Crete Island: Travel Guide for Your Vacation

Crete is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean and at the same time the largest island in Greece. It is located in the very south of the Aegean Sea and has a coastline of over 1,060 kilometers. Crete Island is considered a small miniature of Greece with beautiful beaches, fertile plateaus, historic cities and sleepy mountain villages.

“Anyone who has ever visited the island of Crete will be enchanted by the hospitable locals with their Greek joie de vivre and the contagious Siga-Siga mentality.”

Crete is now considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and attracts numerous holidaymakers every year. Nevertheless, in many places the Cretans are not deterred by the hustle and bustle of international holidaymakers and often live according to the principle Siga-Siga, which means “always take it easy” in Greek.

With this digital Crete travel guide, we would like to give you an overview of the island and introduce you to popular places and sights in Crete. In addition, our contribution should be used as a guide with many Crete tips for your holiday serve:

#1 Who is the island of Crete suitable for?

Crete is an all-rounder and suitable for almost every type of holiday. Newcomers to Greece feel at home on Crete, but also individual explorers and active holidaymakers get their money’s worth on the largest Greek island.

For families with children there are great sandy beaches and club hotels in Crete, for hikers wild gorges and alpine landscapes. The island of Crete quickly conquers the hearts of those who immerse themselves in the unique culture and way of life of the Cretans and move far away from the tourist crowds.

Many natural treasures and sights on Crete are waiting to be discovered. Grab a rental car and go on a varied Crete Road Trip, this is the best way to soak up this unique flair.

For partygoers, the island of Crete is only suitable to a limited extent. There are also clubs and beach bars around Heraklion and Malia, where some of the nightlife in Crete takes place, but you are better off for extensive partying on Mykonos or Ios.

#2 Length of stay in Crete

Crete is the largest island in Greece and there are many beautiful places to discover. If you want to explore the island extensively and feel the rhythm of Crete, we recommend a minimum stay of 10 days on Crete. Two weeks or more are ideal to explore a variety of sights and get an insight into the traditions of the Cretans.

In the original regions of the island of Crete, life is slower. Visit a small mountain village and drink a raki with locals or enjoy a secluded beach day in a secluded bay. By now at the latest, the island has enchanted you and you will want to return to Crete again and again.

Crete is the ideal holiday destination for individualists. If you still want to spend an all-round carefree holiday on Crete, you will find Check24* Cheap offers. Take a look now:

➲ To offers for package tours*

#3 Getting to Crete

From Germany, the island of Crete can reached with a direct flight in 3 hours . Upon arrival, you can put your clock forward one hour due to Eastern European time. With Heraklion and Chania, there are two large airports on Crete that are served directly from Germany during the season.

Out of season from November to March is Crete can only be reached via Athens. Afterwards, we will take a small plane to the island. Crete is the most popular Greek island and many airlines compete for the favor of vacationers. Airlines such as Eurowings and TuiFly offer Greece specials.

Crete Airport in Heraklion HER

Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, the largest airport, is located in the middle of the island of Crete, east of the capital Heraklion. It is served directly by numerous German airports several times a week. If you have a hotel in the north or south of Crete, this is the ideal destination airport. A pre-booked airport transfer, bookable via GetYourGuide*, makes it easier to get to the hotel:

➲ To the airport transfer*

To the Crete resorts around Malia and Hersonissos in the north of the island, transfer times by bus are about 35-45 minutes. To the south to Ierapetra, the transfer takes about one and a half to two hours. Click on the link from our partner Skyscanner* to find cheap flights to Heraklion:

➲ To cheap flights to Heraklion*

In winter, Aegean Airlines offers flights from Munich to Heraklion. If your accommodation is located in the east of the island of Crete, you can expect transfer times of about an hour or more. The small airport Sitia in the east is not yet served from Germany. You can only reach it by direct flight from Athens with a small plane from Olympic Air or Skyexpress.

Crete Airport in Chania CHQ

The Airport of Chania, Ioannis Daskalogiannis Airport, is located in western Crete on the Akrotiri peninsula. It is also served by several German airports several times a week during the season. For example, from Frankfurt, Düsseldorf or Munich.

If you have booked a hotel in the west of Crete, it is worth flying directly to Chania. If you still land in Heraklion, you have to expect a transfer time by bus of at least two hours. Click on the link to see suitable flights to Chania on the Skyscanner* portal:

➲ To cheap flights to Chania*

Getting to Crete by Ferry

Of course, you can also reach Crete by sea from the port of Piraeus. The crossing with the ferry from Piraeus to Crete takes about 7-9 hours and offers the possibility to take your own car or camper with you.

The ferry connections to Crete are usually overnight and cost between 50-90 euros without a car. You can book all connections and prices through our partner Ferryhopper* view at a glance:

➲ To the ferry booking with Ferryhopper*

#4 Weather on the island of Crete

As on others Greek Islands also prevails on Crete has a Mediterranean Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry. The winters, on the other hand, are mild with a lot of precipitation and sometimes thunderstorms. With over 300 hours of sunshine, Crete is one of the sunniest regions in Europe.

If you want to go on extensive hikes, we recommend the Spring on Crete, it is especially beautiful in April and May. The island of Crete is then in full bloom and the temperatures are very pleasant for sporting activities at around 25 degrees.

Even though some cafés and restaurants are still closed until mid-May, you have the island of Crete and many dream beaches almost to yourself. Swimming in the sea at this time of year, however, is only something for the hard-boiled, as the seawater on Crete is still quite cool.

From June onwards, the island fills up and with the beginning of the summer holidays, many Crete beaches and the big cities such as Chania, Heraklion and Rethymno are well visited. June is already hot with over 27 degrees and until August the thermometer climbs even higher. Personally, we would not recommend the Summer on Crete – unless you want to lie by the sea all day.

Best time to visit Crete

For sun worshippers and beach loungers, the July and August in Crete ideal. Hardly a drop of rain falls and the sky is cloudless. During these months, the island reaches its tourist peak and you have to share Crete with numerous other holidaymakers. Especially in the southeast of the island, it can get very hot in midsummer with over 40 degrees.

From mid-September, some calm returns and a large part of the holidaymakers have left. The sea is still nice and warm for swimming and the temperatures remain at a pleasant 25-28 degrees. For a autumn holidays in Crete you should pack a jacket for the evening, as it can get a bit chilly due to the north wind.

Alternatively, you can also use the October in Crete swing by. This month is less touristy and so you can get a real bargain on both flights and accommodation from time to time. Nature, on the other hand, is barren and dried up in late summer.

Nevertheless, this month is very popular with active holidaymakers, as the daytime temperatures are a pleasant 25 degrees, similar to May. Ideal for extensive hikes, mountain biking or climbing. In the evening it usually gets quite cool, but the water temperatures are still very nice for swimming.

#5 Important places in Crete

The island of Crete can be divided into four regions, Chania in the west, Rethymno and Heraklion in the center, and Lasithi with Agios Nikolaos as the administrative center in the east. The north coast with the capital Heraklion is the region with the most package hotels and therefore very touristy.

North of Crete

In the heart of the island lies the Ida Mountains, one of four mountain ranges of Crete that stretches from Rethymno to Heraklion. At 2,456 meters, Psiloritis is the highest mountain in Crete and is sometimes covered with snow until summer. The varied north coast offers everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires.

Heraklion/ Heraklion

Crete’s capital is located on the north coast and is considered the economic center of the island. Heraklion has over 170,000 inhabitants and is home to several museums and interesting sights (including Koules Fortress). A traffic-calmed pedestrian zone with a historic old town centre runs through Heraklion.

The rest of the capital consists of many concrete buildings, due to the destruction in the Second World War and earthquakes. About five kilometers north of Heraklion is the ancient site of Knossos, the most famous archaeological site in Crete. You should not miss a visit to the extensive complex from Minoan times (from 2,000 BC).

Click on the GetYourGuide* link to view prices and availability of the Knossos Tours:

➲ To the tours to Knossos*

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Heraklion Hotels*

Rethymno

The port city is located northwest of Heraklion and is the third largest city on the island of Crete. Among the most important sights are the historic old town and the Venetian port of Rethymno. In the picturesque alleys you will find numerous cafés, shops and taverns.

Rethymno is wonderful for strolling, even if it can get crowded in the alleys in the high season. East of the city is an almost 10-kilometre-long sandy beach, which is very popular with holidaymakers. Rethymno is a great starting point to explore the center of Crete.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Rethymno Hotels*

Georgioupoli

The coastal town Georgioupoli is located between Chania and Rethymnon and is now one of the most popular holiday resorts in Crete. Along the kilometer-long sandy beach, many Crete hotels have settled. The town at the foot of the White Mountains is a good starting point for a hike to the Samaria Gorge.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Georgioupoli Hotels*

Limenas Hersonisou (Hersonissos)

In the coastal town of Limenas Hersonisou, also Hersonissos or Hersonissos, mass tourism has gained a foothold in recent years. You usually look in vain for relaxation here. On the golden sandy beach, one hotel stands next to the other. If you can do without the direct beach location, you should visit the villages of Ano Hersonissos, Piskopiano and Koutouloufari.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Hersonissos Hotels*

The west of Crete

In the west of Crete, in addition to beautiful beaches and bays, there are also the so-called White Mountains – Lefka Ori, a paradise for nature lovers. With the exception of the Samaria Gorge, the southwest is still inaccessible in some places. The wild landscape of the region can be explored on a jeep safari tour, which can be booked on GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the guided jeep safari*

Chania

The second largest city on the island of Crete enchants with its historic architecture, the picturesque old town alleys and the old Venetian harbor. Chania is considered by many locals and holidaymakers to be the most beautiful town in Crete. The majority of the old town is pedestrian.

In Chania you will find countless cafés, restaurants and great boutiques to stroll. The Venetian harbour with its lighthouse is the tourist centre of Chania and invites you to take a long walk.

In the summer months, the city is usually completely overcrowded by the large tourist rush. Therefore, a visit is especially worthwhile in the morning or in the evening hours, when the majority of the day tourists have left again. The hinterland of Chania is lush green, so a culinary tour to the olive-growing region of Crete is worthwhile, bookable via GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the gourmet tour*

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Chania Hotels*

Kissamos

In the northwest of the region lies the coastal town Kissamos on the gulf of the same name. The place is usually only a transit station to Balos, the top sight in the west of Crete. Kissamos has remained authentic, between the Archaeological Museum and the Agios Spyridon Church (1865) there are many interesting bars and restaurants.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Kissamos Hotels*

Paleochora

Paleochora is located in the very southwest of Crete. For decades, the place has been a popular destination for many individualists. In the area, beautiful beaches (mostly gray sand-gravel) invite you to take a leisurely swim. About an hour away is the dream lagoon of Elafonisi, one of the top sights of Crete.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Paleochora Hotels*

South of Crete

The South coast of Crete is quiet and not yet as touristically developed as the rest of the island. Agia Galini and Plakias are well-known places that attract many Crete individual holidaymakers. Especially small places like Pavlos and Lentas have their charm. You can relax on tranquil beaches and the hinterland invites you to go on a discovery tour.

Agia Galini

The coastal town Agia Galini at the foot of Psiloritis Mountain is about an hour away from Rethymno. In travel guides, Agia Galini is often described as the pearl of southern Crete. The backdrop, including the idyllic waterfront promenade, is convincing, even if some modern concrete buildings have been built over the decades.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Agia Galini Hotels*

Matala

About an hour further east of Agia Galini is Matala nestled between mighty sandstone cliffs. In the former Hippie Village of Crete there is hustle and bustle today, the ancient cave dwellings are considered the main attraction of the place. In summer you will no longer find a free lounger on the village beach, alternatively Komos Beach is recommended.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Matala Hotels*

Ierapetra

Ierapetra is the southernmost city of Crete and is located at the narrowest point of the island. The entire coast around the city is not very attractive due to its numerous greenhouses. When we came to this area for the first time, we were also a bit horrified by the destroyed landscape.

Worth seeing are the Venetian castle from the 17th century and the waterfront promenade with numerous cafés and restaurants. The rest of the city consists mainly of new buildings, as Ierapetra was destroyed and rebuilt several times by earthquakes. From Ierapetra it is worth taking a swimming trip in the direction of Chrissi Island with their dream beaches.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Ierapetra Hotels*

East of Crete

The Dikti Mountains in the east of Crete encloses the fertile Lasithi plateau. The third highest mountain range stretches over 30 kilometres and is up to 14 kilometres wide. At the foot of the mountains you will find many sleepy mountain villages.

The most important places in the east of Crete are Agios Nikolaos and Sitia as well as the palm beach of Vai. Northeast of Ierapetra lies the Thrypti Mountains. Especially the southeast of the island still offers untouched dream beaches with turquoise blue water.

Agios Nikolaos

The coastal town with its 11,000 inhabitants on the northeast coast of the island of Crete has a modern character. Through Lake Voulismeni and the picturesque sea of houses, Agios Nikolaos attract numerous tourists every year. There is a pedestrian street with a few shops, a city beach and many cafes and restaurants that have accumulated around the lake.

Above the lake, you have a great view of the city and Mirabello Bay. An exclusive Crete Holidays can be spent in Elounda, about 15 minutes north of Agios Nikolaos. The holiday resort is idyllically framed by a lagoon and offers a view of the Spinalonga peninsula.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Agios Nikolaos Hotels*

Sitia

Sitia is located about 2 hours from Heraklion. The big tourist rush has so far failed to materialize in the coastal town in the far northeast of the island of Crete. Even today, Sitia seems a bit sleepy, with mainly new buildings lined up along the harbor bay.

You can walk along the pretty waterfront promenade and stop at one of the numerous cafes and taverns. Above the village lies the Venetian Kazarma Fortress. From up here you have a beautiful view over Sitia. The small archaeological museum with finds from macros is also worth a detour.

→ Recommended hotels can be found on Booking.com*: Sitia Hotels*

#6 Sights of Crete

Crete has many sights: the Samaria Gorge, the Palace of Knossos, the Elafonissi Beach and the Lassithi Plateau are absolute highlights. The places are great to explore on your own, preferably with a rental car.

If you are looking for more background knowledge, you can take part in guided tours that offer exciting insights. Whether you’re traveling alone or joining a group, Crete has nature, history, and a real flair around every corner. We have summarized the top highlights of Crete for you.

Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos is the most important archaeological site in Crete. Due to the volcanic eruption on Santorini, as well as earthquakes and human destruction, unfortunately only ruins of the Minoan center are left today. Some buildings and murals have been reconstructed over the years.

In summer, it can get very hot and crowded on the site. We therefore advise you to visit first thing in the morning around 8:00 a.m. We recommend a professional guide for Knossos, so that you get the best possible overview of the complex itself and a picture of the Minoan culture. You can book a tour through our partner GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the guided tour*

Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is a tourist highlight on the island of Crete and, at over 17 kilometers, one of the longest gorges in Europe. Every day, up to 4,000 people make a pilgrimage through the Samaria Gorge. In spring, the 16-kilometre hike through the flowering vegetation is particularly beautiful.

If you want to avoid the rush of crowds, we recommend starting before 7:00 AM or after 12:00 PM. In midsummer, you should avoid the hike through the Samaria Gorge due to the intense heat.

In spring, there can be severe storms on Crete and the gorge can be closed to hikers. The best thing to do is to check with your accommodation or the tourist information office whether the gorge is accessible again at the beginning of the season. If you want, you can take part in a guided tour to the Samaria Gorge, either from Chania or Rethymno – bookable via GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the guided Samaria tours*

Lagoons of Elafonisi and Balos

The lagoons of Elafonisi Balos in the southwest and Balos in the northwest of the island are among the most popular sights on Crete. More information can be found at #7 Beaches

Old Town of Chania

The picturesque Old Town of Chania is home to beautiful alleys for strolling, as well as a Venetian harbor from whose lighthouse you can enjoy a fantastic view of the city. Along the beautiful waterfront there are numerous cafes and restaurants.

Palm beaches of Vai and Preveli

The two beaches of Vai in the northeast and Preveli in the south are home to one of the last large beaches in the Palm groves in Crete. More information can be found at Point #7

Lasithi Plateau and Psychro Cave

That Lasithi-Plataeu is considered the largest plateau in Crete and can be explored wonderfully with a rental car. A circular road leads in a circle past small villages and fertile fields, where agriculture is still primarily practiced today. You can book a guided tour to Lasithi here via GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the bus ride to Lasithi*

The Lasithi Plateau is about 10 kilometers long and lies at an altitude of over 800 m. The landmarks of this region are the wind turbines with their white sails, which once served as a water supply, but are now sparse. The Lasithi Plateau is surrounded by mighty mountains.

A highlight of the Lasithi Plateau is the Zeus Cave near Psychro (Dictaean Cave or Dictaean Grotto), which is considered the birthplace of Zeus, the father of the gods. A visit to the fascinating cave with its many stalactites and stalagmites is entertaining but interesting.

Leper Island Spinalonga-Kalydon

The islet Spinalonga-Kalydon is located off the coastal town of Plaka near Elounda. In the 16th century, a mighty fortress was built here by the Venetians. Around 1903, a colony for lepers was established on the island. With the invention of antibiotics, the leprosy colony was dissolved around 1957.

The old fortress and some residential buildings can still be seen. Excursions to the historic island take place daily. The interesting Boat trip to Spinalonga can also be booked from Agios Nikolaos or started individually from the port town of Plaka near Elounda. You can check prices and availability of the tour at GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the Spinalonga excursions*

Caves of Matala

The sandstone caves are the most famous attraction of Matala. They were already inhabited in ancient times and are now considered an archaeological site. In the 1970s, hippies and flower children resided here. Admission is now charged for visiting the (unsecured) cave dwellings. The view from the Matala Caves on the place is terrific.

#7 Popular beaches of Crete

On Crete there are countless sandy and pebble beaches, secluded bays and of course completely overcrowded seaside resorts. A complete list would go beyond the scope here, so we list the most famous Crete beaches and our personal favorites. Some of the Crete’s most beautiful beaches you can also visit via organized day tour, bookable via GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the tour to Preveli*

➲ To the tour to Balos*

➲ To the tour to Elafonisi*

Vai Palm Beach

On the island of Crete there are still dense palm forests of the native species “Phoenix-Theophrastii”. The Vai Bay in the far east of the island is by far the most famous palm beach of Crete. Here, more than 3,000 Cretan date palms stretch through the wide valley to the beach.

From a vantage point on a hill next to the Palm forest of Vai you have a great view over the valley to the sea. The beach is one of the tourist highlights of the island of Crete, so there is a lot of activity in this Caribbean spot in summer.

In Vai there is a paid parking lot, sanitary facilities and several taverns that cater to the numerous guests. If you want it a little quieter, you should arrive early in the morning. It is also worthwhile to take a detour to the nearby Toplou Monastery.

Preveli Beach

No less frequented is the palm beach of Preveli in the southwest of the island of Crete. Here the Megalopotamos River makes its way through the gorge of Kourtaliotiko and flows directly into the sea at the beautiful palm beach of Preveli. You can walk into the gorge or take a pedal boat up the river.

For the steep descent from the car park, sturdy shoes are definitely recommended. There is a snack bar and some parasols for hire on site. Both beaches are among the most popular sights in Crete, but despite the tourist crowds, they are still worth seeing and worth a detour, especially in the low season.

Beaches of Elafonisi and Balos

The Caribbean Beach Elafonisi and the lagoon of Balos in the west of Crete are too good to be true. Unfortunately, word has gotten around in recent years and so the beaches are completely taken over by mass tourism from June to September. You can hardly find a free seat and the view is also limited by the numerous parasols.

If you want more peace and quiet, you should visit Elafonisi and Balos either very early in the morning or in the low season (late April and October). Then there is not so much going on and you have this paradisiacal beaches of Crete almost to yourself.

Falassarna Beach

Very large and long beach on the west coast of Crete, about an hour’s drive from Chania. Falassarna Beach sparkles in the most beautiful shades of blue from afar. The sea water is wonderfully clear and the beach is separated by small sandy bays.

Some areas on the Falassarna Beach are still natural without parasols. There are taverns and sanitary facilities on site. From time to time a strong wind blows here, but the beach is still more popular with many holidaymakers than the overcrowded lagoons Balos and Elafonisi.

Seitan Limani

Seitan Limani is a curving picture-book bay with turquoise blue waters. There is only a small sandy beach, where the masses cavort, especially in the high season. The descent to the beach is very steep and rocky – but Seitan Limani is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. The bay is natural and has no sanitary facilities or food stalls.

Especially the view from above of the Seitan Limania Bay is spectacular and worth a short detour. In high season, the parking situation can get a bit chaotic. We arrived before 11:00 a.m. and got a free seat.

Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos)

The Kokkini Ammos is a very beautiful beach with reddish sand about 15 minutes walk from Matala in the south of Crete. There is a beach bar on site as well as some loungers and umbrellas. The water is wonderfully clear and the bay is picturesquely nestled between sandstone cliffs. In the rear section there is a nudist area.

Beaches of Xerokambos

Xerokambos is a paradisiacal place in the very southeast of Crete. The turquoise-blue color of the water provides a Caribbean feeling in Crete. The journey to the outermost tip is long, but there are fewer tourists here than on other beaches of Crete, even in the high season.

The Beaches of Xerokambos enchant with white sand and crystal clear shallow waters, ideal also for families with children. There are some tavernas and umbrella rentals on site. Otherwise, the area is still rather sleepy. In midsummer, it can get very hot here due to its location directly on the Libyan Sea. We had almost 40 degrees in the sun in August.

#8 Rent a car in Crete

Crete Round Trip by Rental Car

Crete is the largest island of Greece and is full of natural treasures and sights. With an extension of over 250 kilometers from west to east, you will need mobility if you want to explore the island extensively. The best way to do this is to get a rental car for Crete, to be reserved in advance and picked up from the airport on arrival.

So you don’t have to rely on the bus transfer, which usually departs from umpteen hotel complexes until you are unloaded at your accommodation. Vehicles are available both at the international car rental companies in Crete as well as from regional providers.

The local car rental providers in Crete are usually a bit cheaper and you can contact them via their own website or by email from Germany and reserve a rental car. We have had very good experiences with the provider Kafetzakis Car Rental from Heraklion.

You can compare car hire prices with our partner Discover Cars*:

➲ To the rental car booking*

The family business has been around for more than 30 years and the staff are very friendly and helpful. The vehicle was brought to us to the desired location and we could simply park it at the airport for return. In August, we paid about 50 euros per day for a week’s rental for a new small car. Information on kafetzakis.gr

Discover Crete by bus

On the island of Crete there are several KTEL bus companies that connect the individual towns quite reliably. This way you can get to many beaches, cities and sights even as a vacationer. The departure times depend mainly on the locals.

In the morning hours and in the afternoon, most people take the buses on Crete. You can buy tickets in large cities at vending machines or kiosks. In the province, you can buy the tickets directly from the bus driver. Fares are very fair for most routes.

In the larger cities there is a bus station, otherwise there are stops with sometimes inconspicuous signs. If the bus is to stop, a hand signal must be given to the driver. There are two bus stations in the capital Heraklion, one station for the western part of the island and one for the eastern part of the island.

→ Bus timetables for western Crete available from the company KTEL Chania-Rethymno at: KTEL Chania Rethymno Bus Timetable

→ Bus timetables for North Crete, carried out by the company KTEL Heraklio-Lasithi can be found at: KTEL Heraklion Bus Timetable

#9 Hotel tips for the island of Crete

In addition to numerous package hotels, club facilities and resorts, there are also beautiful private accommodations and holiday apartments for individualists. Crete has something to offer for every budget. Through Booking.com and Airbnb, you’ll find a wide variety of accommodations for every type of traveler.

→ We book our Crete Hotels and apartments on this portal: Booking.com*

→ Cheap Crete Holiday Packages can be found on these portals: Holidaycheck*, Check24*

#10 Travel guide Crete for your holiday

Crete Travel Guide (MICHAEL MÜLLER)

Probably the best and most comprehensive Crete travel guide for a holiday on the island. On almost 700 pages, the “Crete Bible” gives comprehensive travel tips on all topics and almost all places in Crete: View on Amazon*

Travel guide plus Crete (ADAC)

Modern travel guide with almost 200 pages, an informative magazine section and a large maxi folding map with routes for individual explorers: View on Amazon*

Crete Hiking Guide (ROTHER)

On 264 pages, the island of Crete is described in the best possible way. There are many individual tips and 65 hiking suggestions along the coast and in the mountains of Crete: View on Amazon*

#11 Crete Island Video

This successful summary of the island of Crete will increase your anticipation of the Greek island. At the latest after the video by filmmaker Robert Polasek, the time passes until your Holidays on the island of Crete as if in flight. Ideal for a cosy evening watching TV before your holiday in Crete or afterwards to reminisce.

FAQ about Crete Island

How many days should you plan for Crete?

At least ten days, preferably two weeks! The island is 250 km long and has countless highlights to offer. In 10 to 14 days, you can visit Chania, Rethymno, Knossos, Elafonisi, Balos, and the Samariá Gorge and spend relaxing days on the beach. Seven days are enough for a pure beach vacation. If you really want to experience the island—with its mountain villages, taverns with locals, and secluded bays—you need at least two weeks. In Crete, everything runs according to the motto “Siga-Siga” (take it easy), which you have to get used to in many places 🙂

What must you see in Crete?

Our personal top 7 best sights in Crete are: Balos, the old town of Chania, Preveli Beach, the leper island of Spinalonga, the Katholiko Monastery, the Samaria Gorge, and Seitan Limani Beach.

Which beaches in Crete are the most beautiful?

Our top 5: Balos Lagoon (spectacular from above!), Elafonisi (pink sand, shallow water), Falassarna (golden sand, turquoise blue water), Seitan Limani (photogenic, curved bay) and Xerokambos in the southeast (Caribbean flair, few tourists). Elafonisi and Vai are ideal for families with their shallow waters. Preveli with palm trees by the river is unique. Kedrodasos is a quieter alternative to Elafonisi!

When is the best time to visit Crete?

April/May and September/October are ideal: temperatures range from 25–28 °C, nature is in bloom (spring!), the sea is warm (in autumn), and there are fewer tourists and cheaper prices. In July and August, it gets very hot with temperatures above 35°C (even 40°C in the southeast) – this time of year is only for sun worshippers and beach lovers. Chania, Elafonisi, and Balos are then overcrowded. We personally love May and September, as they offer the perfect balance of weather, tranquility, and open taverns.

Which place in Crete is suitable for staying overnight?

Chania is suitable for culture lovers who enjoy the old town flair and appreciate the proximity to Balos and Elafonisi. Rethymno is ideal for its charming old town and central location. Georgioupoli is suitable for families with its long sandy beach. Paleochora is ideal for individualists in the quiet southwest. Agios Nikolaos in the east with Vai and Spinalonga. We recommend the region around Chania in the west or Rethymno in the center – here you will find the best balance of beach, sights, and authenticity. Those seeking peace and quiet should avoid Hersonissos and Malia (mass tourism!).

How much does a vacation in Crete cost?

Mid-range budget: €80–120 per day per person (€40–60 for accommodation, €30–50 for car rental, €30–40 for food, and €20 for admission/gas). Package tours are available from €500–800 per week. 30% cheaper in the off-season! Crete is cheaper than Mykonos or Santorini, but more expensive than mainland Greece. Prices in taverns outside the tourist centers are fair. The canteens in Chania and Elafonisi are overpriced. Our money-saving tip for Crete: Self-caterers will find the cheapest option in a vacation rental (apartment or studio).

What is the best way to get around Crete?

A rental car is the best option in Crete. Alternatively, KTEL buses connect all major towns (Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra) and popular beaches. They are inexpensive but inflexible. Timetables can be found on the KTEL websites. Tickets are available from vending machines/kiosks or from the driver. For excursions, there are also guided bus tours, for example to Elafonisi, Samariá, or Balos. However, without a rental car, you will miss out on the magic of the island of Crete: spontaneous stops at the roadside, quaint mountain villages, and secluded bays.

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