Things to do in Crete, Greece
Crete, Greece
Crete is the cradle of European civilization and one of the most important islands of Greece. Its people are friendly, loyal and friendly. Crete is also the ideal place for relaxation, landscapes and exploration during tourism in Greece because it combines exciting mountains with deep rocky valleys and quiet golden sandy beaches, and is filled with many Ancient archaeological sites and harbour towns, where you'll find a wide variety of vibrant towns, quiet villages and gorgeous countryside.
Crete will excite all of your senses and entice you with its awe-inspiring landscapes, powerful deep soul, rich history, world-famous cuisine, and hospitable people, so don't miss it when travelling to Greece. Tourism on the Greek island of Crete is no less interesting and beautiful than any other tourist island in Greece in general, such as Rhodes, Mykonos, Santorini, and others, and you will realize that fact for yourself when you identify in this article the most important tourist attractions on the island.
Important tips before travelling to Greece
Where is the island of Crete located?
Crete is located in the far south of the Aegean Sea, and you do not think that it will be difficult to reach it. Flying through Olympic Airlines in several hours connects it and many Greek islands such as Santorini and Rhodes, as well as the rest of the Greek cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki and others.
The most important tourist attractions in Crete, Greece
Heraklion .. the wonderful capital of Crete
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Heraklion .. the wonderful capital of Crete |
Heraklion, the port city and capital of the island of Crete, is one of the most popular areas of the island.
Start your day in the charming city of Heraklion by walking up to 25 August Street, to reach the walls of Heraklion and its historical centre, where you can enjoy a morning stroll before breakfast while learning about the ancient buildings that hold memories of the unforgettable past and the splendour of discovering the ancient history.
During this tour, you can experience the riches of Cretan cuisine with a wonderful breakfast at 'Think Tank', a trendy café with delicious breakfast options and you can also eat local pastries from a traditional Cretan bakery, such as 'Veneris Bakery' which is popular with locals and visitors alike. Both since 1967.
Alternatively, if you want to enjoy a leisurely walk in the historic centre and indulge in local cuisine at the same time, consider taking the Heraklion For Foodies Tour, where you will have a chance to sample some of our favourite Cretan recipes.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Crete
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| Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Crete |
The Heraklion Museum is one of the most important tourist places in Crete, as it is the favourite destination for the island's tourists. This archaeological treasure collects a large number of pure artefacts, those collected from all over the island of Crete. The Heraklion Museum was established specifically between 1933 and 1937.
What will attract your attention to Heraklion Archaeological Museum is its precise organization, and the value of the treasures it possesses, along with each artefact, you will find its description and history, written in Greek and English, to help the visitor know Crete history, through its ancient monuments dating back hundreds of years, which are located inside The walls of this great museum.
Ancient Knossos, Crete
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| Ancient Knossos, Crete |
The city of Knossos is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Crete, and it is very impressive and important, as it includes the remains of an ancient civilization, which belonged to a city that flourished throughout history thousands of years ago. The history of this city dates back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Your tour will be very interesting and interesting.
This important archaeological landmark is located near the city of Heraklion, which is an ancient royal city that was the centre of the Minoan civilization and the capital of King Minos, during this period two major palaces were built, the most important of which was the palace of King Minos, and may have been destroyed by the volcanic explosion on Santorini. It was recently discovered and restored, so we advise you not to miss the pleasure of seeing it on your Greece tour.
Rethymnon Old Town, Crete
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| Rethymnon Old Town, Crete |
It is one of the most important tourist places on the Greek island of Crete. Its establishment dates back to the thirteenth century and is characterized by its magnificent buildings. The city attracts tourists who prefer to wander in its narrow streets and take the most beautiful pictures in it learn about its ancient ruins, especially its beautiful castle and ancient markets, and sit down to eat in one of its distinctive restaurants.
Agios Nikolaos City, Crete
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| Agios Nikolaos City, Crete |
The city of Agios Nikolaos, located east of the island of Crete, specifically on the Mirabello Bay, gives it a picturesque coastal nature, as well as its charming lake known as Voulismeni, which makes it the ideal place for hiking, roaming, recreation and meditation. There are also many local restaurants and cafes around this landscape.
Koules Fortress, Crete
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| Koules Fortress, Crete |
If you want to learn about the history of Greece in the sixteenth century, tourism in Crete will enable you to do so, and this is through a tour of the ancient fortress of Koles, which dates back to the 16th century, the most prominent feature of the castle of Koles is that tall building that has not been affected by the passage of time.
You can walk around the castle with a tour guide, who will tell you in detail about the history of its construction during the era of the Republic of Venice, and the Ottoman Empire’s takeover of it, until its restoration, to become today one of the most ancient tourist places in Crete. It is worth noting that the castle of Koles hosts many cultural events and art exhibitions, please feel free to ask about the timing of these events and exhibitions to attend.
Beaches in Crete
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| Beaches in Crete |
Certainly, tourism in Crete is based mainly on beaches as they are surrounded by water on all sides. They are known on the island as Nikolaos Beaches, the most famous of which are Alphonsi Beach and Palos Lagoon Beach.
It varies between bustling, crowded, lively, quiet and romantic, but all of them share the splendour of the seascape and the availability of all services and facilities to practice all recreational activities in it such as swimming, recreation, sports, picnics and others.
Elafonisi Beach, Crete
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| Elafonisi Beach, Crete |
Elafonissi Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Crete. It is the most important beach for lovers of sunbathing and relaxing in the picturesque nature, where the charming pink sands, and the blue waters, these elements attract nature lovers to take a trip to Crete just to lie on this beach.
In the summer and public holidays, you will not see the sand on the beach because of the crowding. After Elafonisi Beach was ranked among the 25 most important beaches in the world, it has become a major centre for attracting more tourists from all over the world.
Elafonissi Island, on which the beach is located, is one of the most important natural reserves in Greece, and it is one of the most important landmarks of Crete, as Crete includes a group of wild plants, charming rocky cliffs, and some quiet caves. Distinctive.
Agios Nikolaos Beaches, Crete
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| Agios Nikolaos Beaches, Crete |
The beaches are one of the most important tourist destinations on the Greek island of Crete. Crete includes many wonderful beaches, which vary between bustling and lively beaches and quiet and romantic beaches. Among the island's beaches, we mention the beaches of Alphonse and Balos Lagoon.
Balos Beach, Crete
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| Balos Beach, Crete |
Balos Beach is one of the most important tourist places in Crete, and it is a major centre for swimming lovers, both children and adults. The waters of this beach are shallow and shallow, so Balos Beach is a major centre for the gathering of families from the local city residents as well as tourists coming to the island.
Among the elements that made Palos Beach one of the tourist destinations in Crete, Its waters are of stunning turquoise colour, which gives the beach a charming view that attracts the attention of all who visit it, in addition to its soft pink sand, which makes it one of the most beautiful beaches of the Greek islands.
If you are a person who loves calm, and you want to visit Palos Beach, we advise you not to visit it in July and August, the high season on this beach in these two months, so we advise you to visit it either before July or after August to ensure that you enjoy the greatest amount of rest and relaxation.
Preveli Beach, Crete
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| Preveli Beach |
The distinctive Preveli Beach is located in the south of the island, the beach witnesses thousands of visits every year, because of its beautiful landscapes, where the rocky cliffs that surround it, in addition to the palm trees that overlook it, is a favourite destination, especially for lovers of photography.
When you go to Preveli Beach, do not miss watching the sunset, this beach will bring you a wonderful panoramic view, which you will not find anywhere else.
The most beautiful entertainment places in Crete
Samariá Gorge, Crete
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| Samariá Gorge, Crete |
The Samariá Gorge is located on the island of Crete, Greece, and is considered one of the most important tourist attractions on the island. This valley attracts thousands of tourists from everywhere in the world. It has been the national park of Greece since 1962, and the locals of the island consider it their favourite haven, as it is a park with stunning and charming landscapes.
The most distinguishing feature of the Samaria Gorge is the green slopes that make it a permanent haven for nature lovers. When you go to the Samaria Valley, you must wear comfortable sports shoes. Walking in the valley requires some fitness to enjoy a long tour among the scenic landscapes, and after completing your tour among the green spaces, Head straight to one of the local restaurants serving delicious traditional dishes.
Old Venetian Harbor, Crete
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| Old Venetian Harbor, Crete |
Wandering around the ancient cities is a wonderful feeling, and if we talk about tourism in Greece, we will talk about this feeling for you throughout the trip, as it is a country with an ancient civilization, especially the island of Crete, which is considered the most famous island of Greece, and is characterized by its places of a historical nature Especially "Old Venetian Harbor".
Old Venetian Harbor It is an ancient port that gathers thousands of island tourists, wandering in its spacious courtyard, which includes a wide range of restaurants, cafes and bars, in addition to a group of shops selling souvenirs, which we advise you to go to to buy some special gifts at good prices.
Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Center
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| Aquaworld Aquarium |
Tourism in Crete is not limited to beaches and archaeological sites, There are many recreational destinations, one of which is the Aquaworld Aquarium and the Reptile Rescue Center, it is a place designated for animal lovers, those that are located in different places, fish and marine creatures have a designated place and reptiles have a designated place.
You can head to the Reptile Rescue Center, and learn about turtles, snakes, and other reptiles of many styles, and do not forget to take the most beautiful pictures, it is really one of the best tourist places in Crete and the most popular with tourists.
Things to do in the Aquarium of Crete Island
• Take the family with the children on a wonderful tour inside the corridors of the aquarium and watch the patterns of marine life with a large group of marine creatures, such as sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles and others.
• You can take a break from your tour to explore the secrets of the sea world in Crete Aquarium, in the Aquarium Restaurant and Café, you will find salads, pastries and seafood to suit all tastes.
• The aquarium provides an opportunity to get close to animals, pet them, and take memorial photos with them. Some animals may require some daring to approach them.
• Capture a wonderful group of memorial photos for you inside the Aquarium, along with the huge aquariums.
Work time
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM in winter.
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM in the summer.
Entrance Fee
8 € for adults
4 € for children from 3 to 12 years old
Under 3 years free
For the official website of the aquarium click here
Aquaworld Aquarium, Crete, location on Google Map
Lake Kournas, Crete
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| Lake Kournas, Crete |
If you want to spend a full day of rest and relaxation, You will not find a better place than Lake Kournas. Sitting on the outskirts of the lake will make you regain your positive energy again, as the clear lake with a charming turquoise colour, and the green hills that surround the lake from every direction.
Lake Kournas is home to many species of animals and birds, in addition to rare reptile species. It is really a special destination, especially for animal and bird lovers. If you love swimming, we recommend a refreshing diving tour in the depths of the turquoise waters of the lake. If you love relaxation, do not miss the opportunity. the lake, and enjoy the cool breeze that roams around.
The most famous shopping places in Crete, Greece
It is no secret that there is everything in Greece. Crete is the largest island in Greece, which is distinguished by its picturesque nature and the opportunity to relax. Among other entertainments, Crete also has a large number of markets, shopping centres and supermarkets.
What to buy in Crete?
In Crete, you can buy everything, but we advise you to pay special attention to handmade jewellery and leather products from local production. In Greece, they pay great attention to these products, they are always made with excellent quality and exquisite design.
Shops in Crete, Greece
When speaking about successful shopping, it is worth noting Daedalus Street, which is located in the capital of the island - Heraklion. The shopping centres host many of the most popular international brands and Greek companies. Also in Crete, there are a lot of shops of European brands, but the main difference is the presence of shops with authors' creations of Greek designers. Tourists, in particular, prefer to visit the jewellery markets, which are of high quality. And fur stores, from which luxurious and beautiful fur coats and jackets are made.
In Heraklion, there are also souvenir shops made in the national style. Numerous dealers with various figurines and other gifts are amazing, they are in every corner, and each of them can offer something special and unusual. In addition, in Heraklion, you will find all kinds of products from Greek craftsmen, such as:
- imitation jewellery
- lace
- Handmade shoes
Heraklion Central Market, Crete
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| Heraklion Central Market |
You need to visit the Central Market, which is located on the street since 1866. It is the symbol of traditional shopping in Greece. Of course, the malls are not uncommon, but the market still does not lose its relevance. There you can buy any products and goods, even Chinese-made. Also on the market are restaurants and cafes, which will please you with their cuisine.
All souvenir shops in Heraklion operate without days off, the rest of the shops are closed only on Sundays.
To Kaniski, Crete
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| To Kaniski |
It is a wonderful store that offers a great selection of food and beautiful gifts, in Crete. This souvenir shop has a wide range of gifts including jewellery created by local artists, cosmetics and accessories as well as local products like organic honey, olive oil and much more. It's the place to buy amazing products to take home with you.
Work hours
9 Am to 12 Am
Sklopa Shopping Mall, Crete
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| Sklopa Shopping Mall |
Beautiful shop, most of the products are handmade which makes them unique. Everything is made in Crete. UNIQUE AND BEAUTIFUL - The best way to describe this place is that they are not only there for sale, but they are also customer-friendly.
Work hours
9 Am to 10:30 Pm
Alexia Handmade Jewellery, Crete
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| Alexia Handmade Jewellery, Crete |
It is a wonderful shop for gifts and handmade jewellery from famous Greek designers. Where you can buy what you want from distinctive jewellery of gold and silver such as rings, necklaces, earrings and much more. It's the perfect place to go if you're looking for unique jewellery or a special souvenir.
Bronze Age Shop - Kelises Yanese, Crete
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| Bronze Age Shop - Kelises Yanese |
This workshop is located in the Industrial and Technical Park of Annapolis in Curt. It has been manufacturing statues and other artefacts since 1964 using the smelting method. If you want to buy your own souvenirs or ask to make something of your own, do not hesitate to visit the place, as the workshop guarantees you the finest and best products.
Luxurious Furs, Crete
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| Luxurious Furs, Crete |
It is a wonderful and unique fur shop in Crete. Where it offers the finest fur coats with the latest designs from natural raw materials and in a wide range of different colours and shapes, which will make you catch everyone's attention when you wear them. The store guarantees you the high quality of the materials used and the exceptional talent of the designers. It is a suitable and special place for those who love to own unique fur coats or beautiful and unique fur accessories.
Olive Bonsai & Art Store, Crete
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| Olive Bonsai & Art Store |
It is a gallery of small and large gifts of olive wood and driftwood from the local beaches of Kert. Where you can find fine jewellery, decorative items, ceramics and unique collections other than wood including pottery, glass and shells. It's a really cool place to have a unique and special souvenir to take home.
The best hotels in Crete, Greece
The islands of Greece attract many tourists from around the world because of their luxury resorts on golden sands and wonderful beaches. These islands include the island of Crete, which is one of the most popular holiday destinations. It also contains hotels on the Greek island of Crete, which is considered one of the best hotels in Greece.
Below are the best-recommended hotels in Crete, Greece
Aloe Boutique Hotel & Suites - adults only
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| Aloe Boutique Hotel & Suites - adults only |
Aloe Boutique & Suites is one of Crete's best hotels located in Almyrida and features accommodations for adults only. This hotel features an outdoor pool, fitness centre, sauna and evening entertainment.
Chania Town is 22 km from Aloe Boutique & Suites, while Rethymno is 46 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 31 km away. The property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
The hotel received great reviews in terms of location, clean, friendly staff, minimalistic & modern style of the hotel.
Couples particularly liked the location and rated it 9.0 for a two-person trip.
Wi-Fi not working
Elounda Bay Palace Hotel
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| Elounda Bay Palace Hotel |
One of the best hotels on the Greek island of Crete, located a few minutes from the beaches and the fishing village of Elounda in Crete, surrounded by many spacious gardens and overlooking the Gulf of Mirabello. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations with distinctive views.
The hotel received great reviews for location, cleanliness, staff and comfort.
Couples particularly loved the location, rated 9.6 for a two-person trip.
Blue Palace Resort & Spa
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| Blue Palace Resort & Spa |
This luxurious resort is located on the coast of Elounda and offers upscale accommodations and distinctive spa facilities. The fishing village of Plaka is located 500 meters from the property, one of the best hotels in Crete.
The hotel received excellent reviews in terms of location, cleanliness, staff, comfort and services.
Couples specifically loved the location, rated 9.5 for a two-person trip.
Stella Palace Resort & Spa
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| Stella Palace Resort & Spa |
Stella Palace is located on a private beach within Analipsi Beach and offers spacious rooms and suites surrounded by gardens and magnificent palm trees, in addition to many distinctive facilities, one of the best hotels on the Greek island of Crete.
Great value for money, location, pool, food, staff, and kids facilities
Weak wifi.
Atlantis Beach Hotel
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| Atlantis Beach Hotel |
This elegant hotel is located on a sandy beach bearing the blue flag in Rethymno, Crete. It is considered one of the best Crete hotels, about 1.5 km from the old town and the port of Venice.
The hotel offers spacious accommodations surrounded by spacious gardens and is one of the best hotels on the Greek island of Crete.
The hotel has received great reviews as the best hotel in Crete, Greece in terms of location, cleanliness, comfort, staff and services.
Couples particularly loved the location, rating it 8.8 for a two-person trip.
Tourists asking about Crete, Greece
What is the most suitable city to live in on the Greek island of Crete?
It depends on the preference of the visitors themselves, for example:
Agios Nikolaos is considered the best place to live on the Greek island of Crete for those looking to stay close to the most beautiful Greek lakes, restaurants, and quiet cafes.
The old town of Rethymnon is best for lovers of antiquities, historic castles, and narrow streets.
In this article, we have collected the best hotels to stay in Crete that we recommend visiting, with a mention of what distinguishes each hotel... Read more
What is the average cost of accommodation in Crete hotels per night?
The average cost of staying in a hotel in Crete, Greece ranges between 35 and 219 USD.
This depends on the hotel's classification and location with the tourist attractions, in addition to several other factors.
In this directory of hotels on the Greek island of Crete, you will find the best and most convenient accommodation options in terms of price, quality of services and facilities for the well-being of visitors... Read more
What are the Cheapest (and Highest Rated) Hotels in Crete?
Harma Boutique Hotel, Creta Blue Boutique Hotel, and Village Heights Resort Hotel are all of the best hotels in Crete, Greece, They have received the best reviews from visitors and their prices are considered cheap compared to other hotels on the Greek island of Crete.
What are the best Crete honeymoon hotels?
Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Elounda Bay Palace Hotel, and Atlantis Beach Hotel are the hotels in charming Crete.
It features romantic views and facilities suitable for newlyweds and has won high ratings from couples.