Crete's lovely island has everything and anything that anyone from a Greek island could ask for. Hospitality felt from pristine beaches, scenic seaside villages, amazing mountain views to exquisite Cretan cuisine and outstanding heart. Crete has everything!
Crete is a land of excellent history, culture, values of tradition and undeniable natural beauty. A destination that will fulfill all of your expectations and will leave you with unforgettable memories, ones that you will cherish for a lifetime!
Beaches
Lagoufa
Lagoufa is located right after the east end of Makrigialos main beach, around 59km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 24km east of Ierapetra. It consists of two adjacent coves, which are formed near the luxurious hotels of Makrigialos. The first cove has fine golden sand, shallow blue water and is very well organized with umbrellas, bars, showers and water sports, due to the local hotel. This might look as private, but access to the beach is permitted to everybody, since there are no private beaches in Greece.
You can access Lagoufa beaches either through the hotels or by passing the rocky east end of Makrigialos beach (you'll have to walk for a few meters in shallow water). There is a wooden route from the first cove that leads to the easternmost beach. There are some small lakes created in the rocky limestone below this route, while fresh water is gushing from the rocks or the sand in some locations.
Balos Lagoon
The famous Balos lagoon is located approximately 56 km southwest of Chania and 17 km northwest of Kissamos, formed between Cape Gramvousa and the tiny Cape Tigani and below the Platiskinos range. Balos is certainly the mostly photographed beach in Crete, a favourite topic for Greece among all tourist guides. It's no coincidence that Prince Charles and Princess Diana visited Balos with their personal yacht many years ago.
Elafonissi beach
Elafonisi is located 76km west of Chania and 5km south of Chrysoskalitisa Monastery, in the southwesternmost tip of Crete. Elafonisi is an oblong peninsula, which often breaks in two parts by water giving the impression of being a separate island. Elafonisi is a Natura 2000 protected area. The island is full of sand dunes with sea daffodils and jupiners. The endangered loggerhead sea turtle and several more rare animals and plants find shelter on the island; it is strictly forbidden to remove any plants, animals, shells and sand from the area.
Agia Pelagia beach
Agia Pelagia (Santa Pelagia) is located 21km west of Heraklion, on the south side of the small Cape Souda, surrounded by several coves with beautiful beaches. Agia Pelagia, was initially a small and picturesque settlement used by the residents of Achlada village for growing their crops; today it has transformed into a bustling tourist resort with many hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, internet cafés, ATMs, taxi, etc. and is connected with regular bus services to Heraklion.
Agia Marina beach
The seaside village of Agia Marina is located just 9km west of Chania city and is one of the most popular resorts in Chania, with thousands of hotels and all types of touristic infrastructure one can ask for. The village is named after the local church of Agia Marina celebrating on July 17.
The shore of Agia Marina is fantastic with lovely consecutive sandy beaches. At the west side, near the port of Platania, we meet many small artificial piers where one can swim. In the east part the beach, there is a long sandy beach extending to Stalos. Along the shore, you will find all the services offered in a well organized beach.
Popular Locations to Visit in Crete
Heraklion: is Crete's biggest town and capital, situated in the middle of the island's southern shore. Here you'll also discover Crete's primary international airport and a ferry dock port. Heraklion is a vibrant and intriguing town complete of locations to be discovered. Visit archeological highlights such as the Palace of Knossos and the Koules Venetian Fortress. Enjoy art and history museums. Stop at one of several restaurants and enjoy delicious Cretan cuisine and traditional raki.
Chania: is Crete's second biggest town, situated on the island's southwest coast. The gateway to west Crete with a ferry port and an international airport. Chania is a distinctive town with a wealthy history and culture. Travel through the ancient town's tight streets, offering nostalgic previous pictures and admiring lovely architecture. Then visit the Old Venetian Harbor, Greece's most photographed site featuring an ancient lighthouse, the city's trademark. Stop and taste the magnificent Cretan gastronomy and local wine at any of the waterfront taverns. Check out the old archeological sites and historical landmarks along the manner.
Rethymno: a seaside town with traditional beauty, wealthy cultural heritage, well-preserved villages and a relaxing environment. Located on the island's southern shore, with a port nicely built around the ancient quarter of the cities. Walk to the ancient town constructed around the impressive fortress of Veneto. Walk through the routes of stone and admire the distinctive and elegant architecture. Visit the Old Venetian Port, the city's most romantic place, and enjoy the scenic Mediterranean Sea scenery and the surrounding hills.
Chora Sfakia
If you go over the White Mountains of Crete, down winding roads and through more desolate stretches of territory, Chora Sfakia welcomes you. The trip to Chora Sfakia is picturesque and unforgettable in its own right, but once you're here, it's time to take in everything that makes this village unique. A tiny fishing village, Chora Skafia is less common with visitors, although the Sfakians are known to be quite friendly. The town is steeped in a rich history. Tour some of the ancient ruins of the old fortress, explore the Cave of Daskaloyiannis, and bask in the sun on Sweetwater Beach. We also recommend sampling a Sfakian pie made with fresh cheese and honey.
Anogia
Located on Mount Psiloritis, Anogia is close to the Ideon Cave where Greek mythology dictates that Zeus spent his youth. Once ravaged by war, Anogia now provides amazing landscapes and plenty of outdoor cafes on Agios Georgios Square with places to sit under the shade of trees as ancient as the town itself. Be sure to have some roasted lamb if you are in Anogia because this region is known for its stockbreeding. Most meals you’ll find around here are prepared with local ingredients according to authentic recipes. In addition to the ancient Idean Cave and the Nida Plateau, there are some great museums in Anogia that showcase Cretan folk art.
Matala
The shores of Matala have mythological importance, as it is said that Zeus arose famously from its waters disguised as a bull. Despite its cultural remarkability and size, Matala still provides an escape from more tourist fields on the island. Indeed, you will still discover a feeling of authenticity and charm connected with the island's quiet coastal fishing villages. Matala was also popular with the hippie movement of the 60s and 70s, and this legacy has made its mark in the laid-back atmosphere found here. The seaside is lined with spectacular sandstone cliffs along with mysterious caves said to be the sites of ancient tombs.
Agia Pelagia
Agia Pelagia is situated on Crete’s northern shore. It is a more developed village than many in Crete, which makes it ideal for a relaxing vacation where you have everything you need in one place. Still there are several different beaches within a short distance from Agia Pelagia that allow you to beat the crowds. The waters here are notoriously clear and calm. There are also many places to enjoy Cretan cuisine while overlooking the ocean. There is also a bus running from Agia Pelagia to nearby Heraklion. It is recommended that you visit during summer, however, because the town nearly shuts down during the winter months.
Getting Around in Crete
The island of Crete can be readily reached by aircraft from one of the international airports situated in Heraklion and Chania, as well as from one of the many ports providing cruise ships from all over the world and ferry services from mainland Greece. Because Crete is one of Greece's most famous and largest islands that hosts, prepare and rent a vehicle in Crete for millions of locals and visitors from all over the globe. Avoid the inconvenience of waiting for a bus or taxi to delay your island time. You can easily hire a car Crete from one of the well-known rent a car agencies including Hertz, Avis, Budget and Imperial Car Rental. Reserve your car rentals Crete in advance and enjoy the discounted prices. With your Crete rent a car you will be able to explore and discover all that this fascinating island has to offer you!