Best Things to do in Crete, Greece | Travel Guide

One of our favourite places in Greece is the wonderful and ancient island of Crete. It’s the largest island in the country and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea. 

Located in the South of Greece, Crete is surrounded by the Aegean Sea to the north and the Libyan Sea to the south. The terrain on Crete is mountainous, with three large mountain groups forming the valleys, plateaus, caves, lakes, and many, many gorges that the island is known for.

Greek destinations never disappoint when it comes to postcard-worthy beaches, luxury resorts, and legendary history and culture, but Crete wins us over with absolutely delicious cuisine and warm hospitality. (Maybe that’s because Cretans are descendants of Zeus, god of hospitality and father of all ancient Greek gods!)

Over the years, we’ve spent many months enjoying the island of Crete. We’ve visited the island in the dead of winter, enjoyed the quiet months of the shoulder season and spent some time here in the summer. We love Crete so much that we have recently purchased a plot of land here so we can build a holiday home here and enjoy everything Crete has to offer for years to come. Needless to say, we’ve explored the island quite a bit. 

If you’re planning a trip to the Greek islands and are looking for things to do in Crete, keep reading for some of our best recommendations. 

How to Get to Crete, Greece

Crete is the only island in Greece with 2 airports–and soon, it’ll have 3. Many international airlines fly to Crete all year round from Europe, the Middle East and Asia. 

In the summer (March-October), charter flights are available from European countries such as France, Holland, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Belgium, and more. There are also charter flights from Heraklion to other Greek islands like Rhodes, Kos, and more.

Heraklion International Airport (HEK)

Located in the capital city of Heraklion, just 4km from the city centre, Heraklion Airport is the second largest airport in Greece. Direct flights to Heraklion are available from 106 cities across 26 countries. 

Chania International Airport (CHQ)

The Chania International Airport is about 14 km away from Chania Town and the port of Souda. Most flights here are domestic, coming from big Greek cities, but there are a few international flights in the summer, too.

Kastelli International Airport (Under Construction)

Crete’s third and newest airport is set to open in 2027. Designed to handle up to 18 million travellers annually, this airport is going to open up Crete to long-haul cross-Atlantic flights, bringing direct flight routes from North America to Crete. 

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Getting Around Crete, Greece 

The best way to start your Crete adventure is to rent a car! While taxis and buses are available and allow you to get around spots like Chania and Heraklion, they do not offer a good option for exploring the island. 

Driving your own car is the most convenient way to get around. However, the roads in Crete can be a little tough to navigate, especially in cities where streets are narrow. So, take that into consideration when planning your trip. Car rentals typically start at €100 for 7 days, although we have rented cars for as low as just $5/day during the low season. 

Note: To legally drive in Greece, you do need an International Drivers License issued by your home country. While not every rental company asks for this at booking/check-in, it is legally required. Not having the piece of paper could cost you in the event of an accident or any insurance claim. We don’t take the risk and always travel to Greece with up-to-date documents. 

Best Time to Visit Crete, Greece

The weather in Crete is fairly mild all year round, so the best time to go depends on what experience you’re after. Many local attractions and businesses do adjust to the tourist season, so they might be closed during the season, but there’s always something to do, no matter when you visit.

Spring/Fall (April to Late October)

Vacation season starts in Spring and lasts until early Fall. Businesses that were closed in the winter open around mid April and stay open until mid/late October. Outside of the season, you may find a number of restaurants and activity providers operating with a off-season schedule or shut completely. 

Summer (July to End of August)

The peak season in Crete is in the summer, with more visitors coming to Crete as the temperature gets warmer in the summer. This is arguably the best time to visit Crete, as everything is open, there are lots of festivals and late-night partying, and everywhere is generally packed with tourists. Low-altitude areas like gorges, mountains, plains, valleys, and other coastal areas are particularly wonderful in the summer because there’s cool, fresh air coming from the sea.

However, as with any tourist destination, busy season brings higher prices, more crowds and a less desirable experience overall. This is particuarly true for Crete in July and August when European vistiors flock to the island for their summer vacation. 

Winter (December to March)

Winter adds a little chill to the island of Crete, with average highs at 15-16°C and average lows around 9-11°C. Still, Crete is considered the warmest winter destination in Europe and is still worth visiting in the winter. Agios Nikolaos sees the most sun, with an average of 261 hours of winter sunshine and average temps of 16.4°C. 

Though you might need to throw on a cardigan and a light jacket on some days, Crete in the low season is really lovely. The crowds are nowhere to be found—making visits to archeological sites, museums, and Crete beaches more enjoyable—and prices for flights and hotels are significantly lower. 

Best Things to Do in Crete, Greece

Crete is a big island, and unless you have 2 or more weeks to explore the island in full, the best thing to do is pick 2 to 3 areas you’d like to visit. There are so many things to do in Crete, so you won’t run out of activities and things to add to your itinerary, regardless of where you end up. 

Here’s a look at what you can expect from the main areas:

Chania

Highlights: Old Town, Venetian Harbour, Cafes & Restaurants

Chania is the second largest city in Crete, after the capital of Heraklion. It’s built on what was once the city of Kidonia in the Minoan period. 

The old town’s main landmark is the old lighthouse on the harbour, standing tall against the sea. You’ll see lots of buildings, shops, and structures designed with Cretan, Ottoman, and Venetian influences squeezed together in a maze of beautiful narrow alleys. Here are a few spots worth visiting. 

• Venetian Harbour & Lighthouse. Built all the way in the 14th century, the harbour has evolved from a place of ancient commerce and protection to a great spot for cafés, restaurants, tavernas, bars, and shops selling local delicacies and crafts.
• Stivanadika Street. This shopping street is also known as Chania’s “Leather Street,” though there’s more to buy than just leather goods. Head here to shop for olive oil, local souvenirs, folk art, and jewels.
• Maritime Museum of Crete. For history buffs, this museum showcases the island’s history through a valuable collection of naval objects.
• Kioutsouk Hassan Mosque. This is the oldest Muslim building in Crete, built in honour of the first Ottoman Commander of Chania. Today, it’s been renovated and is used as an exhibition area.
• Halepa. This suburb was once home to Chania’s most prominent figures, like politicians, merchants, and aristocrats. The neighbourhood is lined with charming 19th and 20th-century style buildings, some of which have become museums, stylish hotels, and historical landmarks.
• Beaches. There are many beaches close to Chania, and some of the popular ones are Seitan Limania Beach and Balos Lagoon.

Rethymno

Highlights: Venetian Fortress, Venetian & Ottoman Architecture, Beautiful Beaches along South & North Coast

If you want to travel back in time, surround yourself with medieval architecture in Rethymno. It’s one of Crete’s most well-preserved old towns, with elegant Venetian and Ottoman-inspired buildings, mosques, fountains, and pretty cobblestone streets. 

Here are the top things to do in Crete in/around the Rethymno area. 

• Fortezza Castle. This fortress castle is the largest Venetian castle ever built. It sits on top of Paleokastro Hill, looking over the old town. In the summer, the Renaissance Festival of Rethymno happens in the fortress.
• Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. This museum is by the main gate of the Fortezza, with artifacts from the Early, Middle, and Late Minoan periods such as cookware, pottery, weapons, jewelry, figurines, and more.
• Venetian Loggia. In the center of Rethymno’s Old Town is this majestic 16th-century building. It used to be where the town’s politicians would gather. Today, there are shops selling copies of Greek sculptures and guides for archaeological sites.
• Arkadi Monastery. One of the most important monasteries in Crete known for its involvement in liberation struggles against the Turkish conquest in 1866.
• Preveli Beach. At 12km, this is Crete’s longest beach, located just outside Rethymno town.
• Neratze Mosque. An Ottoman-era mosque that’s since been converted into a music hall. It’s impossible to miss because its minaret is the tallest one in town.
• Platanos Square. A long string of cafés and restaurants lead to the famous Rimondi Fountain. A great area for a stroll in town. 
• Mikrasiaton Square (New Square of the Old Town). Built-in 2006, the new square has churches, museums, schools, and a playground right at the heart of the town’s historical center. 
• Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Located just 30 minutes from Rethymno, this is a popular spot for a beautiful scenic hike with a waterfall that’s great for a dip on a hot summer day. 

Heraklion

Highlights: Archaeological Sites, Museums, Venetian Harbour, Restaurants & Hotels, Beaches

The capital of Crete and one of Greece’s major urban centres, Heraklion is a perfect example of modern meets ancient. The city’s blend of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences is always present in architecture, design, and exhibits, but there’s also a vibrant, youthful energy that adds life to the city squares and alleyways.

Here are the main things to do in Crete in Heraklion area. 

• Koules Fortress/Venetian Harbour. This is the city’s main landmark along the west side of the old Venetian port: a romantic structure that overlooks the harbour. 
• Venetian Walls. Wander around the old city, and you’ll find the fortification walls and bastions designed by architect Michele Sanmicheli over 400 years ago.
• Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This is considered one of the most important museums in Europe. Its artifacts tell the story of 5,000 years’ worth of Cretan history.
• Knossos Palace. This was where King Minos ruled during the Minoan Period. The palace was considered the most important socio-economic and religious centre in Minoan civilization, and also where stories of the mythical Minotaur and his labyrinth took place. It’s the largest and most impressive archeological site in Crete. 
• Agios Titos Cathedral. The cathedral was estimated to have been built in 961AD by Byzantine Emperor Nicephorus Phocas and is dedicated to the first bishop of Crete, Saint Titos. Right next to it is the Venetian Armeria (armoury).
• Venetian Loggia. This elegant city hall is also a great example of Venetian architecture, with 82 metopes and some beautiful arcades. Nearby are St. Mark’s Basilica and the Lions’ Head Fountain.
• Daedalus Shopping Street. Named after a mythical craftsman, this paved pedestrian area is filled with designer stores, local shops, and cafés that lead to Lions Square.
• Beaches. Ammoudara, Tobruk, Arena or Red Hani are some of the popular beaches in Heraklion. 
• Sailing trip to Dia Island. Spend a day on the water by joining a full-day or half-day sailing trip to the nearby Dia Island. The island itself is uninhabited, with not much to see on land, but the beautiful waters and snorkelling spots around this island make this trip a worthy adventure. 

Agios Nikolaos

Highlights: Beautiful Beaches, Natural Wonders, Luxury Resorts

Agios Nikolaos, the capital town of Lassithi, is what dream holidays are made of. This is our favourite area in Crete, and it is here that we purchased our little slice of land. Stunning beaches, beautiful natural landscapes, chic villas and luxury resorts, charming city centre —it might as well be summer all year round. 

Agios Nikolaos is the warmest Greek destination in the winter, so it’s not too far off! Apart from its elegant charms, there are also historical sites here worth exploring

• Lake Vouliagmeni. Located in the heart of Agios Nikolaos city, this bright, enchanting lake is said to be bottomless and is also where goddesses Athena and Artemis bathed. The area is surrounded by neoclassical houses, bars, and shops. It’s our favourite area in the city for a stroll in the evening, a meal overlooking the lake, or an afternoon drink.
• Spinalonga Island. For centuries, this iconic fortress islet stood strong on the Bay of Elounda—eventually becoming an inspiration behind the bestseller “the Island” by Victoria Hislop. From 1905 to 1957, it turned into Greece’s designated leper colony. Visitors can visit the Spinalonga on a quick boat trip or even a swim if you’re up for it. The island is very well preserved and is really fun to explore!
• Olous (Sunken City). This ancient Dorian city was once one of the most important cities of ancient Crete before it was completely submerged underwater after an earthquake. The site can be visited on a guided snorkelling tour, which allows you to float above the city’s ancient ruins. 
• Mirabello Bay. Considered one of the most beautiful spots in Crete, it’s the largest bay among the Greek islands, with clear, bright blue waters and dreamy coves.
• Ariteou Monastery is located in the fishing village of Plaka and is considered one of the most beautiful Cretan monasteries.
• Cretan Olive Oil Farm. Many experts say that Cretan olive oil is the best in the world. Drop by the farm for a guided tour and tasting, or try out other activities like cooking lessons, cheese making, pottery, or wine tasting.
• House of Bioaroma Crete – the best spa in town and home to our favourite line of organic skin care products. Come here for amazing facials, massages or other treatments.

South

Highlights: Natural Landscapes, Stunning Remote Beaches, Dramatic Mountains, Cliffs & Gorges

The south coast of Crete offers a different kind of adventure. There are none of the north’s luxury resorts and commercial spaces. Instead, accommodation options are limited to holiday homes and cottages that complement their natural surroundings. 

Since it’s almost rural, this part of the island is best explored by private car. Winding roads lead to quiet coastal villages, craggy mountains, quiet beaches, and gorges that open up to the Libyan Sea. 

Head down for a change of pace and visit the following:

• Samaria Gorge. This is one of the most popular gorges and is also a symbol of the island of Crete. The 16km gorge runs from Chrysoskalo to the shores of the Libyan Sea in Agia Roumeli. The hike is a bit rough and takes about 4-6 hours. Samaria Gorge is part of a national park that’s home to the endangered kri-kri (a rare wild Cretan goat), as well as 300+ species of flora and 900+ species of fauna. 
• Elafonisi Beach. Named one of the best beaches in the world, it’s particularly famous for its pink or coral-coloured sand.
• Askifou Plateau is the largest hiking area in Crete. Within the plateau are the Imbros Gorge, Kalikates Gorge, and Aradena Gorge. Visit in the spring to see it covered in flowers or in the winter for icy slopes.
• Coastal villages. If you want to stay in southern Crete for a few days, towns like Paleochora, Matala, Lerapetra and Plakias serve as great bases for exploring the region.

Where to Stay in Crete, Greece

There are plenty of accommodation options all around the island, so when deciding where to stay, we encourage you to decide on what cities/areas you want to visit first. The options are plentiful in almost every corner of the island. Apartments and holiday homes dominate the accommodation options in Crete, but there are a number of hotels, particularly luxury hotels, worth looking into as well. 

Here are just a few recommendations to get you started. 

Grecotel Hotel & Resorts

Grecotel is the largest premium hotel and resort chain in Greece. With over 40 Grecotel hotels and resorts across Greece and 10 located in Crete, it’s a good place to start your hotel search for a holiday in Crete. 

Each hotel brand is a little bit different, LuxMe Resorts are family friendly all inclusive luxury resorts, All in Lifestyle brand offers a good mid range option, while Boutique Resorts offer the most upscale experience. 

Each hotel/resort is designed with distinct architectural flair and boasts high-end amenities and gourmet dining options. 

We had a chance to stay at the LUXME White Palace in Rethymno earlier this year and found it to be a really beautiful property with fantastic dining options and plenty of amenities. 

Other Luxury Hotels

Acro Wellness Suite

This beautiful hotel perched on the cliffs just outside of Rethymno is centred on well-being, creating boutique luxury chic experience. Choose between waterfront villas, a private luxury house, loft suites, and a premium double suite–all with private waterfront views.

We absolutely love the design of these villas and think a stay here is well worth the splurge. The rooms include panoramic sea views, making it the perfect location for detox and rebalancing retreats. 

Minos Beach Art Hotel

This waterfront hideaway in Elounda is a 5-star hotel and a member of Design Hotels and Marriott Bonoy. It has 125 bungalows and villas, each built in its own corner with private pools, so guests can unwind in peace. The resort showcases minimalist luxury and contemporary art brought together through Cretan culture.

Mid Range 

Villa Heights Resort

This lovely, certified-sustainable stay embodies the traditional Cretan Village Style. It offers studios, apartments, and villas with beautiful countryside and sea views. Each one has a private bathroom with a bath, hairdryer, and toiletries. There’s also a restaurant on-site, plus two pools, a poolside snack bar, and a spa centre with a fitness area, sauna, hot tub, and hammam.

Balos Beach

For somewhere more remote, consider Balos Beach in Kissamos. The property offers modern self-catering apartments with sea or mountain views. All units come with air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom, a kitchen, and satellite TV. Other amenities include an ecological-cleaned pool, a hot tub, a children’s pool, a restaurant and bar, and a fitness room.

Budget: 

Kliklis Apartment

For a budget stay right in the heart of Heraklion, this one-bedroom apartment comes with a double bed, private bathroom, and fully equipped kitchen. The balcony offers a great view of the city, and if you want to explore, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (400m) and the Venetian Harbour (500m) are just a short walk away.

So Young Hostel

This shared hostel in Heraklion is a great option for solo travellers or groups who don’t mind communal spaces. You can rent a bedspace in an 8 or 6-bed mixed dormitory room or an all-female dormitory room. There’s air conditioning, a communal kitchen with a coffee machine, and shared bathrooms, though there are private ones available for certain rooms.

The hostel is conveniently located near sites like Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Venetian Walls, and other historic points of interest.

Where to Eat: Best Restaurants in Crete, Greece

Cretan cuisine is absolutely delicious, and you won’t have a hard time finding great restaurants across the island. Wherever you eat, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad spot with a rating lower than 4.5 on Google.

Here are some of our favourites:

Agios Nikolaos

Maistrali Taverna – A family-owned taverna serving traditional Greek food/meze passed down from generations. You can’t go wrong with any of their seafood dishes.

Paradosiako—The name means “traditional” in Greek, but their dishes are anything but traditional. They’re like your regular taverna with an elevated twist, adding a contemporary touch to classic Mediterranean dishes. The drunken chicken and moussaka are a standout.

Piato is another restaurant offering modern Greek cuisine. From starters like pita and spicy cheese dip and crispy smoked eel to mains like shrimp saganaki, glazed pork, and cod croquettes, every dish is a delicious experience.

Mi Se-meli – Away from the busy main street, this nondescript place serves honest and authentic Greek food. The menu is short, offering warm home-cooked meals and specials that change daily. 

Rethymno 

Raki Ba Raki – A casual modern restaurant known for its delicious mezes (small plates) and raki. There’s a lot to choose from, and it’s best to order for sharing. Try their pies, organic pork sausage, hand-picked mountain greens, cold cuts, hot feta with caramelized figs, and oxtail with orzo pasta.

Othonas is another authentic spot for Cretan dishes. Try their aubergine with cheese in the oven, beef steak, and moussaka. At the end of the meal, enjoy a small dessert and a free raki shot!

Stella’s Kitchen -This restaurant is run by a mother-and-son duo who have been serving home-cooked meals for 30 years. Their dishes are considered traditional food that’s more often served to the family than at a restaurant. The specials change frequently, but if you can, try their fish soup, glazed chicken, or pork souvlaki.

Castelo Restaurant is a stylish restaurant in Rethymno Old Town that serves delicious risotto and mussels. They also have a great wine selection. It’s a great place with great, attentive staff.

Achinos Restaurant – Cocktail Bar – A unique Mediterranean restaurant serving sushi. The salmon sashimi, salmon ceviche, and shrimp were all delicious and very fresh. 

Heraklion:

Peskesi – Authentic farm-to-table dishes with staff that’s very knowledgeable about olive oil. Their fried cheese is everyone’s favourite, and other must-tries are the smoked pork chop, olive oil tasting, and lamb.

Lola – A small, quaint restaurant serving dishes from northern Greece. Try the porchetta, fish saganaki, and smoked cheese with thyme.

Paradosiakon – This hidden restaurant off the central square serves fresh, authentic and affordable Cretan food. Try their take on souvlaki, stuffed vegetables with rice, and grilled pork and skewers.

Ntoré Gastronomy – For a fancy dinner, head to this fine-dining rooftop bar with a great view of the port of Heraklion. Try their ladenia, seafood pasta, octopus, and chocolate 3 ways for dessert.

Avli – A family-run hidden gem of a restaurant. Their lamb chops and goat cheese and eggs are exceptional. For dessert, try the caramelized peanuts with sesame melon and pumpkin coconut halva.

Chania: 

AlmyVita – This chic restaurant is right on the Old Port and serves out-of-the-box dishes. We recommend the shrimp sushi, slow-cooked beef short ribs, and grilled scallops. Pair them with their creative cocktails, and you won’t be disappointed! 

PALLAS – The building has three different restaurants: Pallas Lithografeion (an open-air seafood restaurant), Pallas Philocaly (an open-kitchen restaurant with a deli, wine cellar, and bakery), and Pallas Thealassa (a rooftop bar that opens at 7pm onwards). Whichever you pick, you get a great view of the harbour—especially at sunset.

The Well of the Turk – Turkish meets Greek at this restaurant. Try their Assortment of Dips, Middle Eastern Vegetarian Moussaka, and traditional Cretan pasta. Finish it off with a soothing pot of traditional Moroccan mint tea.

READ NEXT: 15 Best Beaches in Crete You Have to Visit

The Bottom Line

Crete is such a charming place, and it’s definitely one of our favourite destinations in Greece. It’s not as popular as Athens or Mykonos, but it definitely holds its own. There’s so much history, natural beauty, adventure, and great food–visiting once is definitely not enough!

And the hospitality, it just can’t be beat!