Crete is among the many most well-known Greek islands (together with Santorini, Corfu and Mykonos). Nevertheless, Greece’s largest island has shortly developed a status as a celebration island, with crowds of revellers within the busier resorts searching for their subsequent shot of ouzo.
Nevertheless, there are nonetheless many quieter, much less commercialized resorts and villages to remain in. After spending many breaks on this lovely island, listed below are my selections if you need a extra genuine break…
1. Sissi
Suppose you consider a sleepy Greek fishing village. In that case, you in all probability have photos of small boats bobbing in quartz waters, piles of multicoloured nets, and fishermen unloading their catch earlier than nipping off to the Taverna for a cheeky ouzo. You don’t have to think about, as you’ve simply considered Sissi!
As about as non-commercial because it will get, in my expertise, Sissi is the whole lot you need from a reasonably Mediterranean fishing village.
You gained’t discover events and bars right here, however a group of genuine native eateries, just a few small sandy seashores, and crystal-clear waters, too! For me, it was bliss!
My favorite highlights…
Spending the day on the idyllic Kalimera Kriti Seaside, the place the sleek waters are perfect for swimming.
Going for a scenic hike on the village’s trails for spectacular views of vineyards, olive groves and conventional villages.
Absorbing the allure of the winding roads and Insta-worthy vibrant homes whereas wandering by way of the village.
Location: Sissi is positioned on the north coast of Crete, a 40-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
My resort selection – Grecotel Meli Palace
2. Elounda
Providing loads of five-star luxurious, Elounda has lovely resorts and fashionable motels. It’s not maybe as quaint and ‘domestically genuine’ as a few of the different locations on this listing, however what it lacks in custom, it greater than makes up for in swankiness and nonetheless manages to retain an air of what makes this island so charming!
A number of celebrities (together with Brad and Angelina in happier days!) have been noticed strolling on its sandy shores, which, mixed with its being a hotspot for European dignitaries, provides to its unique enchantment.
It’s a little bit of a trek from Chania airport, so I counsel flying to Heraklion in case you’re going. There are quite a few seashores to go to, and if they’re a bit far otherwise you need to go additional afield, you’ll find rent vehicles for the usual price as an even bigger resort.
Fortuitously, Elounda’s costs don’t have a Hollywood price ticket, so I personally suppose it’s a wonderful center floor for individuals who don’t need utter isolation however nonetheless need to maintain their break moderately relaxed!
My private highlights…
Discovering the traditional ruins of the underwater city Olous with a snorkelling tour.
Taking a ship journey over to the well-known Spinalonga Island for the attractive views throughout the bay to Plaka and Elounda.
Having fun with dinner at one of many city’s favorite eating places for fish and seafood specials, Kanali.
Location: Elounda is positioned in east Crete round an hour’s drive from Heraklion Airport.
My resort selection – Domes of Elounda
3. Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos, Or simply ‘Agios’ in case you favor, is a bustling city and a working port. It’s positioned simply east of Heraklion, that means it’s simple to get to in case you don’t need to spend an excessive amount of time with pesky transfers.
The city isn’t strictly a ‘seaside resort’, so there’s a lot to see and do in addition to basking.
There are church buildings tucked away in winding streets. The city is constructed round a good looking lake for individuals who need to take pleasure in a waterside view with out the sand (Lake Voulismeni). I like to recommend taking within the views whereas additionally eating in type in one in all a large number of lakeside eating places!
My private highlights…
Strolling across the boutiques the place I discovered distinctive handmade clothes, souvenirs and native produce.
Exploring the Mediterranean Sea in a different way with a semi-submarine tour.
Visiting the Cretan Olive Oil Farm to expertise how the native olive oil, wine, raki and pottery are made.
Location: Agios Nikolaos is on the island’s east aspect, a few 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
My resort selection – Minos Palace Lodge & Suites
4. Panormos
Did someone say wine? Panormos – a small and charming conventional Cretan fishing village positioned on the northern coast – has just a few little additional bits that make it engaging and a vineyard, it additionally has guided excursions and tasting as properly making it a gorgeous proposition certainly.
Three seashores are inside strolling distance from the cobbled stone avenue village. All of them are fairly shallow and nestled amongst some beautiful native topography, permitting for some quite good snorkelling experiences.
My favorite was Geropotamos Seaside. To the west, there’s a quite engaging stone arch; to the east, a freshwater river runs straight into the ocean.
My favorite highlights…
Stress-free and rejuvenating with a therapy from Relaxika Therapeutic massage Specialists and Spa.
Spending a day on the Aqua Park in Marine Palace, which hosts a few of the wildest water slides.
Occurring a biking journey by an E-bike tour with JoyRide.
Location: Panormos is positioned on the island’s North Coast, round a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
My resort selection – The Royal Senses Resort
5. Plakias
In case you are searching for area, Plakias gives some of the in depth seashores in Crete. What amazed me once I was in Crete was how quiet it was.
Should you keep a number of nights, you don’t want to fret about thumping music or all-night events. It’s tremendous sedate. A ‘naturist’ seaside is off to the east if it tickles your fancy. Seaside balls apart, there may be extra to Plakias than sand and sunshine.
It’s residence to a considerable palm date forest, which is accessible by foot or by automotive. Strolling by way of the forest is elegant, and the river that cuts by way of it’s clear sufficient to swim in (we must always hope in order it leads straight out onto Plakias Seaside).
My favorite highlights…
Exploring the breathtaking palm groves and the gorge was a powerful expertise.
Catching essentially the most photographed and vibrant sundown at The Plakias Dragon landmark, created from rock formations.
Slowing down and chill out alongside the seaside’s sandy shores.
Location: Plakias is on the south coast of the island, about an hour and 40 minutes’ drive from Heraklion Airport.
My resort selection – NERĒA Boutique Lodge
6. Kato Zakros
Situated on the jap aspect of the island of Crete, Kato Zakros is a bit out of the best way however properly definitely worth the go to.
That is the land of Greek mythology, and I half anticipated Jason and his argonauts to pop over the horizon at any second whereas we sat on the seaside! Mythology apart, you’ll be able to go to the ruins of the Minoan Zakros palace, which is a real archaeological web site.
If business isn’t your factor, quite a few guesthouses within the space provide their distinctive hospitality model. Many have floral and aromatic herb gardens. With that and the relative peace, it’s a super spot on this lovely island.
My favorite highlights…
Visiting the historic Minoan Palace of Zakros which was solely found within the early Sixties, and has been stored in good situation.
Strolling alongside the beautiful E4 path to discover Gorge of the Lifeless, the place I discovered a number of picture alternatives on the best way.
Stress-free on the seashores that are well-known for the clear waters, and seeing the small gardens surrounding them.
Situated: Kato Zakros is on the island’s east coast, round a 3-hour journey from Heraklion airport.
My lodging selection – Terra Minoika Boutique resort
7. Kalamaki
Kalamaki is a comparatively new city in Crete. It does have extra of a purpose-built really feel, however I’d nonetheless advocate it because it’s not a loud and brash sort of place.
It’s a relaxed resort city (and in comparison with its busier neighbours!), and if you need a no-nonsense turn-up and to chill out on the seaside vacation, then I personally suppose this can be a sensible choice!
The seaside is massive and a variety of tavernas and retailers providing meals at a really cheap value. It’s identified for its calm waters, and for being a nesting web site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles.
My favorite highlights…
Having enjoyable on the Mini Golf course.
Taking an after-dinner stroll and trying out the leisure alongside the principle avenue within the night.
Renting a pedal boat and exploring the ocean.
Location: Kalamaki is positioned on the south coast of the island round an hour’s drive from Heraklion airport.
My self-catering lodging selection – Golden Solar Resort
8. Sougia
Sougia is a small village positioned by the Libyan Sea. It may be a little bit of a drive, particularly from some extra developed areas, but it surely was half the enjoyable for me!
As you traverse the coast street with steep hills and plush greenery, the surroundings provides views that may take your breath away. When you’ve pushed (fastidiously) to the city, you’ll discover a laid-back vibe and easy-going ambiance synonymous with a lot of the lesser-known spots on the island.
If you need a bit of sunshine tradition, there’s a church (Agios Panteleimon) on the Western aspect of the village; it has a beautiful mosaic flooring and isn’t business in any approach (if you wish to see it, you’ll must go to the kiosk on Sougia seaside and ask for the important thing your self…critically)!
My favorite highlights…
Discovering peaceable surroundings strolling by way of the attractive Agia Irini Gorge.
Visiting the secluded seaside and having fun with a swim within the calm and quiet bay.
Location: Sougia is on the island’s South-West coast, a few 3-hour, 20-minute drive from Heraklion airport.
My lodging selection – Monastery Property Retreat
9. Falassarna Seaside
Regardless of its small measurement, Falassarna is a well-liked spot and has a status for being probably the greatest seashores on the island. The seashores on this space are sandy, clear, and stretch so far as the attention can see!
Nevertheless, there may be additionally an ecological curiosity – Falassarna is a part of the Natura 2000 community because of the space’s in depth natural world.
It’s weak to excessive winds – however however, this makes it ultimate for surfers. Falassarna Seaside has gained prizes for being essentially the most lovely seaside in Crete and is at all times one of many prime ten seashores in Europe, with its great, superb white sand and heat, crystal-clear water.
My favorite highlights…
Experiencing a paragliding trip overlooking the coast and admiring the island in a different way.
Occurring a cruise over to the attractive Balos Lagoon crammed with blue and inexperienced water earlier than heading to the historic web site of Gramvousa.
Taking a surf lesson and have some enjoyable out on the ocean using the waves while wanting again over the gorgeous shoreline.
Location: Falassarna is on the island’s west coast, round a two-hour, forty-minute drive from Heraklion airport.
10. Triopetra Seaside
Siderotas mountain, olive groves, and, after all, the seafront encompass Triopetra. The realm is called after the three majestic rocks that rise out of the ocean on the peninsula’s edge.
Small Triopetra (or Koumado) is the smaller of the 2 seashores. It’s extra of an enclosed, sandy, and rocky bay.
Are you bored of sunning your self? You’ll be able to at all times go to the unbelievable chapel of Prophet Elias. In the meantime, the world’s fundamental seaside, West Triopetra or Chatzi, is characterised by lovely coarse sand that casts uncommon colors throughout the seaside and water.
It’s well-known for its unending stretch of sand, fabulous sunsets, and peaceable ambiance.
My favorite highlights…
Admiring the breathtaking rock formations alongside the coast.
Going snorkelling alongside the shallow waters and discovering the great underwater world.
Having a picnic on the sandy seaside.
Location: It’s positioned south of the island, round a two-hour drive from Heraklion airport.
11. Elafonisi Lagoon
This pure magnificence spot is an absolute pearl, however you’ve received to time it proper. Up till pretty just lately, Elafonisi was one in all Crete’s best-kept secrets and techniques. Sadly, social media selfie-lovers have a agency grasp of it, so it might probably get hectic within the excessive seasons.
Nevertheless, don’t let that put you off. Go within the shoulder months, and also you’ll be rewarded with a day journey to recollect.
The lagoon itself is an island that may be reached by paddling out to it. If you get there, don’t anticipate something in the best way of facilities (it’s truly a nature reserve and is handled accordingly).
Suppose you’ve braved the paddle (or walked over the sandbar resulting in the island). In that case, you’ll be rewarded with water that’s the temperature of bathwater, comfortable pink sand (specific to this space solely), and footage that you just’ll treasure…Prizes have been awarded for recognizing a sea turtle…and deducted for duckface Instagram posts…take pleasure in!
My favorite highlights…
Stress-free on the distinctive and idyllic pink sands surrounded by crystal-clear lagoon waters.
Having fun with the magnificent surroundings surrounding the seaside.
Taking a hike throughout the lagoon and thru the dunes and discovering the hidden gems.
Location: Elafonisi Lagoon is on the west coast of the Greek island of Crete, a few 3-hour, 20-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
12. Plaka
I need to point out that you just shouldn’t confuse your Plakas. There are two, one inhabited and constructed purely for ex-pats. The one we mentioned is good in case you’ve determined to remain in or close to Agios, because it’s simply across the bay.
Plaka has a beautiful seaside, particularly in case you don’t like sand getting in every single place, because it’s constituted of pebbles. Contemplating you might be solely down the street from one in all Crete’s busiest cities, it’s quiet and stress-free.
You’ll discover the usual Greek beachside fare if you need a halftime break. Nestled in its backstreets are many boutique-style retailers promoting handmade and not-so-handmade trinkets.
My favorite highlights…
Going for a swim within the crystal clear waters at Plaka Seaside.
Waterskiing with Plaka Watersports.
Shopping the stylish garments, boutiques, and reward retailers alongside the backstreets.
Location: Plaka is on the coast east of Crete, round an hour’s drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodging selection for Plaka – Solar and Sea Plus Resort
13. Glyka Nera
Glyka Nera is among the most lovely seashores on the island, with deep blue water and superb white sand. There are two routes to the seaside – by boat or, for essentially the most excessive, a path from Chora Sfakion and one other from Loutro.
These hikes will be strenuous and, at occasions, hair-raising, however they’re properly maintained. A tavern sells native nibbles, drinks, and sunbeds on the seaside.
As a result of presence of chilly spring water streams, the seawater will be chilly, even in summer season, however the seaside is gorgeous. Should you arrive by boat, the route and views are spectacular!
My highlights…
Discovering the unbelievable aerial viewpoints of the seaside by following one of many mountaineering trails across the bay.
Spending the night time tenting underneath the shade of the tamarisk timber.
Location: Glyka Nera is positioned on the south coast of Crete, a 2 hour half-hour drive from Heraklion Airport.
My lodging selection close to Glyka Nera – Myrto Lodge
14. Tripiti to Sougia Shoreline
The stroll between these two areas is genuinely gorgeous. Fortunately, the trail is marked with cairns to information your route, as it’s simple to get distracted by the views! Though parts of the stroll will be tiring, it’s most positively value it.
Though the panorama could make you set off pleased with the digital camera, don’t ignore the sweetness proper beside you on the trail – a Venetian fort, historic church buildings, historic cisterns, and the breath-taking stays of the ruined historic city of Pikilassos, to not point out the attractive natural world that you just encounter alongside the best way, together with a number of olive timber – resist the urge to pillage!
The stroll can take as much as two hours relying on capability, velocity, and inclination; be sure to take time to take in the attractive views and ambiance.
My favorite highlights…
Stopping and admiring the historic websites alongside the best way.
Absorbing the attractive views overlooking lovely turquoise waters.
Capturing Insta-worthy pictures of the surroundings alongside the path.
Situated: Sougia is on the Southwest Coast of Crete, a 3-hour and 20-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
15. Myrtos Village
This tranquil, pristine, white-washed village filled with conventional allure is within the island’s southeastern nook. The city has a wealthy historical past, together with a museum that homes finds of Minoan archaeological significance.
It additionally has a handful of genuine taverns and a quiet sandy seaside.
The seaside of Myrtos is a hidden treasure that hardly ever will get crowded and offers an actual alternative to take a load off and really chill out. For individuals who like to discover, ruins all around the space relationship from the Neolithic and Roman durations will be uncovered and found with a little bit of tenacity.
My highlights…
Spending the day at Myrtos Seaside, which has a Blue Flag award and is among the warmest seashores in Europe.
Studying in regards to the architectural treasures across the space and the village’s historical past on the Myrtos Museum.
Taking a drive to Selakano Forest and exploring the charming trails crammed with waterfalls.
Location: Myrtos village is on the south coast of Crete, a one-hour and twenty-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
16. Ligaria
I beloved Ligaria – a small and charming seaside village positioned on the north aspect of Crete – particularly its beautiful seaside with the identical title. It’s postcard-perfect with steep, sandy-coloured rocks dropping straight into the ocean on this horseshoe-shaped bay and crystal clear water.
The realm is fashionable with locals, which ought to let you know one thing. In consequence, the beachside delicacies within the native tavernas is to a reasonably excessive customary.
It’s barely commercialised, but it surely’s not too unhealthy in case you just like the occasional deep-fried or sugary deal with delivered to your lounger while you catch the solar!
My favorite highlights…
Experiencing conventional Cretan dishes at Atatoah Taverna Liguria.
Going jet snowboarding!
Visiting the fascinating Monastery of Panagia Deligara which is constructed on the ruins of the unique monastery.
Location: Ligaria is positioned on the north coast of Crete, round a 30-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.
17. Heraklion
Heraklion is Crete’s capital and the most important metropolis on the island. It’s a port metropolis with an city vibe and a contact of nature.
Irrespective of the place you go, you’ll at all times discover inexperienced spots. If you wish to discover the native delicacies, there are numerous eating places and unbelievable espresso retailers. Town has an airport, making it the primary spot to discover the world.
I’d additionally counsel catching a ferry to go to Santorini, Mykonos and different islands.
My private highlights…
Visiting the excellent Bronze Age metropolis and Palace of Knossos.
Strolling across the vibrant Previous City and the scenic harbour crammed with fishing boats.
Location: Heraklion is positioned on the north coast of Crete and is residence to the island’s fundamental airport.
18. Milatos
If discovering tucked-away coves and exploring craggy rocks appeals to you, then Milatos, a small quaint Crete village, perhaps the place for you!
It lacks the sweeping white sand of a few of our different recommendations however doesn’t have the footfall, making it ultimate for a day journey.
In case you are a real adventurer, take your flashlight and head as much as Milatos caves. It’s not significantly well being and security pleasant, however in case you are courageous sufficient, you’ll be rewarded with a view of a hidden church constructed throughout the caves. Cool or what?
My private highlights…
Exploring the Milatos Cave after strolling up a scenic path to the doorway.
Indulging in nice meals and wine at Meltemi Taverna while watching a panoramic sundown over the Mediterranean Sea.
19. Paleochora
Paleochora, a small city on a small peninsula in southwest Crete, is good if you need a little bit of each. By that, I imply you need to take pleasure in chilling out and perhaps have a superb time within the night.
There are some bars, however they’re extra more likely to be filled with civilised locals than your customary 18-30 gangs.
After a day on the (pebble) seaside, you’ll be able to step out in your Sunday finest and tempo up and down the walkway paralleling the seafront whereas questioning when you’ve got time to have a look at the menu earlier than the occupants accost you (I’m joking; they’re beautiful and customarily pleasant quite than pushy!).
My favorite highlights…
Going for a swim at Pachia Ammos Seaside, identified for being probably the greatest seashores alongside the South Coast.
Visiting the Paleochora Fortress and seeing Instagrammable panoramic views over the city.
Eating al fresco alongside the Paleochaora Piazza.
20. Loutro Village
If you land within the fairly, peaceable village of Loutro, you’re feeling such as you’ve stepped again in time! It’s a small village with a number of motels and tavernas, retailers and eating places, and a church. Nonetheless, what Loutro lacks in modernity, it makes up for in nostalgia and panorama.
It’s flanked by steep mountainsides, residence to a large herd of goats (judging from the clinking of bells), and a tepid sea sheltered by a lush bay.
No roads lead right here, and there aren’t any nightclubs or nightlife. Guests can detox from life and sort out long-awaited books, take walks alongside the gorgeous surroundings, or eat, drink, and be merry.
My private highlights…
Renting a ship and exploring the breathtaking southern shoreline.
Visiting the historic Koules of Loutro fortress ruins.
Wandering across the city’s fairly streets and sampling the road meals.
