2025 Crete Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

#travelchecklist During my recent trip to Crete, Greece, I discovered that having a travel checklist is essential for fully enjoying this beautiful island! First off, the stunning beaches, like Elafonissi, are a must-see, with entrance fees typically around €5. Make sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable sandals. Don’t miss the historic Palace of Knossos; entry is about €15 and gives you a fascinating glimpse into ancient Minoan civilization. I also recommend visiting the charming towns of Chania and Rethymno for their vibrant markets and delicious local cuisine. Lastly, keep your camera handy for breathtaking sunsets! 🌅 #Crete #TravelChecklist #Greece #BeachVibes #AncientHistory #ExploreCrete

🖼️ Crete and Santorini are the two most compared holiday destinations in Greece. The first day in Santorini was amazing, but it got a bit boring on the second day. Crete, on the other hand, was full of surprises all the way. 🛥️ We took a ferry from Santorini to Crete, rented a car in Heraklion, and returned the car at Chania Airport, which was very convenient. Although the ferry is good, the dock management is a disaster, so it is recommended that those who take the ferry must ask in advance which gate the ferry will dock at. 🧉 On the first night in Crete, we were first amazed by the enthusiastic waiters, and then amazed by the large amount of food and cheap meals! 🗺️ The two most worthwhile places to visit in Crete are: 1. Heraklion It is the capital of Crete and the birthplace of the Minoan civilization: I recommend everyone to visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the ruins of the Palace of Knossos (both of these attractions are free on Saturdays) 🏛️ Although the Archaeological Museum is not large, it has a large collection of items spanning 5500 years, making it one of the most important museums of Minoan civilization in the world. The only downside is that there is no audio guide. 💍 There is a small jewelry shop directly opposite the museum, which is the most tasteful jewelry shop I have visited on the entire island, but I forgot to take a picture. It's the first shop on the left when you cross the road from the museum, you won't miss it. 🛕 The ruins of the Palace of Knossos are in the suburbs of Heraklion, and not much of the original palace remains. There is a wooden model of the palace (Figure 8) in the Heraklion Museum, which is very impressive. I suggest everyone to visit the Heraklion Museum first, and then go to the ruins of the Palace of Knossos. 2. Chania Chania is the second largest city on Crete, and the locals recommended us to visit, saying that the architecture is very special. When we arrived in Chania, we found out that these were Venetian buildings, and Chania is a small Venice. The city center and the old town are very good for strolling. 🌄 We drove for 1.5 hours on a mountain road, and arrived at the famous pink beach with fear and trepidation, but it was not as good as the legend, probably because we arrived at the beach relatively late, so we could only see a little bit of the pink beach. It is recommended that those who have brought swimsuits and are not afraid of the sun can leave Chania earlier, and it is a good time to arrive at 2 pm. 🏨 Accommodation If you are in Chania, I highly recommend an Airbnb called Michalis Stonehouse. It is the best experience we have had in all the homestays we have stayed in Greece. In addition to the beautiful house and the exclusive parking space outside the door, the host also thoughtfully provided us with cereal, condensed milk, bread, ham, cheese, and local rose wine. It is a very warm homestay.

A wonderful Mediterranean beach bar located in the Blue Palace Luxury Hotel in Crete island 🏝️ Take your sandals off and chill-out in your private sunbed or comfortable corners and sip your signature beach cocktails, served by top mixologists, with bite-size freshly prepared beachside dishes. ☀️🍸 Tuck into some lovely Tacos 🌮 with ice-cold draft beer & at the spiral stone building, let the DJ’s entertain you in the evenings. Blue Palace is a luxury hotel where Isola Beach Club situated so you’ll always witness a professional and friendly service all day long.. It’s so relaxing there, where you hear the sound of the Aegean Sea and with a cocktail in hand! When sunsets the DJ’s music changes slightly to a different tempo 🎶 the bar is open for more drinks and kids open air cinema is set on the beach, with freshly made popcorn and ice-cream.🍦 #summervacation #foodie #beachbar #visitcrete #crete #bluepalacecrete #bluepalaceresort #creteisland

Koufonisi Island is a tiny, remote, hidden Greek island of amazing beaches and swimming spots. In other words, Koufonisi is a heavenly paradise, perfect for relaxing body and soul in a magnificent, Mediterranean setting. Koufonisi is not just one island. These are actually 3 different islands located in the eastern part of the Cyclades archipelago Koufonisi is a very quiet and peaceful place, the rhythm is different here and it may take a day or two to adjust. The main attractions are located on the southern and eastern coasts of the island. There are no nightclubs, international restaurants and fashion bloggers looking for the next Instagram hit. This is an ideal place for a romantic getaway or a vacation without mobile gadgets. #bucketlistreboot #summervacation #beachlife

There is no particular sea worth swimming in Heraklion, Crete, Greece ㅠㅠ If you want to swim, I recommend the area called Chania❤️ So today, I'm going to recommend a sea where you can sunbathe and watch the sea in Heraklion ㅎㅎ Although the waves are strong and the rocks on the beach are sharp for swimming, there is a place with a beach bar! Right here 🌊 Karteros Beach🌊👏👏 There are News Cafe Beach, Coconut Beachbar & Resto, etc., and you can rent a sunbed. Especially, News Cafe has a swimming pool, so it is expensive at 20 euros per person, but it is worth going if you want to swim ㅎㅎ Transportation: I recommend a taxi. It costs about 20 euros round trip Location: Karteros beach Παραλία Καρτερού (Google Map Search) #SummerCapture #SummerVacation #SchoolVacationTravel#Crete #SummerCapture

White Mountains’ National Park is the only national park in Crete. It centres around the Samariá gorge, at an altitude of 1,200m and continues down to Ayia Rouméli, on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Along with the surrounding slopes and a number of smaller gorges branching off from it, Samaria Gorge forms the whole of the area designated as a national park, a status that offers protection to over 450 species of plant and animal, 70 of which are endemic to Crete. In the prefecture of Chania (also written “Hania”), the Samaria gorge is the longest in Europe (total length 16km), and one of the most impressive gorges in Greece. It starts from Xylóskalo, at an altitude of 1,230m. The width of the gorge is 150m at its widest point and 3m at its narrowest. Samaria gorge A word of advice: Visitors can descend into the gorge and walk for about 6 to 8 hours. Even though the path runs downhill it requires strong, comfortable footwear and some degree of physical fitness. But it’s well worth the effort. At the end of the path, swimming, taverna lunches and picnics under a canopy of trees within full view of the Mediterranean Sea all await you. #mynovgetaway #mynovgetaway

Located οn the southern side of the Aegean Sea, Crete is the biggest of all Greek islands. Its beauty, though, is even bigger than its size! Let us paint the scene: Just imagine enthralling natural beauty meeting rich culture and worldwide famous gastronomy, to create the most dreamy holiday paradise! The island is separated in 4 prefectures: Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, and Lassithi. The mythical Crete island is one of the most popular Greek destinations, thanks to its unreal Crete beaches, its amazing historical sites, such as Knossos Palace and Spinalonga islet and its mesmerizing natural landscapes. Not to mention Chania town and Heraklion town some of the biggest towns in Crete, which boast a magnificent medieval architecture. Honestly, wandering around their warren of romantic alleys will make you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time! Crete Greece is, hands down, one of the most magical Greek islands! #mynovgetaway #mynovgetaway

Crete is one of my top recommendations for summer travel in Europe. Despite being the largest island in Greece, Crete doesn’t get nearly as much attention as its flashy neighbors, Santorini and Mykonos. But with literally life-giving cuisine, unique beaches, and monasteries that double as wineries (yes, really), Crete Island must be on your Greece travel itinerary. I recommend staying in Old Town Chania, and spending a couple of days exploring the windy, cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored homes, handicrafts shops, and cafes. The island is known for having some of the best food in the world (and the locals live longer than most places in the world due to their diet), so be sure to eat all the fresh produce and seafood, and olive oil as possible. Check out some of the unique beaches in Crete as well, including Seitan Limania, Balos, and Elafonisi. If you love wine, visit the Agia Triada Monastery which is beautiful as a monastery but also has a very special winery in the basement.

Life filled with adventur Crete is one of the largest isalnds in Greece with so much to explore. From the breathaking mountains, to the deep blue saphire caostlines, we've never really seen anything like it. Every day we went out felt like an adventure we'd remeber for a lifetime. One thing we enjoy together is spontaneous change of plans. In the middle of this 3 hour drive, we pulled over on our way back from a beach on Crete and had some fun on this long winding road. It was carved out of a staggering mountain side, and we just couldn’t resist the views. We decided to delay our other plans and just have a moment together here. . Would you pull over for this view? Or keep driving 😉

#mediterraneanvibes Crete, the largest Greek island, offers a remarkable blend of ancient treasures, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the legendary Palace of Knossos and Venetian harbors of Chania and Rethymno, to breathtaking gorges, olive groves, and endless beaches, Crete enchants every traveler. The island’s rich culinary traditions, warm locals, and diversity of experiences make it a destination of unforgettable depth and beauty. ⸻ 📍 Central Location for Navigation: Heraklion (Capital and Main Port) Crete, Greece ⸻ 💡 Tips for Visiting Crete: • 🏛 Explore Knossos Palace and Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum for Minoan history • 🏖 Visit Elafonissi and Balos for stunning beaches with turquoise waters • 🥾 Hike the Samaria Gorge for dramatic natural scenery • 🍽 Savor local dishes like dakos, Cretan cheeses, and lamb with herbs • 📅 Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds ⸻ #Crete #GreekIslands #IslandOfMyth #HiddenGreece #Knossos #CretanBeaches #IslandAdventure #GreeceTravel#海岛游 #trip #localguides

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a destination full of history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known for its beautiful beaches, rugged mountains, and ancient ruins, Crete offers something for every traveler. One of its hidden gems is the nearby island of Dia, located just a few kilometers north of Heraklion, Crete’s capital. Dia is an uninhabited island and a protected nature reserve, famous for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and rich wildlife. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility away from the more crowded tourist areas. The island’s serene environment makes it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking along its coastal trails. To reach Dia, visitors usually take a boat from Heraklion harbor during the summer months. The short boat trip takes about 30 minutes and provides beautiful views of the coastline and the Aegean Sea. Because the island is a protected area, visitors should respect the natural environment, avoid littering, and stick to designated paths. There are no facilities on Dia, so it’s important to bring water, food, and sun protection. On Crete itself, you can explore ancient archaeological sites like the Palace of Knossos, hike the famous Samaria Gorge, or relax on sandy beaches like Elafonissi and Balos. The island’s charming villages, with traditional tavernas and local crafts, offer a taste of authentic Cretan life. Crete’s cuisine, rich in olive oil, fresh vegetables, and seafood, is also a highlight. If you plan to visit Dia, consider combining it with a day in Heraklion to explore museums and local markets. Renting a car is a good idea for exploring Crete’s diverse regions at your own pace. Whether you’re drawn by history, nature, or simply the Mediterranean lifestyle, Crete and Dia offer a captivating escape. #travel#couplestrip#naturalwonders#thingstodo#seascapes#myitinerary#citydaytours#trip

📍 Chania, Crete, Greece ⛵ Step into the timeless charm of Chania, Crete’s cultural gem, where the whispers of history ride on the sea breeze. Anchored by the iconic Venetian Harbour, this coastal city invites you into an unforgettable evening escape. 🌅 I timed my visit with the sinking sun. Parking on the outskirts, I followed the gentle curve of the shoreline on foot, the rhythm of waves setting the pace. Rounding a quiet corner, the harbour slowly unfolded behind a centuries-old stone wall (Picture 1). That first glimpse—bathed in golden light—felt like stepping into a postcard brought to life. 📷 As dusk deepened, the harbour buzzed with an irresistible energy. I found a waterfront restaurant and claimed a table with a front-row view. Amber lights flickered across the bay, dancing on the water’s surface (Picture 2). With a classic gyros plate in hand, I soaked in the scene—full, content, and completely captivated. 🛍️ After dinner, I wandered into the Old Town's cobbled alleys, where moonlit gift shops brimmed with local charm (Picture 3). Hand-carved olive wood, handmade jewellery, and traditional crafts filled the air with a sense of discovery. There’s a kind of magic to exploring Chania after dark—it feels both ancient and alive. 🌊 On the walk back to the car, I paused at the water’s edge. The harbour shimmered in golden reflections (Picture 4), while laughter and soft music floated from distant terraces. In that moment, I knew—I had found the Chania I’d hoped for: tranquil, vibrant, and deeply atmospheric. Tips for Your Visit: 🛌🏼 Stay in a boutique hotel or B&B near the harbour for a front-row seat to Chania’s evening charm. Nearby villages like Agia Marina or Kalyves offer peaceful alternatives with easy access. 🍽️ Harbourfront restaurants offer stunning views and fresh Greek cuisine—book ahead if you want that coveted sunset table! ⏰ Aim to arrive at least an hour before sunset to witness Chania’s full transformation from day to night. 🚗 Free parking is available on the city’s outskirts—perfect for enjoying the scenic walk into the harbour. ⭐ Chania is beautiful by day, but by night, it sparkles. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with memories lit by lanterns and wrapped in sea mist. #cityplaybook #crete

📍 Rethymno, Crete, Greece 🌊 High above the sea, I wandered through the ruins of Rethymno's hilltop castle. The view? Endless blue sea, kissed by sunlight. The kind of view that brings peace to your mind (Picture 1). 📖 Within the ancient fortress walls, echoes of the past linger - silent, proud, eternal. If only the walls could talk, they would tell a thousand stories of empires and resilience (Picture 2). 🏬 Then, like stepping into another world, I descended into the city's vibrant heart. Rethymno blooms with colour and life: winding alleyways, sunlit shops, and the scent of fresh herbs and grilled seafood dancing through the air. Every corner felt like a discovery. Every step, a celebration of culture and a gathering of tourists and locals alike (Pictures 3 & 4). 📷 I parked a mile away on purpose - just to stroll the seafront and let the waves write the last lines of the day (Picture 5). Rethymno isn't just a place. It's an experience. A dream you don't want to wake up from. 🛌🏼 Stay in a beautiful apartment on the Northern Coast to explore Rethymno, Chania and Heraklion 🍽️ Enjoy dinner at the golden hour - walk along the Northern perimeter of the castle and you'll find amazing hilltop cafés. ☀️ Visit in April, May and September for great weather without the crowds. #cityplaybook #crete #travel #greekislands #greekdreams

A stone's throw from the bustling city of Chania, Crete, you'll find the delightful Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete. 🌷 Whether you're a green-fingered gardener, a humble horticulturalist or just an interested tourist like me, you'll be sure to find peace and tranquility in the endless winding paths adorned with every flower and tree you could imagine. 🌸 Starting at the top 2,500ft high, you'll come across unique beauties such as the Potato Trees (Picture 1) and vividly pink carnations (Picture 2) before transporting yourself through the vine-covered portal that is the wooden bridge (Picture 3). 🦎 Count yourself lucky and you'll see a number of Japanese Grass Lizards as they scurry around across the paths (Picture 4). 🐢 You'll then drop down to the lake and will find the sweetest tortoises native to Greece (Picture 5). You will feel miles away from anywhere here with the only noise to keep you company being the peacocks and pollinating bees. 🎭 Climbing back up, I passed my favourite plant of the whole visit, the Coral Plant (Picture 6). Upon reaching the Amphitheatre (Picture 7), you'll know you're right near the top again. 🌿 This is the place to come in Crete in order to find peace, forget everything and experience a piece of nature. 🍽️ Stop in the on-site restaurant for the most breathtaking views. I enjoyed delicious bread and tzatziki accompanied by a homemade lemonade (Picture 8). 🛌🏼 Stay in nearby Agia Marina for excellent access to the Western island and to be close to the west's capital, Chania. 💡 Bring good walking boots for the rocky hills and make sure to top up that sun cream on the hot days! #cityplaybook #botanicalvibes #greenfingered #summery #crete

Crete offers a perfect blend of history, stunning landscapes, and Mediterranean charm. Panormos, a peaceful village on the northern coast, provides a relaxing atmosphere with its beautiful beach and traditional tavernas. The crystal-clear waters and scenic views make it a great spot for unwinding. The local cuisine is a highlight, with fresh seafood and Cretan specialties like moussaka and cheeses adding to the authentic experience. Nearby attractions, such as the ancient town of Rethymno, offer a mix of history and modern charm. Hiking through Crete’s countryside is also a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty. For those seeking a peaceful and authentic Greek escape, Crete and Panormos are ideal destinations. #travel #beachlife #seascapes #familytravel

🔥Unveiling Greece's Stunning Secret Destinations🔍| Crete: The Dual Temptation of Pink Beaches and Minoan Civilization💖 Hey, everyone! Today, I'm taking you on a journey to a mysterious and romantic country—Crete, Greece✨! It's not only the largest island in Greece but also a travel paradise with countless treasures. Plan a short two- or three-day vacation, and I guarantee you won't be disappointed! 🎒 First stop, head straight to Heraklion! There, an ancient palace awaits your exploration—the Palace of Knossos🏰. Step inside, and it's like traveling through time. The wisdom and art of the Minoan civilization come to life in the exquisite frescoes. Each one is a whisper of history, waiting for you to listen! 👂 Don't rush off! The Heraklion Archaeological Museum holds even more stories about the Minoan civilization📜. Precious cultural relics quietly tell the tale of past glories, giving your soul a historical baptism. Next, don't miss the charm of Chania! Stroll through the old streets of "Little Venice," where the sea breeze is gentle, and the food is tempting. For street photography enthusiasts, this is definitely a great place to take pictures📸. Don't forget to check out the Chania Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world! 🌟 Nature lovers, are you ready for a surprise? The "Iron Gate" is home to Crete's unique wild goat, the "kri-kri," as well as various rare plants, waiting for you to encounter them! 🌿 Now for the main attraction! The pink sand beach is simply unreal! The magic of coral fragments in the sand gives this beach a dreamy pink color, and every step is filled with girlish delight💖. Travel tips: There's no Uber on Crete, so remember to plan your trip in advance🚗. It's only a 45-minute flight from Athens. The island has diverse transportation options. Buses are economical, renting a car gives you more freedom, and there are also chauffeured services with Chinese-speaking drivers to take you around the island, which is super considerate! 🚗💬 Don't hesitate! Pack your bags and explore this surprising Greek treasure island together! 🌈

｜Crete~Greece is more than just Santorini. Crete is a leisurely island that combines the romance of the ocean with the rich history. ✈️Transportation: plane or ferry (70€ per person, buy three get one free). In order to save time, we chose the night boat (four beds in one room, Piraeus-Heraklion) and chose a plane for the return trip. We saw the sunset and sunrise on the night boat. We wanted to watch the stars on the sea, but we were too tired, so we went to bed early! ❗️Transportation on the island is inconvenient, don’t ask the B&B owner to help you find a car. Our B&B owner helped us find a black car. 🍮Food: Restaurants on the island only open after 12 o'clock. We didn't pay attention at the time and were looking for a restaurant everywhere. Later, we were taken in by a beautiful and kind coffee shop owner. The coffee and bread were great! 🏛️【Knossos Palace Ruins】Europe's oldest mysterious labyrinth 🎫Tickets 6€｜Museum ticket 15€ ⏰About half day tour time 💡Check-in point 1️⃣The Legend of the Labyrinth: The prototype of the labyrinth that imprisoned the Minotaur in mythology, with thousands of intricate palaces and stairs made of alabaster, you can still feel its grandeur today. 2️⃣Replica of the "Bullfighting" mural: The original is in the museum, but the replica here gives a glimpse into the Minoan people's unique "bullfighting" sport (not killing, more like dancing with the bull). 3️⃣Red giant columns and lighting design: inverted cone-shaped columns correct visual errors, and the open door and window design allows sunlight to fill the palace. The architectural wisdom of the Minoans is amazing. 😃You can try local fruit wine at the souvenir shop outside the scenic area. The enthusiastic shop owner may give you small gifts. We got five glasses of orange juice. Thank you, Brother Chania! 🏛️【Heraklion Archaeological Museum】Travel through 4000 years of civilization code! 🎫Tickets 12€｜Combination tickets are really a good deal ⏰About half day tour time 🔍Treasure of the Museum 1️⃣ "Parisian Lady" mural: The noble woman on the fragment has exquisite makeup, curly hair and red lips, and is jokingly called the "pioneer of fashion" by archaeologists. 2️⃣ The original "Bullfighting" mural: very dynamic, revealing the religion and rituals of the Minoan civilization. 3️⃣Linear A clay tablet: The mysterious text that has not yet been deciphered bears witness to the unsolved mystery of the earliest civilization in Europe. ❗️If time is tight, it is recommended to visit the mural exhibition hall on the second floor first, where the essence of Minoan art is located. 🏰【Heraklion Fortress】Venetian sea fortress! We didn't go in here, we just took a look at the port from a distance. I really like to relax in the harbor and enjoy the comfortable sea breeze. 🏝️A random beach The next day, the weather was not very good 😫. Since I was cheated by a black car driver, I have no means of transportation. So we randomly found a wild beach that could be reached by bus. It turned out that we are P type people. The sea water is very clean and clear, and listening to the sound of the waves is very healing! When I was leaving, I stumbled upon the flower wall and took a photo that I could use as my profile picture.

I went to Crete! It cost 40 euros to take a boat from Athens. It was about an 8-hour boat trip. Please note that boats to famous islands such as Santorini are expensive during the season. I traveled from Athens to Crete by boat. The sea on Crete was beautiful, but unfortunately I got sick and had to stay in bed for a week. I couldn't go to the beach, so I ...

#celebrateit Crete is an absolute gem! Love laying on stunning beaches like Balos and Elafonissi and going for a swim in the crystal clear waters. If you’re into history, don’t forget to stop by at the ancient Knossos Palace. We also can’t forget Chania which is a beautiful magical old town with colorful Venetian buildings and a harbor that looks so unreal! If youre into hiking, Samaria Gorge will blow your mind with breathtaking views from the top. It’s a nice place to celebrate the weekends.

Walking through the back alleys and local restaurants of Crete while visiting the tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis. The food I asked the owner for recommendations was warm, clean, and delicious.

#getgoing2025 My dream journey for 2025 is a magical escape to the enchanting island of Crete! Picture this: wandering through ancient Minoan ruins, soaking up the sun on pink sand beaches, and diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Here's what I'm dreaming of: Exploring Ancient History: Visiting the Palace of Knossos, stepping back into the times of legends and myths. [Image 1: Ruins of Knossos with vivid blue sky] Beach Bliss: Relaxing on Elafonisi Beach with its unique pink sand, feeling like I've stumbled upon a secret paradise. [Image 2: Elafonisi Beach with its pink sands and clear waters] Culinary Adventure: Indulging in authentic Cretan cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional dakos, all while sipping on local wine. [Image 3: A spread of Cretan dishes, showcasing the vibrant local produce] This journey would be a tapestry of culture, nature, and gastronomy, all wrapped up in one of the most beautiful islands in the world. I can't wait to make these dreams a reality!

#December Travel Support Event The photo you see now is a Greek island called Crete. I went to Crete without any expectations, but it was better than I expected. I was more satisfied with Crete than Athens or Santorini. The reason was that even though it was peak season, the prices were cheap. I ate the octopus and two pastas you see on the screen with my group, and the total came to about 20,000 won. The quality of the seafood was really high. The beaches of Crete are really pretty and there aren't many people, so you can enjoy them leisurely. Also, the hotel in the second photo was 55,000 won per night. This hotel is right near the airport and the beach, so I went swimming, eating, and going to the beach at the hotel. I recommend Crete as a summer travel destination.

I recently experienced a spa day in Greece at a Mitsis hotel and it was lovely. Staff were very friendly and welcoming and the facilities were very nice. I would highly recommend

Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

👍️Recommended reason: Chania is a real old town, older than Rome, with the ancient name Kydonia, dating back to the Minoan period 5,000 years ago. It is said that this ancient city was mentioned in the Homeric epics. In an inconspicuous corner of the old town, near the city wall, there is an excavated site where clay tablets with Linear B script from the Cretan civilization 2,500 years ago were unearthed. This is the same period as our oracle bone script, and its long history is awe-inspiring. Today, the main buildings in the old town date back to the 13th century Venetian rule. Everyone says the old town is very beautiful, and it lives up to its reputation. Under more than 400 years of Venetian rule, the atmosphere here is very similar to that of an ancient Italian city. What is even more remarkable is that there is a huge semicircular blue bay, with clear water lapping against the shore, surrounded by colorful buildings of varying heights, and in the distance, a pretty lighthouse stands on the ancient seawall, looking out over the blue Mediterranean Sea to the north. To the south, beyond the rooftops, is the backbone of Crete, Mount Ida, with its clear atmosphere pouring down from the blue sky, meeting the mountains, and leaving the snow on the mountain tops glistening. The old town is full of the flavor of southern France, with winding streets, colorful colors, and all kinds of lovely shops and restaurants, and you can see the sea from time to time. 📅Travel tips: Stay in the old town for 3–5 days to truly enjoy its beauty. 🏨Accommodation tips: Homestay 💗Other tips: The best place to watch the sunset is the northeast coastline outside the old town. You need to leave the old town, locate Nafsithea all day coffee bar, and walk northeast for about 30 minutes.

After spending a week in Greece,Crete I must say my visit to the Kourtaliotiko waterfall is certainly the highlight ! We hired a car to get here as it was quite remote although I saw lots of people traveling by quad bikes which is certainly a cheaper option especially if it’s a smaller group of people. There is free parking when you get there and about a 20/30 minute walk down the mountains to the waterfall. (The walk back is very tiring up steep stairs and heels so I recommend bringing some water) When you get there you have to swim through a short tunnel to get to the waterfall and I must warn you the water is the coldest water i’ve ever swam in but definitely worth it! We brought waterproof phone cases to take pictures and iff you are sensitive to walking on stones perhaps bring some water shoes! This is definitely a must visit, I really recommend iff you are planning to go to Crete!

#traveldiaries Just got back from an incredible vacation in Crete, and it was everything I hoped for and more! 🏖️ The island has such a rich history and stunning landscapes. I spent a few days exploring Chania, with its charming old town and beautiful harbor. Walking the cobblestone streets felt like stepping back in time. Entry to most sites is free, but the Archaeological Museum costs around 6 euros, which is totally worth it to see the Minoan artifacts. One day, I visited Elafonissi Beach—absolutely breathtaking with its pink sand and turquoise waters! 🏝️ I also made a trip to the Samaria Gorge for some hiking. The entrance fee was about 5 euros, and the views were jaw-dropping! Crete is perfect for anyone who loves a mix of beach time and cultural experiences. I can’t wait to go back! #trip #Crete #Chania #GreekIslands #BeachLife #HistoryAndNature

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is an ideal travel destination that combines beautiful nature and rich history. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, this island features diverse landscapes, including golden sandy beaches, quiet bays, and towering mountains offering charming views. The history of this place is omnipresent. From ancient Minoan palaces like Knossos to Venetian cities like Chania and Rethymno with their narrow alleys and historic buildings. Crete also offers unique experiences for adventure enthusiasts through many mountain trails leading to fascinating gorges and mountains like the Samaria Gorge. Crete's beaches range from well-organized ones providing all comforts to quiet beaches where you can escape the crowds. Additionally, traditional Cretan cuisine is among the best in Greece, allowing you to enjoy fresh local dishes at the island's restaurants. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore history and culture, or immerse yourself in nature, Crete offers a comprehensive experience that caters to all interests. It is a travel destination that combines the charm of authentic Greece with unique natural beauty.