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Crete may be an island, but it packs in a whole country’s worth of unmissable sites within its lovely shores. From the ornate architecture and culture of Hania to the deeply symbolic monastery at Moni Preveli, there is so much to see on Greece’s largest island.
Don’t miss the 4000-year-old wonders of the Palace of Knossos – one of the world’s top ancient sites – and allow plenty of time for the dozens of gorgeous beaches. Indulge yourself with a vineyard tour paired with delicious local cuisine when you’re able to tear yourself away from the coast.
Best city for dining and walking
Crete’s second-largest city has many excellent places to eat, lining the labyrinth of ancient stone lanes that make up its 17th-century Venetian quarter. Some of the finest food in all of Greece can be found in Crete, thanks to its bountiful produce and ingenious cooks, and Hania is the island’s culinary capital. While you stroll, snack on boureki, a rich, layered cheese pie, and marvel at the myriad ways Cretans use locally produced olive oil, which is some of the best in the Mediterranean.
Before and after a meal, stroll down to the Venetian Harbour, which is studded with pastel-colored buildings and fortifications built across the centuries. Follow the breakwater walk out from shore for stunning views of all the magnificence.
Best for sand, sea and sun
The journey to Crete’s best beaches starts with a twisting drive through the mountains and down to the charming little port town of Hora Sfakion. As you loop around bend after bend, panoramic views across the Libyan Sea show the rocky Cretan coast in all its filigreed glory.
Stretching off to the horizon are coves enclosing perfect little beaches, often backed by a tiny village with waterfront tavernas. Make a beeline for Loutro, Agia Roumeli, Paleohora and the crowning glory that is Elafonisi, renowned for its pinkish-white sands and the dune-blanketed islet offshore.
Planning tip: You can reach most of these strands by car, but it’s better to grab a ride on one of the coastal ferries that operate from May to September, making it easy to beach-hop from one strip of sand to the next.
Best for reliving Minoan history
Just south of Iraklio in eastern Crete, the Palace of Knossos is Crete’s top unmissable attraction. Once a mighty palace for the Minoan civilization, which thrived here from 1900 BCE, Knossos is a sprawling site of marketplaces, grand chambers, inspiring frescoes, hidden passages, rows of sturdy columns and more. You can easily spend several hours exploring the site.
During the busy summer, escape the crowds and find a quiet corner to contemplate life 4000 years ago. Signage is sparse, so come with a guide from the site shop or join a tour, which will provide vital context that brings the site to life.
Planning tip: Avoid the touristy restaurants in the area and have lunch in the beautiful wine country to the south.
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