The island of Crete is one of the most popular and popular tourist destinations. This island attracts a rich selection of attractions, centuries-old culture. The history of Crete is closely connected with the emergence of European civilization and culture. Ancient legends take on reality here. Of course, most tourists choose a holiday in Crete for the sake of comfortable, picturesque beaches.
General information about holidays in Greece in Crete
Crete is the largest island in Greece, the birthplace of Zeus and a major tourist center on the Mediterranean coast. The most ancient Minoan civilization appeared here, and archaeological excavations are still underway, scientists find traces of ancient palaces, mosques, fortresses.
Interesting fact! Crete is the southernmost island of the archipelago, its shores are washed by three seas. That is why it will be interesting for beach lovers and fans of history.
The island of Crete is divided into four parts.
- Heraklion is the central part, where we managed to preserve the best sights, the finds discovered by archaeologists are kept in the Archaeological Museum.
- Rethymno — this part of the island is best preserved, where you can walk along the old, narrow streets, admire mosques and temples. Most travelers come here. Because in addition to architectural attractions, you can enjoy natural beauty here.
- Chania — the western edge of the island is the greenest, everything is concentrated here for a comfortable stay-beautiful landscapes, attractions, cultural life is booming.
- Lassithi-the eastern edge of the island, washed by the Cretan and Libyan seas, is the sunniest and most expensive area of Crete, where luxury hotels are concentrated. To the east of Lassithi is Vai Beach, where the Bounty chocolate commercial was shot.
Interesting fact! The most famous and visited resort in Crete is Bali. From a simple fishing village, Bali has evolved into a European-class resort with refined, luxurious hotels, picturesque coves and the clearest sea. You can swim until October.
Features of holidays in Crete at different times of the year
The beach holiday season in Crete starts in the spring. In mid-April, the beaches open for travelers. Spring is a time when nature comes to life, orange groves bloom. This period is most favorable for fans of mountain trekking, hiking, excursions and cycling.
Daytime temperatures reach +25 ° C, and nighttime-only +15 ° C. The water in spring is still quite cool — only +20 ° C. In the second half of May, when the sea warms up to +22 ° C, you can already swim.
In summer, the island of Crete has a high tourist season, during the day the thermometer rises to +30 ° C, and in the southern regions – to +40 ° C. At this time, it is best to buy trips to the northern regions of Crete, on the coast of the Aegean Sea.
Since June, tourists have access to absolutely all types of water activities and any types of beach holidays, however, prices for accommodation and meals increase by about a quarter.
July and August are a great time to get an even tan and soak up the beach, a great choice for a beach holiday in Crete. At this time, the water in the sea is warm – +25 ° C, there is practically no rain. In addition, many festivals and other cultural events are held in the second half of summer. Prices for recreation and food are highest in July and August.
In September, the velvet season begins in Crete, the number of tourists decreases, the air becomes a few degrees cooler, and the water remains warm. The only nuance that can spoil a holiday on the island of Crete is possible storms. But during a storm, you can take part in a festival or go on a tour of the island.
In October and early November, the velvet season continues, travelers become scarce, and prices for holidays on the island of Crete are reduced by a third. This is the best time for excursions.
Resorts of Crete-description and comparison
Definitely answer the question-where is the best holiday in Crete-is impossible. After all, the island is many-sided and diverse — here you can comfortably sunbathe on the beach, see sights preserved from different historical eras, and attend cultural events. We offer an overview of the best places to stay in Crete.
Chania
The port city is located in the west of Crete. The resort is quite lively, but the Russian language sounds less often here than in other localities of the island. This is due to two factors:
- prices for services are higher in comparison with other resorts on the island;
- it takes the longest time to get from the airport to Chania;
- the most famous sights are located far from Chania.
Nevertheless, it is worth visiting the resort town, because its ancient part is the most picturesque on the island, the Venetian harbor is included in the list of the most beautiful places in Greece.
Here the Turkish heritage is preserved, which is bizarrely mixed with Byzantine and Greek cultures. Most interesting are the remains of an ancient port, lighthouse and fortress. Well-preserved cathedral, old streets, where you can visit numerous museums. Limnopolis Water Park has been built to the south of the resort. There are also many interesting places in the vicinity: the Samaria Gorge — the largest in Europe, the Venetian fortress of Frangkokastello, the ancient settlement of Aptera.
Important! A tourist attraction that tourists travel hundreds of kilometers to get to Chania is the beaches in the bay, as well as the Balos Lagoon.
Accommodation
The choice of accommodation in Chania is extensive and varied, you can choose a hotel room from 37€. There are also budget accommodation options — campsites, apartments.
Beaches
Popular places: Kavros, Platanias, Georgioupolis. The famous beach is located near the village of Elafonissi, in the west of the island. The beach is notable for its pink sand, there are few people here.
Interesting to know! The north of the island is dominated by sandy beaches, on the opposite side — in the south — pebbly.
All beaches offer different entertainment options — catamarans, diving, catamaran flights. If you are interested in finding the best place to spend a holiday with children in Crete, please pay attention to Chania. There is a gentle descent into the water, there are almost no waves. Children’s playgrounds are provided. And for adults, there are night shows.
Important! Chania is a universal resort, where everything offers a leisurely, exciting holiday, relaxation on the beaches. Experienced travelers recommend taking a car and driving around Chania to see the villages of this region firsthand.
For more information about your holiday in Chania, please visit this page.
Rethymno
According to many tourists, Rethymno is the best resort in Crete. First of all, due to its convenient location, Rethymno is much closer to the international airport than Chania. In addition, Rethymno is conveniently located in relation to attractions. From the resort town, you can easily and quickly reach the springs of Agriroupoli, the Balos Lagoon, Lake Kourna. Another special feature of Rethymno is the large selection of places for both relaxing and noisy, fun holidays.
Interesting fact! The city of Rethymno itself is very beautiful and interesting from the point of view of its rich historical heritage.
The Venetian fortress of Fortezza, on the territory of which are located: the bishop’s castle, warehouses, barracks, rector’s house, theater. The archaeological museum is located next to the fortress, where exhibits covering the period of several epochs-from the Early Minoan to the Roman. The historical and Ethnographic Museum of Rethymno is located on Vernadou Street, where you can see national clothes, metal products and ceramics. What other attractions to see in the city, read here.
Hotels and accommodation
The price of a stay in Rethymno depends on how close to the shore the hotel or apartment is located. As a rule, five-star hotels are built on beaches and have their own fenced-off part of the coast. Room rates start from 65€.
- In a 3-and 4-star hotel, the price for a room starts from 55€ and 80€, respectively.
- Budget hotels and apartments located on the third line — 25€. The beach is a 20-to 30-minute walk away.
- Young people are happy to stay in hostels, this is inexpensive housing, often guests are provided only with a place to spend the night. Accommodation costs from 10€.
Resorts and beaches
Main resorts:
- Bali;
- Panormo;
- Platanias;
- Rethymno.
Bali is probably the most picturesque place on the island of Crete. The resort is notable for its sheer cliffs, grottoes, from here you can admire the beach and the sea. In clear water, you can easily see marine life. There is excellent fishing in this part of the island, and children can go on an excursion tourist boat.
Useful to know! Bali has many souvenir shops, shops and taverns decorated in a traditional Greek style.
Panormo is quite a picturesque area, located on a cliff, with a picturesque view of the beach and the sea. Panormo has sandy, comfortable beaches and taverns selling fresh catch.
Platanias is only 5 km from Rethymno, and the resort is ideal for a relaxing family holiday with children or in private. There are also many fish shops and taverns.
Important! If the goal of your trip is to relax, spend a holiday in peace and quiet, choose accommodation not in Rethymno itself, but in the suburbs. But if you want to attend parties, it is best to choose a hotel in Rethymno.
Malia
The resort is great for youth recreation and fun. Some tourists even call Malia the Greek Ibiza. Here you will find everything you need for a full-fledged, diverse vacation. The resort is located 35 km from Heraklion. The city is divided into two parts:
- staraya street is located far from the coast, where you can enjoy a calm and measured rest, walk along the old streets, admire the Greek houses with tiled roofs;
- new – full of life, there is a bustling nightlife, bars, discos, restaurants.
Important! When choosing a hotel, take into account its location, it depends on whether it will be noisy under the windows at night or quiet.
You can get from Heraklion to Malia by public transport, as there is a bus connection between the settlements. This is the most budget-friendly way to travel. For those who arrive in Heraklion at night or travel by company, the best solution is to book a transfer or take a taxi.
Hotels and accommodation
The resort is aimed at tourists, so the infrastructure is well developed here, and this also applies to the choice of housing. Directly in Malia and around the village, you can choose apartments for every taste and budget.
- A double room in a 3*** hotel will cost from 60€.
- Similar room in a hotel category 4**** costs from 100€
- For a room in an elite five-star hotel, you will have to pay from 190€.
Beaches
The beach season in Malia starts in mid-April and lasts until October. Resort villages:
- Stalida;
- Malia.
They are connected by a 4 km long beach strip. The beach is wide and sandy. This area on the island of Crete has been awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and well-grooming.
Important! There is a bus service between the localities, and flights depart every 15-30 minutes.
Stalida beach has sun beds and umbrellas, and the price of a set of two sun beds and one umbrella will cost 5€. There are changing rooms and a volleyball court for active recreation. Cafes, bars are open, and rescuers are on duty at the tower. The water sports center provides equipment for catamaran and banana rides.
Potamos Beach is located next to the ruins of an ancient palace, a few kilometers from the port of Malia. The beach is covered with large yellow sand, it is always calm here. Cabanas for changing clothes, sun beds and umbrellas can be rented. There are several bars open.
Things to do
If you get bored of lying on the beach and the noise of discos starts to cause irritation, visit the archaeological center. In this part of the island, the ruins of an ancient Malian palace of the Minoan period have been discovered. Here are preserved elements of utensils, dishes.
Important! Malia is not a very good option for a holiday with children, but otherwise it is a great Greek resort for lovers of discos, beaches and fun.
For more information about beaches, attractions, and entertainment, click here.
Hersonissos
The resort village is located 25 km from Heraklion, previously there was a fairly large, prosperous city of the Byzantine Empire. There are still remains of structures, buildings, a port and mosaics that confirm the imperial glory and power. Bus routes connecting Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos pass through the resort, so it is not difficult to get from the capital to the place of rest.
Useful to know! There are many budget hotels in Hersonissos, which is a great place for young people — there are many bars, discos, and night clubs. By the way, the entrance to entertainment venues is free.
Hotels and accommodation
Despite the fact that the village is quite small, housing is presented here for every taste and budget. Tourists prefer to settle in the central Limenas district of Hersonis. The hotels offer sea views. Hotels in the Anissaras area are ideal for a quiet, relaxing family stay with children.
Housing prices:
- rooms in the central areas of Hersonissos cost from€ 70 per night;
- on the third line from the sea, you will have to pay from 55€ for one night;
- the price of accommodation in apart-hotels starts from 45€ per day.
Naturally, prices vary depending on the season, distance from the sea, room amenities and other factors.
Beaches
Hersonissos is not included in the list of the best places in Crete for a beach holiday:
- the entrance to the water is pebbly;
- the descent to the sea is not always gentle;
- often there are waves, the water becomes muddy due to strong winds;
- the coastline is narrow and in high season does not accommodate everyone who wants to soak up the sun.
Important! The beach is located next to the water park, so it is always crowded and noisy.
Not far from the village there are beautiful beaches with less crowded, comfortable beaches:
- Stalida (2 km);
- Malia (8 km).
More detailed information about the resort can be found on this page.
Elounda
Luxury resort village located in the Lassithi region. The status of tourists who can afford to rent a helicopter to fly to the resort with the maximum resort size is felt in everything here. The price of hotel rooms reaches several thousand dollars per night.
Another difference between the resort of Crete is that the village is located in a bay that is protected from the wind in the east and west, so there are never waves, wind, and more sunny days than in other settlements of Crete.
Interesting fact! Mirabello Bay is considered one of the most picturesque on the island.
If you plan to get to Elounda by bus, you will have to make a transfer. Public transport runs from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, and from there it is best to take a taxi (10 km).
Near the village there are two water parks, on the shore there are attractions, you can play mini golf, go horse riding.
Hotels and accommodation
Given the status of the resort, here are the best hotels on the entire island of Crete. The most expensive ones are located on the embankment, more budget housing can be found if you move away from the coastline. There are hotels focused on expensive, high-end holidays, enough hotels for family accommodation and also accommodation for a romantic trip.
- The price of accommodation in a budget hotel starts from 35€.
- A 3*** hotel room starts from 55€.
- Price of similar rooms in a hotel category 4**** you will have to start from 70€.
- In a five-star hotel, accommodation starts from 150€.
Beaches
The area surrounding the village is famous for its sandy beach. There are three beaches for tourists:
- close to the pier (locals do not recommend swimming here due to its proximity to the port);
- there is another Blue Flag beach not far from the marina, but here the coast is often crowded;
- 5 km from the resort there is another place — Plaka, but the coast here is pebbly.
All beaches have developed infrastructure, there are sun beds, umbrellas, toilets, attractions, bars, taverns.Things to do
Be sure to visit Spinalonga Island. Tourist boats depart regularly from Plaka Beach. Historical and archaeological sites have been preserved here. In addition, sightseeing tours go to neighboring villages, on the Lassithi plateau, in the cave of Zeus.
If you are interested in a holiday in Elounda, check out this article. It provides more information and photos of the resort.
Agios Nikolaos
Locals call Agios Nikolaos the local Saint Tropez. During the day it is quiet, life is measured and unhurried. But in the evening and at night, everything changes dramatically-cafes, bars, restaurants, nightclubs and discos flash with bright lights.
Interesting to know! Initially, the city was built as a place of protection from the Turks.
Getting there from Heraklion is very easy — best of all by car, you can also take a bus or ferry. There is also a ferry service between Agios Nikolaos and Perea.
Accomodation
There are no problems choosing a place to stay in Agios Nikolaos, it is one of the most tourist destinations in Crete. Here you can choose accommodation of any class. Modern hotels are located on the coast, while older ones are located on Eleftheria Square.
- Price of accommodation in a hotel category 3*** — from 65€.
- Price of a night in a category hotel 4*** — from 70€.
- Price per hotel room 5***** — from 170€.
Beaches
In this part of Crete, the sea pleases with transparency and a light, refreshing breeze. Yachts are moored in picturesque bays, and tourists play volleyball on the shore.
Almost all the beaches of the resort are surrounded by hotels, so there are mini-golf, basketball, and tennis courts nearby. There are bars and cafes where cocktails are plentiful.
Useful to know! The coastline is wide, there are enough sun loungers and umbrellas, so you can relax in peace.
On some beaches there are tall trees, reeds, families with children come here.
Things to do in Agios Nikolaos
- Walk through the pedestrian streets.
- Visit the Sunday market.
- Go diving.
- Visit Lake Vulizmeni and take a walk along the waterfront, where boats and yachts leave for Spinalong Island.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum.
15 Best Resorts in Greece on the Aegean Sea
Crete Island — which resort to choose
As you can see, holidays in Crete are diverse, resorts have advantages and disadvantages, so which one is best to choose for your trip depends only on you. Enjoy your stay!
