Crete is the largest and most diverse island in Greece, with a rich history, culture, and nature. The island is also famous for its cuisine, which is based on the Mediterranean diet, with fresh and local ingredients, such as olive oil, cheese, honey, herbs, vegetables, fish, and meat. Crete has a variety of attractions and activities, from ancient monuments and museums to stunning beaches and gorges. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or fun, Crete has something for everyone.
In this article, we will give you a complete guide for travelers, with the best things to visit in Crete, the best time to visit, the best places to stay, and the best tips to enjoy your trip.
The Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the most famous and impressive Minoan site in Crete, and one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. The palace dates back to the 2nd millennium BC, and it was the center of the Minoan civilization, the first literate culture in Europe.
The palace was a complex of more than 1,000 rooms, decorated with colorful frescoes and sculptures, and connected by corridors and staircases. The palace was also the mythical home of King Minos, the Minotaur, and the labyrinth. You can visit the palace with a guide or on your own, and admire the ancient glory and mystery of the Minoans.
Samaria Gorge
Samaria Gorge is the longest and most spectacular gorge in Europe, and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The gorge is located in the White Mountains National Park, and it stretches for 16 kilometers, from the Omalos Plateau to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli.
The gorge is a natural wonder, with steep cliffs, rocky paths, and lush vegetation. The gorge is also home to many rare plants and animals, such as the Cretan wild goat, the Cretan ebony, and the Cretan cyclamen. You can hike the gorge from May to October, and enjoy the stunning scenery and the challenge of the terrain.
Balos Lagoon
Balos Lagoon is one of the most beautiful and exotic beaches in Crete, and a protected natural area. The lagoon is located on the northwest tip of the island, and it is formed by a peninsula and an islet, called Gramvousa. The lagoon has crystal-clear water and white sand, with shades of blue, green, and pink.
The lagoon is also surrounded by rocks and dunes, and it offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the sky. You can reach the lagoon by boat from Kissamos, or by car and foot from Kaliviani. The lagoon is a paradise for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the best and most modern museums in Greece, and it showcases the artifacts and artworks that were found on the island, especially from the Minoan period. The museum has 27 galleries, covering more than 5,000 years of history and culture.
The museum displays more than 15,000 objects, such as statues, vases, jewelry, weapons, and frescoes, that represent the achievements and the legacy of the ancient Cretans. The museum also has a digital guide, a library, a cafe, and a shop.
Chania Old Town and Venetian Harbor
Chania Old Town and Venetian Harbor are the most picturesque and lively areas of the city, and a great place to explore and enjoy. The old town is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, with colorful houses, shops, cafes, and restaurants. The old town is also full of history and culture, with many monuments, churches, and museums to visit.
The Venetian harbor is a charming and romantic spot, with a lighthouse, a fortress, and a mosque, that reflect the different influences and periods of the city. The harbor is also a popular place for walking, dining, and watching the sunset.
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi Beach is one of the most popular and stunning beaches in Crete, and a Natura 2000 protected area. The beach is located on the southwest coast of the island, and it is a small island that is connected to the mainland by a shallow sandbar. The beach has soft sand and clear water, with shades of white, pink, and turquoise.
The beach is also surrounded by dunes and cedar trees, and it offers a scenic and serene atmosphere. You can swim, sunbathe, and relax on the beach, or explore the nearby islet, where you can find a lighthouse, a chapel, and a memorial for a massacre that took place in 1824.
Culinary delights
Cretan cuisine
Indulge your senses in the flavors of Cretan cuisine, renowned for its freshness and authenticity. From succulent lamb dishes to aromatic olive oil, each bite is a culinary revelation that celebrates the island’s bounty.
Raki tastings
Embark on a journey of gastronomic discovery with a traditional raki tasting. This fiery spirit, distilled from grapes and infused with aromatic herbs, offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich culinary heritage.