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• Look Voyages

Qui est Look Voyages ? Présentation

Les meilleures destinations pour partir avec look voyages.

Découvrez les offres de Lookea (Look Voyages) chez Voyage Privé ! Des offres exclusives jusqu'à -70% pour les meilleurs villages de vacances partout dans le monde !

Look Voyages vous dit quelque chose ? Connu désormais sous la marque Lookea, ce sont des clubs de vacances présents en France et à l'étranger.

Look Voyages s'appelle maintenant Club Lookea, marque du voyagiste TUI. Lookea dispose de 30 centres de vacances dans le monde avec un accueil 100% francophone. Vous retrouverez des équipes attentionnées avec des animations tournées vers l'innovation. Autant de précieuses attentions qui combleront à la fois vos rêves d'évasion et votre envie de vous détendre. Un partenaire de qualité pour Voyage Privé.

De nombreux produits Look Voyages sont désormais disponibles sur notre site. Vous y trouverez sans doute votre Club Lookéa préféré, pour un séjour de dernière minute ou pour un voyage anticipé. Avec ses villages de vacances disséminés un peu partout sur le globe, vous trouverez sans nul doute une destination de choix.

Look voyages en martinique

Des plages de Trois-Îlets, au sud, au sable noir des plages de Prêcheur, au nord, découvrez la Martinique entre douceur, évasion et sensations fortes. Votre Club Lookéa en Martinique vous invite à visiter les plus beaux centres de villégiature de l'île, comme Trois-Îlets. Dans un paysage tropical, les bandes de sable sont propices à un dépaysement total. Détendez-vous sur la plage de la Pointe du Bout. Promenez-vous le long de l'Anse Mitan ou partagez avec vos enfants la joie de nager dans la mer calme près de l'Anse de l'Âne. La variété des panoramas suggère de nombreuses possibilités d'activités. Alternez votre temps libre avec des sports et des excursions riches en émotions. Apprendre à faire du kitesurf. Inscrivez-vous à votre première plongée pour admirer la majesté des fonds marins. Montez à bord du bateau et rencontrez des dauphins et des tortues. Retournez à votre Club Lookéa, prolongez votre détente dans le spa ou la piscine.

Look voyages dans les canaries

Les îles Canaries peuvent être découvertes de mille et une façons par chacune de leurs îles. Tenerife et son volcan, Fuerteventura et ses dunes sont parmi les endroits à voir absolument. Un séjour au Club Lookéa aux Canaries vous permettra de découvrir les deux belles îles de l'archipel : Tenerife et Fuerteventura. Toutes deux rivalisent de beauté, surtout pour leurs charmantes plages. Sur un lit de sable, tantôt noir, tantôt brun, laissez-vous aller pour un moment d'inactivité et de plaisir balnéaire, des moments à partager en famille, entre amis ou tout simplement à deux. Chaque voyage est une invitation à l'évasion et une occasion de découvrir les spécificités de chaque île. A Ténérife, quittez les plages pour partir en randonnée à la découverte de l'arrière-pays qui abrite le volcan Teide, le plus haut sommet d'Espagne. Sur l'île de Fuerteventura, des promenades à travers les dunes dorées de Corralejo marqueront votre séjour. Laissez vos sens s'élever dans l'air et profitez du spectacle qui vous attend.

Look voyages au cap vert

Soleil et mer d'azur : réservez un séjour dans notre club Lookéa au Cap-Vert et vivez vos vacances les pieds dans l'eau sur les plages les plus convoitées de l'archipel. Sur l'île de Sal, votre club Lookéa au Cap-Vert offre un accès direct à la plage de Santa Maria. Sur cette vaste étendue de sable blanc caressée par l'eau turquoise, posez votre serviette à l'ombre d'un cocotier et guettez le retour des bateaux de pêche typiques. À deux pas, commencez le kitesurf sur la plage de Ponta Preta, connue pour son vent régulier. Visiter le Cap-Vert, c'est aussi découvrir des fonds marins intacts, peuplés de poissons tropicaux multicolores. Rendez-vous dans la baie de Murdeira : ce lieu incontournable pour la plongée et la plongée en apnée est classé réserve naturelle marine. Entre février et mai, il est possible d'observer des baleines à bosse. Montez sur un catamaran pour une croisière de quelques heures le long des côtes de Sal avec le Monte Leão en vue.

Look voyages dans les Maldives

Vous rêvez de vous enfuir au paradis et de faire une pause, de plonger, de prendre un bain de soleil sur le sable blanc... Il n'y a rien de mieux qu'un voyage aux Maldives pour jouer à Robinson dans le décor de vos rêves.Plus de 1000 îles composent l'archipel des Maldives. Autant de petits bijoux à découvrir... A vous de découvrir d'immenses étendues de sable immaculé, des lagons turquoise habités par des poissons multicolores, des couchers de soleil qui ressemblent à des paradis. D'un atoll à l'autre, vous serez enchantés par la beauté spectaculaire des coraux et des eaux bleues intactes. D'île en île par avion, bateau ou dhoni et vivez une expérience magique.

Look voyages en Grèce

Un des points forts de la Grèce est sans aucun doute ses plages ensoleillées, belles et variées, que vous pouvez visiter aussi bien sur les îles que sur le continent, où les rivages grecs sont avant tout d'incroyables spectacles naturels. Dans le Péloponnèse, vous pourrez admirer la beauté voluptueuse de la plage de Voidokilia, en arc de cercle, nichée dans une lagune marécageuse pleine d'oliviers. Le bleu de l'eau se révèle en dégradé, jusqu'à atteindre un sable blanc exquis. En Crète, où les plages sont mondialement connues, vous profitez de votre séjour au Club Lookéa en Grèce pour venir vous détendre sur la péninsule d'Elafonissi, entourée d'oliviers. Le sable est rose à l'approche de l'eau. Les côtes grecques sont donc aussi un lieu de bien-être, comme la lagune de Paleokastritsa, à Corfou. Sous une végétation abondante, vous pourrez vous détendre au bord d'une eau cristalline. A Rhodes, la baie de St Paul, entourée de rochers, vous offre un lieu de baignade original.

Look voyages au Portugal

Une visite au Portugal ne serait pas possible sans s'arrêter sur ses îles idylliques. Les plages, l'ambiance festive, la nature préservée... ...ont plus d'un atout qui peut vous séduire... L'archipel des Açores est une véritable nécessité pour votre séjour et vous accueille dans son cadre paradisiaque. Dès les premiers pas, vous vous trouverez face à une nature préservée et une végétation verdoyante. Cet ensemble de 9 îles volcaniques regorge de paysages, tous plus beaux les uns que les autres. Commencez votre circuit par l'île de Sao Miguel, de loin la plus célèbre. Elle est couverte de mille et une couleurs grâce à la multitude de fleurs qui fleurissent ici et là dès les premiers beaux jours. Sortez des sentiers battus, à quelques pas seulement des zones les plus touristiques pour découvrir des lieux uniques qui abritent une faune et une flore très variées. Idéale pour les randonneurs, l'île de Madère, connue sous le nom d'Île aux Fleurs, offre à ses visiteurs des paysages rythmés de montagnes et de falaises, de forêts et de vastes espaces verts.

Look voyages à lyon

De nombreux départs vers ces clubs se font de l'Aeroport de Lyon

Look voyages Djerba

Laissez-vous séduire par les attraits de la Tunisie en réservant un séjour dans notre Club Lookéa à Djerba. Le climat, la proximité de la France et le paysage sont irrésistibles. L'île de Djerba est située dans le sud de la Tunisie. La durée du vol est réduite à environ 2 heures 30 minutes et les formalités de voyage sont simplifiées. La langue officielle est l'arabe, mais la plupart des Tunisiens parlent très bien le français. Cela permet de communiquer facilement avec les habitants. Une visite à Djerba promet un séjour inoubliable, les pieds dans l'eau. Le temps doux et le soleil abondant vous permettent de nager presque toute l'année. Si vous prévoyez un voyage dans le désert, il est préférable de partir en vacances entre début octobre et mi-avril. Les environs sont idylliques. Les maisons typiques blanchies à la chaux dégagent un air méditerranéen. De belles plages de sable fin sont bordées de palmiers. Pour compléter le tableau, l'île est imprégnée d'histoire et de diverses influences héritées des siècles passés.

Look voyages Oman

Envolez-vous pour Oman pour vos vacances au Club Lookéa à Oman et laissez-vous éblouir par la tranquillité des paysages naturels à explorer, l'un des plus importants attraits de l'endroit. Prenez votre journée et allez à Wadi Shab avec un guide proposé par TUI. Après une randonnée le long d'une rivière qui serpente à travers des ravins et des montagnes escarpées, vous atteindrez un endroit spectaculaire. La piscine naturelle, remplie d'eau turquoise, est située dans le cratère de la montagne. Dans le Wadi Bani Khalid, c'est une succession de tronçons d'eau qui sont préservés dans cette oasis où naissent les palmiers. Concentrez-vous sur les dunes du Wahiba, surtout lorsque le soleil se couche et qu'elles prennent une teinte dorée. Parfois des chameaux y passent, nonchalamment. Dirigez-vous vers le Mont du Soleil, le Jebel Shams, le pic dominant de la chaîne du Hajar. A plus de 3 000 mètres d'altitude, vous contemplez les ravins et les canyons qui trônent devant vous pour toujours, avant de vous révéler certains endroits.

Look voyages Cuba

Visiter Cuba, c'est découvrir une île dont l'histoire et la culture sont très intenses. Musique, villes typiques et parcs naturels... Différents trésors en perspective. A Cuba, les plages de sable blanc se frottent aux champs de tabac qui font la renommée de l'île. Dans les villes, les voitures des années 1950 plongent dans une atmosphère rétro, renforcée par l'architecture latino du XVIe siècle qui caractérise la vieille Havane. Vous êtes sur une île mythique qui semble avoir été gelée dans le passé. Tout cela au son de la musique cubaine et des escaliers des danseurs de salsa qui n'attendent que vous pour s'amuser. Lors de votre séjour au club Lookéa de Cuba, laissez-vous emporter par le rythme de la vie urbaine cubaine et laissez-vous surprendre par les trésors naturels que l'île a à offrir : Le Pico Turquino, la plus haute montagne cubaine et la vallée de Viñales sont des coins de nature isolés qui vous permettront de profiter de l'incroyable panorama.

Look voyages Crète

Réservez un séjour de huit jours tout compris pour profiter des plages crétoises, l'une des plus importantes attractions de votre séjour au Club Lookéa en Crète, qui sont constamment visitées. Depuis l'hôtel Club Lookéa en Crète, où vous séjournez, vous avez soit une vue sur la baie de Bali, un magnifique panorama, soit un accès direct à la plage de sable. Cela signifie que vous pouvez vous détendre sur la côte ensoleillée de la Crète avant de vous baigner dans les luxueuses piscines de l'hôtel. Certaines plages ne sont accessibles qu'en bateau, par exemple Kolokytha, depuis le port d'Elounda. Vous êtes les bienvenus pour visiter cette région sauvage et préservée. Vous pouvez également vous détendre à Elafonissi, sur une péninsule entourée d'oliveraies, où le sable a des reflets roses. Les plus sportifs peuvent profiter de leur séjour à TUI en Crète pour expérimenter de nouveaux sports nautiques tels que l'aquagym, le canoë ou la pagaie. Ou encore se promener à Balos, une lagune où l'eau est turquoise et le sable blanc.

Look voyages Sénégal

Visiter le Sénégal, c'est avant tout se laisser séduire par ses paysages naturels, ses parcs, ses plages et ses îles. Mais c'est aussi la découverte d'une histoire forte. Côté nature, point fort du Sénégal, la réserve de Bandia vous plonge dans une atmosphère rude et sauvage et vous permet de vous rapprocher des animaux de la savane. Les parcs nationaux du Djoudj ou du Delta du Saloum méritent également une visite pour découvrir les mystérieux charmes de la mangrove. Les plages de N'Gor et Sal, sans oublier celle de Toubab Dialao, au sud de Dakar, vous promettent des moments de détente dans un cadre paradisiaque. Côté ville, Dakar est une étape essentielle de votre visite au Sénégal. Ses marchés et ses musées, notamment le musée Théodore Monod, vous aideront à comprendre l'histoire du pays. A proximité, sur l'île de Gorée et dans sa Maison des Esclaves, vous êtes promis à un moment passionnant. A Saint-Louis, laissez-vous séduire par l'architecture typique de l'époque coloniale.

Look voyages Corse

Du désert des Agriates à l'Ile Rousse, explorez cette région en toute liberté, en voiture, en VTT ou en vélo électrique. Les possibilités de balades en perspective sont nombreuses ! Découvrez les plus beaux paysages de la Corse depuis votre lieu de vacances. Situé dans un cadre idyllique, avec la mer à perte de vue et la montagne en arrière-plan, notre Club Lookéa Corsica Paoli vous permet de rejoindre très facilement les destinations incontournables du nord de la Corse. Louez un VTT ou un vélo électrique sur place pour vous rendre au charmant village d'Algajola ou à l'Ile Rousse. Promenez-vous dans ses ruelles étroites qui mènent au bord de l'eau et admirez les vieilles maisons florentines d'inspiration. Refuge des plus belles places maritimes de Corse, Calvi vaut également le détour. Vous souhaitez allier promenades dans la nature et détente ? Promenez-vous le long du littoral en longeant le sentier des Douaniers, puis déposez une serviette sur l'une des plages paradisiaques du désert des Agriates.

Look voyages Mexique

Votre club Lookéa au Mexique vous rapproche le plus possible des traces inévitables de la civilisation maya au Yucatán. Ces sites vous offrent une expérience unique. Le Mexique est une destination riche en émotions. Après avoir goûté aux merveilleuses plages de la côte caribéenne, vous êtes invités à découvrir certains des trésors du pays, plongés dans la nature vibrante de la péninsule du Yucatán : les traces de la civilisation maya. Ces lieux, qui sont les principales attractions du Mexique, sont facilement accessibles depuis le Club Lookéa de Playa del Carmen. L'endroit à Chichén Itzá est probablement l'un des plus impressionnants. Classé au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO, il a été construit par les Mayas vers 450 après J.-C. et occupé par les Toltèques à la fin du 10e siècle. En découvrant ce lieu, on a l'impression de remonter plusieurs siècles dans le temps. Le Mexique est parsemé de nombreuses autres merveilles archéologiques tout aussi fascinantes.

Look voyages Sicile

Partir en vacances en Sicile signifie choisir un lieu de séjour dans un environnement digne d'une carte postale. Du bord de mer au sommet des volcans, vous serez surpris. De la mer, les plages de Lido Mazzarò, San Vito Lo Capo et Cefalù, avec leurs eaux turquoises et leur sable fin, sont idéales pour les bains de soleil et la baignade. Avec 1500 km de côtes, le nombre de baies à visiter est presque infini. Chaque jour a sa propre plage. A Agrigente, près de la mer, le site archéologique de la Vallée du Temple vous plonge dans l'histoire ancienne de l'île. A Catane, point fort de la Sicile, l'Etna vous emmène dans le paysage lunaire pour vous garantir un séjour passionnant. Pour un dépaysement encore plus complet, dirigez-vous vers les îles Eoliennes, un archipel volcanique composé de dix-sept îles. Les bains de soleil sur la plage ou les randonnées à proximité des volcans prendront une nouvelle dimension. Une visite en Sicile, c'est aussi sortir des sentiers battus.

Sur certains clubs, il est possible d'avoir accès à des formule tout compris, que ce soit pour aller aux Baléares, pour partir pour un séjour en Thalasso, ou en week-end, circuit tout inclus, vous trouverez très certainement une offre de voyage adéquat.

• Voyage Privé
• Voyages de luxe

Club Lookéa Sol Marina Beach 4*

• Face à une plage de sable fin
• Un grand choix d'infrastructures
• De nombreuses piscines

Meilleur prix : Le 23 sept. 2024 : 1009€ de Lyon 7 nuits

Votre sélection

Vous avez sélectionné votre voyage pour 2 adultes et 2 enfants au départ de Paris le samedi 18 janvier 2019 pour une durée de 9 jours / 8 nuits .

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Le prix indiqué correspond au prix par adulte sur la base d'une réservation pour 2 adultes partageant le même hébergement. Réduction : pourcentage de réduction maximum proposé pour la date, réduction et promotion déjà appliquées au prix affiché.

Description

• Inclus Non inclus

Destination

• Avis clients
• Situé face à une large plage de sable fin.
• Un grand choix d'infrastructures de loisirs pour tous.
• De nombreuses piscines dont un petit aquapark enfant et une piscine couverte.
• Une restauration variée de qualité.

Sentez battre le cœur de Gouves... L’île du roi Minos vous accueille comme des dieux ! Au programme ? Des plaisirs tout à fait terrestres : un confort parfait , de belles piscines , de multiples activités , une formule tout inclus ... Tout cela en plein cœur de la petite station de Gouves qui propose des animations balnéaires avec bars, restaurants et boutiques.

Les Infos Pratiques

• Au cœur de la station balnéraire de Gouves. • À 25 min environ de l’aéroport. • + 1 h de décalage horaire. • Normes locales : 4*. • Wifi gratuit dans tout l'hôtel. • Taxe de résilience à la crise climatique (ex taxe de séjour) à régler sur place, à ce jour 7 € par chambre et par nuit. • Parking gratuit dans l'hôtel. • Location de voitures auprès de votre représentant/délégué. • Animaux non admis. • Réservation de taxis payants possible pour se rendre à Hersonissos. Pour votre sécurité, certains services ou installations en espace clos et réduits seront peut-être modifiés dans leur fonctionnement habituel, ou suspendus, selon les consignes sanitaires en vigueur.

Votre Club Lookéa

Au cœur de la station balnéraire de Gouves, cet hôtel est idéalement situé. Il est composé de 396 chambres dont 110 réservées au Club Lookéa. Club Lookéa, l'expérience club en toute convivialité ! Services : • Salon TV • Boutiques (minimarket) • Salle de Fitness • Amphithéâtre extérieur • Salle de réunion • Ascenseurs • Accès personnes à mobilité réduite : rampes d'accès aux parties communes : piscine, restaurants, plage et bars. Chambres adaptées (chambre double vue jardin), sur demande et selon disponibilité.

Restauration

• Restaurant principal climatisé doté d'une agréable terrasse extérieure ombragée avec buffet varié à volonté : cuisine internationale et locale, buffet à thèmes, show cooking, snack… • Restaurant de spécialités : "La Isla", situé sur la marina (avec supplément - 1 dîner par séjour par personne inclus, menu de specialités locales). Ouvert selon saison • Goûter avec une gourmandise chaude à volonté. • Plusieurs bars dont 1 bar salon, 1 snack bar et 1 bar piscine. La formule tout inclus est accessible dès votre arrivée dans l'hôtel, et ce jusqu'à l'heure de votre départ. LA TABLE * Formule tout inclus • Petit déjeuner buffet de 7 h 15 à 10 h 30 • Petit déjeuner tardif de 10 h 30 à 11 h • Déjeuner de 12 h 30 à 14 h 30 • Goûters à volonté de 16 h à 17 h 30 • Dîner de 18 h 30 à 21 h 30 • Snacks et crème glacée de 10 h à 17 h 30 LE BAR * • Au bar principal, boissons servies à volonté de 11 h à minuit : vin, bière, jus de fruits, soda, café, thé, eau…Boissons locales alcoolisées ou non. Autres bars, selon horaires d'ouverture. • Au restaurant aux heures des repas. *Horaires d’ouverture des bars et restaurants susceptibles de modification par l’hôtelier sans préavis, donnés à titre indicatifs.

Coordonnées

GOUVES – 700 14 – CRÈTE – GRÈCE

Chambre double

Capacité : jusqu'à 3 adultes. • Superficie : 21 m² • Composée de 2 lits jumeaux rapprochés et possibilité de lit supplémentaire : canapé-fauteuil convertible. • Climatisation • Téléphone • Télévision écran plat • Wifi • Coffre-fort • Mini-réfrigérateur • Bouteille d'eau à l'arrivée • Nécessaire pour thé et café rechargé quotidiennement • Carrelage • Salle de bains (baignoire) avec sèche-cheveux • Balcon aménagé • Possibilité de lit supplémentaire : lit d'appoint

Chambre vue mer

Capacité : jusqu'à 3 adultes. • Superficie : 21 m² • Composée de 2 lits jumeaux rapprochés et possibilité de lit supplémentaire : canapé-fauteuil convertible. • Climatisation • Téléphone • Télévision écran plat • Wifi • Coffre-fort • Mini-réfrigérateur • Bouteille d'eau à l'arrivée • Nécessaire pour thé et café rechargé quotidiennement • Carrelage • Salle de bains (baignoire) avec sèche-cheveux • Balcon aménagé

Chambre familiale vue jardin

Capacité : jusqu’à 2 adultes et 2 enfants. • Superficie : 26 m² • 2 lits jumeaux et 1 lit superposé dans le même espace • Climatisation • Téléphone • Télévision écran plat • Wifi • Coffre-fort • Mini-réfrigérateur • Bouteille d'eau à l'arrivée • Nécessaire pour thé et café rechargé quotidiennement • Carrelage • Salle de bains (douche à l'italienne) avec sèche-cheveux • Terrasse aménagée

Capacité : jusqu’à 2 adultes et 2 enfants. • Superficie : 26 m² • 1 lit double et 2 lits supplémentaires • Climatisation • Téléphone • Télévision écran plat • Wifi • Coffre-fort • Mini-réfrigérateur • Bouteille d'eau à l'arrivée • Nécessaire pour thé et café rechargé quotidiennement • Carrelage • Salle de bains avec sèche-cheveux • Balcon ou terrasse

Chambre Supérieure

Capacité : jusqu'à 3 adultes. • Superficie : 21 m² • Composée de 2 lits jumeaux rapprochés avec possibilité de lit supplémentaire : canapé-fauteuil convertible. • Necessaire à thé et café tous les jours, bouteille d'eau à votre arrivée, peignoirs et chaussons pour les adultes. • Climatisation • Téléphone • Télévision écran plat • Wifi • Coffre-fort • Mini-réfrigérateur • Carrelage • Salle de bains entièrement rénovée avec douche à l'italienne • Sèche-cheveux • Kit de produits d'hygiène • Balcon aménagé • Possibilité de lit supplémentaire : lit d'appoint

Chambre Supérieure vue mer

Capacité : jusqu'à 3 adultes. • Superficie : 21 m² • Composée de 2 lits jumeaux rapprochés avec possibilité de lit supplémentaire : canapé-fauteuil convertible. • Necessaire à thé et café tous les jours, bouteille d'eau à votre arrivée, peignoirs et chaussons pour les adultes. • Climatisation • Téléphone • Télévision écran plat • Wifi • Coffre-fort • Mini-réfrigérateur • Carrelage • Salle de bains entièrement rénovée avec douche à l'italienne • Sèche-cheveux • Kit de produits d'hygiène • Balcon aménagé, avec vue sur la mer • Possibilité de lit supplémentaire : lit d'appoint

Sports & Activités

Plage publique de sable fin (petite route peu fréquentée à traverser) aménagée avec parasols, transats gratuits (serviettes avec caution 15) et cabine de douche. Gratuit : • 2 piscines extérieures (eau de mer) avec parasols et transats (serviettes avec caution) • piscine intérieure dans le centre de bien-être (ouverte toute la saison, non chauffée). • 2 courts de tennis (quick) • tennis de table • mini-football sur la plage • beach-volley • pétanque • mini-golf • fitness (cours collectifs et salle à disposition) • aquagym • water-polo Bumball : enfilez vos chasubles à scratch et marquez des points en récupérant le ballon sur les zones scratchées sur la poitrine et le bas du dos. Prêts à former votre équipe ? Ball Bouncer : un sport collectif proche du hockey sur gazon où 2 équipes de 5 à 6 joueurs s’affrontent. À l’aide de crosse en mousse, visez le but du camp adverse. La cible (nouveau): une cible de foot XXL où les ballons ont remplacé les fléchettes ! Un concept fun et original qui donnera envie aux amateurs de foot et de fléchettes de tester leur précision ! Petits et grands sportifs s’affronteront avec plaisir. Lookaching : une activité à la fois ludique et 2.0 qui permet de découvrir les alentours du club. À l’aide d’un QR Code, participez en famille ou entre amis, chacun à votre rythme, à une chasse au trésor dans les environs du club. Ventriglisse : une activité déjà bien connue de nos vacanciers, facile d’utilisation et rafraîchissante lorsqu’il fait chaud ! Payant : • espace bien-être avec bain à remous, bain de vapeur et sauna. • billard • sports nautiques* en fonction de la météo : ski nautique, jet ski, banana boat, ringo. * Indépendants du club et non garantis, sous réserve de disponibilité au moment du séjour.

Vos animateurs Club Lookéa 100% francophone accompagnés d’une équipe d’animation internationale vous attendent autour d’animations exclusives, d’activités culturelles ou sportives en journée comme en soirée.

Pour vos enfants & ados

LE QG DE LOOKY Nos animateurs passionnés et diplômés attendent vos Minis 3/5 ans, Juniors 6/8 ans et Challengers 9/12 ans lors de journées thématisées pour des vacances de folie en compagnie de Looky autour d’activités d’éveil, de sports et de jeux en fonction de leur âge. L.eSPACE De 13 à 17 ans : vos ados se retrouvent avec leur animateur dans L.eSPACE, pour des activités sportives, des challenges ou défis connectés selon leurs centres d’intérêts (durant les vacances scolaires). Le club accueillant les ados sera ouvert pour toutes les vacances scolaires, et à partir du 06/07/24 jusqu’au 01/09/24 pour les vacances d’été.  

Votre Délégué Club Lookéa

Votre Délégué Club Lookéa, 100% francophone, partage avec vous ses bons plans, il est à votre écoute et disponible à tout moment pour faciliter vos vacances et les rendre uniques !

Services personnalisés

Offrez-vous des services "en plus" pour un séjour encore plus agréable.

Organisateur technique : TUI - Marmara - Lookéa

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Greece's Largest Island Is Packed With Ancient History, Gorgeous Resorts, and a Stunning Pink-sand Beach

Get ready for plenty of fun in the Grecian sun.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Cities to visit, best things to do, best beaches, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Crete, Greece's largest island, clocks in at more than 3,000 square miles and offers plenty of ancient history, incredible food, and natural beauty to explore. But you don't have to take my word for just how special Crete is. 

"I often describe Crete as a compact, island version of California. We have surfing and backcountry skiing in winter. In summer, we have canyon hiking, mountaineering, and, my personal favorite, hidden beaches only accessible by boat. And the shoulder seasons are — chef's kiss — perfection," Anastasia Sotiropulos, a tour guide based in Chania, Crete, shared. "The real treasure of Crete, though, are the people. The farmers, cheesemakers, fishmongers, artists, restaurateurs, winemakers, musicians, and homemakers create unique experiences for those lucky enough to visit this incredible island." 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Stay at a hotel with stunning Mediterranean views, like Elounda Bay Palace or Domes of Elounda. 
• Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos. 
• Catch some sun on Elafonissi Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful pink-sand beaches. 
• Wander the streets of Chania’s Old Town to admire Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. 
• Visit during the shoulder season to avoid the hottest temperatures and largest crowds.

Ready to start exploring for yourself? Here's everything you need to know to plan a trip to Crete.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Elounda Bay Palace

This luxury hotel has long been beloved for its mix of elegance and charm. The rooms and suites here open up to sweeping views of the azure Mediterranean waters, and the hotel's private beaches ensure you can always find a chair (and an umbrella). Make an appointment at the Chenot Spa, which offers massages, facials, and body treatments using science-forward ingredients and techniques. 

Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection

Looking to stretch out? Domes of Elounda is the place to be. Known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the historic island of Spinalonga, the resort is home to just suites and villas, which open to fantastic patios with private plunge pools. Yes, this hotel comes with its own spa, but guests can also indulge in an in-room treatment to truly never lift a finger. 

Courtesy of Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

Blue Palace

Blue Palace was named a Travel + Leisure reader favorite in the 2023 World's Best Awards , and in 2024, it's getting a whole new look. The renowned hotel is reopening as a modernist boutique hotel with just 47 bungalows and suites, all with brand-new interiors and some with private plunge pools. But even if you don't book a room with a pool, that's okay, as the hotel sits just steps from the beach anyway. 

Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa

Find yourself in a 17th-century Venetian mansion-turned-boutique hotel at Casa Delfino . The hotel, located in the heart of Chania's Old Town, allows travelers to stay amid the action while also offering a retreat-worthy rooftop garden that comes with sweeping views of the sea. It's a perfect place for families thanks to its one and two-bedroom suites. 

A visit to Chania's Old Town is a must, thanks to its charming Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. To make the most of your time in Old Town, book a tour with a guide who can show you all the best sights and all the prime spots to get a great meal. 

Get in a little more Venetian architecture at Rethymno Old Town , one of the best-preserved historical districts in Crete. The city is built around the Venetian fortress, which provides fantastic panoramic views from its hilltop location. Don't skip the artisan shops where you can find the perfect souvenir. 

No visit to Crete is complete without a visit to its capital, Heraklion . Here, visitors can check out numerous historic sites, the Archaeological Museum mentioned below, and all the city's bustling markets, cafes, and bars. And as a bonus, the Palace of Knossos is just a short drive away. 

Elisanth_/Getty Images

Explore the Palace of Knossos.

Dive into more than 4,000 years of Greek history at the Palace of Knossos , Crete's most iconic archaeological site. The ancient complex is absolutely massive, and it comes with a gorgeous view of the sea thanks to its position high on the hill. "Crete's most famous archaeological site is the great Minoan Palace of Knossos, the oldest, largest, and most elaborate of these sites," Peter Sommer of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. "In its wide courts, shaded colonnades, and intricate arrangements of room after room, floor after floor, one can really come to grips with a civilization from far back in the Bronze Age, and grapple with questions that are still hotly debated – what did these palaces look like, what were they for, who lived in them, and how did they function?"

Hike the Samaria Gorge.

Outdoor lovers will adore spending a day hiking through the Samaria Gorge, a lengthy hike through Crete's White Mountains. The hike stretches on for nearly 10 miles through ancient cypress and pine forests and the abandoned village of Samaria before ending at the sea. However, the most famous part of the hike has to be the "Gates," where the gorge is just 13 feet apart but is more than 1,500 feet high. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time if you plan to hike the entire trail. The park's official site estimates that it takes about five hours to complete the journey. 

David C Tomlinson/Getty Images

Visit the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania.

Take a stroll through the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania and take in all the colors of Greece. Travelers can walk past homes and buildings showcasing Crete's unique melding of history, including all its Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. Shop in its boutiques, grab a frappe in a cafe, view the massive fortress, and dine on plenty of fresh ingredients (hello, Greek salads) at its waterfront restaurants. Just make sure to have your camera ready, as its colorful buildings make for the perfect Instagram backdrop. 

Learn something new at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Get an even deeper education on the island's history with a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , which houses the world's most comprehensive collection of artifacts from the Minoan civilization. Its most famous exhibit is the Phaistos Disc, a clay disc sporting more than 240 symbols that is said to be more than 3,000 years old. As the museum notes, "experts have not yet a definitive conclusion of the contents of the inscription," so maybe you can uncover what it all means during your visit.

Elafonissi Beach

Get ready to step foot on one of the world's most beautiful and romantic beaches, Elafonissi Beach . The stretch of shoreline is well-known for its pink sand — created by millions of crushed seashells —that disappears into shallow, turquoise waters. The beach, which is part of a nature reserve, is an ideal spot for families with small children thanks to the calm waters, but there are also plenty of spots for adults to put down their towels and umbrellas for a quiet day at the beach. 

Balos Lagoon

One more brilliant beach to visit is Balos Lagoon , a beach made up of brilliant white sand that's lapped by unbelievably blue water. "One of the most popular must-see places in the Chania region is the Balos Lagoon with hypnotizing turquoise waters and a panoramic landscape," Alonso Marly, a travel expert at Skylux Travel , said. "I suggest visiting the beach early in the morning to experience the lagoon at its most tranquil and skip the tourist crowds." 

Find a different style of landscape at Vai Beach , famous for the palm forest lining the coast. Once again, it's a spot where travelers can find warm, sandy beaches and beautiful blue waters, just this time with the bonus of tree shade for the perfect beach snooze. 

Related: 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

The best time to visit Crete is from June to August when the weather on the island is at its prime. As WeatherSpark notes, the warmest weather can be found between early June and late September, when the average daily high temperature hits above 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Things get particularly hot in July, when the average temperature hits 84 degrees. 

"When it comes to the best times to visit Crete, keep in mind that the island is seasonal, and during winter months, most of its attractions are closed," Marly added. "However, throughout the high season, it is full of life day and night." 

But, if you're looking to escape the crowds, try plotting a visit during the island's shoulder seasons, which fall over April to May and September to early October.  

 "If possible, I recommend visiting the island during the shoulder season when it's not too hot and crowded – from April to June or September through October — to make the most of your authentic Greek holiday, full of sunshine and unforgettable experiences," Marly said.  

Crete is accessible via its international airports in Heraklion (Heraklion International Airport, HER) and Chania (Chania International Airport, CHQ). Heraklion is the island's busiest airport, and it is also the second-largest airport in Greece, just behind Athens. Several major airlines fly into the airport, including Emirates, Aegean, RyanAir, EasyJet, and KLM. 

For those looking to avoid the airport, there is a ferry option, but be warned: It's a long ride. Travelers can hop aboard a ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens to Heraklion or Chania, but the ride can take between nine and 10 hours.

Related: Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Perfect Greek Islands Vacation

The best and easiest way to get around Crete is with your own car. Remember, this is Greece's largest island, so if you want to explore more widely, you will need some wheels. There are a ton of rental car companies on the island, including big names like Avis, Budget, and Hertz, all ready to loan you a ride. 

Public Transit

Crete also has a robust public bus system that can get you to most points of interest. Just note the buses here tend to move more slowly than cars, but it's also a rather affordable option, with rides starting at just a few euros. 

Scooters are also a rather popular mode of transportation here, as they are in almost all of the Greek islands. Visitors do need a valid license to rent scooters and must wear a helmet while riding. 

The Perfect 7 to 10 Days in Crete Itinerary

Last Updated on January 17, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

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As the largest island in Greece, planning a 7 to 10 days in Crete itinerary allows you to see quite a bit of this incredible island while still allowing you a good amount of time to chill on the beach. Though it’s certainly a popular place to visit, the sheer size of the island makes it easy to get off the beaten path and avoid the crowds, if that’s what you’re after.

Crete really has something to offer everyone, from millennia of history to gorgeous beaches, from exciting cities to impeccable nature. If you’re planning a holiday on the island of Crete, you’re in for a real treat. There is so much to on this incredible island that you’ll only wish you had a lifetime to explore it.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Crete?

It can be tough to figure out how many days to spend in Crete when planning out your holiday. Crete is a massive island, and distances between major towns and cities are measured in hours rather than minutes.

With this in mind, plan to spend at least one week in Crete in order to have the best balance between sightseeing and relaxation.

If you have 7 days in Crete, you will get a good feel for the main towns and cities, as well as some of the most iconic beaches.

If you have the time, you should stretch your trip to 10 days, taking in some off-the-beaten-track sites, and enjoying a little more chill-out time on the beach in Crete.

Getting To & Around Crete

Many people will visit Crete as a single trip. This means overseas visitors will arrive at either Heraklion or Chania – the island’s two international airports.

If you’re visiting from mainland Greece , or another of the Greek islands like Santorini or Mykonos , then you might be arriving on a ferry.

The most popular island to arrive from is Santorini . Most ferries dock at Heraklion, but a few will arrive at Chania. The Santorini to Heraklion ferry will take just under two hours by fast boat, and three and a half hours by slow boat. You can book ferries here.

Ferries from Athens are an overnight affair aboard the slow boat, but it’s a clever way to save on accommodation costs. This is also a great way to bring your own transport, why not turn this into a Crete road trip itinerary?

Crete is a large island, and whilst the KTEL bus system runs on the island, you will see far more if you rent a car. Rentals are very affordable, costing around €150-200 for 1 week in Crete. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices for rentals.

7 to 10-Day Crete Itinerary

The main hubs of Crete are the biggest towns, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, Rethymnon and Chania. But don’t stop there, from the rugged snow-capped mountains to its beautiful golden beaches – Crete has so much to offer.

Day 1 – Heraklion

The hustle, the bustle, the noise! Welcome to Heraklion – Crete’s largest city and the fifth largest in Greece.

Wandering along the waterfront, you will spot the imposing Venetian-era Koules fortress protecting the harbour, as well as the dockyards across the road.

Take a stroll up 25th August Street, you’ll see windows overlooking the pavement that look like they’re from “Arabian Nights”.

Glimpse the atmospheric Greek Orthodox Agios Titos church, and continue to the Morosini fountain, which is beautifully ordained with Venetian lions. Grab a frappe and a traditional bougatsa at a cafe overlooking the square.

Next, it’s time to explore the Palace of Knossos. Located five kilometres from the city, this bronze age site is the finest in Crete. Partially restored by archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans, it gives you a great idea of what the city would have looked like, with vivid colours, frescos and the beautiful throne room. You can book a guided tour here.

Spend the night in Heraklion.

Where to Stay in Heraklion

Metropole Urban Hotel – This hotel in central Heraklion is a great option for those looking for a swish place to stay in Crete’s capital. They have a range of rooms on offer and plenty of amenities, including room service and an on-site bar.

Artion Boutique – This cool boutique hotel is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a hip and cool place to stay in Heraklion. Well-located for exploring all of the highlights of the city, they have a number of great rooms on offer and both continental and buffet breakfast options are available each morning.

Pavo Art Hotel – For those looking for their own space in Heraklion, this cool aparthotel is a great choice. Well-located for exploring Crete’s capital city, they have a number of chic flats available that range in size and are fully furnished with everything you may need.

Intra Muros Hostel – Located in the centre of Heraklion, this hostel is an excellent choice for those looking for a great social atmosphere or are travelling on a tight budget in Crete. Offering both dorms and private rooms, they have great common areas and self-catering facilities as well.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Heraklion hotels!

Day 2 – Agios Nikolaos

Driving in Crete offers excellent views once you get out of the city. Today we’re heading to Agios Nikolaos, an hour’s drive to the east.

Did you know Crete is the birthplace of Zeus, king of the gods? A worthwhile detour will take you into the mountains to the Cave of Diktaion Andron – an atmospheric mountain cave where Zeus came into existence.

Bring walking boots as the walk from the parking is about a kilometre overall. If you want to learn more about mythology, look no further than the Greek Mythology Thematic park! This family-friendly attraction has great recreations of many of the Greek myths, with an excellent audio guide.

Continue on to Agios Nikolaos and check in before going for a wander around town. Stroll along the beautiful Lake Voulismeni before settling in for dinner at Archontiko Taverna on the waterfront.

Spend the night in Agios Nikolaos.

Where to Stay in Agios Nikolaos

Sunlight Hotel – This 3-star hotel is a great option for mid-range visitors. They have a great location in Agios Nikolaos, amenities that include an on-site bar and swimming pool and a range of rooms that all include sea-view balconies.

Hotel Port 7- Boutique Collection – Located right on the beach in Agios Nikolaos, this is an excellent choice for those looking for an upmarket option. They have a number of wonderful rooms to choose from, breakfast on offer each morning and plenty of other amenities for guests to enjoy.

9 Muses Apartments – This aparthotel is a great choice for those looking for their own flat while on their trip to Crete. With a great location in Agios Nikolaos, they have a number of different apartments available ranging in size along with all of the convenience of staying in a hotel.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Agios Nikolaos hotels!

Day 3 – Spinalonga

Today you’ll learn a story of resilience with a visit to the former leper colony of Spinalonga. A now-abandoned 16th-century Venetian fortress on a tiny coastal island which became a community for lepers from all over Greece. Victoria Hislop’s novel The Island is an excellent look into how life was on the island.

You can catch a boat from Agios Nikolaos or take a guided tour but a drive up the coast will prove more rewarding. Set off early for the 25-minute drive to Plaka, the closest settlement, to try and get ashore before it’s too hot, and before the other tourists arrive.

After exploring the island, the town of Elounda is a great spot to stop, explore and grab lunch. Rakomelo Taverna on the waterfront is a lovely spot to tuck into seafood and Cretan cuisine. 

On your way back, stop for a dip at Kolokithia Beach, or learn about the traditional way of life at the Cretan Olive Oil Farm. 

Day 4 – Rethymnon

Day 4 sees us heading west. The drive to the coastal city of Rethymnon (Rethymno) takes two hours from Agios Nikolaos.

There are plenty of beaches to stop and see along the way, including the small resorts of Bali and Fodele. If you want something quieter, there are countless beaches that are as wild and rugged as the coastline.

Rethymnon is much smaller than Heraklion and far more atmospheric. Once a renaissance-era walled city, it has grown beyond its walls, but the best experiences can still be found wandering the streets of the old town. Follow meandering alleys, relax in grand plateia , and peer at crumbling mosques.

Ever wonder how delicious filo pastry that wraps your spanakopita is made? A visit to 30 Vernardou, the ‘Handmade Traditional Philo Workshop’ will show you how painstakingly difficult it is to make the beautiful pastry, a skill that is being lost to machines.

For the best views of town, walk up to the Venetian Fortezza, the beautiful castle that sits above town. Omnipresent from wherever you are in the city, it’s an affordable attraction.

Spend the night in Rethymnon.

Where to Stay in Rethymnon

Menta City Boutique Hotel – This cute boutique hotel is an excellent base in historic Rethymnon. They have a range of rooms to choose from and plenty of amenities including a pool, bar and small spa/wellness centre.

Calla Luxury Seafront Suites – If you’re looking for luxury on your Crete holiday, this 5-star hotel is unbeatable. Located directly on the beach, they have a number of luxe rooms to choose from and countless fantastic perks and amenities for guests to enjoy.

Petalo Suites – Those after their own place in Rethymnon will love this aparthotel. They offer a range of fully-furnished flats to choose from, a perfect location for exploring the city and all of the grand amenities of a nice hotel.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Rethymnon hotels!

Day 5 – Balos Lagoon & Chania

Balos Lagoon is one of the most spectacular beaches in all of Greece and is a must for visitors to Crete. Although it’s technically accessible by road, it’s often unpaved and very wild, so you’ll have a more relaxing day if you take the ferry and enjoy breathtaking views of the coast of Crete!

Ferries leave Kissamos port, a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Rethymnon, at scheduled times daily. You’ll stop at Gramvousa Island before arriving at the gorgeous pink and purple hues of Balos Lagoon where there’s time for snorkelling and sunbathing.

It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in the country – keep in mind, however, that the beach is natural and undeveloped so bring a picnic. You can organise a tour here.

When you arrive back in Kissamos, drive ten minutes to Gramvousa Restaurant. Undoubtedly one of the best eateries on the entire island, many of its ingredients are grown in their own gardens, and meat and fish is all sourced locally and of the highest quality.

Finally, drive to the picturesque city of Chania in Western Crete, which will be your base for the next few days.

Where to Stay in Chania

Casa Leone Hotel – Mid-range travellers will love this 3-star hotel in the centre of Chania. Well-located for exploring the city, they have several lovely rooms available and breakfast is served daily.

Porto Veneziano Hotel – Situated right on the water, this luxury hotel is perfect for couples after a romantic getaway in Chania. They have myriad lovely rooms to choose from (some boasting sea views), a hearty breakfast served each morning and plenty of amenities for guests to use.

Suites Pandora – If you want the convenience of your own flat while staying in Chania, then this aparthotel is an excellent choice. They have a range of suites and apartments on offer that are fully furnished and include equipped kitchens. Some even offer sea views and the location is perfect for exploring the city.

Cocoon City Hostel – Those looking for a social atmosphere or budget travellers to Crete will love this highly-rated hostel. They have a great location for exploring Chania and offer both dorms and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Chania hotels!

Day 6 – Samaria Gorge & Chania

If you’re feeling tired after the past few days, then today is a great day to explore the gorgeous old town of Chania.

But, if you want to see all that Crete has to offer, then why not go on a day trip to Samaria Gorge? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Europe’s longest gorges , and certainly amongst the prettiest.

At its widest, the gorge is 150 metres wide, and at its narrowest only 3 metres. You’ll travel through a variety of unique ecosystems before finally emerging at Agia Roumeli, where you can reward yourself with a dip in the sea.

It’s a 14 km, one-way downhill hike (it is possible to make it a return hike but it involves moving uphill against the flow of hikers). For this reason, I recommend the organised trip from Chania.

This includes return buses and a ferry taking you from the beach to the bus, meaning you haven’t got to try and get back to the parking at the beginning of the gorge. You can book a tour here.

Spend the night in Chania.

Day 7 – Chania

This is where the 7-day itinerary comes to an end, but of course, you must properly explore Chania before you leave!

Of course, you will want to fill your bags with souvenirs and treats to feed your friends with, whilst you regale them with your tales of your trip. The municipal market is a great spot to stock up on snacks like dates, local cheeses, raki and the local wine ‘retsina’.

Chania’s focal point is the old harbour with its beautiful lighthouse. There are plenty of tavernas on the waterfront, but as you head a few streets back, the food gets more authentic.

Wandering these streets is a pleasure – they’re a mashup of Venetian and Ottoman architecture dotted with ancient Byzantine ruins, making the old town incredibly pretty.

If you’re leaving from Chania airport, head to Stavros Beach for a last dip, and to check out where the final iconic scene from “ Zorba the Greek ” was filmed. What a week, you could dance your own sirtaki to celebrate!

Day 8 – Sfakia & Loutro

If you’re spending ten days, then we’ll spend the last few days relaxing, and taking in the under-explored southern coast.

The hour-and-a-half drive to Sfakia will take you over mountains, and across beautiful gorges. A worthwhile break can be found deep in the hills, at the village of Askifou.

Hike up to the old Kastro to admire the view or stop and have lunch at a taverna. The most interesting sight, however, is the Askifou War Museum – housing thousands of artefacts from the Nazi occupation of Crete.

Continue on to Sfakia, and park up before jumping on a short ferry across to off the beaten track bay of Loutro. Isolated by a lack of roads, the only way to access Loutro is by boat – the perfect spot to unwind.

Spend the night at Loutro.

Where to Stay in Loutro

Daskalogiannis Hotel – This waterfront hotel makes for the perfect, tranquil bae in Loutro. They have a range of wonderful rooms on offer suitable for both couples and families, a great location and they offer both a continental and a la carte breakfast each morning.

Villa Niki – If you’d like your own apartment while staying in relaxed Loutro, then these are a great option to choose from. They have a number of differently-sized flats available and a great location for exploring the area and all it has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Loutro hotels!

Day 9 – Loutro

So, what is there to do in Loutro? Well, not all that much and that’s kind of the point.

This tiny bay with its crystal-clear water is a beautiful place to enjoy nature at its finest. Head down to the beach for a swim, snorkel above beautiful, mirrored fish, or rent a boat and go for a jaunt on the sea.

Alternatively, head out on foot for a stroll along the coast. About an hour’s hike west of Loutro will lead you to Agia Roumeli, the town at the end of Samaria Gorge, with beautiful views across the sea the whole way along.

But if you want to relax and spend the day chatting to locals, then that’s okay. To get a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine Taverna Stratis is a must! It has amazing food, Cretan specialities like Dakos (rusks, cheese and tomatoes), chochlioi (snails) and Sfakian pies, containing Mizithra goat cheese.

Spend the night in Loutro.

Day 10 – Preveli

It’s the last day of your Crete itinerary! Start early and get the ferry back to Sfakia, and from there drive east for an hour.

Preveli Beach is your stop today, but turn off just before the beach to explore the Preveli Monastery, to learn a little more about the life of Orthodox Greek holy men.

Driving from the monastery down to the beach, look out for the Cretan WW2 Monument, marking the sacrifices of the priests and partisans that fought the Nazi occupiers, helping British and ANZAC troops evade detection for years.

Preveli Beach is a mesmerising spot for a last dip, with palm trees and a river flowing out to the sea.

You won’t want to pack your towel and change out of your swimwear, but eventually you’ll have to start to head to the airport. On the way, stop at Agia Fotini Taverna for a final seafood dinner by the sea.

Preveli Beach is just under two hours from both Heraklion and Chania, making it a perfect final spot to end a perfect trip.

Crete is the perfect destination if you love hiking through gorges, swimming in crystal clear waters, strolling majestic old towns or simply stuffing your face with delectable Greek cuisine!

Are you planning a trip to Crete? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Mykonos Itinerary

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Santorini Itinerary

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Crete Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

When I finally got to Crete , it exceeded all my expectations. There’s a lot to love about Crete beyond its ancient ruins: a beautiful variety of stunning beaches, excellent hiking, quaint historic towns, and incredible food and wine.

Plus, it’s affordable, making it an excellent budget destination to visit. And the island’s size ensures you can explore freely and escape the crowds that flock here during the busy summer months.

This travel guide to Crete can help you plan the perfect visit to this ancient island and ensure you save money in the process!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Crete

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Crete

1. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

This is Greece’s second-largest archaeological museum. The collection here spans over 5,500 years of history. The museum houses elaborate pottery, jewelry, sarcophagi, colorful frescoes from Knossos, and more. Its Minoan collection is the most extensive in the world. Overall, the museum is incredibly detailed and should not be missed. Tickets are 12 EUR in the summer and 6 EUR in the winter.

2. Relax on the Pink Beach

Elafonisi Beach is located in the southwest corner of Crete, about 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Chania. The waters are crystal clear and the beach has rose-colored sand (hence the name). It is super popular in the summer (so get here early), with rentable sunbeds and umbrellas lining the beach. There are plenty of secluded coves nearby if you want to get away from the crowds. The water is shallow enough that you can walk out to the small island of Elafonisi, which has a tiny lighthouse and unobstructed views of the Mediterranean.

3. Explore Chania

This area has been inhabited since Neolithic times and was a major Minoan settlement named Kydonia. Today, Chania is the second-largest city in Crete and has a scenic Venetian quarter and harborfront lined with tavernas (small Greek restaurants), cafes, and shops. While here, check out the historic Firka Fortress (built in 1620) as well as the Maritime Museum located inside the fortress.

4. Visit Knossos

Knossos was the ancient capital of the Minoan empire and its Bronze Age ruins are some of the oldest in Greece (it’s considered the oldest city in Europe). The area has been inhabited since at least 7000 BCE, flourishing between the 19th-14th centuries BCE. You need a few hours here to roam the rebuilt palaces, courtyards, private apartments, baths, villas, tombs, and more. Admission is 15 EUR (free admission on the first Sunday of every month during the winter).

5. Hike Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is one of Greece’s National Parks and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The main hike is a 16-kilometer (10-mile) trek that offers wonderful views of the White Mountains and finishes at the beach town of Agia Roumeli. Keep in mind that this is a fairly long, rocky trek that takes around 5-7 hours to complete. Because of the length of the trek, you aren’t allowed to start it after around 2pm (you can still do part of it, but you will have to turn around at a certain point). But for nature lovers, it’s well worth it, and you can grab a beer at one of the seaside tavernas when finished. Try to avoid mid-summer as temps can reach up to 40°C (104°F) and there’s no shade. The park is open May-October and admission is 5 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Crete

1. take a trip to spinalonga island.

Located in northeastern Crete, the Venetians built a large fortress here in 1579 to protect Mirabello Bay and Elounda Bay from the Ottomans. The defenses held strong until 1715 when the Ottomans sieged the island. When the Ottomans left in the late 19th century, the island became a leper colony and remained that way for decades. Visitors can now take a boat there and walk a short trail that takes you through the ruined church, a leper disinfection room, a hospital, and a cemetery. Admission is 8 EUR and it’s open from April-October.

2. Explore Koules Fortress

Located in Heraklion, Koules Fortress was built in the 13th century when Crete was under Venetian rule. It was designed to protect the city from invasion and at its height housed a mill, bakery, prison, barracks, and more. Nowadays, you can walk through the tunnels and visit the various rooms. There are a lot of informative exhibits explaining the history of the castle and area too. Admission is 4 EUR (closed on Tuesdays).

3. Visit Aptera

This ancient 12th-century monastery is located just 13 kilometers (8 miles) outside of Chania. During your visit, you can admire the restored monastery as well as the remains of the original fortified tower, a temple from the 5th century BCE, a city gate, monastic walls, Roman cisterns and baths, and an amphitheater. There was also a Turkish fortress built here in 1872 that overlooks Souda Bay. Admission is 4 EUR.

4. See the Lassithi Plateau

The Lassithi Plateau in eastern Crete stands 900 meters (2,952 feet) above sea level. To get there, you have to drive up winding mountain roads overlooking the Dikti mountain range (which is dotted with white windmills). While here, you can visit Psychro, home to the Dikteon Cave that, according to Greek mythology, is the birthplace of Zeus and the place where he was hidden as an infant to be protected from his father. It’s 6 EUR to visit the cave, or you can combine it with a full-day ATV experience across the plateau for 75 EUR.

5. Wander Rethymnon

Located in northwestern Crete, this city is the third-largest in Crete (after Heraklion and Chania). Rethymnon is famous for its spectacular 11-kilometer (7-mile) long beach as well as its Venetian old town, port, and fortress. I love getting lost in the streets here, exploring the 16th-century fortress, and eating all the tasty food the city has to offer. It has a phenomenal food scene!

6. Tour the Historical Museum of Crete

If you’re interested in the more modern history of Crete (from the early Christian period to the mid-20th century), this museum in Heraklion is awesome. It’s small, but there’s a lot to see, including two stunning paintings by El Greco: The Baptism of Christ and View of Mt. Sinai and the Monastery of St. Catherine . There’s also a giant model of the city from the Venetian era (around 1650 CE) before its Turkish occupation, and a re-creation of author Nikos Kazantzakis’s study where he wrote Zorba the Greek (a popular novel-turned-film written in 1946). Admission is 5 EUR.

7. Hit Balos Beach

Balos Beach in the northwest corner of Crete offers a nice mix of white and pink sand, as well as a lagoon that is a warm place for a swim. It’s a peaceful place to hang out and soak up the sun, though it does get very crowded in the summer as it is one of the most popular beaches on Crete. You can get here by car (and then hike down to the beach), ferry (though it doesn’t leave a lot of time at the beach), or private boat. There are no places to buy food here so bring your own.

8. Take a wine tour

Crete is one of the oldest wine-producing areas in Europe, with a history that dates back 4,000 years. There are some 30 wineries around the island and you can explore many of them as day trips from Chania or Heraklion. If you don’t have a car, there are several wine tours that leave from both cities, including Chania Wine Tours and Made in Crete (Heraklion). Both offer dedicated wine tours as well as wine and olive oil tours. Tours start from 85 EUR per person.

9. Wander Chrissi Island

Located 15 kilometers (9 miles) off the coast of southeastern Crete, this Caribbean-looking island is a protected nature reserve with a unique cedar forest covering most of the island. Its deep blue waters and white sand beach make it a popular spot to spend the day, snorkeling, swimming, and lounging around. Ferries leave from the mainland in the morning and come back starting around 3pm in the afternoon. The island is completely uninhabited, meaning that there are no services, so bring everything you need (though you can buy food and drinks on the ferries if you need to). The round-trip ferry costs around 25 EUR.

10. Visit Plakias

Located 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Rethymno in the southern part of the island, this little town is popular with older tourists looking for a quiet time. I don’t really love the beach here (too rocky for me) but there are some phenomenal sunsets and a few nearby hikes that make it worth a visit. It’s a good base to visit nearby beaches (a boat taxi hops between a bunch of them).

11. Relax at Preveli Beach

Located close to Plakias, this beach is famous for its palm trees and swimmable river. It starts a few kilometers up and runs through a gorge before emptying out into the sea. Legend says the palm trees were brought here by pirates. It’s one of the nicer beaches and the river is super nice to swim in. You can sometimes hike through the gorge depending on trail and river conditions. Be sure to check beforehand. It’s a hugely popular day-trip destination so expect crowds.

12. Take a Cretan cooking class

Greek food is legendary, and after eating your way around the island, you might want to bring a taste of your trip home with you. By taking a cooking class, you can learn how to make uniquely Cretan dishes like dakos (a Cretan version of bruschetta), kalitsounia (sweet cheese pastries), and tsigariasto (a stewed meat dish). Vamos Village and Cretan Cooking Classes both offer a variety of classes starting at 75 EUR per person.

13. Visit a Cretan olive oil farm

Dive deep into the island’s olive oil tradition by visiting a farm and taking a tour to learn more about this iconic staple. The aptly named Cretan Olive Oil Farm and The Olive Farm in Chania both offer tours of the groves and production facilities, which also include tastings. Both farms also offer a variety of other classes and workshops, including wine tastings, cheese making, and other cooking classes. Tours start at 45 EUR.

  For more information on other destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Crete Travel Costs

For those traveling with a tent, basic plots without electricity for one person start at 13.50 EUR per night in the summer and 11 EUR per night off-season.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 25 EUR in any of the main cities during the summer. In the off-season, prices start around 20 EUR per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and free breakfast.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Crete. For a private room, expect to pay at least 40 EUR, while an entire home/apartment averages closer to 150 EUR per night (you can find them for half that if you book early though).

Food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy with a lot of fresh vegetables, olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, cheeses (especially feta), and yogurts. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

Crete also has its own unique dishes, such as snails in cracked wheat ( kohli bourbouristi ), slow-cooked pork with potatoes ( psitos ), Cretan dakos (Crete’s version of the Greek salad), and horta (wild greens).

Street food like gyros or souvlaki costs about 4.50 EUR each, or less. A hearty Greek salad also costs about 4.50 EUR, while a warm cheese pie (called kalitsounia ) is about 2 EUR. A combo meal at McDonald’s costs about 11 EUR.

If you stick mostly to traditional Greek dishes, you can eat very well on a budget in Crete. A plate of pork souvlaki is around 9 EUR while calamari is about 7.50 EUR. A hearty dish of moussaka starts at 7 EUR, while a platter of grilled chicken or beef costs between 8-11 EUR. A beer to go with it costs from 3.50 EUR.

At a higher-end restaurant, you can get an appetizer and a seafood or steak entree for about 25 EUR. Pasta dishes are about 16 EUR, while a vegetarian main starts from about 12 EUR. A glass of local wine is another 4.50 EUR.

If you’re cooking your own meals, expect to spend around 45-50 EUR on groceries per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, veggies, eggs, cheese, and some meat.

Backpacking Crete Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Crete, expect to spend about 55 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a dorm, cooking some meals and eating some cheap fast food, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and mostly sticking to free activities like hanging out on the beach and hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 115 EUR per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for all your meals, take the occasional taxi, drink more, and do some paid activities like visiting the Archeological Museum and Knossos.

On a “luxury” budget of 205 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, enjoy some drinks, get a scooter rental, take more taxis, and do all the tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Crete Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Crete, like the rest of Greece, is very budget-friendly. But if you’re looking to cut down your expenses even more, here are some of my favorite ways to save money in Crete:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. Use this rule to figure out how to eat at cheap restaurants.
• Travel in the off-season – Crete is one of the rare Greek islands that has a sizeable year-round tourist population, so hotels and attractions are almost always open (unlike places like Santorini and Mykonos). If you come during the shoulder season or off-season, you can find lower accommodation rates and tour prices while still getting the best of what the Greek islands have to offer.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host that can host you for your stay. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you’ll get access to a local that can share their insider tips and information. Just be sure to send your requests early as there are not a lot of hosts here.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros (and other street snacks) usually only cost a few euros. They are quick and easy and can keep you full for less than 10 EUR per day!

Where to Stay in Crete

Crete’s a big island and you’ll likely book a few different places if you’re planning on exploring the full extent of the island. These are my recommended places to stay while you’re here:

• Youth Hostel Plakias
• Rethymno Youth Hostel
• Cocoon City
• Intra Muros

How to Get Around Crete

Most buses cost between 4-10 EUR per trip. For example, a 90-minute trip from Heraklion to Rethymnon costs around 6 EUR, while a three-hour trip from Heraklion to Chania is about 10 EUR.

Boat Scooter Rental – If you want more flexibility in getting around, a scooter rental is the way to go. They cost as little as 14 EUR per day. There are lots of rental companies, but I recommend Greenways.

Bicycle – Daily rentals start from about 20 EUR per day for a mountain bike or road bike but decrease the longer you rent them for. Joyride is an excellent company to rent from, though since scooter rentals are cheaper you might as well get one of them instead!

Taxi – Taxis in Crete charge about 1.20 EUR per kilometer and have a 1.80 EUR starting charge. There is usually a surcharge to and from the airport. In short, skip the taxis if you can as they add up!

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental when booked in advance. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have had their license for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars

When to Go to Crete

Crete has lovely weather year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 12°C (61°F) in the coldest months and averaging 26°C (79°F) daily during the summer.

May to the end of September are the busiest tourist months, so if you want to avoid the crowds and inflated prices, come during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn). October is a particularly nice time to visit, as the average daily temperature is still pleasant 21°C (69°F), and the crowds are virtually gone.

That said, it’s a big island so there are always places here during peak season without crowds if you don’t mind getting off the beaten path.

Unlike other Greek islands, Crete has a large year-round population. While some businesses are seasonal, you won’t have any problem finding a place to stay, and most museums and attractions are open all year.

How to Stay Safe on Crete

Crete is a very safe place to travel. Violent crime is rare and petty crime (like pick-pocketing) is your only real concern (and even that is uncommon). Keep your valuables close at tourist attractions and while on the beach and you should be fine.

If you’re driving, be extra cautious on Crete’s winding roads. Locals drivers can be erratic. Moreover, some of the roads are under-developed and there’s no real signage. Drive cautiously.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

If you’re going hiking, bring lots of water and always wear sunscreen and bring a hat too. It can get sweltering in the summer!

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Crete Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.

Crete Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Greece and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Insider tips before your trip to Crete

Jul 10, 2022 • 5 min read

Visiting Crete is a pleasure – and even easier by familiarizing yourself with a few simple tips © alexandros petrakis / Shutterstock

Crete is easy. There’s little you need to do to prepare for your trip to this glorious Greek island beyond making a few advance bookings. Packing is simple – and if you forget something, you can buy it there.

The island is safe. The local economy counts on tourists, and the Cretans – like most Greeks – are friendly and welcoming. In any business where tourists turn up (which even includes tiny family-run eateries high in the hills), someone will speak English. A little common sense and politeness will go a long way as you navigate the etiquette of the place.

Here’s all you need to know before you take your trip to Crete. (Lucky you.) 

Reserve your rooms and rental cars (well) in advance

As travelers continue to make up for missed trips during the pandemic, Crete is a favorite destination. From April to October, the best places to stay at all price levels book up early. Don’t wait, expecting prices to fall. They won’t.

This is even more true for rental cars, thanks to the global car shortage. If you’re driving the entire time you’re on the island, shop around and reserve the best deal you can find. One exception: if you’ll just be hiring a car for the occasional day trip, you can wait until you’re on the island and then arrange for a day rental with a local outfit. (Keep in mind that this may be a friend of the hotel owner with a fleet of three Fiats.)

Know your season – and layer up

Images of sun-drenched beaches and balmy nights in cafes underpin Cretan tourism cliches. But outside of summer, it’s not always warm. Winter can be blustery, chilly and wet. Nights outside of July and August can be brisk. Bring layers.

Bring some cash

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted for purchases large and small, and ATMs are common on Crete. But you might encounter offline machines or cash-only vendors, so we recommend carrying about €200 in cash in various smaller-euro denominations. Don’t be that person who hands the elderly ex-fisherman running the beach ferry a €50 note for a €5 fare.

Fill your phone with maps before you take the wheel

Many mapping apps allow you to download data in advance that you can then use for navigation when your phone is offline. This can be a lifeline when you’re at the junction of two unmarked roads deep in the mountains and you don’t know which way to turn.

Cover up in churches

Letting it (almost) all hang out is fine on many beaches (there are a few completely nude ones on the island) but when you’re stopping into Crete’s many historic, incense-filled churches, show some respect. Cover your shoulders, have shorts or a skirt that goes below the knees, and don’t enter barefoot.

Stay coolly stylish at night

Balmy nights call for airy, floaty duds – yet don’t expect to get into that cool cafe, top restaurant or heaving club with a singlet and short shorts. Longer shorts and dresses are good almost anywhere at night; a crisp designer T-shirt or something with a collar will work for men.

Cretans rarely go naked or topless on the beach

Island residents fully expect the clothes to fall away from their beach-loving visitors. Yet you should still exercise some discretion. Near town centers and along beach promenades, polite exposure maintains a shred of modesty. Elsewhere, women often go topless and designated nude areas abound. When in doubt, check out the prevailing fashion around you (or lack thereof).

Expect long and languid dinners

Crete has some of the best food in Mediterranean Europe . Meals are an event  – and can extend over two or more very enjoyable hours. Friends share dishes large and small, which are served to the entire table, family style. On a busy summer evening, restaurants can get slammed and courses may meander out of the kitchen only after long gaps. Trying to hurry things along is bad form and the antithesis of a lovely, relaxed night out.

In contrast, lunch can be enjoyed fairly quickly at a cafe or savored for much longer, especially at a seaside taverna, where a shady table and fresh seafood meal is the ideal antidote to the scorchingly hot midday sun.

Be sure to tip – but don’t overtip

As an island with a huge tourism industry, Crete has more of a tipping culture than more un-touristed parts of Greece. In restaurants and cafes, 5% is a good median amount, with 10% very generous. Locals will round up to an even number in a restaurant (eg leave €35 for a tab of €33) or leave small change in a cafe.

Leaving some euros for your room cleaner is always appreciated. If someone helps you with your bags, €1 to €3 per bag is appropriate – unless it’s a taxi driver, in which case the bag handling fee is added to the fare. You only need to tip a taxi driver a couple of euros at most.

Pay the asked price

Outside of open-air markets, bargaining over prices is not the norm in Crete. Expect to pay the marked price in shops and galleries.

Feel free to drink the water

Tap water in Crete is safe to drink. Remember to refill your water bottles whenever you can, as it gets very hot in summer. You’ll need plenty of hydration for the beach, hiking trails, bus and car rides, and more.

Don’t stress about crime

Crete is a safe place to travel and you shouldn’t lose sleep over the risk of crime. As anywhere, though, common sense should always prevail: lock your doors, don’t leave valuables in the rental car and never leave your phone or other treasures unattended on the beach or at the cafe.

Frustrate the mosquitos

Mosquitos buzz about ceaselessly at dusk. If you like anti-bug sprays or balms, bring them with you – repellants can be surprisingly tough to find on Crete. Mosquito coils are widely available, as well as electric gizmos that plug into the wall of hotel rooms. But the efficacy of these methods is variable at best.

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Crete Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days + My Best Tips

7 days in crete: the best itinerary.

You’re traveling to Crete and you’re looking for the best 7 days Itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this detailed 6, 7 or 8 days itinerary in Greece . During your trip, you will discover East Crete must-see attractions.

Quick note: If you prefer to visit West Crete (Chania, Balos lagoon, Elafonissi beach, Samaria Gorge ) , you should rather read my other itinerary: How to visit Western Crete in 1 week.

And if you prefer to spend 7 days in Crete staying in just 1 place , you can click here.

During your trip to Crete, you will have the opportunity to visit Heraklion , Spinalonga island, Vai beach and the most beautiful beaches of the East as well as Zakros Gorge and Matala .

In this travel guide, in addition to the best places to visit , you will find a list of the best accommodations depending on your budget . And as always, I will also give you all my best tips to make the most of your stay!

So, what are the best things to do in 7 days in Crete? Where to stay?

Where to stay in Heraklion?

Accommodation in elounda, where to stay in sitia, where to stay in matala, 5) return to heraklion (1 day), 7 days in crete, staying in 1 place, 7-day tour in crete – with a travel agency, renting a boat in crete, you’re traveling to crete these articles will help you, 1) heraklion (1 day).

To visit Crete in 7 days , you must arrive in Heraklion.

Thanks to its international airport, it is the best connected city in the East of the island. You can compare flight prices for Heraklion at the end of the article in the section “Going to Crete”.

For this 7-day itinerary in Crete , you will need to rent a car. To compare the rates of all the rental companies present at Heraklion airport and make your reservation , please go to the website Rentalcars.com.

This is the most practical site because you will directly see which rental company offers the lowest prices or which has the best reputation thanks to customer reviews.

And if you don’t already have insurance included with your credit card, you can also benefit from comprehensive insurance (optional) which covers expenses in case of accident or theft.

If you already know the dates of your 7-day trip to Crete , click on the button below to compare prices now:

For this first day, you must visit Heraklion. 

If you are interested in history, you can’t do better than starting with a visit to the historical museum of Crete (€5) . With an audio guide in English (very rare in Greece!), you can learn more about the whole Byzantine period up to the 2nd World War.

With a less than a 5 minute walk from the museum along the seafront, you must then go to the fortress of Koules (€4) . The rooms of the fortress have an exhibition on the history of the place . You can also climb the ramparts to admire the view.

Continue on a walk through the old town of Heraklion , which is located along the rue 25 Avgoustou and the surrounding streets . In addition to the shops and restaurants, you must visit:

• Agiou Titou square where the church is located
• The Town hall
• Saint Mark’s Basilica
• The Morosini Lions Fountain
• The rue 1866.

It’s then time to discover one of the must-see sights of this 7-8 day tour in Crete: the archaeological museum of Heraklion. 

The 27 rooms are chronologically organised and display a remarkable collection of objects ranging from the Neolithic period to the Roman period.

Among the best known objects are those dating from the Minoan civilisation and found at the archaeological site of the Palace of Knossos (next visit on the agenda).

The museum being the main place of interest to see in Heraklion, there is always a huge crowd . You really must buy your ticket early to avoid queuing.

You can choose from 2 types of tickets:

• The classic entry ticket , that needs to be purchased by clicking on the green button below:
• The combined ticket including the museum + the Palace of Knossos. 

This is the one I recommend because it will also help you skip the queue for palace. It also includes a downloadable audio guide for both sites:

The visit to the museum goes hand-in-hand with Knossos , so you must continue by visiting the most famous archaeological site in Crete.

Being located 5 km from Heraklion city centre, you will have to go there by car or take the public bus (line no. 2 – departure from the bus station located 200 metres from the museum).

At the peak of the Minoan civilisation, the Knossos palace formed a vast complex consisting of the residences of the king and the queen , those of officials and priests , baths , warehouses where food was stored and a theatre.

Today, some parts have been reconstructed but it still takes a lot of imagination to visualise the place as it is almost entirely ruined.

Among the things to see , you will find the frescoes, the throne room and the queen ‘s room (the Megaron).

As I told you, entrance to Knossos is included in the combination ticket with the archaeological museum (click here) but if you want to know everything about the history of the place , you can book it too (click on the orange links):

• A digital tablet that displays the relics in the palace in 3D + Audioguide in English. The price of the ticket is added to the rental of the tablet.
• Guided tour of the Palace of Knossos in English – Small group of 8 people maximum.

After this first day full of exploration, return to Heraklion for the night.

If you don’ t have time to visit the Palace of Knossos in the late afternoon, you can catch up the next morning before leaving Heraklion. What’s great is that if you took the combined ticket, it will still be valid .

For more details on places to visit in Heraklion , you must read my article: The best things to see and do in Heraklion?

And you can find all the practical information about Knossos here: How to visit the Palace of Knossos?

• Intra Muros Hostel: Hostel located a 5-minute walk from the old town. Dormitory bed from 21€. Strong points: comfortable, warm welcome, cleanliness, roof terrace. The best choice for cheap accommodation in Heraklion!
• Kronos Hotel: Located just next to Heraklion fortress. Double room with impeccable cleanliness and balcony (some with a sea view) from 65€, breakfast included. Strong points: the location is perfect for visiting Heraklion, good breakfast and friendly staff.
• Atrion Hotel: Located in the historical centre. Comfortable and warm double room with balcony from 85€, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent location and excellent breakfast. It’s my favorite hotel for its excellent value for money in Heraklion!
• DOM Boutique Hotel: Located in the heart of the old town. Modern, spacious and elegantly decorated double room from 110€, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent breakfast, attentive staff, setting, very good bedding. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Heraklion!
• GDM Megaron: This 5-star hotel is also located in the centre of Heraklion, not far from the Venetian port. The hotel offers beautiful rooms with a balcony from 190€, breakfast included. Strong points: rooftop swimming pool, wellness area, exceptional breakfast, great staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Heraklion!

2) Elounda (2 days)

The following day , to continue your 7-8 day stay in Crete , you must go to the Lassithi plateau. From Heraklion, you can drive to the plateau in just 45 minutes.

On this day, you can take the time to explore this rural area and its typical villages while enjoying nice views all along the road.

I recommend the following itinerary:

• The Panagia Kera Kardiotissa monastery offers a quick visit to its small chapel with beautiful frescoes and a beautiful view of the mountains.
• Visit to the Homo sapiens museum. The car park offers a beautiful view of the whole plain but the museum itself is not worth visiting.
• Visit the cave on Mount Dicte that is also called the Cave of Zeus or the Cave of Psichro . This is the main tourist attraction of Lassithi , as legend has it that this is where Zeus was born. To get to the cave, you will have to walk about 10 minutes on a path that goes up quite steeply and then down a long staircase because the cave is very deep. Price: €6

• Next to the cave car park, you can visit the Greek Mythological Park , which depicts scenes from Greek mythology that you can experience with an audio guide in English . Frankly, I was a bit worried that it wasn’t worth it, but I was pleasantly surprised: the decor is well done and the explanations are clear.
• The Lasinthos Eco Park , where entry is free. There are several weaving, pottery, candle -making workshops where you can attend demonstrations. If you are travelling with children for 7 days in Crete, there is also a small farm with goats and ponies.
• The ancient city of Lato: a renowned archaeological site that also offers a beautiful view of the entire bay below – The ruins of this ancient fortified city date from the 4th and 3rd century BC. Entrance costs €3.
• Panagia Kera Church, located in the village of Kritsa, is known for its extremely well-preserved Byzantine frescoes.

From Kritsa , you can reach the seafront and the small town of Agios Nikolaos in 20 minutes by car.

By parking your car in the municipal car park (costing €3/day), you can walk along the sea to see the Voulismeni lake in the centre of the city. There are shops and restaurants all around.

Then drive up to the last stop of the day , 10 km North of Agios Nikolaos: Elounda.

Spend the night in Elounda.

Today, you must stay in Elounda and to discover one of the unmissable places on a 7-day road trip in Crete : Spinalonga island.

Spinalonga owes its fame to Victoria Hislop’s novel, “The Island” , which takes place on the island. The novel is world-famous and has even been adapted into a series and a film.

To get there, you will have to take the boat at the Elounda port . The return ticket costs €12 and there are departures every 1/2 hours in peak season. Spinalonga is 15 minutes away.

Once you land there, entry to the site costs €8.

Spinalonga is an ancient fortress built in the 16th century which later served as a leper colony in the 1900s . Today, you can walk in the old buildings of the village, the leper hospital, the church and the fort.

You can also climb up the hill to enjoy the view of the peninsula and the Elounda coast.

It takes a good hour, or even a little more to go around on foot.

Then take the boat back when you want. By now It will certainly be time for lunch in one of the taverns of Elounda.

In the afternoon, drive to the Spinalonga peninsula, at the end of the village of Elounda.

Take the small track (1 km) and park at the end of the path. A 10-minute walk down to the sea will take you to Kolokitha beach.

With its shallow turquoise waters, its white sands and the magnificent setting, this small creek is just magnificent. It deserves its place among the most beautiful beaches to go to Crete in 7 days!

There is usually a bit of a crowd as some of the tour boats stop on the way back after having been to Spinalonga but if you go a little to the right, you also have 2 other, quieter coves.

Between swims, you can also walk on either side of the beach , along the peninsula which is really untamed.

Spend another night in Elounda.

If you don’t feel like spending the whole afternoon at the beach, you can also drive North of Elounda to Plaka . Continuing along the road which begins to climb and offers beautiful views of Spinalonga Island and the peninsula.

It is possible to make a circuit around the cape through the villages and olive fields.

• Adrakos Apartments (Adults Only):  Located on the road between Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. Cosy and comfortable studios and apartments, with kitchenette, from €50 per night, breakfast at €11. Strong points: unobstructed view of the entire bay, swimming pool, comfortable beds.
• Elounda George Studios:  Located at the entrance of Elounda on arrival from Agios Nikolaos. Studio rooms for 2 people with kitchenette and balcony from €55 per night. Strong points: cleanliness, facilities, warm welcome.
• Kalypso Suites Hotel:  Located in the centre of Elounda. Modern double room with fancy decor from €80 per night. Strong points: location, comfortable rooms, very nice owner.  It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Elounda!
• Elounda Akti Olous (Adults Only):  Located at the end of Elounda, towards the peninsula. Modern double room with sea or garden view from €90, breakfast included. Strong points: the rooftop with its swimming pool and bar, private parking, good breakfast, private beach.
• Elounda Heights (Adults Only): Located in the mountains of Elounda. Studio and apartment with sea view from €95, breakfast at €8. Strong points: the view, excellent breakfast, swimming pool and beautiful garden.

Elounda is a well-known seaside resort and the place where you will find the best luxury hotels on the island.

Here is my selection of the most beautiful 5* hotels in Elounda for your 2-week stay in Crete:

• Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel:  This luxury hotel offers spacious rooms with sea view and a large terrace from €185 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: private beach, large swimming pool with a magnificent view, friendly staff.
• Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection: Magnificent suites with very elegant decoration, some with jacuzzi or private swimming pools starting from €250 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: splendid Spa, the beach, the view, superb location.
• Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Resort: Luxury bungalow with sea view and lounge area from €300, breakfast included. Strong points: the 2000m² spa and its facilities (hammams, saunas, jacuzzi, indoor swimming pools), private beach, excellent restaurants.
• Cayo Exclusive Resort Spa: Superior room with private pool from €330, breakfast included. Strong points: heated pool, calm atmosphere, excellent breakfast, attentive staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Crete!

3) Sitia and the beaches of East Crete (2 days)

Today, to continue this 7-day itinerary in Crete, you must now start heading East. 

The next stop will be the city of Sitia but you could take stops during the day.

Start by stopping at the beautiful Voulisma Beach, a 25-minute drive from Elounda. Ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, you will immediately understand why after seeing its turquoise colour and shallow water. 

Rest assured, you won’t be able to resist taking a dip! You can also try water activities such as the buoy rides or jet ski.

After a refreshing dip, get back on the road to the village of Mohlos , 30 minutes away. On the way, you can also admire the pretty views.

Located on the seafront, this small, quiet, and picturesque village is very pretty with an island located in front of it , which you can swim to easily from the beach. The water is very clear and it is very pleasant for swimming.

If you haven’t had lunch yet, you’ll find several family-run inns where you can have a good local meal and enjoy the surroundings peacefully.

The rest of the day will be a little more athletically-oriented, with a hike in the Richtis Gorge.

To do this, drive up to the village of Exo Mouliana (35 minutes from Voulisma) where you’ll find the well-designated car park for the Gorge, along the main road. If the one on the left is full, you have another one on the other side of the road.

From the car park , it takes about 20 minutes on foot (downhill) to reach the starting point of the hike on the Lachana bridge. You will find a security hut where you will have to pay the €3 for the entrance.

From here you will have to walk for about 1 hour in the forest . It’s quite easy as the path is flat but there are a few passages in the rocks which require nimble dexterity, so make sure you are wearing at least a pair of sneakers and avoid flip-flops.

You will then arrive at the very pretty Richtis waterfall, 65 feet high , where you can take beautiful pictures and swim in its pool. 

Once there, you can walk back in the direction you came from or continue to the seaside with a 30 minute walk. You will arrive at a small, pebbled beach but the water is very deep and the place quite windy, so it’s not ideal for swimming.

From the beach, if you are tired and you don’t want to walk back, you can take a taxi that will take you back to the car park . The taxi number is displayed on the beach trees. It costs €25 for 2.

Then reach the town of Sitia (15 minutes drive) for the night.

We continue this 7-8 day tour in Crete with the discovery of the Easternmost part of the island. 

The agenda for the day will be relatively similar to yesterday with stops at very beautiful beaches and a small hike in the middle.

From Sitia , the first stop of the day is at the Moni Toplou monastery, a 20 minute drive away. The monastery (€4 entrance fee) includes several spaces converted into small museums and mainly displaying engravings. The church is also famous for its beautiful icons.

Then continue for 9 km and you will arrive at the beaches of Itanos. These are 2 small, sandy beaches that are very pretty and very quiet. They are not very crowded because they are not part of the classic tourist circuits.

Then continue on the road and in less than 5 minutes, you will be at Vai beach, much better known than its neighbours. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches to see during this 7-day stay in East Crete.

And its reputation is well-deserved because it is indeed a beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear waters and bordered by a forest of palm trees . You can rent deckchairs/parasols for €10 to 15 (depending on the location).

On the beach you will also find inns/cafes and you can indulge in water activities: jet ski, paddle boat, buoy rides.

You must take the stairs to the right of the beach to get to the view point.

If you don’t feel like staying on the beach all day long, you can take a short walk through the Zakros Gorge.  This gorge is about a 40-minute drive south of Vai Beach.

For the record, the Gorge is called nicknamed “The Valley of the Dead” because during the Minoan period, the dead were buried in the many caves dug into the cliff surrounding the Gorge.

There are 2 entrances to the Gorge:

• The car park and entrance A are located first on the road, on the left. There is a sign. Passing through here, the path goes down to the bottom of the Gorge. It takes about an hour and a half to walk to the village of Kato Zakros, where the Gorge ends.
• The car park and entrance B are located 1.4 km below on the main road. Also marked by a sign. This path overlooks the Gorge and offers beautiful views. The walk to the village takes 1 hour .

This hike is considered one of the must-do activities in Crete in 7 days.

You can then turn around or take a taxi that will take you back to the car park (€12 or so for the journey).

If you don’ t feel like hiking , you can also drive down to the village. From the road, you will arrive at a beautiful view point of the end of the Gorge.

To end the day in style, you must go to one of my favourite places in Crete: Xerokampos and its beautiful beaches! This dream spot is just a 10-minute drive from Zakros.

You will find a succession of coves and beaches, all more beautiful than the others.

And guess what, they are still not very crowded! There are plenty of places where you can relax without anyone and swim in the incredible turquoise waters.

I particularly liked 2 beaches:

• Katsounaki beach (Maps.me name), also called “ Paralia Anola” (Google Maps): a pretty cove with fine sands accessible by car via a dirt road.
• The Ambelou beach (on Maps.me) or “Paralia Mazida Ammos” (if you search on Google Maps) which is just beautiful! You can park all along the road and access the beach directly.

Return to Sitia for another night . From Xerokampos, it is just over an hour away by car.

• Nora Hotel: Located in the port of Sitia. Very simple and basic room starting from €35. Strong points: cleanliness, very kind owner, sea-view.
• Hotel Petras Beach : Located just opposite the beach. Nice and spacious room from €45. Strong points: the beautiful garden and its flowery terrace, friendly staff, close to the sea.
• Hotel El Greco:  Located in the centre of Sitia. Comfortable and warm double room with balcony from €50. Strong points: warm welcome, calm atmosphere, view.
• Sitia Beach: Located in the bay of Sitia. 5* hotel with very spacious and bright double rooms with balcony, from €120 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, spa with sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, private beach, location. My favourite for its excellent value for money!
• Oceanides Luxury Apartments: Located 3 km away from the centre. 2 bedroom, well-equipped, and spacious apartments from €250. Strong points: superbly maintained garden, magnificent pool area, perfect welcome from the owner, peace and comfort. The pefect choice for a luxury stay!

4) Island of Chrissi and Matala (1 day)

For the second-last day of your 7-day road trip in Crete, you must first go to Ierapetra, a 1 hour drive from Sitia.

The city is the departure point for boat trips to Chrissi island. Boats depart every day between 10:30am and 12:00pm , the journey takes about 1 hour and it will cost between €20 and €25 per person for the return journey.

You don’ t necessarily have to book in advance because these are big tourist boats that can carry hundreds of passengers (which also means that you shouldn’t expect to be alone on the island…).

Once there, you will only need a few minutes’ walk to get to the main beach and its turquoise waters: Golden Beach.

There are also other beaches which can be reached on foot all around the island and are much less frequented.

Boats leave from Chrissi from 4:30 pm. 

A few things to know about the island of Chrissi:

• It is a nature reserve, so the island is totally wild: there are no restaurants, toilets or facilities. 
• There is no shade on the beach . You can rent parasols on the boat for € 4 or sit a little further under the trees (but spots are quickly taken).
• Bring water , picnic materials, and sunscreen.
• There are many sharp rocks, you will absolutely need shoes to go in the water.
• Avoid going to Chrissi if it’s too windy, it won’t be very pleasant on the beach (or during the boat trip!).

If you don’t necessarily like spending 4 to 5 hours on the beach without being able to leave earlier or if you don’t like the tourist beaches, you don’t have to go to Chrissi.

You can resume the itinerary from now on.

From Ierapetra, it takes 2 hours 20 minutes to reach Matala.

This small seaside resort is famous for its neolithic caves carved into the cliffs . Used as a Roman necropolis in the time, they were, used as a squatting spot by a community of hippies in the 60s.

And one can understand why they chose this place, when you realise that the caves overlook a nice cove with translucent waters, perfect for swimming (and at the time, to have a good guitar session in the evening by the fire!).

The caves can be visited for €4.

Matala also has another beach that can be reached by a path that goes up from behind the village . Take the stairs and follow the signs that say “Red Beach”. It takes 30 minutes to walk there.

It is a small beach with golden sands, and has a bar and a toilet but the water is quite deep.

Even if you don’ t want to walk to Red Beach , you must at least climb the first set of stairs and take a right to go and see the view of the caves and Matala.

Spend the night in Matala.

For dinner in Matala , as a change from the local cuisine, you must head to the Bistronomy restaurant.

Everything is homemade (even the pasta) and it is excellent. We took the sushi as starter, risotto and burgers, and we had a treat. And like everywhere in Crete, we were treated to the dessert (cakes and fruit) offered with the liqueur.

• Hotel Orama Matala: Located 10 minutes on foot from the centre. Double room, simple but comfortable, from €55, breakfast included. Strong points: the warm welcome, calm atmosphere, swimming pool.
• Matala Bay Hotel Apartments:  Located 500 metres from the beach. Spacious double room with comfortable bedding from €70, breakfast included. Strong points: location, swimming pool, excellent breakfast.
• Nikos Hotel:  Located 100 metres from the beach. Double room with balcony from €70. Strong points: warm welcome, private parking, near the beach
• Valley Village: Located 15 minutes on foot from the centre of Matala. Double room from €60 or bungalow suite at €80, breakfast included. The suites are super spacious, with 2 terraces and a jacuzzi. Strong points: swimming pool, quiet atmosphere, private parking, full breakfast. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money in Matala!

Now you are at the seventh and last day of this 7-day drive in Crete, which means you will have to return to Heraklion.

It takes about an hour and a half from Matala to reach the city.

But if you are taking a flight at the end of the day or the next day , you must take the opportunity to finish visiting the island or choose a very nice activity from my selection.

Here are my selections (your choice):

• A boat trip from Matala to the islands of Paximadia.

You will take a traditional wooden boat that leaves around 10.30am and takes 90 minutes to reach the beach of Paximadia . Guests can enjoy snorkelling (masks and snorkels provided) and a barbecue lunch included.

Return to Matala around 5 pm.

The company organising the excursion is called Mare Sud Tours and has a kiosk in Matala (no website).

• A small group cruise to the island of   Dia from Heraklion
• Another boat trip (click here) also from Heraklion
• A day at a water park . There are 2 in Heraklion: the Watercity Waterpark and the Acqua Plus water park (ticket available here!) .
• A quad bike trip (available in the mornings or afternoons from Agia Pelagia – 30 minutes from Heraklion).

The trip lasts 3 hours and 30 minutes and is really great because the route is off the beaten track . The guide is also very nice and speaks English.

However, you must book in advance by clicking on the button below:

• Explore the wine region of Crete , which is located in the South of Heraklion. May estates offer vineyard visits and wine tastings. On the road between Matala and Heraklion, you can stop at the Diamantakis estate .

For a 6-day itinerary in Crete (East) , you could remove the day at the Lassithi plateau. From Heraklion, go directly to Elounda and resume the itinerary from the visit to the island of Spinalonga. You will only spend one night in Elounda.

To visit Crete in 8 days , you can choose one of the tours/activities that you did not do on the last day . You can also find other ideas in my article: What are the things to do in Heraklion and nearby?

On the eighth day, from Matala , you can also go to the famous Preveli beach which is bordered by a palm grove and has a river crossing through it.

Would you prefer to spend 6, 7 or 8 days in Crete, staying only in Heraklion?

No worries!

You should read my article by clicking here: What are the things to do in Heraklion?

You will find all my tips on how to organise your week in Heraklion.

If you don’t want to rent a car, with organised trips, you can also go to some of the places I talk about in this itinerary like:

• One-day  Land Rover Safari across the Lassithi Plateau with an English-speaking guide
• Cruise to the famous island of Spinalonga
• Trip to the small island of Chrissi
• Jeep safari to the Preveli beach

From Heraklion , you can also visit West Crete and its unmissable sights, as you will find trips to:

• The Samaria Gorge
• Elafonissi beach, with its pink sand
• Lagoon of Balos

However, it should be noted that these places are quite far away from Heraklion and if you really want to see them all, you must choose Chania as the starting point.

I have explained everything in my other article. To read , click on the following link: One week itinerary in Crete (West).

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Crete by yourself. (All my Crete guides are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Crete tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Crete tours by clicking the button below:

Do not hesitate to give us your opinions and suggestions on our 7-day itinerary in Crete!

If you have any questions for organising your 7 day tour in Crete, please feel free to ask me in the comments.

How to get to Crete: flights & ferries prices

To get to Heraklion, the best is to take a flight.

Heraklion Airport is just a 10-minute drive from the city centre.

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices. You have to know that the flight prices to Corsica can vary a lot throughout the year!

So to check the rates and schedules, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

Heraklion can also be reached by ferries from the port of Piraeus in Athens . It’s 8h30 to 9h30 journey.

You can also get to Heraklion from many Greek islands of the Cyclades archipelago: Santorini , Naxos , Paros , Mykonos, Tinos .

To check prices and schedules of ferries to Crete, simply click on the button below:

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Crete, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Crete? 😊

Discover all my articles about Crete : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Crete are listed there.

• 27 Best things to do in Crete : All the best places to visit and activities
• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Crete – Itinerary to prepare a short stay in East or West Crete
• Itinerary: One week in Crete – The perfect itinerary to visit Western Crete
• Itinerary : 7 days in Crete – The best itinerary to visit East Crete in 1 week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Crete – How to visit Crete in 10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Crete – The perfect itinerary for 14-15 days in Crete
• Road trip to Crete: The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10 and 15 days
• Chania : The 15 best places to discover
• Heraklion : TOP 13 places to visit
• Rethymnon: The 13 best things to do
• Balos Beach : All my best tips to visit Balos Lagoon!
• Elafonissi Beach : The definitive guide to discover Crete’s famous pink sand beach
• Palace of Knossos: The definitive guide to visit the most famous archaeological site of Crete
• Samaria Gorge : How to plan the best hike in Crete
• Where to stay in Crete? The guide to the best hotels, ordered by city and budget

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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The tour to Greece was a pleasant surprise for me! Perfect organisation, pleasant team, amazing landscapes and cultural sites!

Crete (Kríti) is a great deal more than just another Greek island. In many places, especially in the cities or along the developed north coast, it doesn’t feel like an island at all, but rather a substantial land in its own right. Which of course it is – a precipitous, wealthy and at times surprisingly cosmopolitan one with a tremendous and unique history. At the same time, it has everything you could want of a Greek island and more: great beaches, remote hinterlands and hospitable people.

Brief history

Adventure sports, wine tasting in crete, festival island, ecotourism in crete, central crete, eastern crete, réthymnon and around, western crete, reconstruction of the palace, the archaeological site, the legend of the minotaur, the samariá gorge.

With enough land for agriculture (and some surprisingly good vineyards), it’s one of the few Greek islands that could probably support itself without visitors. Nevertheless, tourism is an important part of the economy, particularly exploited along the north coast, where many resorts cater almost exclusively to rowdy young revellers lured by thumping bars and cheap booze. The quieter, less commercialized resorts and villages lie at either end of the island – west, towards Haniá and the smaller, less well-connected places along the south and west coasts, or east around Sitía. The high mountains of the interior are still barely touched by tourism.

Of the cities, sprawling Iráklion often gives a poor first impression of the island but is well worth a visit for its excellent archeological museum. It’s also close to the fabulous Minoan sites of Knossos, Phaestos and Ayía Triádha to the south (with Roman Gortys to provide contrast). Further east, the upmarket resort of Áyios Nikólaos provides sophisticated restaurants and hotels, while quiet, lazy Sitía is a perfect base for exploring the eastern coastline. Heading west, Réthymnon boasts a pretty old town and an excellent beach, though Haniá in the extreme west arguably beats it in terms of style and atmosphere. South of here is the Samariá Gorge, one of the best hikes in the country.

In terms of climate, Crete has by far the longest summers in Greece, and you can get a decent tan here right into October and swim at least from May until early November. The one seasonal blight is the meltémi, a northerly wind, which regularly blows harder and more continuously here than anywhere else in Greece – the locals may welcome its cooling effects, but it’s another reason (along with crowds and heat) to avoid an August visit if you can.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Greece, created by local experts

10 days  / from 2632 USD

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

9 days  / from 2226 USD

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

10 days  / from 2012 USD

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

Crete is distinguished above all as the home of Europe’s earliest civilization, the Minoans. They had a remarkably advanced society, and formed the centre of a maritime trading empire as early as 2000 BC. The island’s strategic position between east and west has since continued to play a major role in its history. Control of the island passed from Greeks to Romans to Saracens, through the Byzantine empire to Venice, and finally to Turkey for more than two centuries. During World War II, Crete was occupied by the Germans and attained the dubious distinction of being the first place to be successfully invaded by paratroops.

With its temperate climate and varied topography Crete is a great place for adventure holidays, and there are numerous companies across the island offering everything from mountain biking and canyoning to trekking and horseriding. Here’s a selection of what’s on offer.

Climbing/adrenaline sports

• Liquid Bungy White-knuckle bungee jumping (Europe’s second highest) at the Arádhena Gorge, Haniá.
• Trekking Plan Rock climbing, mountaineering, canyoning, rappelling, kayaking and mountain biking in Haniá province.

Horseriding

• Melanouri Horseriding holidays (one to seven days) from a stable near Mátala.
• Odysseia One- to six-day guided and unguided horse treks from their base at Avdhoú near the Lasíthi Plateau.
• Zoraïda’s Horseriding Horseriding holidays and treks from their stables in Yeoryoúpoli, Haniá.

Walking and cycling

• Alpine Travel Hiking, rock climbing, sea kayaking and biking holidays (or combinations thereof) in Haniá province.
• Cretan Adventures Hiking, horseriding and jeep safaris throughout Crete.
• The Happy Walker Walking tours from one day to two weeks from €30 (for the day-hike which includes minibus from your hotel to start point).
• Hellas Bike One- to seven-day bike tours from Ayía Marína in Haniá province.

Hiking and climbing holidays in central, southern and western Crete.

• Olympic Bike Guided bike tours from €139 for three one-day trips, or bike rental only from €20 per day.
• Strata Walking Tours Guided trekking holidays in the Kastélli Kissamou area of Haniá.

As well as the large Péza region near Knossos and the ancient vineyard at Vathýpetro, there are also vineyards in eastern Crete, around Sitía, another major producer, and smaller vineyards in the west around Haniá. The main grape varieties grown on the island are the white Vilana and the red Mantilari, Kotsifari and Syrah grapes. Wine tasting and cellar tours can be undertaken during the summer months.

The Cretans love a glendi (party) and festivals are celebrated with plenty of eating, drinking, live music and dancing. Here are some of those which celebrate local harvests (check locally for specific dates):

• Chestnut Festival Élos and Prásses, West Crete, end of October. The village squares are packed with tables and chairs as the villages celebrate the local chestnut harvest with eating, drinking, dancing, and roast chestnuts, of course.
• Sardine Festival Néa Hóra, Haniá. The first Monday in September is the date for this annual festival at the small harbour by the town beach, with plentiful free fish and wine with local musicians and dancers.
• Sultana Festival Sitía, in August. The region is well known for its sultana production, and the harvest is celebrated with traditional Cretan music and dance in the main square, accompanied by food and wine.
• Tsikoudiá (Raki) Festival Haniá, Iráklion and Voukoliés, mid-October and early November. At the end of the grape harvest the must-residue from the wine press is boiled and distilled to make tsikoudiá, the local fire water. Hot tsikoudiá, with an alcohol content as high as 60 percent, is scooped from the vats and proffered in shot glasses, and so the merriment begins.

Crete has an incredibly diverse landscape, flora and fauna, and a number of environmentally aware locals have set about preserving its natural and cultural heritage. A range of retreats and lodges has sprung up across the island, offering the chance to experience sustainable, eco-friendly living and participate in everything from hiking to making the local firewater tsikoudhiá.

The hub of central Crete is the capital city, Iráklion, a busy but convenient base for visits to the nearby Minoan palace of Knossos. The area immediately around the city is less touristy than you might expect, mainly because there are few decent beaches of any size on the adjacent coast. To the west, mountains drop straight into the sea virtually all the way to Réthymnon, with just two significant coastal settlements: Ayia Pelayia, and the more attractive Bali. Eastwards, the main resorts are at least 30km away, at Hersónissos and beyond, although there is a string of rather unattractive developments all the way there. Inland, there’s agricultural country, some of the richest on the island, a cluster of Crete’s better vineyards and a series of wealthy villages. To the south lie the sites of Gortys, Phaestos and Ayía Triádha which can all be visited in a day, with a lunchtime swim on the south coast at Mátala or Léndas thrown in.

Crete’s biggest city, IRÁKLION (Heraklion) is a hectic place, a maelstrom of bustle, noise and traffic-congested thoroughfares. On the positive side, though, the city does have superb fortifications, a fine market, atmospheric old alleys and some interesting lesser museums. Virtually everything you’re likely to want to see lies within the northeastern corner of the walled city. The most vital thoroughfare, 25-Avgoústou, links the harbour with the commercial city centre. Further up 25-Avgoústou, Kalokerinoú leads down to Haniá Gate and westwards out of the city; straight ahead, Odhós-1821 is a major shopping street, and adjacent Odhós-1866 is given over to the animated street market, perhaps the best on the island. To the left, Dhikeosínis heads for the city’s main square, Platía Eleftherías, paralleled by the pedestrian alley, Dedhálou, lined with many of the city’s swankier fashion stores and the direct link between the two squares.

Inland from Iráklion

Heading south from Knossos, the zone around Arhánes and Péza is one of Crete’s major wine-producing areas. Nearby are some more Minoan sites at Anemospiliá and Vathýpetro, plus a few diverting villages. The main inland route southwest from Iráklion climbs through the mountains before winding down to Áyii Dhéka and the Messará plain. Here on the Messará, all within a 40km range of each other, lie the three major archeological sites of Phaestos, Ayía Triádha and Gortys. Once you get this far south you’re within a short drive of the coastal resorts of Mátala and (accessed via a mountain road) Léndas.

East of Iráklion: the package-tour coast

East of Iráklion, the main package-tour resorts are at least 30km away, at Hersónissos and Mália, although there is a string of rather unattractive developments all the way there; the merest hint of a beach is an excuse to build hotel and apartment complexes. That said, there are one or two highlights amid the dross, which are well worth a visit: the impressive Cretaquarium at Goúrnes, the old villages in the hills behind Hersónissos, and, beyond the clubbing resort of Mália, a fine Minoan palace that will transport you back three and a half millennia.

Mount Psilorítis

Mount Ida, also now known as Mount Psiloritis, is the highest mountain in Crete, with the highest summit being Timios Stavros. Mount Ida may be the highest mountain on the mystical island of Crete, but only by a mere 3 m, beating Pachnes, the highest summit of Lefka Ori. Mount Ida holds legends that date back to prehistory and makes an ideal landscape for hiking and exploring higher altitudes.

Hiking routes on Mount Ida

The easiest route to the summit is part of the E4 trail starting at the Ideon Andron cave. Beginning in the Nida Plateau at around 1500 metres high, the way to the summit from here is only about 3 hours. The Nida Plateau is on the east side of the mountain and around 15 km from the village of Anogeia, where there is a road in good condition leading from Heraklion.

For more experienced hikers, there is a trail to the summit from the village of Fourfouras or Kouroutes, with an ascent for more than 2000 metres. The trip typically takes around 8 - 10 hours. All trails and routes are marked with dots of coloured paints and the occasional sign, but be sure to take a map with you for safe measure!

Getting to Mount Ida

Heading for the mountains from Anóyia, a smooth road ascends 21km to an altitude of 1400m on the Nídha Plateau at the base of Mount Psilorítis. Here, at the end of the road and opposite the Taverna Nida, is the path up to the celebrated Idean cave (about a 15min walk) and the start of the way to the top of Mount Psilorítis (2456m).

History of Mount Ida

In Greek mythology, Mount Ida is sacred to the Goddess Rhea and holds the legendary Idaean cave in which the Greek God Zeus was supposedly born.

Climbing Mount Psilorítis

Climbing to the summit of Mount Psilorítis, for experienced and properly equipped hikers, is not at all arduous. The route, which diverts from the path to the Idean Cave just beyond a small chapel, forms a stretch of the E4 Pan-European footpath and is marked with the red arrows and the E4 waymarkers. It should be a 6–8hr return journey to the summit, although in spring, thick snow may slow you down. Don’t attempt the walk alone as you could face a very long wait should you run into trouble, and mobile phones may not have a signal in places.

If you’re prepared to camp on the Nídha plateau (it can be very cold), or rent a room at the Taverna Nida, you could continue on foot the next day down to the southern slopes of the range. It’s a beautiful hike and also relatively easy, four hours or so down a fairly clear path to Vorízia where there is no food or accommodation, although Kamáres, 4km west, has both.

Eastern Crete is dominated by Áyios Nikólaos, a small cosmopolitan town and resort, and its close neighbour Eloúnda, the home of luxury hotel and villa complexes, and the gateway to the mysterious islet of Spinalónga. Inland from Áyios Nikólaos, Kritsá with its famous frescoed church and textile sellers and the imposing ruins of ancient Lato make for good excursions. Further inland, the extraordinary Lasíthi Plateau is worth a night’s stay if only to observe its abidingly rural life. Far fewer people venture beyond the road south to Ierápetra and east to Sitía, where only the famous beach at Váï ever sees anything approaching a crowd.

Áyios Nikólaos

ÁYIOS NIKÓLAOS, known simply as “Áyios” to the locals, is set around a supposedly bottomless salt lake, now connected to the sea to form an inner harbour. It is supremely picturesque and has some style and charm, which it exploits to the full. The excellent archeological museum (Tues–Sun 8.30am–3pm; €3) on Paleológou north of the lake, and an interesting Folk Museum (Tues–Sun April–Oct 10am–2pm and 5–7pm; €3) near the tourist office are both worth seeking out. Both the lake and the harbour area are surrounded by charming restaurants and bars.

The small and busy Kitroplatía beach lies just around the southwest corner of the port and is lined with tavernas and cafés, while 1km beyond here, past the marina, lies the much larger, and well-kept, municipal beach. There are further swimming opportunities to the north around Eloúnda, and some great backcountry inland – perfect to explore on a scooter.

Lasíthi Plateau

Scores of daily tour buses visit the LASÍTHI PLATEAU to view the “thousands of white-cloth-sailed windmills” which irrigate the high plain. In fact there are very few working windmills left, although most roadside tavernas seem to have adopted many of those made redundant as marketing features. The drive alone is worthwhile, however, and the plain is a fine example of rural Crete at work, every inch devoted to the cultivation of potatoes, apples, figs, olives and a host of other crops; stay in one of the villages for a night or two and you’ll see real life return as the tourists leave.

SITÍA is the port and main town of the relatively unexploited eastern edge of Crete. It’s a pleasantly scenic, offering a plethora of waterside restaurants, a long sandy beach and a lazy lifestyle little affected even by the thousands of visitors in peak season. The town attracts a number of French, Italian and Greek tourists, and it grows on you, perhaps inviting a longer stay than intended. For entertainment there’s the town beach, providing good swimming, windsurfing and diving. In town there’s a small folklore museum (Mon–Fri 10am–1pm; €2), an excellent archeological museum (Tues–Sun 8.30am–3pm; €2) and a Venetian fort to explore. A colourful weekly market takes place on Tuesdays between 7am and 2pm along Odhós Itanou near the archeological museum.

Island escape: Gaidhouronísi

One way to escape the urban hubbub for a few hours is to take a boat to the island of Gaidhouronísi (aka Donkey Island or Chrissi Island ) some 10km out to sea from Ierápetra. No one seems to know how the 5km-long island got its name as there are no donkeys; instead you’ll find a cedar forest, the fabulous “Shell Beach” covered with millions of multicoloured mollusc shells, some good sandy beaches and a couple of tavernas. Excursion boats (May–Sept daily 10.30am & 12.30pm out, 4pm & 7pm return; €24, under-12s €12) leave from Ierápetra seafront harbour, and you can buy tickets on the boat or at any of the town travel agents in advance. The voyage to the island takes fifty minutes and the boats have an on-board bar.

The province of Réthymnon reaches to Mount Psilorítis in the east and towards the White Mountains in the west. The fertile Amari Valley, with its pretty villages, lies in the central plain, while on the south coast, in particular around Plakiás, there are beaches as fine as any Crete can offer.

Réthymnon itself is an attractive and lively city, with some excellent beaches nearby, although the coastline to the east has seen a great influx of tourists, with the development of a whole series of large hotels extending almost 10km along the beach.

RÉTHYMNON remains one of the most beautiful of Crete’s major cities (only Haniá is a serious rival), with an enduringly provincial air. A wide sandy beach and palm-lined promenade border the old town, a labyrinthine tangle of Venetian and Turkish houses where ancient minarets lend an exotic air to the skyline. Dominating everything from the west is the superbly preserved outline of the fortress built by the Venetians after a series of pirate raids had devastated the town.

Hiking the Amári valley

A good base for touring the Amári valley is Thrónos, a sizeable village at the valley’s northern end with an inviting place to stay, Rooms Aravanes. The proprietor here – Lambros Papoutsakis – is a keen walker and conducts guided treks to the peak of Mount Psilorítis, which at 2456m is Crete’s highest. Although he does guide groups up in the daytime, his preferred approach is during the full moons of June, July and August, which avoids the extreme summer temperatures. Phone in advance for details; it’s not a difficult climb, but you’ll need sturdy footwear and a sleeping bag. The summit is reached at around dawn, and the sunrise is always spectacular: on clear days the mountain offers a breathtaking view of the whole island and its four seas spreading in all directions.

Other hikes from Thrónos include a relatively easy path leading north through the foothills in a couple of hours to themonastery of Arkádhi, while south from Thrónos is an easy stroll on a paved road running back into the main valley via Kalóyerosa. A map detailing these walks is available from Rooms Aravanes.

Crete’s westernmost quarter is one of its least visited, partly because there are no big sandy beaches to accommodate resort hotels, and partly because it’s so far from the great archeological sites. But for mountains, scattered coves and unexploited villages, it’s unrivalled.

The city of Haniá (Chania) is an excellent reason to come here, but the immediately adjacent coast, especially to the west of the city, is overdeveloped and not particularly exciting; if you want beaches head for the south coast or the far west. Here, Paleóhora is the only place which could really be described as a resort, and even this is on a thoroughly human scale; others are emptier still. Elsewhere on the south coast, Ayía Rouméli and Loutró can be reached only on foot or by boat; Hóra Sfakíon sees hordes passing through but few who stay; Frangokástello, nearby, has a beautiful castle and the first stirrings of development. Behind these lie the White Mountains (Lefká Óri) and the famed walk through the Samariá Gorge. In the far west, great beaches at Falásarna and Elafoníssi are mostly visited only as day-trips.

HANIÁ, as any of its residents will tell you, is spiritually the capital of Crete, even if the political title was passed back to Iráklion. It is also the island’s most attractive city, especially if you can catch it in spring, when the White Mountains’ snowcapped peaks seem to hover above the roofs. Although it is for the most part a modern city, you might never know it as a tourist. Surrounding the harbour is a wonderful jumble of Venetian streets that survived the wartime bombardments, while simply wandering the old town you will discover old city walls, Ottoman, Byzantine and Minoan ruins. Restoration and gentrification, consequences of the tourist boom, have made inroads of late, but it remains an atmospheric place.

The southwest coast

The ancient capital of the Sfakiá region, Hóra Sfakíon, lies 70km south of Haniá, reached via a spectacular twisting asphalted road over the mountains. It’s the main terminus for gorge walkers, with a regular boat service west along the coast to Ayía Rouméli and Loutro, which are accessible only by foot or boat. Frangokastello, with its castle fortress and sandy beaches, lies a few kilometres east of Hóra Sfakíon, along the coastal road. Other main routes south over the mountains from Haniá are those to the small town of Paleóhora (from the north-coast highway at Tavronítis) and to the laidback seaside village of Soúyia (via Alikianós on the Omalós road).

KNOSSOS, the largest and most important of the Minoan palaces, and the most visited, lies some 5km southeast of Iráklion. The mythological home of King Minos and the Minotaur, it dates from the second millennium BC, and its vast interconnected rooms and corridors provide a fitting backdrop to the legend.

Knossos itself is considered the oldest city in Europe, dating back to the Neolithic period. The palace was considered the ceremonial and political centre Minoan civilisation until it was abandoned at the end of the Bronze Age for reasons unknown. Now you will find a sacred archaeological site that holds wonder and ancient history.

The discovery of the palace is among the most amazing tales of modern archaeology. Heinrich Schliemann, the German excavator of Troy, suspected that a major Minoan palace lay under the various tumuli here, but was denied the permission to dig by the local Ottoman authorities. It was left for Sir Arthur Evans who excavated and liberally “restored” the palace from 1900 onwards. His restorations have been the source of furious controversy among archaeologists ever since. Even so, his guess as to what the palace might have looked like is certainly as good as anyone’s, and it makes Crete’s other Minoan sites infinitely more meaningful if you have seen Knossos first.

As soon as you enter the Palace of Knossos through the West Court, the ancient ceremonial entrance, it is clear how the legends of the labyrinth grew up around it. Even with a detailed plan, it’s almost impossible to find your way around the complex with any success, although a series of timber walkways channels visitors around the site, severely restricting the scope for independent exploration. If you haven’t hired a guide and are worried about missing the highlights, you can always tag along with a group for a while, catching the patter and then backtracking to absorb the detail when the crowd has moved on. You won’t get the place to yourself, whenever you come, but exploring on your own does give you the opportunity to appreciate individual parts of the palace in the brief lulls between groups.

For some idea of the size and complexity of the palace in its original state, take a look at the cutaway drawings (wholly imaginary but probably not too far off) on sale outside.

Royal Apartments

The superb Royal Apartments around the central staircase are not guesswork, and they are plainly the finest of the rooms at Knossos. The Grand Stairway itself is a masterpiece of design, its size bringing light into the lower storeys.

In the Queen’s Suite, off the grand Hall of the Colonnades at the bottom of the staircase, the main living room is decorated with the celebrated dolphin fresco – it’s a reproduction; the original is now in the Iráklion Archeological Museum – and with running friezes of flowers and abstract spirals. Remember, though, that all this is speculation; the dolphin fresco, for example, was found on the courtyard floor, not in the room itself, and would have been viewed from an upper balcony as a sort of trompe l’oeil, like looking through a glass-bottomed boat. A dark passage leads around to the queen’s bathroom and a clay tub, the famous “flushing” toilet (a hole in the ground with drains to take the waste away – it was flushed by throwing a bucket of water down).

The much-perused drainage system was a series of interconnecting terracotta pipes running underneath most of the palace. Guides to the site never fail to point these out as evidence of the advanced state of Minoan civilization.

The Grand Stairway ascends to the floor above the queen’s domain, and the King’s Quarters; the staircase opens into a grandiose reception chamber known as the Hall of the Royal Guard, its walls decorated in repeated shield patterns. Immediately off here is the Hall of the Double Axes (or the King’s Room); believed to have been the ruler’s personal chamber, its name comes from the double-axe symbol carved into every block of masonry.

The Throne Room

At the top of the Grand Stairway you emerge onto the broad Central Court; on the far side, in the northwestern corner, is the entrance to another of Knossos’s most atmospheric survivals, the Throne Room. Here, a worn stone throne – with its hollowed shaping for the posterior – sits against the wall of a surprisingly small chamber; along the walls around it are ranged stone benches, suggesting a king ruling in council, and behind there’s a reconstructed fresco of two griffins.

Theatre Area

Try not to miss the giant pithoi in the northeast quadrant of the site, an area known as the palace workshops; other must-see areas and features include the storage chambers (which you see from behind the Throne Room), the reproduced frescoes in the reconstructed room above it, the fresco of the Priest-King looking down on the south side of the central court, and the relief of a charging bull on its north side. Just outside the North Entrance is the theatral area (another Evans designation), an open space a little like a stepped amphitheatre, which may have been used for ritual performances or dances. From here the Royal Road claimed as the oldest road in Europe, sets out. Circling back around the outside of the palace, you can get an idea of its scale by looking up at it; on the south side are a couple of small reconstructed Minoan houses which are worth exploring.

Knossos was the court of the legendary King Minos, whose wife Pasiphae, cursed by Poseidon, bore the Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. The labyrinth was constructed by Daedalus to contain the monster, and every nine years seven youths and seven maidens were brought from Athens as human sacrifice. Hearing of this, the Greek hero Theseus arrived on Crete vowing to venture into the labyrinth and slay the beast. Ariadne, daughter of the king, promptly fell in love with him and, as every cub scout knows, showed Theseus how to find his way back using a simple ball of thread. The legend has inspired writers from Homer to Dante, who famously depicts the best in his vision of Hell:

Dante, Inferno, Canto XII

'Into the chasm was that descent: and there

At point of the disparted ridge lay stretch’d

The infamy of Crete, detested brood

Of the feign’d heifer: and at sight of us

It gnaw’d itself, as one with rage distract.'

Top Image: Knossos Palace © Constantinos Illiopoulos / Shutterstock

From Haniá the spectacular SAMARIÁ GORGE, which claims to be Europe’s longest (it’s a 16km hike), can be visited as a day-trip or as part of a longer excursion to the south. It’s strenuous – you’ll know all about it next day – the path is rough and it’s not a walk to be undertaken lightly, particularly in the heat of summer, and walking boots or solid shoes are vital.

The gorge begins at the xylóskalo, or “wooden staircase”, a stepped path plunging steeply down from the southern lip of the Omalós plain. The descent is at first through almost alpine scenery: pine forest, wild flowers and greenery – a verdant shock in the spring, when the stream is at its liveliest. About halfway down you pass the abandoned village of Samariá, now home to a wardens’ station, with picnic facilities and toilets. Further down, the path levels out and the gorge walls close in until, at the narrowest point (the sidherespórtes or “iron gates”), one can practically touch both tortured rock faces at once and, looking up, see them rising sheer for well over 300m.

At an average pace, with regular stops, the walk down takes between five and seven hours (though you can do it quicker); beware of the kilometre markers: these mark only distances within the National Park and it’s a further 2km of hot walking before your reach the sea at Ayía Rouméli. On the way down there is plenty of water from springs and streams, but nothing to eat. The park that surrounds the gorge is a refuge of the Cretan wild ibex, the krí-krí, but don’t expect to see one; there are usually far too many people around.

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Best Things to Do in Crete: An Insider’s Guide to Greece’s Largest Island

last Updated: February 15, 2023 crete greece greek islands

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Greece and looking for the best things to do in Crete, the country’s largest island? Keep on reading; this handy insider’s guide is full of not only what to do in Crete, but where to stay, how to get around, where to eat, and more.

Crete is a fantastic island in the south of the Mediterranean, with spectacular natural landscapes ranging from pink sand beaches (yup!) and deep gorges, to beautiful plateaus and valleys.

We visited the island for a full week on our Greek island honeymoon (along with Santorini and Mykonos ) a few years back, and are itching to get back to the islands ever since (I mean, not much is better than time in the Greek islands).  And OH, I’ll never forget Elafonisi, Falassarna, and Balos Bay. Take me back tomorrow, pretty please!

→ Read Next: 10 Days in Greece (The Ultimate Greece Itinerary Guide)

Although we spent some time on the island, it was quite a few years ago and I honestly forgot about all the best things to do in Crete (cue the sad face – a good reason for me to go back pronto!).

Thankfully, I’ve enlisted Gabi from The Tiny Book (who actually lives in Crete full-time! #jealous) to share this complete Crete travel guide with us all! Expect lots of local tips, her favorite places to eat, and the most stunning beaches. Yes, please!

Despite being Greece’s largest and most populous island, visitors typically stick to the Cyclades (a group of islands including the ever-so-popular Santorini and Mykonos) when visiting.

However, Crete has SO much to offer, including ancient settlements and cities, local cultural traits (including their own poetry and music), some of the healthiest and most delicious cuisine you could ever imagine, and stunning landscapes (hello mountains, gorges, bays, and lakes). Crete is a land of history and traditions that will definitely grab your attention from the get go.  

So, let’s not wait one more minute → get ready to plan your first visit to the fantastic Greek island of Crete with Gabi’s tips below.

But before we get into all the things to do in Crete, let’s dive into other important details, such as how to get there, where to stay, when to visit, and how to get around the island.

HOW TO GET TO CRETE:

Thankfully, getting to the island is fairly simple. If you’re coming from somewhere other than Europe, you’ll first need to get yourself to Athens (which is a very well-connected airport, so couldn’t be easier). From there, you’ll be able to catch a domestic flight to either the capital of Crete, Heraklion (HER), or to the second most important city, Chania (CHQ).

You also have the option of taking an overnight ferry from the port of Piraeus, which will get you to either the port of Heraklion or to the port of Chania in Crete.

WHERE TO STAY IN CRETE:

The most important thing to know is that Crete is divided into 4 main regions, and all of them have their own main town facing the north coast.

Most people traveling to the island for a short period stay either in the capital of Crete (Heraklion), or in the western city of Chania.

And where you decide to stay will ultimately depend on where you wanna spend the majority of your time and what you wanna do on your trip. 

Chania : If you’re more of the beach type and beach days are your style, and want to explore the best beaches on the island, book accommodation in the regional unit of Chania. In Chania, the old town is well connected with the rest of Crete and you can easily visit more remote areas with organized tours or planning your own day trips and renting a car (the smartest way to see Crete!)

Recommended hotel in Chania – Casa Delfino : This is my favorite boutique hotel in Chania… and in all of Crete! Casa Delfino’s located in the heart of the old town and has been part of the same family for more than a hundred years. There’s a great spa and one of the best roof-top terraces in town, complete with mesmerizing views of the old port.

Heraklion : Any history buffs over here?! You’re in luck – Crete has suuuuch a magnificent history and story to tell. Stay in Heraklion, since the most important archaeological sites and settlements are in this region. 

Recommended hotel in Heraklion- Galaxy Hotel Iraklio : Not many hotels in the capital of Crete have a swimming pool (and a fantastic one at that). However, Galaxy Hotel Iraklio does (yasssss)! The hotel offers certified allergy-free facilities in their rooms as well. There’s a spa, a gym, and they serve one of the best breakfasts in town. The hotel is quite close to the city center too.

Rethymnon : Staying in the smaller town of Rethymnon, located between the regions of Chania and Heraklion, can be a great compromise to be halfway between both regions. Besides, Rethymnon is a fantastic city too, so you won’t be really missing anything. Since Rethymnon is about an hour away both from Heraklion and Chania, you’ll be between the beaches and history – which may be perfect for those who like it all!

Recommended hotel in Rethymnon – Avli Lounge and Suites : Another great boutique hotel in the hidden alleys of the old town of Rethymnon, with a beautiful terrace and a rooftop pool. Avli is also famous for their house restaurant serving creative Cretan dishes all year round.

WHEN TO VISIT CRETE:

Honestly, there’s never really a horrible time to visit Crete. The weather on the island is mild and relatively pleasant all year round.

However, winter brings a bit of rain, especially in the western region, and the sea is still a bit chilly. You will still see (a few) people swimming in Crete all year round though!

The shoulder season sees less tourists, less heat, better prices, and great weather. Therefore, May and October are the best months to see Crete, as they are right around the prime summer months of June-September.

HOW TO GET AROUND CRETE:

Unlike other Greek islands, Crete is quite large, meaning if you wanna see and do it all, you undoubtedly need a car to get around. Do note while there’s a well-maintained highway connecting the cities of the North, the southern coast of the island is rather isolated, with the exception of a few resorts. 

Therefore, if you really want to explore the beautiful hidden beaches of southern Crete, I strongly suggest you rent a car. And thankfully, driving on Crete is really easy, as long as you use common sense (just like anywhere else in the world of course).

Thankfully, taxis are not expensive and are plentiful in every city, and a great choice for moving short distances within the towns.  Important to add, that there’s currently no Uber or ride-sharing on Crete.

For traveling longer distances (say, between cities), a car is highly recommended. For example, Chania is located about 2 hours away from Heraklion and 45 minutes away from Rethymnon. However, if you’d rather not drive yourself, know there are buses available (although it does take quite a bit longer – 3 hours from Chania to Heraklion, and a bit more than an hour from Chania to Rethymnon).

Thankfully, bus tickets won’t break the bank, with one way tickets from Heraklion-Chania costing €15.10, while the Rethymnon-Chania route is €8.60.

WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR ISLAND ADVENTURE:

• Comfy sneakers or hiking shoes. The island is 80% mountains, so you’ll probably find yourself on a trail or two, or three (or four).
• Reusable water bottles. Psst: the water on Crete is completely safe to drink, despite what other blogs and sites might say. I’ve been living on the island for the last 5 years, and I hardly ever buy bottled water… and surprise, surprise, neither do the locals!
• Jacket or raincoat if you are visiting in winter. Also, add a few extra layers if you plan to visit the mountains as it can get quite chilly.

Other things to note:  

• Don’t worry about your language skills; Greek is a very difficult language and the locals know that! You’ll be able to find someone who speaks at least some basic English almost everywhere, and we’re all pretty friendly enough to help! Don’t be shy – just ask! 🙂

So let’s get to it, the best things to do in Crete (from a locals perspective), coming right up!

Best things to do in crete:.

As there are an abundance of things to do in Crete, all within different areas of the island, I decided to break them up by location. Hope this helps a bit with planning!

Knossos Palace : One of the main reasons tourists flock to Crete is to check out this unique archaeological settlement (known as Knossos Palace), dating all the way back to the Bronze Age. I mean, we’re talking 3,500 years back in Greek history.

Trust me, Athens isn’t the only one with admirable ruins; you’ll find the same level of skills here in Crete (as well as Delphi , too!).  Don’t miss one of the most remarkable things to do in Crete – just don’t!

The ruins are impressive, featuring the high grade of architectural development and engineering abilities of this ancient civilization. But of course, remember, they did NOT have the same machines as we do in the present time.

When you think about that last statement, it makes them seem even more magnificent. Inside the Palace, make some time to check the royal rooms as well as the well-known Bull fresco. 

Logistics : The Minoan Palace of Knossos is located about 10 km from the center of Heraklion, and it’s easy to reach via city bus (Bus N°2, from the Central Station, ticket: €1.80). The best way to visit the palace is by joining a guided tour that you can book at the entrance, or booking a group tour . This ensures you don’t miss anything important! 

This tour includes skip-the-line entry tickets, a detailed guided walking tour of Knossos Palace, as well as entrance to the nearby Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. Honestly, it’s a great deal at under $50 per person.

Know in advance:

• The site is mostly in the open, so carry some sunscreen lotion and a bottle of water, especially if you visit in summer.
• To avoid the crowds, go to the Palace early in the morning or during sunset. In addition, it most likely won’t be as scorching hot those hours as well. Double win!
• A ticket to the Archaeological site costs €15

Archaeological Museum of Heraklion : Hate to break it to you, but no visit to the archaeological site (Knossos Palace) is complete without adding an hour inside the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. And score – if you buy a combined ticket, you’ll save some money too! (Ticket: Museum: €15 or Museum + Minoan Palace: €16).

The museum hosts objects found in the archaeological site as well as in other ruins and settlements of the area. There are remarkable pieces of jewelry, as well as clay figures and some iconic objects too. AND the Phaistos disc. Aka, just don’t miss the museum. It’s not everyday you get to admire 3500 year old artifacts and relics of civilizations that once populated the island. 

Psst – if you’re really into this stuff, you may find yourself spending a few hours here, so plan accordingly!

Venetian Fortress and Old Port : The Old Port is exceptionally beautiful and full of atmosphere, facing the modern city of Heraklion with fishing boats in the harbor and tons of eateries. 

And when you check out the old port of Heraklion, be sure to pay a visit to the magnificent Venetian Fortress (also known as Koules). Surprise, surprise, the fortress was built by the Venetians. They ruled on Crete for over 400 years, and the fort was built in order to defend the city from recurrent pirate attacks (did someone say pirate attacks?! I mean, whoa). 

Mini history lesson – unfortunately, no fortress was enough to deter the attack of the Ottoman Empire, who finally took over in 1669, ruling on Crete for the following 267 years.

It’s hard to miss this majestic limestone castle right on the sea, giving a small glimpse into Crete’s sometimes bloody history.

Matala Beach : It’s time to cross the mountains and reach the southern coast of Crete – off to the beach we go! Of course I had to include some beach time on this list of best things to do in Crete.

About an hour away from Heraklion, you’ll come across Matala, one of Crete’s most iconic beaches (and yes, it’s absolutely breathtaking – do a google search and you’ll be wowed). The beach boasts crystal clear water (it’s actually a deep bay – meaning no waves) with a bluff full of caves on one side and the town on the other.

Matala is THE place to go if you wanna rent a lounge chair and umbrella for an entire day (at a reasonable price no less) and just relax. Or go for a walk on the beach and stop for a cocktail or two (a bunch of beach bars around).

Matala first became famous during the 60’s when it was the destination of choice of the expats and hippies. They’d leave everything behind to live a thoughtless life inside the caves of Matala. Hippy hangouts, if you must! Today, Matala’s caves are virtually empty, but the flower power atmosphere is pretty much alive in the village, with its colorful streets, shops, and bars.

Insider Tip: the water gets deep pretty quick, and the sand at the water’s edge is more pebbly than sandy, so you may wanna wear waterproof sandals.

Once you’ve seen some of Heraklion’s landmarks, it’s time to move west to the remarkable city of Rethymnon. Being the third largest city in Crete, Rethymnon is home to one of Crete’s most important universities – ultimately giving the city a young vibe. It has a fairy-tale feel to it, and one of the best preserved medieval cities in all of Greece.

Old Town: The Old Town of Rethymnon is right next to the sea, on the northern coast of the island. It’s a fantastic Venetian town with characteristic cobblestone alleys adorned with bougainvillea, picturesque houses with Turkish balconies made of wood, and a beautiful small harbor. 

In the Old Port of Rethymno, be sure to check out the beautiful Venetian lighthouse, which is 9 meters tall and gives a unique character to the area. OH! And don’t forget to enjoy a cocktail at the waterfront of the port during sunset. Just do it, you won’t be upset.

Rimondi Fountain : Since you’re already visiting the Old Town, don’t miss the elaborate public fountain in Platanos Square (built way back in 1626). And elaborate it is – three basins and three Caorinthian columns, water running from three lion heads, and remains of the coat of arms of the Rimondi family, an aristocratic Venetian family.

Do note that it’s typically pretty crowded since just about every walking tour in Rethymnon stops here (especially in summer). It’s a quick stop, even just to quickly admire the architecture and rinse your hands under the cool running water in the heat. Of all the things to do in Crete, this one will just take a few minutes – might as well check it off the list!

Fortezza : Much bigger than the Fortress of Heraklion, the Venetian Fortress of Rethymnon, known as Fortezza, is an imposing structure right by the sea, on the western tip of the Old Town.

Inside, it’s possible to see the unique former mosque of Sultan Ibrahim Han, with one of the highest tiled vaulted ceilings in Crete.

Also inside the fortress, pay a visit to the Bastion of Saint Lucas, which boasts a unique cannon ramp and great views of the sea. The Fortress of Rethymnon is one of the best-preserved castles in Greece (with a well-priced entrance ticket of €4).

Plakias Beach: Ready for some beach time? The best beaches of Rethymnon are located on the southern coast (I guess you’ve already realized that the best beaches of Crete are in the South, right?)

Thankfully, the drive isn’t too long (roughly 45 minutes to an hour), through the Ida Mountain range and through the small (but impressive) gorge of Kourtaliotiko (you’ll want to stop for photos here!)

Plakias has a beautiful sandy shore, with some smooth pebbles, perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and snorkeling. And get this – some sun beds are FREE (yes, free – just with the purchase of a drink)! It can get quite windy in this area, so you may wanna bring along a light sweater just in case. Grab a smoothie at the beach bar and hang out for the afternoon.

The beach is divided into different areas, one of them a favorite among naturists. So now you know, if you want to sunbathe without a bikini, head to the eastern end of Plakias!

Editor’s Note: while performing my due diligence and fact checking this article (true story – it’s what I do for all guest posts), I came across Skinaria Beach, Damnoni Beach, and Ammoudaki Beach close to Plakias Beach. And OMG they all look just as beautiful.

While I can’t vouch for these beautiful stretches of sand, the photos look absolutely unbelievable. Make sure to do your research before visiting to ensure they’re a good fit for you and your vacation to Crete. 🙂

Old Town : One of the most beautiful cities in Greece is the romantic old town of Chania. The town is divided into several different quarters (meaning there’s lots to see), so it’s a good idea to plan a few days in Chania to ensure you see them all! 

The Venetian quarter, located towards the west of the city, is home to some beautiful historic buildings which have been transformed into elegant boutique hotels. In this area, you’ll also find the Venetian Port, the Lighthouse, and Chania’s most famous landmark, the Mosque of the Janissaries. Don’t miss it!

The Turkish quarter, also known as Splantzia, is a maze of cobblestone alleys, small picturesque houses, and less hotels or touristic activities. It’s indeed the most unspoilt area of Chania’s old town, and a must-see. There is a beautiful minaret hidden in the alleys (Chatzimichali Daliani Street), as well as pretty churches and trendy pubs.

If you’re a fan of Greek beers (or if you’re eager to learn all about the stuff), head to Plaka , a small bar on Sifaka Street. 

Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay : Out of ALL the things to do in Crete, DO NOT miss Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay. You’d be doing yourself a big disservice. I could try to spell out the insurmountable beauty of this area, but I’d run out of adjectives.  A few that come to mind: exotic, rugged, and unspoiled. It is the most photographed beach in Crete afterall.

It’s impossible to visit Crete and skip this spot on the westernmost tip of the island! Balos Bay, often included among the best beaches in the world , is a spectacular exotic shore, a shallow lagoon with stunning turquoise waters and white sand that will leave you in awe. There’s even a Venetian fortress on Gramvousa Island to climb for stunning, unique views. A definite pearl of Crete and not to be missed. 

However, despite its beauty, the beach has very limited organization, so it’s always a good idea to pack your own lunch and carry plenty of liquids to spend the day. Also, don’t forget your sunscreen (it gets hot hot hot and sunny here), as well as comfortable shoes to hike down from the parking lot to the beach.

If you prefer, it’s also possible to visit the beach with a day cruise (trips available from both Heraklion and Rethymnon as well). Instead, if you’d rather give this adventure a try sans group, check this complete guide to Balos and other beaches of Chania . 

→ Book tour to the stunning Gramvousa and Balos Bay here. This is one spot you don’t wanna miss.

Elafonisi Pink Sand Beach : Pink sand! Need I say more?! If you thought this guide was going to exclude Crete’s most beautiful beach, think again! Elafonisi is an islet on the southernmost tip of the region with a fantastic pink sandy shore and the most pristine blue waters you can imagine. 

The beach is located about 72 km from the center of Chania, and you can either drive there yourself or book a tour to visit (the best option if you suffer from vertigo or if driving in the mountains is not your cup of tea!).

In fact, to reach Elafonisi, you’ll need to drive through the ravine of Topolia. The ravine is quite an impressive gorge with a tunnel and bends right by a bunch of cliffs that are not for the faint of heart.

Anyhow, no matter how you get there, once at the beach you’ll forget about everything else, considering it’s one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever laid eyes on.

Psst: You can also book a tour to Elafonisi from Rethymnon if you don’t plan on staying in Chania for whatever reason.

Day trip to Loutro: From the city of Chania, it’s possible to drive through the road next to the Gorge of Imbros, towards the South, and reach the small coastal town of Chora Sfakion. Once there, walk to the port and board a ferry to Loutro, a small fishing village that you can only reach by sea, or by hiking a portion of the E4 (European Path).

Loutro is a place for extreme relaxation and tranquility. The main activities limit to lounging on the small pebbles of the beach, swimming in its emerald sea, and eating delicious seafood in one of the several tavernas by the water (check out Taverna Notos for the most delicious dishes).

It’s also possible to spend the night, but you’ll need to book in advance if you visit in the high season of July-August.  

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT IN CRETE:

Mmmm, Greek food. Yes, there are tons of things to do in Crete, but don’t skimp out on the eating, too! Make sure to try as much as you possibly can – it’s all so exceptionally tasty. Promise me you won’t leave Crete without at least indulging in traditional moussaka, pastitsio, and yemista in any traditional taverna.

If you have no idea where to start (there’s a lot to order, trust me!), book a gastronomic/food tour! These tours are found in every major city (including those listed above), with some even including wine tasting sessions and visits to olive oil mills and/or cheese factories.

If you’re in Chania and want to discover the best tastes of the city, as well as discover the staple products in the Municipal Market, check this gastronomic experience of Crete. Book on AirBnB here (get up to $15 off your first AirBnB experience by signing up here ), and Viator here (one of my preferred booking sites for activities). What’s better than a morning filled with traditional pastries, authentic coffee, local tapas, and culinary hotspots?

Where to Eat in Heraklion

O Tempelis , in the center of town, is a traditional place with very convenient prices. Here locals gather to share meze , small dishes with Cretan delicacies, such as dolmades, stuffed champignons, baked potatoes, tzatziki sauce, and more.

Peskesi is probably Crete’s most famous restaurant (yes, on the entire island). Located a few meters from Liontaria Square (close to the center of Heraklion), it’s well-known for serving innovative Cretan flavors while still keeping the traditional homemade cooking methods of Crete.

Where to Eat in Rethymnon

Prima Plora, right by the sea, is a romantic setting with beautiful views and a delicious menu. It’s one of the top-rated places in town for seafood and sushi too.

Kokkino, if you’re on a budget, though, you don’t want to miss the most popular restaurant of the city, right in front of the beach. Kokkino has been in town for ages, serving every dish of the Greek tradition, including inexpensive but huge gyro wraps, skepasti (similar to gyro but in a sandwich), and souvlaki as well.

Where to Eat in Chania

There are several places to have dinner in Chania, and as long as you avoid the tourist traps in the old port, you’ll be fine. 

The best place where to eat is – as usual – where the locals eat. In Chania, locals gather for dinner in absolutely any of the restaurants along Chatzimichali Daliani Street.

Oasis Souvlaki, is the place you go if you simply want to grab a wrap and keep exploring. This gyro joint has been serving gyro for the last 50 years in the same spot; something tells me they must be doing something right!

Municipal Market, for those who want fresh dishes at friendly prices, there’s nothing like a lunch in the municipal market. A few small tavernas serve dishes from midday until the market closes (5 pm), or until food runs out ( sometimes well before 5! ).

Have we convinced you to start packing your bags for Crete yet? Which of these (ridiculously gorgeous) things to do in Crete will you be adding to your must-do/see list?!

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Author Bio: Gabi is the founder of The Tiny Book , a blog about the Greek island of Crete, with useful inside tips about Crete, travel guides and itineraries to discover Crete. You can also join her Crete Travel Facebook Group , follow her on Pinterest or walk with her in a gastronomic tour of Chania .

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June 20, 2022 at 4:53 am

I visited Crete last summer and I loved it! It was after Milos my favorite Greek island. Reading this list just makes me want to go back again.

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• 1 Prefectures
• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Orientation
• 4.2 History
• 4.3 Economy
• 5.1 By plane
• 5.2 By boat
• 6.3 By ferry
• 10.1.1 Olives & olive oil
• 10.1.2 Bread
• 10.1.3 Honey & yoghurt
• 10.1.4 Cheese
• 10.1.5 Meat & fish
• 10.1.6 Side dishes
• 10.1.7 Common main dishes
• 10.1.8 Common desserts
• 10.1.9 Cretan fruits
• 12.1 Types of lodging
• 12.2 Aparthotels
• 12.3 Hotels
• 12.4 Villas, private homes & rooms
• 13.1 Dangers & warnings
• 13.2 Travellers with physical disabilities

Crete ( Greek : Κρήτη / Kríti , sometimes spelled "Krete" in English) is the largest of the Greek islands and is the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea - after Sicily , Sardinia , Cyprus , and Corsica . It is located between the Sea of Crete and the Libyan Sea, south of the Peloponnese . It contains the southernmost city within the European continent, Ierapetra, which is only about 645 km (401 mi) from the coast of Libya. Crete is approximately 260 km (160 mi) long and 60 km (37 mi) wide. The island is divided into four prefectures: from west to east, Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Lasithi. Crete's population is approximately 650,000.

While all Greek islands have their own charm and beauty, Crete is undoubtedly one of the most diverse, blessed with a remarkable amount of truly spectacular natural beauty and a wide variety of varied architecture that pays tribute to its ancient Minoan past and chronicles its history of conquest from the Greek mainland, the Venetian era, and the Turkish/Ottoman period.

Certainly, the island has its share of magnificent beaches and ritzy beach resorts, but there is plenty more to explore - from rugged mountain peaks (some of which remain capped with snow throughout much of the year) and breathtaking gorges to metropolitan cities and sleepy traditional villages where it is not uncommon to see donkeys carrying vegetables being led past cars and scooters. There are miles of olive trees and vineyards, palm trees, and desert-like landscapes. There are beautiful Byzantine churches and monasteries, many of which are open to visitors. There are ancient ruins scattered everywhere. In fact, just about everything that can be found anywhere in Greece can be seen here.

Prefectures [ edit ]

Crete is divided into four regional units.

Cities [ edit ]

• 35.333333 25.133333 1 Heraklion (Greek: Ηράκλειον ) — in Heraklion Prefecture, it is the largest city and capital of the island. It has the Minoan Palace of Knossos archeological site, the island's main international airport and cruise/ferry port, an important archeological museum, and a harbor boasting structures from the Venetian period (1205-1669).
• 35.516667 24.016667 2 Chania (Greek: Χανιά ) — the island's second-largest city and capital of Chania Prefecture. It has a largely intact Old Town, another airport and cruise/ferry port, numerous structures from the Venetian and Ottoman (1689-1898) period, a number of museums, and the important NATO naval base of Souda Bay.
• 35.368 24.473503 3 Rethymnon (Greek: Ρέθυμνο ) — capital of Rethymnon Prefecture. It has a cruise/ferry port, a well-preserved Old Town (at the foot of a massive Venetian fortress), which is a maze of lanes and alleys primarily reserved for pedestrians.
• 35.1857 26.1118 4 Sitia (Greek: Σητεία ) — medium-sized harbour city on the far eastern tip of the island (within Lasithi Prefecture). It has a cruise/ferry port and airport, and access to some very unspoiled beaches.
• 35.0105 25.7327 5 Ierapetra (Greek: Ιεράπετρα ) — the southernmost city of Europe (in Lasithi Prefecture). It has some of the longest and finest sandy beaches on the island, an old Venetian fort, and the small, uninhabited island of Chrysi, which is protected as an area of intense natural beauty and which shelters the largest naturally grown group of Lebanese cedar forest in Europe.
• 35.1908 25.7135 6 Agios Nikolaos (Greek: Άγιος Νικόλαος ) — the charming capital of Lasithi Prefecture, that was once known as a partying hot-spot. It has another cruise/ferry port, a lake lined with tavernas, many upscale shops and easy access to jet-set Elounda and the historic former leper colony island of Spinalonga.
• 35.284 25.4615 7 Malia (Greek: Μάλια ) — Today, Malia (Heraklion Prefecture) has taken over as the hedonistic "party capital" of the island, popular mostly with young, especially British, visitors. It has an unsavory reputation for drunken tourists staggering through the streets, music bars and discos until dawn.
• 35.233333 25.166667 8 Archanes (Greek: Αρχάνες ) — medium-sized mountain city. It has a charming Old Town about a 20-minute drive south of Heraklion city and is set in the center of a heavy viticulture area marked by extensive vineyards.
• 35.193451 25.179332 9 Houdetsi (Greek: Χουδέτσι ) — also known as Choudetsi, a small mountain town just south of Archanes. It has some nice old stone buildings, a few small hotels, and tavernas and kafeneions.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 35.271111 23.961389 1 Samaria National Park (Greek: Φαράγγι Σαμαριάς ) — A breathtaking gorge on the southern part of Chania Prefecture open for the 5- to 7-hour moderately strenuous hike from 1 May until mid-October.
• 35.183333 25.466667 2 Lasithi Plateau (Greek: Οροπέδιο Λασιθίου ) — A large fertile plateau in the centre of Lassithi Prefecture at an altitude of 840 meters (2,760 ft). Once, as many as 10,000 white-sailed windmills operated on the plateau, but these have largely been replaced by diesel and electric irrigation pumps. Numerous old stone windmills (some ruins, some beautifully restored) still stand along the passes above the plateau.
• 35.254444 26.260833 3 Vai palm-forest (Greek: Βάι ) — The largest palm-forest of Europe, spanning 250 stremmata (Greek unit of surface equal with 1000m²) consisted by Phoenix theophrastii (Cretan palm), an indigenous species of palm.

Understand [ edit ]

Orientation [ edit ]

The major tourist sites and settlements are located all along the northern coast of the island, and this is where a major highway (called the Vorios Odikos Axonas Kritis (VOAK) or ΒΟΑΚ (Βόρειος Οδικός Άξονας Κρήτης) New National Road) runs east/west from one end of the island to the other. There are branches running south from major cities, making portions of the south more accessible despite the distance from the main cities of the north. Except for the southern city of Ierapetra, the south coast is very undeveloped due to the ruggedness of the terrain. This is true also of the rugged mountainous areas in the interior.

The vast majority of visitors stay within the sphere of one of the main northern cities, and explore the island from that base of operations. It is a large island, made doubly so by the challenging roads, and requires time to fully explore. Vacationers from Europe rarely stay more than two weeks, so many will only see the island's major highlights and the area around their lodging. Still, there is a sizable number of Europeans who stay longer, come back year after year, and get to know the island very well.

There are pockets of areas (especially all-inclusive resort lodgings) that appeal to and are marketed to one or another nationality more than others. Visitors come from all over Europe, but the largest numbers are from the United Kingdom, Germany, Russia, and France. A sizable percentage of these visitors prefer the all-inclusive hotels. If you plan on staying in one, you will want to do a little research to see what nationality it caters to. You probably do not want to be someone who speaks only English in a hotel whose guests are predominantly French and Russian speakers.

Except for the major port cities and towns, settlements near the coast were built on the hills above the water. This practice dates to ancient times, and the purpose was for residents to be able to see pirates and other invaders from afar. They could then rush to the sea to challenge them or flee higher up in the mountains. Today, there are many settlements right on the water that began to develop as tourism exploded in the 1960s and 1970s. These new, lower villages are called "kato" (κάτω) while the old upper villages are called "epano" (επάνω). Most towns and villages, especially along the coast, will be in two sections - the upper and lower. Be clear about whether you are going kato or epano when asking for directions.

History [ edit ]

Crete was the center of the Bronze Age Minoan Civilization, a sophisticated culture from about the 27th to 12th century BCE. The Minoans left behind the ruins of palaces, tombs and sacred sites. The civilization was so sophisticated that they had a large navy, and settlement sites showed evidence of sophisticated water and sewage systems. There has been debate about the cause of the Minoan decline, with theories suggesting it was initiated by the tsunami from the huge eruption of Thera on Santorini in 1450 BCE, by invading forces like the Mycenaean, and even that the Minoans exceeded the ability of the environment to support them.

Because of its strategic location, Crete has often been invaded and occupied. After the Mycenaeans, came the Romans, the Byzantine Empire, the Venetians and the Ottomans. These invaders left their marks on the island, leaving behind distinctive architecture, mosques, ancient lighthouses and sophisticated aqueducts.

Crete became an independent state in 1898, and was declared part of Greece in 1908. The island was again invaded in 1941 by the Germans. Resistance from Cretans and Allied troops (mainly from Australia, New Zealand and the UK) was fierce. This became known as the Battle of Crete.

There is much mythology related to the island. The most important is the myth of King Minos, who refused to sacrifice a bull to the Greek gods. Poseidon in turn forced Minos' wife to fall in love with a bull which created the mythical beast, the Minotaur. It is said the palace of Knossos is the site of the famous labyrinth with the Minotaur slain by Theseus. A cave at Mount Ida is said to be the birthplace of Zeus.

See also Ancient Greece .

Economy [ edit ]

Agriculture is the most important industry of the island, although tourism is also extremely important to the economy. The island has begun to rely on tourism more and more since the 1970s; many towns serve no other purpose, and virtually close down during the winter. There are only about 60 days of rain per year, and nearly every home and business is topped with solar panels. The west part of the island is more forested and receives more rain than the east. The entire island was once completely covered with forest, primarily cedar and pine. It has been largely deforested for firewood and to make room for the olive trees and vineyards.

Different areas are known for different crops. The soil around Malia is particularly good for potatoes and bananas, and to a lesser degree oranges. The Malia bananas are particularly sought after. They are small and very tasty. As you drive through the town, you will see many roadside stands selling potatoes and bananas. The bananas are hanging on one large stem. Point out how many you want, and the vendor will slice those off for you. In many supermarkets, there will be a large branch propped up on the floor in the produce section. A sharp knife will be stuck in it and you can slice off your own bunch. Oranges from the area between Rethymnon and Chania are sought after. Driving that stretch of the National Road will reveal many stalls along the side in the apparent middle of nowhere, being attended by old men or women. Ierapetra is well known for its large nurseries, some of which have important export businesses for cut flowers - particularly long-stemmed roses and lilies. Many other kinds of flowers, herbs, and strawberry plants are grown here for export and purchase around the island. Herbs of all kinds, walnuts, almonds, chestnuts, and honey are grown and produced everywhere on the island, and you can find stalls along roadsides everywhere selling their fresh products.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

The island has three significant airports:

There are daily flights from Athens airport by Olympic Air and Aegean Airlines . Sky Express operates flights from Athens airport to Sitia .

From April till early November charter airlines fly directly to Sitea, Heraklion , and Chania from many European airports.

Flights going from Heraklion and Chania to Thessaloniki take about an hour and a half. The airport at Heraklion also has daily flights to Rhodes which take 1 hr.

By boat [ edit ]

ANEK Lines and Blue Star Ferries have formed a joint service which dominates ferries in Crete. There are ferries from Piraeus to Chania and Heraklion, all taking about 8 and a half hours. They are mainly night ferries, but in the high season there are also day-time routes called "imerisia". Another company is Minoan Lines, which goes from Heraklion to Kyklades, but also has large ships that go to Piraeus. Other ports that have ferry routes are Rethymno, Sitia and Kisamos, also known as "Kasteli Kisamou" or "Kavonisi". Sea Jets has a ferry that goes from Kissamos to the Peloponnese via Kythira and Antikythira, as well as a highspeed ferry that goes from Rethymno to Santorini during the summer time. Lastly, ANEK Lines serves Siteia with Kasos, Karpathos, Chalki and Rodos via a low-traffic subdisided route called "Agoni Kasokarpathias".

Get around [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

See the Orientation section for a description of how the roads are set up.

Basics. Hiring a car is very easy. You need a valid driving licence written in the Roman alphabet. If it is in another alphabet (like Cyrillic or Chinese), you will need an International Driving Licence. The driving age in Greece is 18 for passenger cars and 16 for mopeds. Car hire companies may have different limits, so check first. When you pick up your vehicle, make sure to list all eligible drivers.

Supply & locations. You will find a plethora of car hire outlets everywhere where there are tourists, including around airports and cruise/ferry ports. Towns, and even small villages, that cater to tourists will have readily accessible car hire outlets. Some of the larger hotels are apt to have a rental desk on site. Even small hotels can help you arrange a rental. There are some international outlets, such as Hertz and Avis, as well as many local companies. The majority of the local companies are reliable and reputable.

Prices. Prices vary from outlet to outlet, so it pays to research carefully. A very low price could indicate that VAT tax and insurance are not included, and then you are surprised at the extras on arrival. A high price may indicate far more insurance than you require. Most hotels will receive a commission for arranging car rentals, and that will be added to your rate. Do online research before arrival; request rates from more than one company and be persistent in having all your questions answered to your satisfaction. You can, and should, pay for rental vehicles with a credit card.

Types of vehicles. In addition to regular passenger cars, you can rent 4-wheel drive vehicles, dune buggies, larger "people movers" for groups of six to nine (including drivers), full-sized motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles. There are also quads. These are like motorcycles with four wheels and can comfortably accommodate two people. Regular passenger cars are small, many with only two doors. If you are four adults, you will probably be more comfortable with a four-door. Luggage space is also limited, so plan accordingly.

Helmets, seat belts and child seats. There are helmet, seat belt and child seat laws in Crete. Child seats are available, but the supply is limited. You should reserve yours in advance or bring your own if in doubt. Rental companies are required to have helmets available for all vehicles that require one.

At least half the local people ignore helmet laws, which is an interesting reflection of the Cretans' fierce independence and resistance to authority. You will see people riding motorcycles and other open vehicles with a helmet looped over one arm. This began when the law to "wear a helmet" was introduced. When stopped, they pointed out that the law didn't specify where one had to wear it. Whether or not you can still get away with this probably depends on the mood of the police officer who stops you.

You will see at least half the visitors ignore helmet laws, which is an interesting reflection on tourists. The roads in Crete can be dangerous, especially to the uninitiated; quads and motorcycles can be unstable, especially for the inexperienced. Since most tourists are tooling around on their quads and motorcycles in bikinis and skimpy shorts while sightseeing and taking photographs, it is strongly advised to wear a helmet. The emergency rooms are filled with tourists with broken limbs and nasty scrapes all over their bodies. These will mend, but a crushed skull is another story. Quads, bikes, and motorcycles do not come with personal injury insurance. Check with your home insurer.

Traffic & parking violations. There are random checkpoints where police will pull you over to check your papers. Without a helmet or proper paperwork, you will probably be ticketed. There are also laws against speeding, illegal passing, tailgating, etc., but these are not often pursued unless egregious right in front of a police officer. Ticket costs are high. If you are caught driving drunk, the penalties are steep. If you are involved in an accident while driving drunk, the penalties are even stiffer, and you are apt to be taken immediately to jail.

Parking is rather flexible, and illegal parking is rampant. In cities and larger towns, there are centrally located parking lots that are relatively inexpensive. It's advisable to use them. In smaller towns and villages, you can park just about anywhere, including on the pavement (if there is one) or even blocking another vehicle. If doing the latter, you should make sure your destination is within sight/sound of your car. When the blocked person needs to move, they will sound the horn. There is ticketing for illegal parking (also expensive). In tourist towns, you should be aware and move your car if you see police ticketing. There are periodic "sweeps" of ticketing and towing in crowded tourist towns when a business owner, bus or taxi driver complains.

Road hazards. Driving in Crete, even on the main, modern east–west highway can be challenging. You must have your wits about you at all times. This is especially true if you come from a country that drives on the left. Drinking and driving and not paying attention can be very dangerous. All the charming roadside shrines you see everywhere were erected by family members to mark the spot where a loved one died.

Even on the main highway, there are long stretches of only two lanes that twist and turn. Even though there is only one "legal" lane in each direction, vehicles will pass in the face of oncoming traffic and on blind turns. You will see that almost all vehicles typically travel half in the breakdown lane and half in their own lane in order to create a "middle" lane for illegal passing - sometimes four lanes are created. Speeds are high. Big buses, long haul trucks, and taxis pull up close behind you and pass recklessly at breakneck speed very close to your vehicle.

Driving on the narrow roads up in the mountains is another challenge, presenting blind hairpin turns, sheer drop-offs, and roads sometimes wide enough for only one vehicle. There are apt to be goats on the road, along with slow-moving farm vehicles and bicycles. The tiny lanes in small villages are the same, and driving through a tourist town at the height of the season requires all your attention. Do not expect to be yielded the right of way even at a traffic light, expect cars to stop at any given time and for scooters to pull out in front of you.

Driving is the very best way to see the island, presenting spectacular vistas everywhere. On roads that offer picturesque views, there are often pullout areas for photo stops, and a car gives you the flexibility to stop wherever you like.

Road maps, road signs & petrol stations. There are very detailed road maps available at most of the petrol stations on the main highways. Virtually all hotels and car rental places can provide good tourist maps. Road signs on all the main roads are in both Greek and English. Generally, you will pass a Greek road sign and then the same one in English a few meters later. Be careful --- Some extremely devoted Cretans shoot road signs with guns. You'll notice them if you see holes in a sign. Many of the non-main roads will have signs in both Greek and English. Since the economic crisis, many petrol stations will not accept credit cards. Ask before filling the tank. All petrol stations are full-serve - you do not pump your own.

Taxis. Taxis in Crete are quite expensive. They do not provide an economical touring option. They are good for airport runs, in an emergency, or for a short distance. There are taxi stands in all cities and larger towns. If there is no taxi stand, you should be able to find a taverna or other business that will phone one for you. Make sure you know the price before getting in the taxi.

By bus [ edit ]

Public transportation is fairly frequent and timetables [1] are quite trustworthy. Bus drivers usually divert from their marked routes to enter little villages if asked to do so. Bus services along the north coast and towards the south coast are excellent, reliable, frequent and cheap.

Most of these bus services are run by Kino Tamio Eispraxeon Leoforion, KTEL, which are groups of families which individually run their own bus companies. This, in turn, creates a much more homely environment for Cretans and tourists and these families provide excellent service and show off their great deal of pride.

Cretan bus stations are very simple for the most part, except for Heraklion which has two major bus stations: one for local buses in town and one for long-distance KTEL buses.

By ferry [ edit ]

Crete has many ferry connections for example: You can go from Piraeus to Heraklion with Minoan Lines [2] , to Chania with ANEK Lines or Hellenic Seaways, to Ayios Nikolaos and Sitia with LANE Lines. LANE also operates routes from Ayios Nikolaos/Sitia to Rhodes and other Greek islands. In the summer, there are daily catmarans (hydrofoils) from Heraklion to Santorini. The trip takes about 2.5 hours. Hellenic Seaways and SeaJets offer these sailings. You can also go to Crete by ferry from the Peloponnese (Gytheio) and Kythira island. This ferry lands on the west part of Crete, in Kissamos port.

The main ports in Greece that ferries come into are Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, Sitia, and Kastelli-Kassamos. Since there are no roads along the southwest coast there is a ferry line, [3] with connections between Paleochora, Sougia, Agia Roumeli, Loutro and Hora Sfakion (Sfakia). There is also a connection with the islet of Gavdos, Europe's southernmost point (Cape Tripiti).

Talk [ edit ]

All Cretans speak what is called Modern Greek . Formal Classical Greek is still spoken in churches. Since Cretans are quite religious, many know at least some Classical Greek.

There is a distinctive Cretan dialect , that is much like Modern Greek, but with a number of differences. Most native Cretans will know this dialect, and older people (especially is small mountain villages) will still speak it. An example is the word for "no." It is oxi (όχι), pronounced "ohi" in Modern Greek. In the Cretan dialect, it is simply "oy."

You will have little trouble if you only speak English, as the majority of the people speak at least some. A large number of people, especially in the tourist industry, are quite fluent. The education on the island is excellent, and English is taught from the first grade. However, it is a good idea to learn at least a few basic phrases, so you can greet people in their own language. Many people will consider it rude if you march into a shop and simply ask if they speak English, and might get you a firm "no," even if the person does speak English. An effort to say good day in Greek first, will break the ice.

Many Cretans speak other languages because of being in the merchant marine, living or studying in other countries, or simply spending a great deal of time speaking with English-speaking visitors. The island welcomes a large number of tourists from around the world, especially northern Europe, and many in the tourist industry speak other European languages. The menus in tavernas that cater to tourists are usually in several languages: Russian, French, Italian, English and German. Certain areas are more popular with particular nationalities, and there the people in the tourist industry are apt to be proficient in that language.

See [ edit ]

The types of sights and sites described below can be found all over the island. Even if you are far from the most famous sites, chances are you will find an example near you. Just ask or consult a map.

• Archeological sites , primarily ancient Minoan palaces and settlements, including Knossos , Phaistos, Gortyn, Malia , and Gournia.
• Monasteries and convents . As true throughout Greece, the Cretan monastic tradition is strong. There are hundreds of monasteries and convents on the island, and most are open to visitors.
• Churches . There are even more churches on Crete than monasteries. Even small villages will have a main church or two and several chapels. Many of the churches are open to visitors, especially the more historic ones in cities like Chania , Rethymnon , and Heraklion .
• Architecture . Because of invasion and occupation over centuries, there is varied architecture to admire, including Venetian fortresses and castles, Byzantine churches, Roman aqueducts, and Turkish villas and baths. Examples can be found all over the island, but are primarily concentrated in and around the main port cities.
• Scenery . The scenery of this mountainous island is quite varied. The high mountains that stretch across the interior from east to west have blessed Crete with scenic valleys, dramatic gorges like the Gorge of Samaria , thousands of caves, rivers and lakes. The east end of the island is semi-arid, and the western end is more lush with forests. All of this scenery can be seen in a good day's drive.
• Beaches . There are beautiful beaches all around the island, such as Agios Pavlos, Balos, Vai on the far eastern tip that has the largest palm (Cretan date palms) forest in Europe, uninhabited Chrysi Island off the coast of Ierapetra , which boasts the largest natural-growth Lebanese cedar forest in Europe, and the red sand beach of Matala made famous by the hippies who resided in caves here in the 1960s and 70s (and by the 1971 Joni Mitchell song "Carey"). You can also find official Nudist-Beaches , which is rare on other islands in Greece.
• Traditional villages . Head off the beaten path to discover traditional villages where life goes on much as it did hundreds of years ago.

Do [ edit ]

• Visit the two "must-see" sites of the island - the Minoan Palace of Knossos outside Heraklion and Spinalonga Island accessible from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka.
• Visit some of the most important museums . There are well-respected archeological museums in the major port cities, with the most famous in Heraklion . Chania has an excellent art museum and nautical museum.
• Learn about the traditional agricultural lifestyle of the island. Some farms welcome visitors, and there are many museums of rural life. You will find these as you travel around the island, and they include large museums like Lychnostatis in Hersonnisos and houses that have been lovingly restored, like the museum in the small village of Vrahasi .
• Witness grape and olive harvesting . Grapes and olives are two of the most important agricultural products of Crete. Depending on grape variety and altitude, grapes are harvested from the beginning of August to October. In October or November, you may be lucky enough to be invited to a rakazani , an event held at a raki distillery to mark the production of the season's first raki and accompanied by music, barbecue and plenty of drinking. Olives are harvested from October through January. If you are driving by during a harvest, stop and show interest, and you will be treated to a demonstration, even if the harvesters speak no English. There are olive oil factories all over Crete. During harvest time, stop in to see how the olives are transformed into liquid gold.
• Attend festivals and celebrations . The Cretans know how to celebrate, and there are festivals occurring throughout the year. Many of these are religious in nature, but there is almost always eating, drinking, music and dancing after the religious observations.
• Hike and walk the mountains and gorges . While the hike through the Samaria Gorge is strenuous and can take up to 7 hours, there are other gorges more accessible and easier to navigate.

Eat [ edit ]

Crete is famous for its tasty and healthy cuisine. The Cretan Diet, which is also called the "Mediterranean Diet," has been attributed with great health benefits and nutritional value. Studies have attributed this diet to the health and longevity of the people, as well as the lack of cancers and heart disease. This healthy diet had relied heavily on fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and pulses in season and fish. Meat was usually served only once a week or on special occasions like weddings and festivals. Now, Cretans eat meat fairly regularly as well as processed foods and sweet confections. Today, cancer and heart disease are not uncommon, although people remain relatively healthy and long-lived.

Restaurants & dining establishments [ edit ]

Until the tourist boom that began in the 1970s and 80s, there were primarily only two types of dining establishments, the traditional taverna and kafeneion (coffee shop). Full meals were served in tavernas, and kafeneions offered primarily coffee, drinks, and traditional snacks. There were also street food vendors who prepared gyros, pizzas and other regional snacks. Today, all of these are still prevalent. However, in cities and large towns, you will now find a variety of dining establishments, including international restaurants (Indian, Mexican, Chinese, steak houses, English fish & chips shops, etc.) and even fast food franchises like Subway, McDonalds and local firms. Some towns that cater mainly to tourists will have a variety of these that are generally open only during the tourist season.

For most tourists and Cretans, the preferred cuisine is still that found in traditional tavernas and kafeneions, and you will find these lining village squares in the interior and along the sea in coastal settlements. Most dishes are fresh from that day. The menu is only for tourists, Cretans ask the waiter for specialities, and have a look in the kitchen or in a "vitrine," a glass display case. During the warmer months, dining is usually outside under umbrellas, pergolas and trees.

Dining out has always been a social occasion for Cretans, who will gather in groups for a meal that often lasts two or more hours. The period after lunch (from about 14:00 to 15:00 until about 17:00) is reserved for resting and napping. More work will occur until 20:00 or so, and the evening meal is usually after that, lasting until late at night. However, establishments that cater to tourists will remain open throughout the day and evening.

Olives & olive oil [ edit ]

The island of Crete is covered with olive trees. Virtually every family has at least some trees. The olive harvest season occurs in November and December, and every single member of the family helps with the harvest. Most villages have an olive pressing factory, and some have very old presses with huge stone wheels that have been preserved for cultural value. Today's olive press factories are modern, but it is still possible to visit one during the season to see the liquid gold being produced.

Olive oil is used in copious amounts for cooking and in salads, although most restaurants use sunflower or similar oil for cooking fried foods like French fried potatoes.

Olives themselves are commonly served as mezes (appetizers) with raki, ouzo, wine or beer. They are an ingredient in many salads, and an olive paste is often served with bread.

Bread [ edit ]

There are many varieties of bread, which are made fresh daily. Most Cretans would not dream of having a meal without bread, and it is offered at virtually all meals. It is usually a loaf of white bread that is served with olive oil and used to mop up sauces.

Honey & yoghurt [ edit ]

There are also bee hives all over Crete, and many families make their own honey. Yoghurt, much thicker and creamier than commercial yoghurt in other parts of the world, is often served as dessert with honey drizzled on it.

Cheese [ edit ]

Feta cheese is produced and used extensively in Crete as it is elsewhere in Greece. It is also an ingredient in the traditional Cretan "dakos," a hard bread rusk, soaked with olive oil and topped with crumbled feta, chopped tomatoes and olives. It is also served in bite sized portions drizzled with a bit of olive oil and served as one or more mezes.

You will also find a very good variety of delicious locally produced Cretan cheeses, such as:

• Graviera: (Greek: Γραβιέρα) The standard hard cheese; there are many types and tastes. Taste before buying, as early cheese (cut before mature) will have a spicy taste, while a mature one will be salty and milk-sweet.
• Myzithra: (Greek: Μυζίθρα) A fresh cheese made of ewe's milk. It is sometimes made of goat's milk (in which case it is called "katsikisia") or mixed milk. A good goat myzithra will taste like expensive French "chèvre frais."
• Anthotiros: (Greek: Ανθότυρος) from the words "anthos" (flower) and "tiros" (cheese) it is a very mild, soft spring cheese made when the sheep pastures are still full of flowers. The closest popular cheese is the Italian mascarpone as they are both high in fat and are both creamy in texture (unlike mozzarella which is high in protein and chewy in texture).

Meat & fish [ edit ]

Lamb, chicken, pork, rabbit and goat are the traditional meats. Rocky, mountainous Crete (like southern Italy) is not good beef pastureland, so beef is not used as much. However, beef is served as an ingredient in many traditional dishes. Snails gathered wild and cooked in various ways comprise one of the most traditional and affordable dishes of Crete. Smoked meats like ham (apaki) and sausages (loukaniko) are also traditional, as is souvlaki (seasoned pork meat, lamb, chicken or fish on skewers). Almost all tavernas will offer "meat in the oven" on Sundays; this is lamb, pork or chicken cooked slowly in a wood oven with potatoes and/or onions or other vegetables. Traditional "casserole" dishes minced lamb or beef include pastitsio and mousaka. Stifado, is a thick beef stew made with tomatoes and onions. All tavernas will list these traditional dishes, but they are labor-intensive and not all will always be available.

Fresh fish becomes more and more rare, and is expensive, priced by its weight. Restaurants and tavernas by law must advise if the fish that they offer is fresh or frozen. Thus, always ask your waiter to show you the fish and weigh it in front of you before you order.

Side dishes [ edit ]

Salads and vegetables

• Dakos Cretan rusk with tomato, feta cheese, olives, oregano and olive oil),
• Horta boiled wild greens with olive oil and lemon juice).
• Xoriatiki Known as the Greek Salad
• Cretan Salad A twist on Greek salad with hard boiled eggs and warm boiled potatoes,
• Salata Marouli Romaine Lettuce Salad
• Lahano Salata A traditionally tart cabbage salad are other types of Cretan salads.
• Fava is a (usually) warm dish of boiled and mashed chickpeas served with olive oil and lemon.
• Kotosoupa A chicken based soup with a lemon sauce
• Fakkes Tomato soup in a lentil base
• Fasolatha A hearty bean soup in a tomato base
• Nisiotiki A hearty seafood soup

Common appetisers

• Tsatziki Famous cucumber dip that can go well with almost anything
• Taramosalata Cod roe-based dip
• Kalamari Deep fried squid
• Skorthalia Greek garlic mashed potatoes
• Gigantes Butter beans in a tomato sauce (can be spicy or not)

Common main dishes [ edit ]

• Bifteki Greek hamburger patties
• Souvlaki Sticks of meat served in or without a pita bread
• Fricasse Lamb and garden beans in a creamy lemon sauce
• Pilafi Greek style rice
• Psari A way to prepare Black Grouper or other types of fish
• Moussaka Famous eggplant casserole

Common desserts [ edit ]

• Fruit in season.
• Yoghurt drizzled with honey.
• Bougatsa , a custard filled pastry made with phyllo.
• Kaitifi and Baklava
• Cakes - Traditional cakes are not too sweet, but Cretans have developed a sweet tooth and there are many bakeries specializing in various confections.
• Ice cream is served everywhere during the warmer months

Cretan fruits [ edit ]

In Crete, olives are the prevailing fruit grown almost anywhere on the island, except areas of very extreme altitude. Citrus, such as lemons, oranges, mandarins and even grapefruit or limes can also be grown, though they are way too rare. Crete also grows tropical or extremely exotic fruits, such as avocados and bananas. Once Crete was Greece's only banana supplier, however, after imports were legalized it nearly went extinct. The only remaining "banana villages" are Arvi and Malia in Heraklion, Ierapetra in Lasithi and Sfakaki in Rethymno. On the northern they're primarily grown in Greenhouses, while in the hotter south they are grown outdoors. They're small and have a dry flower on their tip. A large bunch will be present on stores along with a knife where you can cut as much as you want. Date palms and coffee also thrives, though not commercially grown. Carob pods-contrary to popular belief-are edible and is very popular.

Drink [ edit ]

If you are in Crete during the dry summer, you will want to drink plenty of water; however, if you are an oenophile, don't neglect wine. The Cretan earth produces some of best wines from local grape varieties ( mantilari , kotsifali , etc.), and the famous tsikoudia or raki (a non aniseed spirit, written ρακή , and pronounced rhakee ). Retsina (Greek: Ρετσίνα) is a Greek white (or rosé) resinated wine, which has been made for at least 2,000 years. Its unique flavor is said to have originated from the practice of sealing wine vessels, particularly amphorae, with Aleppo Pine resin in ancient times. It is an acquired taste, but well worth acquiring.

Sleep [ edit ]

Types of lodging [ edit ].

There are hundreds of various types of lodging possibilities on the island; a few representative properties are listed. Credit cards are generally accepted at most mainstream properties. Discounts may be offered for cash. Some private homes/villas may have a PayPal or similar method of payment. Very small hotels and "rent rooms" may accept only cash. Almost all properties can assist with sightseeing, tours, and rental cars.

Aparthotels [ edit ]

There is a plethora of these types of accommodation, which usually have cooking facilities in the rooms/suites, a small restaurant/bar (breakfast often included), laundry facilities, swimming pool and free WiFi.

Hotels [ edit ]

These range from simple two-star to lavish five-star properties and all-inclusive resorts. There are city hotels, business hotels, and beach resort hotels. Even a Nudist -Hotel you find in Crete what is very rare in Greece.

Villas, private homes & rooms [ edit ]

There are numerous villas and private homes available around the island, ranging from small one-bedroom "cottages" to lavish multi-bedroom villas. Some are offered privately by owners, and some are developments of two, four, or more detached villas. There are "Rent Room" signs just about everywhere you go; often just simple rooms for sleeping, although some will have basic cooking facilities. Keep in mind that most villas and holiday homes should be registered and get a licence (abbrev. MHTE) from the Greek National Tourist Organisation (also known as EOT in Greek). That practically means that they keep some quality standards and regulations and are officially approved by the Greek authorities.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Dangers & warnings [ edit ]

There is little crime on the island, although the incidence of burglary and petty theft has risen since the economic crisis. Use commonsense precautions at ATMs and with the storage of valuables; use the safe in your hotel room and do not leave valuables in plain sight in a car.

Be careful at night in party towns like Malia, where nightclub revelry (often drunken) continues until dawn. The summer of 2013 saw a number of gang and rival-related incidents, resulting in fights and even one murder. The summer of 2013 also saw a reported increase in sexual assaults often involving young women too inebriated to protect themselves. Use commonsense precautions around alcohol, and go to clubs in groups of friends.

Traditional Cretan wedding parties and some festivals do include gun shots into the air, and these become stray bullets with the potential for both injury and even death upon landing in the vicinity.

Travellers with physical disabilities [ edit ]

Since entering the European Union, there have been efforts to make access for the disabled easier. However, a combination of factors has made this far from comprehensive. The major factors are the topography of the island, the nature of its most important sites, and the economy. Many hotels and other types of accommodations are in historic buildings, without elevators and often with many stairs to various facilities. This is especially true in small villages, and in the Old Town sections of cities. Getting into most public establishments (and to the toilet, once you're in there) usually means stairs.

Historic sites like the ancient ruins of Knossos will be very difficult to fully explore for those confined to wheelchairs and who have difficulty walking, although many of them (including Knossos) have significant sections that can be explored to create a rewarding experience. The Old Towns of cities (like Chania) and small mountain villages are hilly, often with steps from one area to another. Nonetheless, there are still places in most of these that can be explored. A person in a wheelchair or one with walking difficulties will not be able to see everything, but they can still see a rewarding amount of things.

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Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Nantes le 28/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 02/06/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 06/06/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 11/12/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 11/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Nantes le 23/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 08/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 09/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Nantes le 07/06/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 14/10/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Luxembourg le 08/06/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 16/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 10/10/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Marseille le 10/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Nantes le 10/12/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Marseille le 25/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lille le 12/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Genève le 28/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 13/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 08/06/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Bâle le 12/12/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 15/10/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 21/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 16/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 26/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Bruxelles le 11/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 16/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lille le 08/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 14/10/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Strasbourg le 11/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Marseille le 30/09/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Nantes le 05/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Genève le 12/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 17/10/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Nice le 05/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Lyon le 29/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Nantes le 07/10/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Bruxelles le 19/05/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 21/05/2024 pour 7J/6N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 13/06/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Bruxelles le 25/09/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Luxembourg le 07/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 19/06/2024 pour 6J/5N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 22/06/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 12/10/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Bruxelles le 14/05/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 09/06/2024 pour 8J/7N

Meilleur tarif pour un départ de Paris le 19/03/2025 pour 6J/5N

LES DESTINATIONS DE LOOKÉA

Quand partir avec lookéa.

• mai 2024 489 €
• juin 2024 539 €
• juillet 2024 1669 €
• août 2024 1489 €
• septembre 2024 496 €
• octobre 2024 507 €
• novembre 2024 424 €
• décembre 2024 432 €
• février 2025 746 €
• mars 2025 1630 €

QUI EST Lookéa

En Tunisie, Lookéa propose des séjours en hôtel-club à Hammamet. Les établissements 4 étoiles choisis par le voyagiste campent au coeur de Hammamet Sud où l'ambiance demeure animée. À moins de 10 kilomètres du centre-ville, ces lieux sont propices aux excursions citadines avec ou sans accompagnement. Ici, les hôtels Clubs Lookéa hébergent des boutiques artisanales, des instituts de beauté et un service médical. En Espagne, l'agence suggère des circuits autotour pour découvrir à son propre rythme les sites emblématiques de la Costa del Sol, de Grenade et de Cordoue. Les vols au départ de Paris débarquent à Séville où de courtes visites culturelles sont proposées à la cathédrale, au parc Maria Luisa et au quartier de Santa Cruz. Les itinéraires le long de la Costa del Sol invitent au farniente. Entre deux heures de repos à la plage, les voyageurs sont conviés à visiter les ruines romaines de Malaga et sa fameuse place de Merced. Les soirées tropicales dans les bars et des restaurants en bord de plage complètent cette escale d'un séjour Lookéa . À l'extrémité sud de la péninsule ibérique, les séjours en Andalousie promettent des vacances inoubliables sillonnant la majestueuse ville de Grenade, Ronda et le magnifique paysage du Gibraltar. Les transferts aéroport/hôtel sont inclus dans les offres de séjours all inclusive. Les séjours avec Lookéa en dernière minute sont parfois l'occasion de tester les vacances en club avec un prix plus intérressant que le prix catalogue.

Lundi à Vendredi : 9h-18. Samedi : 10h à 17h. Appel non surtaxé.

• Découvrir Ôvoyages
• Où partir ?

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Hôtel club Crète

Explorez la crète dans un hôtel club.

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20 offres de voyages

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Types d’hôtels clubs en Crète

Hôtels clubs tout inclus.

Un séjour sérénité, convivialité et immersion totale en Grèce, en formule tout compris, voici la promesse d’un hôtel club Crète , avec piscine et accès direct à la plage. Se relaxer au spa, explorer les vestiges de l’île ou faire du snorkeling en famille, rythmeront vos journées de vacances. Les repas inclus du buffet petit-déjeuner, déjeuner et dîner raviront vos papilles, à la découverte des spécialités culinaires crétoises.

Hôtels clubs pour adultes uniquement (Adult Only)

Un village club Adult Only en Crète s’avère la destination rêvée pour les voyageurs sans enfants, en quête de divertissement, d’activités sportives, de rencontres et de farniente en Grèce. En couple, entre amis ou en solo, vivez votre séjour en hôtel club dans une ambiance festive et chaleureuse, les pieds dans l’eau.

Hôtels clubs pour familles

En optant pour un hôtel club Crète , en bord de mer, vous êtes assurés de créer des souvenirs éternels pour toute la famille. Les enfants pourront s’adonner à des jeux, des animations et des activités ludiques ou sportives, adaptés à leur âge, tandis que les parents se détendront et profiteront de leur temps libre.

Hôtels clubs avec animation

Apéro au bord de la piscine, initiation au sirtaki, animation folklorique, séances d’aquagym, tournoi de fléchettes, minigolf pour les enfants… Nos équipes d’animateurs professionnels ne manquent pas d’idées pour vous divertir. Une soirée à thème hebdomadaire égaie petits et grands avec un spectacle de danse ou de musique.

Comment choisir son hôtel club en Crète ?

La localisation.

Pour les voyageurs amateurs de sites historiques et culturels, le séjour dans un hôtel club autour de Héraklion s’avère un choix judicieux. Pour un voyage en famille, un hôtel club formule all inclusive, proche des stations balnéaires d’Hersonissos ou de Réthymnon, procure l’opportunité d’alterner relaxation à la plage et visites de l’arrière-pays.

Activités et animations

Assurez-vous que l’hôtel propose des activités qui correspondent à vos intérêts, que ce soit des cours de yoga, des soirées à thème ou des excursions locales. Si vous voyagez en famille, vérifiez que l'hôtel dispose d'un club pour enfants avec des jeux pour des vacances récréatives.

Plage et espace piscine

Si vous envisagez de vous prélasser sous le soleil de Grèce, votre choix se portera sur un hôtel club Crète avec accès direct à la plage et comportant une ou plusieurs piscines.

Quand partir en Crète ?

Si vous aimez le soleil et les températures élevées, l'été s'avère la saison parfaite pour vous. Cependant, si vous souhaitez éviter les foules et bénéficier d'un climat plus doux, le printemps et l'automne sont des saisons à considérer pour réserver votre départ en Crète. Découvrez notre guide de vacances en Crète complet .

Quelles sont les activités à faire dans un hôtel club en Crète ?

Pour les amateurs de détente, ressourcez-vous dans notre espace spa avec massages et soins corporels. Les fans de culture voyageront dans le temps au cœur des sites historiques et archéologiques mythiques de l’île. Pour rester actif pendant les vacances, des activités nautiques telle la plongée sous-marine, ou encore le beach-volley, le tennis ou le yoga sont au programme.

Les hôtels clubs sont-ils adaptés aux enfants ?

Tout est possible pour les familles dans un hôtel club Crète. Il dispose de clubs pour enfants et adolescents , avec un encadrement francophone et une profusion d'activités ludiques et éducatives, ainsi que des aires de jeux extérieures sécurisées.

1. Sélectionnez votre date de voyage 2. Choisissez votre mode de paiement en 3 ou 4 fois 3. Validez votre commande 4. Complétez le formulaire de notre partenaire Oney 5. Recevez une confirmation immédiate !

Afin de bénéficier du paiement en plusieurs fois, les seules conditions à remplir sont :

• Réserver un séjour à partir de 100 € et jusqu’à 4000 €
• Être une personne majeure
• Résider en France
• Être titulaire d’une carte bancaire Visa ou MasterCard (hors cartes Electron, Maestro, e-card, Indigo, American Express, …)
• Posséder une carte bancaire dont la date de validité est supérieure à la durée du financement choisi
• Un premier paiement est dû le jour de la réservation. Les autres échéances suivent 30 et 60 jours après pour le paiement en 3 fois ou 30, 60 et 90 jours après pour le paiement en 4 fois.
• Pour le paiement en 3 fois, les frais correspondants sont de 1,62% du montant total de la commande (dans la limite de 25€ maximum). Vous pourrez bénéficier d'un paiement en 3 fois par carte bancaire pour des achats d'un montant compris entre 100 et 4000 euros.

Exemple : Paiement en 3 fois pour un achat d’un montant de 150€, apport de 52,43€, puis 2 mensualités de 50€. Crédit sur 2 mois au TAEG fixe de 21,78%. Coût du financement 2,43€ dans la limite de 25€ maximum

• Pour le paiement en 4 fois, les frais correspondants sont de 2,43% du montant total de la commande (dans la limite de 50€ maximum). Vous pourrez bénéficier d’un paiement en 4 fois par carte bancaire pour des achats d’un montant compris entre 350 et 4000 euros.

Exemple : Paiement en 4 fois pour un achat de 400€, apport de 109,72€, puis 3 mensualités de 100€. Crédit sur 3 mois au TAEG fixe de 21,92%. Coût du financement 9,72€, dans la limite de 50€ maximum

Offre de financement sans assurance avec apport obligatoire, réservée aux particuliers et valable pour tout achat de 100€ à 4000€. Sous réserve d’acceptation par Oney Bank. Vous disposez d’un délai de 14 jours pour renoncer Oney Bank - SA au capital de 51 286 585€ - 34 Avenue de Flandre 59 170 Croix - 546 380 197 RCS Lille Métropole - n° Orias 07 023 261 www.orias.fr

Pour le paiement en 3 fois sans frais : le coût du financement est de 0% du montant total de la commande. Exemple pour un achat de 150€, apport de 50€, puis 2 mensualités de 50€, Crédit d’une durée de 2 mois au TAEG fixe de 0%. Coût du financement : 0€ Pour le paiement en 4 fois sans frais : le coût du financement est de 0% du montant total de la commande. Exemple pour un achat de 400€, apport de 100€, suivi de 3 mensualités de 100€. Crédit d’une durée de 3 mois au TAEG fixe de 0%. Coût du financement : 0€

Pour toutes vos questions complémentaires sur le fonctionnement du « paiement en 3 ou 4 fois par carte bancaire », pensez à consulter nos conditions générales de vente .

Voir les conditions > Cette solution est proposée par notre partenaire Oney Bank. Conditions : Cette offre est réservée aux particuliers (personnes physiques majeures) résidant en France et titulaires d’une carte bancaire Visa et MasterCard possédant une date de validité supérieure à la durée du financement choisie. Les cartes à autorisation systématique notamment de type Electron, Maestro, Nickel etc… ainsi que les e-cards, les cartes Indigo et American Express ne sont pas acceptées. Modalités de souscription : Après avoir terminé votre commande, il vous suffit de cliquer sur « paiement en 3x 4x Oney par carte bancaire ». Vous êtes alors redirigé vers la page internet 3x 4x Oney de notre partenaire affichant le récapitulatif détaillé de votre commande et la demande de financement personnalisée, que vous devez ensuite valider. Vous saisissez vos informations personnelles ou, si vous disposez d’un compte 3x 4x Oney, vous vous identifiez au moyen des identifiants de connexion liés à votre compte 3x 4x Oney. Vous prenez connaissance des conditions générales de paiement en plusieurs fois auxquelles vous souhaitez souscrire qui vous sont fournies sous format PDF afin que vous puissiez les lire, les imprimer et les enregistrer avant de les accepter. Vous notifiez ensuite votre acceptation électronique par la case à cocher correspondante. Vous reconnaissez que le « double clic » associé à la case à cocher sur la prise de connaissance des conditions générales valent consentement à contracter et constituent une acceptation irrévocable et sans réserve des conditions générales du produit. Sauf preuve contraire, les données enregistrées par Oney Bank constituent la preuve de l’ensemble des transactions passées entre vous et Oney Bank. Si vous demandez à bénéficier d’une solution de financement proposée par Oney Bank, les informations en rapport à votre commande seront transmises à Oney Bank, qui les utilisera à des fins d’étude de votre demande pour l’octroi, la gestion et le recouvrement de crédit. Oney Bank se réserve le droit d’accepter ou de refuser votre demande de financement en 3x 4x Oney. Vous disposez d’un délai de rétractation de 14 jours pour renoncer à votre crédit. Oney Bank - SA au capital de 51 286 585 € - Siège social : 34 avenue de Flandre 59170 CROIX - RCS Lille Métropole 546 380 197 - n° Orias : 07 023 261 - www.orias.fr - Correspondance : CS 60006 - 59 895 Lille Cedex 9 - www.oney.fr

Une question ?

Espace client

Infos & réservations

Pour nous appeler depuis l'étranger, veuillez composer le :

+33 170 365 000

Numéro accessible hors de France exclusivement (prix d'un appel local depuis un poste fixe)

Club Lookéa Bali Paradise

Crète - Heraklion (Bali)

Oups, le séjour recherché n'est pas disponible actuellement. Nous espérons que vous trouverez votre bonheur parmi des séjours similaires.

Vous allez adorer

• La vue splendide sur la baie de Bali
• La piscine et ses toboggans
• La qualité de sa restauration

Dates de départ et tarifs

1 Personnalisez votre séjour

Ville de départ

Date de départ

2 Choisissez votre durée

3 Sélectionnez votre date de départ

Autres durées disponibles en cliquant sur le +

En Crète, sur la côte sauvage et la baie de Bali, le Club Lookéa Bali Paradise 4* (normes locales) est niché au milieu d'un jardin botanique fleuri de bougainvillées aux senteurs méditerranéennes, pour des vacances animées et conviviales. Il est notamment situé à l'entrée du petit port de pêcheurs de Bali et se trouve à 50 km de l'aéroport. Votre Club Lookea Bali Paradise est situé à flanc de colline et surplombe la baie en offrant une vue époustouflante ainsi qu'une atmosphère familiale et conviviale.

+ En savoir plus

+ Découvrir tous les logements

Les + équipements

Les + activités

Restauration

Formule tout inclus

Sports et loisirs.

Buller ou Bouger ? L'hôtel Club Lookéa Bali Paradise 4* (normes locales) met à votre disposition : 2 piscines extérieures surplombant la mer. 1 piscine avec toboggans (pour les plus de 6 ans et plus de 1,20 m), ouverts 6 jours sur 7, de mai à octobre, de 10 h à 12 h 30 et de 14 h 30 à 18 h. La plage située à 100 m en contrebas est publique. Une zone aménagée avec transats et parasols gratuits vous est réservée. Location de serviettes de plage/piscine : 7€ par semaine par serviette. Gratuit : - Mini Football - terrain de tennis - volley-ball - basket-ball - pétanque - tir à l'arc - fléchettes - tennis de table - mini-golf - cours de danse - fitness - Lookymba, Lookéa Relax, Lookéa Fit - aquagym - jeux piscine - aquajogging - aqualookymba - à la plage : stand up paddle, canoë, prêt de masques (base nautique ouverte 6 jours sur 7) - spectacles en soirée, soirées dansantes - des activités fun et originales au programme Disc golf : lancez avec précision votre disque tout en alliant les règles du golf, du basket et du freesbee. Un moment convivial et intergénérationnel.

Avec supplément, l'hôtel vous donne accès au petit centre de bien-être proposant soins et massages (spa, hammam, sauna, massages, soins esthétiques pour le corps et le visage).

Excursions (Suite)

Bon à savoir, aegean airlines, la compagnie et sa flotte, certifications, franchise bagages, services à bord, convocation, informations pratiques, santé et sécurité.

Alerte Vacances

En validant, je m'abonne au programme Newsletter de Promovacances et ses partenaires.

*Champ obligatoire

0892 62 11 11 *

Lundi-samedi : 9h-23h / Dimanche : 10h-23h

*Nos conseillers sont à votre écoute

La Météo en Crète