There are two options on how to get to this beautiful lagoon.

The first is to rent a car. Unfortunately, getting to the parking lot at the lookout point, is not the easiest. You need to drive very slowly, the road is very bumpy, and just to the right is a huge chasm. So you should be very careful! Also remember that at the entrance you pay $1.10 (€1) for each person entering, as well as $5.40 (€5) for parking. From the parking lot to the viewpoint you have to walk another kilometer, and then a little further down to the beach. Unfortunately, the way back takes the same route, so it’s best not to stay until sunset.

The second option is a boat from Kissamos. This option seems tempting, because you will avoid the bumpy road to the viewpoint by car, and you will arrive at the beach itself, but you will have to climb the stairs to the top. Unfortunately, the ships arrive here during peak hours, so you have to reckon with a large number of other tourists, and your time on site will be limited.

Whichever option you choose, Balos is a must-see, and admiring the lagoon from above is a wonderful experience.

#6 Heraklion

The port city of Heraklion is the capital of Crete, and full of culture, tradition and history. The main attraction located around the city is Knossos Palace, but Heraklion also has some very nice and pleasant places to visit.

First of all, the magnificent Venetian Port. As well as the Rocca a Mare Fortress, which you can visit for $4.30 (€4) and view the objects and photographs collected in display cases. The harbor, on the other hand, offers a nice view of the many moored ships and boats.

While in Heraklion be sure to see the fountains, such as the Morosini Fountain, as well as the Turkish Pumphouse. Don’t forget the Venetian Loggia, or the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. 25th of August Street is the perfect place for anyone who loves shopping.

#7 Knossos Palace

The ruins of the Minoan palace of Knossos, are the remains of a palace also known as the palace of Minios or the labyrinth of the Minotaur. Perhaps the legendary labyrinth of the Minotaur, a mythical monster – half bull, half man, was located here.

The five-story palace was built in 2000-1400 BC and had more than a thousand rooms, but it is not only the size of the building that amazes. Also the fact that it had ventilation and sewage systems, as well as a water supply, which is astonishing considering the fact that the palace was built several thousand years ago. The frescoes and mosaics inside the palace are faithfully reproduced, and the originals are in the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion.

Entrance to the ruins costs €15, and there are also paid toilets on site $1.10 (€1).

#8 Rethimno

Located between Chania and Heraklion, Rethimno boasts an unbelievably beautiful Old Venetian Port with countless taverns and fishing boats that make the port more charming. A walk by the harbor in the old city is a must when visiting this city.

However, it is also worth going deeper into the center and strolling through the numerous small streets filled with souvenir stores and beautiful restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the Rimondi Fountain, as well as the Venetian fortress La Fortezza.

If you get hungry be sure to go to the Raki Ba Raki restaurant. The place is beautiful, the service is incredibly friendly and the dishes are delicious! If you are traveling in a larger group, it is worth booking a table, as this restaurant is very popular.

#9 Beach Bar Vythos

Beach Bar Vythos is an ideal place for people who appreciate peace, wild nature and delicious food.

The beach is small and all covered with tiny pebbles of different sizes and colors. And although there are not many attractions on site, remember to bring your water shoes and snorkel mask to admire the rich underwater world.

The loungers and umbrellas on this beach belong to the Beach Bar Vythos, so if you order even drinks, you can use them completely free of charge. However, if you get hungry, be sure to try the delicacies served at the bar. The dishes are delicious and reasonably priced. And the view from the bar to the beach, is really charming.

There are free toilets on site.

#10 Marathi Beach

Mariathi Beach, is actually two small beaches located on either side of the marina. Both are incredibly charming and sandy. Full of sun loungers and umbrellas to rent for $8.60 (€8) per set.

The water is slightly cooler, perfectly refreshing on hot days, while it is also incredibly clear, so even without water goggles you can admire the fish and starfish.

On the beach on the left (facing the marina) you can rent pedal boats. On both sides there are several charming restaurants with delicious food and drinks. Be sure to try the delicious dishes at „Patrelantonis“ remember, however, that almost €2 per person is added to each bill for water, bread, oil and napkins. A slightly cheaper option with equally delicious dishes is the restaurant „Veranda Coffe and Food“ , with pleasant service and charming decor.

#11 Agria Triada Monastery

The beautiful monastery of Agria Triada was built in the 17th century and is located in the middle of olive groves. Orange-colored vines surround the monastery buildings, the courtyard is drowned in green trees and multicolored flowers. This amazing place looks like an illustration from a book, there is omnipresent greenery, vegetation, silence and tranquility.

Entrance to the Monastery costs $3.25 (€3) per person, and when visiting this place you should remember to dress appropriately. Especially women should have their knees covered. On site you can rent scarves to tie around your waist.

#12 Stravos Beach „Zorba Beach“

Stravos Beach gained its popularity thanks to the movie “Zorba the Greek”. Since then it has become very popular among tourists, although it may still be empty at the beginning of the season. Its characteristic features are the yellow sand, clear water, and the view of the nearby mountain, which is loved to climb not only by goats, but also by more persistent tourists.

Remember that if you decide to hike on this mountain, you must have appropriate footwear and a supply of water. Greek grasses can be sharp and cloying, and the sun can get very hot.

Unfortunately, the prices of sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach are among the highest on the island, because their price is as much as $43 (€40). Prices in restaurants, however, are more or less the same as everywhere else in Crete.

After climbing or relaxing on the beach, try the delicious dishes at the Almyriki restaurant, which can be seen from a distance, as its kitchen is housed in an old mill. The tables set outside under a canopy are stunning in design, and the food is simply delicious. If you eat fish and ask the waiter to present it to you before you order, he will gladly do so.

#13 Palaiochora

This small, charming town located on the southwest cost of Crete by the Libyan sea is an ideal place for a stroll, a coffee in one of the cafes in the center of town, or dinner in one of the restaurants.

The town, although not large, is very charming, full of pretty buildings, complimented with flowers, ubiquitous cats and small stores with souvenirs and crafts.

Once in Palaiochora, remember to visit the Evangelistra Church. Even if you can’t get inside, it’s a beautiful yellow building and worth admiring if only from the outside. If you feel like a short climb up the hill from Castel Selino, there is a wonderful panorama of the city and the remains of the former castle.

#14 Elafonisi Lagoon and Elafonisi Beach

The tiny island of Elafonisi lies in the western part of the island, and is connected to the mainland by an amazing turquoise lagoon of the same name. The turquoise water looks dazzling in combination with the pink sand just offshore. The water is refreshing and incredibly clear, plus you can walk very far away from the shore, yet it reaches at most breasts, so it’s an ideal place for families with children.

On site you can rent an umbrella and sunbeds, or bring your own towel and enjoy the place for free.
On the beach there are two toilets for a fee of $1.10 (€1), changing rooms, as well as a small store with snacks, ice cream and drinks. For fans of adventure there is a place where you can rent a kayak or paddle board (€15).

#15 Platanias

The town of Platanias is one of the many tourist destinations located on the coast. It is located on the road leading to Chania. The entire town offers many places to stay. There are plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants, bakeries, as well as service establishments such as laundries and beauty salons. You can stock up on local delicacies at Synca’s markets, and in the numerous stores you’ll find sprotes, souvenirs and clothing.

In Platanias there is a small harbor from where you can sail on numerous excursions. You can also easily rent a car or a motorcycle here. Beaches in Platanias are varied, sandy and some are rocky.

Crete has as many as two international airports, the first is in Heraklion (a good option if you are staying somewhere nearby), and the second in Chania (for those staying overnight in the Chania area).

Check your flight connection to Greece .

If you are traveling from a mainland Greece such as Athens, you have two options: Athens – Crete by plane. Or a ferry from Piraeus (Athens) to several ports in Crete including Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno or Kissamos.

Find your connection by ferry to Crete .

Car

The best and easiest means of transportation around the island will be a rented car, or a scooter. This will allow your plans to remain flexible.

If you plan to rent a car for your entire stay, the best solution is to rent a car in advance online and pick it up at the airport and return it on your last day at the airport. This will save you money on Uber from the airport to your rental apartment.

Bus

If you are unable to rent a car, there are buses from KTEL copmpany to most towns and villages. This option, however, does not allow you to be flexible, as well as to reach all the places included in this blogpost.

Check out bus connections around the island of Crete.

The accommodation base in Crete is incredibly rich, which will make it very easy to choose the right one for you. If you want to visit the places included in this post, the best place to stay would be Chania, which is unfortunately a little more expensive option. Optional you can book your stay in Platanias, where you will find cheaper accommodation options.

A proven mid-range accommodation would be Ermis Suites Apartments in Platianias. The apartments are clean, well-equipped, and the owners are friendly and very helpful.

• Pirgos (Platanias) | Nice and affordable local dishes
• Almyriki (Starvos Beach) | Amazing fish and seafood
• Patrelantonis (Marathi Beach) | Great seafood and vegetarian options
• Politia (Heraklion) | Yummy falafel and Greek salad
• Vynthos | Nice burgers and sandwiches
• Raki Ba Raki (Rethymno) | Delicious local dishes
• Pasifaei (Paleohora) | Yummy vegetarian options
• Remezzo (Chania) | Great pizza and local dishes
• Domenico (Chania) | Amazing ice cream

The best time to travel to Crete would be the months of May and early June, as well as September. The weather is ideal at this time, and the island is not yet (or anymore) as crowded as in high season between July and August. If sunbathing and beaches are less important for you, but you want to save money, for example, on accommodations, choose April or October.

In most places on the island you can easily pay by card. Restaurants, as well as stores and markets accept most cards without any problem. If you don’t have a Revolut card yet, we strongly recommend you take interest in this option, thanks to which you will be able to save a lot on currency conversion.

Tiny stalls selling local products and handicrafts mostly accept cash only, so it’s worth having a good couple of euros in your wallet for small purchases such as Cretan oil, honey or delicious jam made from oranges.

The ideal time on the island would be two weeks. The island is large and it can take up to a few hours to get to specific places. With that said, to see all the destinations in this post without stress, you should consider to stay for about two weeks on Crete.

When traveling to Greece from Europe or the United States, you don’t need a visa. In case you are travelling from another country than that, make sure to check the visa requirements for Greece well in advance.

The prices are per person, except for the accommodation which we rent for 2 people.

Accommodation: $55 / night

Restaurant: $15 – $26 / meal

Snack: $2 – $8 / meal

Pleasure: $3 – $8 / event

Sunbed: $8 – $30 / set

Activity: $2 – $6 / event