The Greek island of Crete has long been lauded as one of the most beautiful places in the world to visit. Here, travelers can find a vast array of natural beauty, sandy beaches to relax at, and plenty of attractions to enjoy. However, Crete is much more than a resort island. Settled as the barrier between the Aegean and the Libyan Seas, Crete is an island with a rich culture, a long history, and friendly people.

Historically, one of the main things the island is known for is being the home of the Ancient Minoan Civilization. Flourishing in the Bronze Age between the 1900s and the 1400s BC, Europe’s oldest known civilization withstood Cretan earthquakes and volcanic eruptions alike. Although the Minoans fell to the invading Mycenaeans from mainland Greece (better known to modern people as the heroes of the Trojan War Epic), visitors to Crete will still see the influences of the Minoans all over the island.

When traveling to Crete, visitors should pay close attention to the unique way that the Minoans captured life around them in their architecture and frescoes, from the beautiful dolphins of Crete—which visitors may still catch a glimpse of today—to the laid-back way of life that many have come to love about this Mediterranean island.

Although much has changed since Minoan times in the Bronze Age, one thing has remained: much of the natural landscape of Crete. Visitors here will fall in love with the rich plains, the olive groves, the yellow fields, the mountains, and, of course, the expansive sea.

If visitors are lucky, they may even have the chance to glimpse some of Crete’s wildlife, like the dolphins that the Minoans revered long ago, ibexes from the mountains, or even sea turtles. Tourists often come to Crete looking to relax at the island’s resorts, but fall in love with the island because of its history and its natural wildlife.

Top Things To Do In Crete

In this list, readers will get to explore some of the top attractions that can be found on the island of Crete. From marveling at archeological ruins to relaxing on a pink sandy beach to hiking through Greek forests, Crete has it all!

With much of the island still beautifully rugged, visitors will feel like they’ve stepped into the world of Mamma Mia! the musical. Get ready to explore the many wonders of Crete in this ultimate travel guide.

1 Step Back In Time At The Palace Of Knossos

The number-one historical attraction when visiting Crete is the Palace of Knossos, the supposed home of the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth of Minos. Built in the Bronze Age by the Minoans from 1900-1650 BC, Knossos is one of the oldest cities in Europe.

Visitors here will be able to peruse the many courtyards, the reconstructed red-pillared hall, and the maze-like rooms of this expansive palace.

When traveling here, visitors should be on the lookout for reconstructed Bronze Age frescoes, especially the beautiful dolphins and sea urchins that adorn the Queen’s Megaron and the stunning griffons that guard the throne room. Visitors here will leave with a thirst for more Minoan art and culture; this historic site truly lives up to its legendary reputation!

• Hours:
  8am-8pm, daily

• Address:
  Φειδίου 8, Iraklio 714 09, Greece

• Admission:
  €15 per person (about $16.50 USD)

• What to do here:
  see one of the premier Minoan archeological sites in the Mediterranean, wander among ancient ruins, learn about Minoan history, see the reconstructed red pillar hall, see frescoes from the Bronze Age depicting Minoan life, like the dolphins and sea urchins in the Queen’s Megaron and the griffons in the throne room

Be sure to bring water when visiting the site, as well as good walking shoes! Visiting early in the day is also highly recommended to avoid crowds.

2 Rest And Relax At Crete’s Pink Elafonissi Beach

Crete is full of natural wonder, with the pink beach of Elafonissi being one of the island’s most beautiful natural attractions. The sand is comprised of bits of broken seashells that have been worn down into fine sand due to the ocean’s currents; these shells make the beach appear pink.

Visitors often report that this is one of the best beaches to visit in not only all of Crete but the whole world.

Not only can visitors enjoy lounging on the beach here, but they can also enjoy seeing some of Crete’s natural flora, such as summer sea daffodils and the winter-blooming Androcymbium rechingeri, one of the rarest flowers in the world that only grows on the west coast of Crete.

• Hours:
  Sunrise-sunset

• Address:
  Kissamos 730 01, Greece

• Admission:
  Free

• What to do here:
  See beautiful pink sand, look out over the turquoise Mediterranean waters, see rare flowers, soak up the Greek sun

The color of the beach is often subjective based on the viewer’s perception of color, time of day, and season. Visitors should know that the beach can appear more or less pink depending on these factors.

3 See Ancient Wonders At The Heraklion Archaeological Museum

After spending time at the Palace of Knossos, visitors will be eager to learn more about the Ancient Minoans. The best place in the entire world to do just that is the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, as it holds many of the finds from Knossos.

Visitors here will be able to not only see iconic pieces of Minoan art, like the Phaistos Disk, the Snake Goddess, the bull-leaping fresco, the Hagia Triada Sarcophagus, and the bull rhyton, but will be able to see less-well-known artifacts, as well, ranging from Minoan jewelry to frescoes to pottery.

The museum also houses a collection of Dorian Greek, Classical Greek, and Roman art.

• Hours:
  Wednesday-Monday 8am-8pm, Tuesday 10am-8pm

• Address:
  Ξανθουδίδη και, Chatzidaki 1, Iraklio 712 02, Greece

• Admission:
  €12 per person (about $13.20 USD)

• What to do here:
  See world-famous Minoan art, like the Phaistos Disk, the Snake Goddess, the bull-leaping fresco, the Hagia Triada Sarcophagus, and the bull rhyton, explore the many rooms of archeological wonders, see Minoan jewelry, pottery, frescoes, and more, see Greco-Roman art

Related: Aqua Blue Dreams: 10 Most Beautiful Beaches In Greece You Should Visit

4 Learn About Local Culture At Paraschakis Olive Oil

When traveling to Greece, one of the most rewarding things visitors can do is to try the country’s famous olive oil. At Paraschakis Olive Oil, visitors can not only taste and buy the oil, but they can learn about the milling process and the history of olive oil making.

Visitors will be able to get to know more about the local history of Crete, too, here, and will be able to get to know some of the locals. And, of course, visitors will be able to see the beautiful vistas of Crete.

• Hours:
  9:00am-6:00pm, every day except Sundays and Holidays

• Address:
  Paraschakis Olive Oil, Melidoni, Mylopotamos, 74052 Greece

• Price:
  $$

• What to do here:
  Learn about traditional olive oil making techniques, sample authentic Cretan olive oil, experience local culture

5 Explore The Ancient Palace Of Malia

For visitors hungering for more Minoan history after their day at Knossos and their time at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Malia Palace Archaeoloigcal Site is the place to go! Located between the Lassithi Mountains and the sea, this impressive palace offers a glimpse into Bronze Age life.

Visitors here should be on the lookout for beautifully reconstructed pithoi, or large storage jars for oil, wine, or grain, which are dotted throughout the site. A plus about visiting this site is that it isn’t as crowded as the more touristy Knossos, so visitors will be able to explore with more freedom.

• Hours:
  Summer: 8am-6pm, Winter: 8am-3pm

• Address:
  Αρχαιολογικός χώρος Μαλίων, Malia 700 07, Greece

• Admission:
  €6 (about $6.60 USD)

• What to do here:
  learn about Ancient Minoan history, see giant reconstructed pithoi, see vistas of the beautiful Lassithi Mountains, explore ancient ruins

6 Walk The Preveli Beach Trail

One of the best hiking trails in all of Crete is the Preveli Beach Trail. At 4.7 miles long, visitors will be able to enjoy the stunning natural landscape of Greece’s largest island, with forest, gorge, river, and beach views.

According to local legend, the Greek hero Odysseus stopped here on his voyage around the Mediterranean. This moderately-challenging trail is perfect for those who love the outdoors!

• Hours:
  Dawn-Dusk

• Address:
  Preveli Beach, 740 60, Greece

• Length:
  4.7 miles (loop trail)

• What to do here:
  walk the trail, enjoy beautiful views of Crete, get good exercise

7 See The Archeological Site Of Phaistos

As the findspot of the mysterious Phaistos Disk that’s often found on souvenirs, visitors to Crete would be remiss if they didn’t stop at the Archaeological Site of Phaistos! Although the palace was originally built around 1700 BC, the area has a history of habitation going back to 4000 BC.

Visitors here can explore the impressive walkways, staircases, rooms, and expansive central courtyard. As they walk, visitors can imagine what life would have been like during the Bronze Age, before the site was ultimately destroyed in 1400 BC by the invading Mycenaeans.

Travelers here should also keep a lookout for native wildlife and plants.

• Hours:
  8am-6:30pm, daily

• Address:
  Φαιστού, Epar.Od. Faistou – Kalon Limenon, Ag. Ioannis 702 00, Greece

• Admission:
  €8 (about $8.80 USD)

• What to do here:
  explore ancient ruins, see vistas of Crete, learn about Crete’s history, see native Cretan flora

For a splash of brightly colored architecture in Crete, visitors should visit the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania. Seeing the pink, blue, and yellow buildings reflected on the water of the harbor is one of the most beautiful sights in all of Crete!

Visitors here will have a blast walking around the many shops and eateries that are found here. They should also enjoy the 19th-century Ottomanorange stone lighthouse contrasted against the blue Mediterranean.

• Hours:
  Any

• Address:
  Ag. Markou 8, Chania 731 32, Greece

• Admission:
  Free

• What to do here:
  See beautiful architecture, see the harbor of Chania, explore shops and eateries, see the impressive 19th-century Ottoman lighthouse

Related: Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Island Hopping Through Greece

9 Taste What Crete Has To Offer At Lyrarakis Winery

For travelers who want to enjoy a hearty glass of Greek wine, Lyrarakis Winery is the place to go. Founded in 1966, this high-quality winery is the perfect place to taste fine European wines surrounded by the Lassithi Mountains of Crete.

With a variety of red, rose, and white wines to choose from, along with local wines, like Liastos, Minimus, and Symbolo wines, visitors will surely find something that they like here. They also have a picnic experience, where visitors can enjoy a guided wine and cheese tasting under the olive trees.

• Hours:
  April-October, 11:30am-6pm, daily

• Address:
  Alagni, Heraklion, Crete, 70300 Greece

• Admission:
  15€-60€ (about $16.50 to $66), depending on experience

• What to do here:
  taste Cretan wines, taste amazing cheeses, walk amid the beautiful vineyards of Crete, see an amazing view of the Lassithi Mountains

10 Explore The Many Shops And Eateries Of Rethimno Old Town

This charming neighborhood is the perfect place to wander around for travelers who have an afternoon to themselves. Visitors here will be able to see the tall lighthouse in the harbor and marvel at the Greek architecture that surrounds them.

This area is also known for its many dining opportunities, so travelers here should enjoy a plate of traditional Greek food or have a taste of ouzo, the national spirit of Greece.

• Hours:
  Any

• Address:
  Rethimno 741 00, Greece

• Admission:
  Free

• What to do here:
  Walk, shop, eat, enjoy ocean views at the harbor, see the lighthouse, enjoy the beautiful architecture of Crete

11 See Europe’s Oldest Olive Tree At The Olive Tree Museum Of Vouves

The famous Olive Tree of Vouves is one of Greece’s most prized natural wonders. With scientists ranging the age of the tree anywhere from 2,000 to 4,000 years old (with 3,500 years being the most likely), this tree is truly one of the most spectacular natural sites to see in all of Europe, if not the world.

The tree is so important, in fact, that there is a museum dedicated to it (and other olive trees) just nearby. Visitors at the museum will be able to learn about the history of the tree, as well as good information on olive trees as a species, in a beautiful, traditional Greek ambiance.

• Hours:
  10an-7pm, daily

• Address:
  Άνω Βούβες 730 06, Greece

• Admission:

• What to do here:
  learn about olive trees, see Europe’s oldest olive tree, learn about Greek history

12 Visit The Hilltop Archeological Site Of Archaía Póli Tis Lató

Located near the small village of Kritsa, this archeological site from the 5th century BC is a great place to learn about Crete’s Doric and Classical Greek history. Visitors here will be enthralled by the stone ruins that they can freely explore paired with the glorious views of the mountains and plains of Crete.

The sea is also visible in some places here! Surrounded by a beautiful forest of olive trees and other native flora, this hilltop ruin is the perfect place to visit for those searching for a less-crowded attraction. Many people who have gone have reported that this Ancient site is the highlight of their trip!

• Hours:
  Wednesday-Monday 8am-3pm, closed Tuesday

• Address:
  Kritsa 721 00, Greece

• Admission:
  €3 per person (about $3.30 USD)

• What to do here:
  Explore Ancient Greek ruins from the 5th century, see native flora, learn about Greek history, enjoy stunning views of Crete’s natural landscape

13 The Best Time To Go To Crete

For travelers who want to escape from the cold, Crete is the place to go. This island receives the most sunshine in all of Greece, with more than 3,000 hours of sunshine annually. Like much of Greece, Crete is located in a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, which means that the island has mild winters and very hot summers. Winter temperatures usually range from the 40s all the way to the 60s, while summer temperatures can get well into the 90s.

In the summertime, rain is very rare, with most days being cloudless and sunny. Wintertime is the rainy season of Crete, so travelers heading to Greece’s southernmost island in the winter months should pack accordingly with jackets and umbrellas.

While Crete is an amazing place to visit at any time of the year, the best times to visit are in May and in September. By going to Greece at the start and end of the tourist season, visitors have a better chance to beat the crowds—and the island’s intensely hot summer!

• Months:
  May and September

• Temperatures:
  70s-80s

14 Best Ways To Get Around Crete

Visitors to Crete who are planning on staying at a city like Heraklion, Chania, or Rethimno will find that the cities are quite easily maneuverable on foot. Walking around these cities gives visitors the chance to enjoy the beautiful architecture, as well as the chance to stop into any cute stores or eateries they might come across. Chania and Rethimno are famous for their historic districts and their harbors, which are all excellent places for tourists to walk around.

Although cities like Heraklion, Chania, and Rethimno are walkable, it is highly recommended to rent a car when traveling here. Because so many of the attractions of Crete are located around the island, visitors will need to drive to get from one end of the island to the other—a trip that usually takes around four hours.

As the 88th largest island in the world with an area of 3,260 square miles, visitors will absolutely want to have the freedom to explore, which renting a car provides.

• Renting a car in Crete can be varied, with prices usually costing around $20-$100 per day. However, prices can even fall as low as $6 per day during the off-season.

When driving a car around Crete, visitors should know that sheep and goats often like to lounge on the roads. Keeping a cautious eye out while driving will prevent an accident.

Visitors can also use the Cretan bus system to navigate around the island. Based on the time of year, the bus fares can vary. However, visitors should know that while most destinations are accessible by bus, schedules can sometimes be erratic and unpredictable.

• Bus fares on Crete typically cost €1.10 or €1.50 and €5.00 (between $1.20 and $5.50 USD)

Related: 10 Tips When Visiting Greece (For First-Timers)

15 Where To Eat In Crete

Travelers shouldn’t miss these local eateries while exploring Crete.

Breakfast: Mare Coffee Bar & Food

A great place to stop for breakfast in Crete is Mare Coffee Bar & Food. They have a full coffee bar, and offer many luxury breakfast options like lemon cheesecake, fine cheeses, hazelnut pancakes, or fresh fruit. The best part about this restaurant is its spectacular sea views!

• Price:
  $$

• Address:
  Leof. Sofokli Venizelou, Iraklio 713
  
  03, Greece

• Hours:
  8am-1am, daily

Lunch: Archipelagos Seafood Restaurant

When traveling to Greece, visitors must try the world-famous seafood dishes! Archipelagos Seafood Restaurant is the perfect place to do just that. Visitors can try calamari, mussels, seafood risotto, and more, all in a restaurant with beautiful modern ambiance just on the beach. When eating all that seafood, visitors will be dining like an Ancient Greek!

• Price:
  $$

• Address:
  Leof. Sofokli Venizelou 11, Iraklio 712 02, Greece

• Hours:
  Wednesday-Monday 12:30-11:30pm, closed Tuesday

Dinner: Peskesi

Considered one of the best restaurants in all of Crete, visitors will fall in love with the rustic Greek ambiance of this upscale restaurant. Some of their menu highlights include stuffed zucchini flowers, pasta with mushrooms, and even roast snails! They also have an impressive wine list, and also have olive oil tastings for guests.

• Price:
  $$

• Address:
  Kapetan Charalampi 6-8, Iraklio 712 02, Greece

• Hours:
  1pm-2am, daily

Drinks: Herbs’ Garden

For drinks in Crete, the rooftop restaurant—Herbs’ Garden—offers a great selection with an amazing view of the ocean and the city. While they serve food here, too, visitors should come to try their excellent wine list!

• Price:
  $$

• Address:
  Roof Garden, Epimenidou 15, Iraklio 712 02, Greece

• Hours:
  1pm-12am, daily

16 Where To Stay In Crete

Adorable and lucky cat enjoying its life in Crete, Greece

When traveling to Crete, there are many places a traveler can stay. As the island is so big, there are many different options for cities to stay in. A great home base when traveling here is Heraklion.

The capital city of Crete is also a great location to stay because of its positioning on the beach and its location near the midway point of the island, making it an excellent location for travelers who want to explore both the east and west sides of Crete.

Visitors are recommended to spend at least 3 days on Crete to fully appreciate the island.

Budget Locations

Capsis Astoria Heraklion

• Address:
  11 Eleftherias Square, Heraklion

• Price:
  $55 per night

• Amenities:
  Bar, lounge, outdoor pool, fitness center, room service, snorkeling

Olive Green Hotel

• Address:
  Meramvellou & Idomeneos 22, Heraklion 71202

• Price:
  $78 per night

• Amenities:
  restaurant, bar, lounge, room service

Mid-Tier Price Locations

The Blossom Collection in Heraklion City Center

• Address:
  will be disclosed upon booking

• Price:
  $129 per night

• Amenities:
  City view, hot tub, kitchenette, terrace, balcony, outdoor dining area

Luxury Hotels

Dessole Dolphin Bay Resort

• Address:
  Melinas Merkouri 1, Ammoudara, Gázi 714 14

• Price:
  $888 per night

• Amenities:
  private beach, snorkeling, outdoor pool, water slide, spa and wellness center, restaurant, bar, lounge, basketball court, tennis

17 Tips To Know When Visiting Crete

View of the sea and the mountains in Crete, Greece

As always when traveling internationally, it is a good idea to learn some phrases in the local language. On Crete, the local language is Greek, so on the plane ride or ferry to the island, visitors should take some time to learn how to say “Kaliméra” (good morning)!

Visitors to Crete will be stunned by the unique natural wildlife of this island. Travelers should be sure to act respectfully towards some of the natural fauna of Crete, which includes sea turtles, dolphins, and ibexes. Some of the rare plants are protected and can have fines for damaging, so visitors should be sure to stay on marked walkways and be cautious around wild plants.

18 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Crete

Dolphin frescoes at Knossos, Crete, in Greece

The perfect day on the island of Crete begins with having breakfast on a hotel balcony overlooking the ocean, enjoying the bright sunshine and the teal sea.

Once equipped with walking shoes and comfortable (but still cute!) clothes, travelers can start their day. In the morning, the best thing to do is to head to the Palace of Knossos to see the expansive ruins before the crowds become too thick. Walking around the immense and impressive ruins of the Minoan Civilization will have visitors truly enthralled. When visiting, people should look for the reconstructed dolphin frescoes in the Queen’s Megaron and the griffons in the throne room.

Walking around Knossos will give visitors quite an appetite. They should head into Heraklion for a delicious seafood lunch prepared in classic Greek fashion with ladolémono, olive oil infused with lemon juice.

Visitors will often finish lunch just as the day is reaching its hottest points. To beat the heat, a great thing for travelers to do is to explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Here, visitors can find deeper knowledge about the Minoans who built, lived in, and spent their lives at the palace complex at Knossos. Visitors will be able to see the famed Snake Goddess, the iconic bull-leaping fresco, the mysterious Phaistos Disk, the culturally insightful Hagia Triada Sarcophagus, and the beautifully-crafted bull rhyton.

Related: Crete Vs Cyprus: Which Is The Best Eastern Mediterranean Island?

Not only is the museum home to these important artistic works, but it also boasts a truly impressive collection of other Minoan artifacts, like pottery, jewelry, and frescoes. A big plus for the museum is that they have air conditioning, which is great for travelers in the summer!

After spending so much time learning and absorbing the rich history of Crete, visitors should spend some time relaxing. The perfect place to do that is at one of Crete’s many beaches. Travelers should spend the early evening hours before dinner lounging on the beach and enjoying the Mediterranean vistas.

Mountains in Crete with a bright blue sky and a deep blue sea

For dinner, visitors should try to have some local cuisine, preferably at a seaside restaurant to truly experience Crete’s natural beauty. A great drink to try is a bit of ouzo, Greece’s national spirit!

The perfect day in Crete will end with visitors sitting once again on their ocean-viewing balcony, but this time looking out over dark, calm waters that have become peaceful and sleepy after a long day of hosting beach-going tourists. Visitors should take time at the end of their day to contemplate all that they have learned and done and should write about it in their travel journal to the sound of the Mediterranean waves not far away.

After a perfect day in Crete, visitors will be truly excited to return once again someday!

FAQ

Q: What is Crete famous for?

Crete is famous for its many natural wonders, its history as the birthplace of the Minoan Civilization in the Bronze Age, its many stunningly beautiful beaches, and its sunshine.

Q: How many days in Crete are enough?

To truly get the most out of a trip to Crete, visitors should plan on spending at least five days. However, for visitors just staying in the Heraklion area, three days will be a good starting point.

Q: How long is the ferry from Athens to Crete?

The ferry from historic Athens to Crete is around 8-11 hours long. A flight is usually only 50 minutes to an hour, however, and may be a better option for some travelers.