Written on : 27 May 2021 By : Laura Wendy Harders López
Turquoise waters, creamy beaches, hilltop and seaside villages, archaeological sites and fascinating mythology-- welcome to Crete, a natural paradise that one ought to visit at least once in one's lifetime.
More than just another Greek island, Crete is reminiscent of being a small country, where travellers marvel at its wealth of traditions, historical sites, and wild landscapes of incomparable beauty.
Discover the best things to do and see in Crete that promise an unforgettable holiday experience.
Located in Knossos, 5km from Heraklion port, Knossos Palace is one of the most important Bronze Age archaeological sites in the world, receiving 600,000 visitors every year. This complex of ancient ruins covers 22,000 square metres and is shrouded in legends and mythology. One of the best things to do is book a tour guide, who will reveal all the mythological stories associated with this magnificent palace.
Unwind on Elafonisi Beach
Known as the most beautiful beach in Crete, Elafonisi Beach is situated in Elafonisi Nature Reserve, characterised by its champagne pink coral sand and crystal clear waters-- the perfect Edenic enclave. This pink colouring, for which it has become world-famous, is due to coral and shell erosion from marine organisms. The beach is lined with restaurants and bars, treating its customers with breathtaking views over the landscape, where one can enjoy a romantic evening admiring the sunset whilst drinking a glass of wine.
Explore Spinalonga Island
Once an island of exile for leprosy patients until 1957, Spinalonga island today stands out as one of Grece's top tourist destinations. Located in the bay of Elounda, its paradise landscapes coupled with its dark history makes it one of the most visited attractions in Crete. It's also a perfect place for engaging in outdoor sports such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and swimming. The island boasts imposing fortress walls where one can admire breathtaking views over Elounda bay. Its prevailing silence contrasted with its paradise landscapes of crystal-clear waters surrounding the fortress make it a unique sight to behold.
Soak up the sun at Balos Lagoon and Beach
Boasting some of the most sparkling turquoise waters in the Mediterranean, Balos Lagoon is located an hour and a half's drive from Chania. This breathtaking beach and its lagoon have shallow and clear waters, making it a safe, family-friendly swimming destination. Lounge on one of its hammocks, sip on a refreshing cocktail and unwind in Heaven on Earth. You can float on its waters and discover its sea bed and corals snorkelling or take up paddle surfing. Enveloped by lush nature reminiscent of an exotic jungle, luckily, this beach still hasn't been invaded by mass tourism, thus still preserves its unique charm and essence where people can relax away from the crowds.
Discover Preveli Beach
Preveli Beach is another must-visit attraction in Crete. If you fancy bathing in warm, crystal clear waters as if in the Caribbean, Preveli is the place to come. Explore its famous "rock of the heart" and have a pleasant swim in the confluence of the Kourtaliotikos Gorge. The last kilometres of the river is encompassed by a lush palm tree forest, rendering this place a unique charm. If you have been to Morocco, it's reminiscent of the Todra Gorges. You can stroll on the beach along the two river banks amidst the palm trees and later ascend part of the gorge.
Designated as a World Heritage Site in 2003, The National Park of Samaria amidst the White Mountains boasts one of the most imposing gorges in Europe. Samaria Gorge attracts hundreds of people worldwide who wish to venture into this spectacular natural site. Hiking the Samaria Gorge provides one with an unforgettable experience that will linger long in the memory. It is home to the Kri-Kri Samaria goats and boasts an array of fauna and flora to discover. The gorge entrance is at an altitude of 1,250 m above sea level, and the hiking trail is 16km long, descending into Agia Roumeli. The river that flows through the gorge is only accessible from May to October.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
Discover more than 3000 years of Cretan history in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, considered the world's finest museum of Minoan art. It displays a wealth of artefacts, including coins, plates, ornaments, sculptures and much more. Among its most outstanding works of art are the Festos disc, frescoes from Knossos Palace, jewellery and Minoan figures. The museum also dedicates a room on Greco-Roman prehistory displaying unique well-preserved pieces.
Discover wonderful sea life at Cretaquarium
Located in Thalassokosmos, Cretaquarium is a spectacular aquarium that illustrates Grece's marine life. It invites guests to explore the marine world and learn about the different species of the coasts and depths of the Mediterranean and Greek seas. A perfect visit for a family outing, one can admire its aquariums recreating its original ecosystems, with sharks, molluscs, rays, algae, immense corals and vibrant anemones, and much more.
5
2
2
