Things to do in Crete

Crete: too big for one holiday

Crete is so large that you should pick a part of the island before you book. In the west is Chania, with its old Venetian harbour and the beaches of Balos and Elafonisi. In the middle are Heraklion and the palace of Knossos. In the east are Elounda and Agios Nikolaos, home to many of the best hotels.

The island suits almost everyone: families who want sandy beaches, couples who want to eat well in Chania, and walkers who want to hike one of the longest gorges in Europe. Cretan food, with olive oil, herbs, cheese and raki, is a reason to go in itself.

Crete is the largest of the islands of Greece. For something smaller and more intimate, see Santorini or Rhodes.

The best things to do in Crete

• Chania: walk along the Venetian harbour to the lighthouse, then get lost in the lanes behind it.

• Balos and Gramvousa: the turquoise lagoon on the north-west tip. The boat from Kissamos is the easiest way there.

• Elafonisi: the beach in the south-west, known for the pink tint in its sand.

• Knossos: the ruins of the Minoan palace just outside Heraklion, with the archaeological museum in town.

• Samaria Gorge: a full-day hike through one of the longest gorges in Europe. It is only open in the warmer half of the year.

• Spinalonga: the small fortress island off Elounda, with a dark history and a lovely boat trip.

Where to stay in Crete

• Chania: for food, the old town and the western beaches.

• Rethymno: a smaller old town, a long sandy beach and easy access to both ends of the island.

• Elounda and Agios Nikolaos: luxury hotels, calm bays and views of Spinalonga.

• Heraklion: handy for Knossos and the airport, but more city than holiday.

The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. More favourites in our guide to the best hotels in Crete.

Casa Delfino: a Venetian palace in Chania

A small hotel in an old palace in the old town, with a courtyard and the harbour just around the corner. For those who want to stay in the heart of Chania and walk out to dinner.

Book your stay: See rooms at Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa

Domes Noruz Chania: on the beach west of town

A modern beach hotel a short drive from Chania. A good pick if you want the beach by day and the old town by night.

Book your sun break: See rooms at Domes Noruz Chania

Elounda Beach: the classic on Mirabello Bay

One of the best-known luxury hotels on Crete, with bungalows right down by the water in the east of the island. Boats to Spinalonga leave from nearby.

Book your sun break: See rooms at Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas

When is the best time to visit Crete?

The season on Crete runs from April to October. May, June and September are often the best months, with a warm sea and fewer visitors than in July and August. In winter the island is quiet and many beach hotels close.

Travelling in autumn? See where is hot in October.

Frequently asked questions about Crete

Where is the best place to stay in Crete?

Stay in Chania for the old town, food and the western beaches. Elounda and Agios Nikolaos have most of the luxury hotels and calm bays, while Rethymno is a good central base with a long sandy beach.

What are the best beaches in Crete?

Balos, Elafonisi and Falassarna in the west are the best known. In the east, Vai is famous for its palm forest, and around Elounda you will find calm bays.

Do I need a car in Crete?

Yes, if you want to see more than one area. The island is large and buses mostly run along the north coast. For Balos and Elafonisi, a car or an organised trip is easiest.

When is the best time to go to Crete?

May, June and September bring warm weather, a warm sea and fewer crowds. July and August are the hottest and busiest months.

How long should I spend in Crete?

A week is enough for one part of the island. To see both west and east, allow ten days or two weeks, and consider changing hotels on the way.