Crete is the most large island Greek archipelago. He takes it southern part, while being surrounded by 3 seas at the same time. After Cyprus this is the most sunny island, which attracts tourists with its exquisite coastline, picturesque landscapes mountains, fully equipped with beaches, in addition, the brightest echoes of the architecture of the Minoan civilization (the oldest in the world). In this article we will find out why holidays in Crete are so popular among tourists.

Climate

Crete is big Island with mountainous terrain. The climate is completely different in different parts of the island. So, in the north, separated from the central mountain range from the south, it is Mediterranean temperate, in fact, like other resorts in Europe. The south is much hotter, sunnier and drier as it falls under the North African climate zone. It is colder in mountainous regions, and there is even snowfall in winter. On the island as a whole, winter is mild and rainy, which, in fact, the whole of Greece can boast of. Crete, where holidays are so popular among tourists, seems to freeze at this time. The level of air humidity here is determined by the proximity of the sea. For example, for coastal resorts Due to high humidity, it is typical that the heat will be more difficult to tolerate, and in winter, temperatures in the coastal zone are lower.

Tourist season

Crete feels like a small country with a lot of possibilities. It is an expanse of spectacular valleys, fertile plateaus, golden sands, pleasant smells and stunning views. Holidays in Crete are captivating because they approach everyone with special care: for lovers of silence there are secluded resorts, for party lovers - lively beaches, for active and sporty individuals - diversity water activities. People begin to come here in April, while the mass tourist season ends in mid-autumn.

"High season

Here it lasts all summer, when the air temperature is 28-30°C. The thermometer in the hottest parts of the island often jumps to 40°C. There is one little secret for fans of the height of summer: in Crete, not all beaches are crowded at this time. Yes, they are quite remote from the Cretan cities and do not offer many amenities, while some are willing to give a lot for the opportunity to relax in solitude. At the height of summer, a holiday in Crete is usually worth going to northern part islands, on the shores of the Aegean Sea, although the number of tourists here is huge.

"Low" season

All 3 winter months, as well as in March, there is a decline in Crete tourist season. Then those who are not particularly interested in relaxing on the beach go to the island, but prefer to be in solitude and tranquility. The weather here is changeable, the expected temperature is 16-17°C. It may suddenly become warmer or colder. At the same time, to explore the numerous attractions better weather and prices can't be found.

Swimming season

The holiday season here begins in mid-April. Then the island's beaches open. In the Mediterranean Sea, the water becomes comfortable for swimming only at the end of May. In mid-summer, when the weather is hot, the water temperature in this place reaches 25°C. During the daytime, the sun is very dangerous, therefore, try to go to the beach early in the morning or in the evening. In September, holidays in Crete become the most comfortable, because it subsides heatwave. Due to this, the sea becomes a little cooler.

The Velvet season

Holidays in Crete in September can be called ideal. The very end of the month and October are the velvet season here. Now it’s not as busy as in the summer, but it’s just as sunny, and the weather conditions are conducive to swimming and spending a long time on the beach. Think for yourself: in September the temperature sea ​​water is 24°C, in October - 23°C. The only discomfort can be that a holiday in Crete in October is not suitable for everyone: it is already cold at night (16°C), so you can only swim in the middle of the day. Huge advantage velvet season here are low prices for food, housing and all kinds of services.

Best beaches

There is no need to even say that holidays on the island of Crete primarily attract those who like to lie on the beaches, which here are actually at the highest level. But there are special beaches that deserve close attention.


Youth recreation

Holidays on the island of Crete are often chosen by young people. Companies mainly stay at certain resorts: noisy, with a huge range of entertainment. Among them is Hersonissos, characterized by the largest number of clubs and vibrant nightlife. The sandy beaches are no worse than those in secluded, modest resorts. There is a water park nearby called Water City.

Another tourist center of the island where young people like to relax is Malia. This place offers a variety of entertainment, not only club life, but also active daytime recreation, such as horseback riding.

You can also choose Rethymnon with rapid modern life. You won’t be bored in this place either, thanks to the various architectural attractions that are located right on the territory of this city.

Vacation with children

For a family holiday, you need to choose resorts with a sandy beach and a gently sloping, convenient entrance to the sea. Elafonisi, mentioned above, is a good choice, although the list of suitable holiday destinations is not limited to it.

Makriyalos also has shallow water, therefore, it is safe to swim here even with very young children. This place is located far from noisy resorts, including Heraklion, and is perfect for a quiet family holiday.

Some hotels in Crete will help make your holiday with children as comfortable as possible. Thus, Club Marine Palace offers excellent service. Especially for infants, this place provides free cribs and high chairs. Even the smallest nuances are also taken into account: there is a device for heating milk, an audio baby monitor. If adults need to spend time separately, it is possible to resort to the services of a professional nanny. There is a club for children. Nearby in a picturesque bay there is a cozy sandy beach.

It's time for festivals

There is a high probability that when you get to the island of Crete, you will combine your vacation with some kind of celebration taking place here. In Crete, Maslenitsa is celebrated in winter, followed by Holy Week and Easter in March. Next, March 25 is the Independence Day of Greece, April 23 is the day of the island's patron saint (St. George). Residents of Rethymno celebrate the Wine Festival in mid-July, followed by the birth of the Virgin Mary on September 8th.

Attractions

The cradle of the Minoan civilization, bathed in sunshine, oozes history. The resort thrives on being a completely contradictory island: the rowdy parties of Malia and the solitude of the wild mountain regions, dramatic ravines and sugar-coated beaches. A real beach paradise with a rich culture is offered to you by a holiday in Crete, the reviews of which can be found so admiring that you willy-nilly want to be there.

Minoan Palace

The ancient grounds of the castle and the Minoan palace itself are located just south of Heraklion. It got its name from its owner - the famous ancient king Minos, who was the son of Europa and the god Zeus.

In this palace, according to legend, there was a labyrinth where a half-bull and half-man Minotaur was imprisoned at one time. Local residents sacrificed young girls and boys to him for 9 years until Theseus killed him. Since that time, the word “labyrinth” has come into use.

For 6 euros (entrance fee) you have the opportunity to touch the footprints ancient civilization, walk along the paths of gods and kings: a huge number of halls, galleries decorated with exquisite frescoes, pink stately colonnades tapering downward contrary to architectural laws, as well as the Small Palace, the Temple of the Tombs and the Royal Villa.

Samaria Gorge

This gorge is one of the largest in Europe, it is located in the southwestern region of the island, in the prefecture of Chania. This place is a National Park. The gorge extends 16 km in length. Here you can observe the rarest magnificent fauna and flora. For example, kri-kri are mountain wild goats with spiral-shaped horns.

The width of the Iron Gate of Sidiroportes, the narrowest section, is 3.5 m, and the widest is 300 m. All tourists who arrive here will have to overcome this on foot. Although the feeling that the path is grueling is deceptive. In fact, it consists of continuous descents. In this gorge there is a whole village where the Church of Mary of Egypt functions.

In general, the walk takes 5-6 hours. It begins at the steps made of wood (behind the Omalos plateau), ending at the shore of the Libyan Sea, where the village of Agia Roumeli is located. The cost of entry to the gorge is 6 euros.

Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

This is one of the largest museums in Greece, it is located in the very center of Heraklion on the street. Xanthoudidou. The exhibition presented here covers 5000 years (from the Neolithic period to the Greco-Roman era). It includes the world's largest and finest collection of works by the Minoan people.

The museum is currently under renovation, but there is a temporary exhibition at the back of the main building. It contains the most striking exhibits from the collection of artifacts, including the Goddess with snakes, the Phaistos disc, golden bees, and a leaping bull. The museum has a total of twenty thematic rooms, each of which is dedicated to its own period and area.

Best vacation: Crete, hotels

Those who want to go here on vacation need to know that the hotels here do not have stars, they are replaced by categories: A, B, C and Delux. The resort has completely different establishments: from modest small rooms to completely luxurious apartments.

Since the island is one of the most popular among tourists choosing a holiday in Greece, Crete hotels offer accommodation in various formats. Hotel business it is very well developed here. Tourists want to relax without worrying about where to eat. For these vacationers there are hotels with all-inclusive service.

Traditional cuisine

Cretan food is not just food, but a way of life. It involves healthy eating and a great excuse for family and friends to get together. Today everything becomes more popular vacation in Greece. The island of Crete, in addition to all kinds of entertainment, also offers tourists to get acquainted with its unique cuisine.

Cretan traditional cuisine For cooking, he uses products such as all kinds of cheese, lemons, wild herbs, oranges, lentils, beans, various vegetables, olive oil, barley, seafood and fish, meat, and wine in small quantities. By the way, most organic products are grown here in the country.

Breakfast in Crete

A classic Greek breakfast includes cigarettes and coffee. Of course, this is a joke, although not without some truth. Greeks smoke a lot. And here breakfast is not breakfast as such; it includes a cup of aromatic coffee, a couple of olives and a piece of toast with jam or honey. Sometimes it is complemented by all kinds of pastries, for example, “Tiropita”, pies with spinach or cheese. They can also act as snacks throughout the day.

Coffee

Coffee in Greece used to be called “Turkish”. But after relations between these countries deteriorated, it began to be called Greek, which must be remembered when ordering it. There are several types of it:

  • “sketo” - without sugar;
  • "varigliko" - sweet and strong;
  • "metrio" - semi-sweet.

Cretan cheese

In the mountainous regions of the country, you can accidentally meet shepherds making cheese from the milk they produce themselves. But there are not many of them left anymore.

In Crete, Feta cheese is not as popular as in the rest of the country. The most commonly used varieties here are:

  • "Mizithru" is a classic whey cheese that has been around in Greece for about 1000 years. There is unsalted fresh “Mizithra”, slightly salted or salted and dried, used for further grating. This cheese is made from whey that has been fermented from goat, cow or sheep milk.
  • Gravieru is a hard cheese with a slightly sweet taste, created in several ways. It is made from sheep's milk, which is sometimes mixed with goat's milk. The ripening period for the cheese is at least five months.
  • "Antotyrus" is a light soft cheese made from sheep or goat milk. It can be fresh, dried or salted. The first is added to various cheese cookies or simply served.

Holidays on Crete: traveler reviews

Today many tourists have already visited this resort. Accordingly, you can find a lot of information about holidays in Crete. Reviews about it are mostly positive. Many here find the resort that suits them: family, youth, secluded. Travelers admire its architecture, national flavor, openness and activity local residents, incomparable cuisine. But there are still those who speak negatively about Crete. In most cases, they visited here out of season, finding themselves either in sweltering heat or on the shores of an already cool sea. Although there are those who prefer more fashionable resorts, compared to which Crete pales.

If you would like to get to know unique history and the culture of the island of Crete, you can choose almost any resort, since almost everywhere offers an excursion program with sightseeing of both the island and other territories, including mainland Greece.

Crete is divided into four main resort area: Chania, Lassithi, Heraklion and Rethymnon, and we will now tell you about each of them.

Chania

One of the main tourist centers Krita, rich natural wonders, unique ancient architecture, a beautiful and clean coastline, marked Blue flag, with a rich cultural life. Chania is the White Mountains and the Samaria Canyon, the pink sands of the island of Elafonisi and a sea of ​​interesting events.

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Agia Marina- small resort town ok, every year it is gaining more and more popularity among vacationers. It attracts with its cleanest beach clear water and golden sand, which has a Blue Flag. In addition to the beaches, Agia Marina delights guests with a cozy center with small churches and chapels, the Neurospilia cave, an orange garden and the nearby island reserve of St. Fedor.

Platanias- a noisier resort with a rich cultural and nightlife. During the day, its guests enjoy relaxing on the beautiful city beach, which, in addition to the Blue Flag, also has everything necessary for have a great holiday: showers, sun loungers, entertainment (paragliding, boat trips, etc.). In the evening, everyone moves to the clubs, restaurants and taverns of the city, where the music and dancing do not subside even after midnight.

Palaiochora is a combination of excellent tourist infrastructure, local color and many attractions. The city has two excellent beach areas, and also has a ferry connection with neighboring resorts and islands. Quiet town will be an excellent option for a family vacation. In the evenings, on the streets and taverns of Paleochora, you can see locals playing Board games, and even join them. In the vicinity of Paleochora there are the ruins of the Selino fortress, the ruins ancient city Kalamidi, the famous Samaria Gorge and the island of Gavdos.

The following deserve special attention in Chania:

Elafonisi - unique island, famous for its pink sands, clear turquoise water, and charming landscapes.

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Chania city- the capital of the entire region, as well as the second largest city on the island. Conquers his amazing architecture, combining Venetian and Turkish heritage, narrow and very cozy streets, the Old Port and the Old Center, beautiful embankments, ancient cathedrals and many museums.

: 3* - from €40, 5* - from €185.

Rethymno

An excellent option for those who want to combine a beach and cultural holiday: the area is conveniently located between many of the island's iconic attractions and wonderful beaches. Rethymno is the lakes of Kournas, the Balos lagoon, the springs of Agriroupoli and the unique capital of the same name with incredible story and architecture.

Bali- one of the most scenic spots on Crete. A resort surrounded by mountains and delighting guests with quiet, cozy bays and incredible beautiful nature. All Bali beaches are located in different bays, and there are 4 of them in total: one large, more open and windy, and 3 smaller and calmer ones. Bali was previously a fishing village, and to this day local fishermen do not abandon their craft, so get ready to enjoy excellent local dishes made from freshly caught fish.

Bali is located between Rethymno and Heraklion, which means that by staying here, you will be able to conveniently get acquainted with major cultural centers and at the same time enjoy a quiet, relaxing holiday by the sea.

Agia Galini- a picturesque village in the very south of Crete, off the coast of the Libyan Sea. Small, but very cozy: small streets with white houses and bright flowers, paved paths and winding stairs, flowering trees, palm trees, a small Old Port. And all this is surrounded by mountains and rocks. In the western part of Agia Galini there are rocks and caves, and in the eastern part there is a wide beach strip.

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Rethymno- the capital of the region of the same name, Big city With rich history, many ancient attractions, good beaches and a picturesque center. Old center and the Old Port, the Fortezza fortress and the Arcadi Monastery, Venetian portals and the picturesque embankment - your holiday will be eventful and interesting.

Rethymnon is a noisy resort. Clubs, bars, restaurants, the city has a cultural life, various concerts and festivals are regularly held. At the same time, by the sea you can find many quiet places for solitude and walks with children.

: 3* - from €45, 5* - from €142.

Heraklion

The central part of Crete with the capital of the entire island of the same name. The main resort recreation area, where everyone is popular resorts and sights of Crete: Knossos Palace and the labyrinth of the Minotaur, Minoan palaces, Venetian Loggia and much more.

Mallya- the most party and exciting resort in Crete, attracting young people. Nightclubs, discos, bars, wild parties - and all this on the seashore. By the way, the coast in Malia is considered one of the best: the cleanest sandy beaches with a safe coastline and all the necessary infrastructure. But still, the resort is hardly suitable for a family holiday, since the atmosphere here is very noisy and cheeky. But prices in establishments that cater to young people are more affordable. And in the surrounding area there are the ruins of the Malian Minoan Palace.

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Hersonissos- another noisy place in Heraklion with a busy nightlife, but at the same time it is calmer, which allows thousands of tourists to stay here, including those with children. The resort’s city beaches may not be the best, but they certainly can’t complain about the lack of vacationers. And this is one of the main “disadvantages”, but on the outskirts of the resort there are many clean and calm lagoons and coves where you can have a great day or even several. Hersonissos cannot boast of an abundance of attractions, but there are 2 large water parks here: Star Beach Waterpark and Aqua Splash.

Must visit:

Heraklion- the capital of the island of Crete, a city where the rich past and vibrant present of Greece meet. It is located in the very center of the region, and therefore can be reached from various resort towns within an hour, and it is definitely worth doing. After all, it is here that one of the largest and most significant museums in Greece is located - the Museum of Minoan Culture, where you will learn a lot about the history of the island and the whole country. The city is also decorated with the Kules fortress, Cathedral St. Mina, Cathedral of St. Titus, Church of St. Catherine, Loggia and Old Port.

: 3* - from €54, 5* - from €113.

Lassithi

It is located in the eastern part of the island, washed by the Libyan and Cretan seas, and is considered the most expensive region of Crete, thanks to its fashionable hotels, luxurious beaches and excellent service.

Agios Nikolaos- capital of Lasithi, unique city, inspiring with its beauty all guests, who often become celebrities. A city with unique nature and architecture, inside of which there is big lake Vulizmeni, and “outside” it is washed by the warm sea. The old city center, the port, the embankment - all this incredible places, where after active rest It's so nice to spend an evening on the beach.

Everything you need to know about Crete for your first visit and a deeper acquaintance with the island. Airports and transport connection, the largest cities and resorts of Crete, delicacies, dishes and drinks of Cretan cuisine, as well as unusual souvenirs and gift ideas. Selection package tours and prices for holidays in Crete 2019.

Against the backdrop of mass tourism, the inhabitants of Crete managed to preserve the beauty and pristine nature given by the gods intact. This is not an island, but an ecologist's dream! The sea is clean, there are many beaches. There are huge ones, many kilometers long, and tiny ones, in cozy coves - a godsend for lovers. Moreover, most of the beaches of Crete are marked with a blue flag. The climate on the island also did not disappoint - subtropical, one of the mildest and healthiest in Europe. The landscapes are picturesque: rocky capes and mountain gorges, stormy rivers and olive groves.

There are a thousand more reasons to go to Crete right now (including a “light” visa, which allows you to get to the island with a minimum amount of documents and in a short time). But all of them will turn out to be unnecessary if we look at the annual statistics of tour operators: holidays in Crete are already at the top of the sales ratings. Our compatriots are familiar with the island and prefer it, thanks to the excursion program and safety.

Airports and transport connections

The main transport hubs of Crete are located in Heraklion - this is one of the largest ports in Greece and two airports.

Nikos Kazantzakis (Greek) Νίκος Καζαντζάκης ), the larger of the air hubs, receives international flights, including from Moscow. If you are not a fan of package tours, but... greek island is on the list of visits, use the calendar low prices for air tickets to Crete - they are updated in real time. From May to October, sometimes there is an opportunity to purchase a charter ticket.

Crete is connected by ferry lines to many islands (Santorini, Rhodes, Corfu, Kos, Zakynthos, Mykonos and others), as well as to Athens. Despite the impressive distance (more than 12 hours of travel), this ferry route is in demand.

Cities of Crete not to be missed

There are many coastal towns and villages in Crete, lost in the mountains, but only five more or less major cities. These are Heraklion (aka the capital), Chania, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos and Ierapetra (a little-known port on the southern edge of the island).

#1. Heraklion - the capital of the island

Heraklion is the largest city on the island of Crete

In addition to two airports and major port, Heraklion is famous for the largest Old Town on the island and many shops - of course, this is not Athens, but still it’s worth coming here for fashionable new items and brands. Excursion program cities will perhaps eclipse even the fashion industry. Only in this city can you, in one day, walk along the Roman pavement, visit a well-preserved Venetian fortress, go to the Byzantine Temple of St. Titus, take a breath of coolness at the Italian fountain and, along the entire route, be guided by the minarets of Turkish mosques. Heraklion is not a metropolis, but you can even get lost in it!

Distance from the airport to the center of Heraklion: from 2.8 to 4.2 km.

#2. Chania city

The most beautiful cities of Crete - Chania

Chania is the most beautiful city on the island, it will give odds even to Heraklion. Classic chamber Old city, streets covered with ivy and fragrant flowers make it more cozy and truly Greek. However, resort life is in full swing here, the number of taverns and hotels per square meter is off the charts, and there are, perhaps, too many tourists. The main attraction of this town on Crete is the old Venetian port, around which life revolves here. The embankment goes around the port, “occupied” by restaurants and apartments for the day.

What else to see? Start at the harbor lighthouse and maritime museum, then head to former monastery St. Francis - there is now an archaeological museum there. For those who love excursions, which means saving time, there is a wonderful sightseeing route in Chania. In 3.5 hours, guide Tatyana will be able to make both adults and even children fall in love with this place. Try it if you don't believe me.

Distance from airport/Heraklion to Chania: 170-200 km.

#3. City of Rethymnon

Streets of Rethymnon (Crete, Greece)

Rethymnon is the center of resort life in Crete. The town resembles a glossy postcard, which are sold in Crete as souvenirs. The harbor, the sunny yellow stones of a 16th-century Venetian fortress, the white cubes of houses and the sharp needles of minarets. It is generally accepted that Rethymnon has exclusively Italian roots, but it has no less Turkish roots. It is interesting to walk along its narrow streets with dense taverns and shops. But it’s even better to explore the surroundings of the resort by climbing to the very top of the fortress, from where panoramic views open up.

#4. Town of Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is the most developed resort town on the northeastern outskirts of Crete. A 15-minute drive from it is the fashionable village of Elounda, where four- and five-star hotels in Crete are concentrated. Agios Nikolaos itself can be positioned as a “family” and “romantic” place at the same time. Noisy night life not clearly expressed, but there is a choice of beaches with fine sand, ideal for families with children, and secluded places with picturesque views - they will appeal to those who crave romance, silence, and privacy.

Distance from the airport/Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos: about 60 km.

#5. Ierapetra - southern point

Ierapetra - southern point Europe (Crete, Greece)

Ierapetra is a wonderful and little-known city. Not only is it the southernmost geographical point Europe, so here too developed infrastructure, some great beaches and not expensive hotels. There are few tourists in Ierapetra, which is not typical for the resorts of Crete, when at first you get tired of the noise and crowds, and by the end of your vacation you get used to it, and this bustle begins to seem like the norm. You won't have to experience any inconvenience at all in this place. The city is strictly divided into two parts: Kato Mera - old quarters, where attractions and good mini-hotels are located, and Pano Mera - new quarters, which are also interesting to explore.

Resorts of Crete - where to relax

Since Crete is the largest of the thousands of islands in Greece, the choice of resorts there is wide. Most are affordable in price and suitable for all categories of vacationers. But based on a number of criteria, we took the liberty of assigning the resorts such characteristics as “youth”, “family”, “romantic”. It’s easier to navigate the variety of package tours to Crete, and even just by looking at the map.

  • - one of the most luxurious resorts in Crete, nestled in the beautiful Mirabello Bay. There are expensive hotels and beaches with the EU Blue Flag.

View of the island of Spinalonga from Elounda / Photobank Lori

Excursions in Crete at the best prices

The most interesting excursions in Crete are routes from local residents. Many readers are already familiar with, which allows guides and tourists to find each other. For those who are hearing about the service for the first time, we recommend using its free option: ask the guide any question before paying.

Let's get back to the interesting stuff excursion routes Krita. Since we started talking about food above, let’s immediately remember about it, during which you can visit a local winery, see Cretan villages, and attend a tasting. The next day it is worth planning an excursion to Heraklion, Chania and Rethymnon, which are located not so far from each other.

Gifts and souvenirs - what to bring from Crete

Let's start with gastronomic souvenirs. Any home will come in handy with natural olive oil (in Crete you can find the highest grade at ridiculous prices), large juicy olives in vacuum packaging and several types of local cheese - if the expiration date and packaging allow, they can be delivered fresh.

Pottery, amphorae, vessels, figurines are sold in Crete ancient goddesses- Much of this variety is of good quality and looks nice. But decide for yourself whether it will be useful on the farm. The main thing is not to ignore Greek leather sandals/shales, which look stylish at all times. And “taste” dry perfumes in painted clay bottles in your free moment - they are ideal for gifts to colleagues/relatives/neighbors.

For your loved ones, look for something more valuable: silver jewelry or Greek icons inlaid with silver. Dignified and tasteful!

What other souvenirs should you pay attention to in Crete?

The opinion of an expert on Greece, who regularly instructs us about holidays in Crete and sends us photos from the scene.

Souvenirs of Crete: ceramics, Phaistos disc and pendants in the form of luminaries

When I travel, I always look for some interesting souvenirs. And it happens that there is nothing to choose from, just Chinese crafts. All these mugs with poor quality photographs that will begin to wear off after the first wash, magnets, glasses... There’s nowhere to look. That’s why I really love the island of Crete. Not only because there beautiful beaches, many attractions and excellent roads. But also because of souvenirs. There you can always find something unique for a friend, colleague or relative. And not the last place is occupied by clay crafts, even though they are printed at the factory, they look very, very decent.

The most popular among these souvenirs is, of course, the Phaistos Disc. The original was found in the city of Phaistos and has not yet been deciphered, and copies are sold on every corner in Crete. You can buy a souvenir in the form of a magnet or in the form of a life-size disk, proudly standing on metal legs. Nice pendants in the form of celestial bodies, as well as saucers with images of the deeds of ancient Greek heroes. A ceramic ashtray will look great on a smoker's desk without offending the eyes of non-smokers. And don’t forget about hot pads: a useful household item.

Come to Greece! Your Capsolo.

The life-size Phaistos Disc can be viewed closer. It is not in the era of passion for “minimalism” to talk about interior decoration, but those who are not affected by the trend will be pleased - a beautiful thing with a mythological background.

Phaistos Disc (Crete, Greece)

For those who are not indifferent to the system of five planets, three trans-Saturns and two luminaries, such a gift from Fr. Crete is a find! The ancient Greeks (primarily Ptolemy, the founder of the equal house system of 12 houses of the horoscope) knew a lot about this.

Pendants in the form of luminaries (Crete, Greece)

Crete island on the map of Greece

For those who are poorly oriented, it’s time to discover Crete. Marked on the map big cities and the route laid between them (Chania + Rethymnon + Heraklion + Agios Nikolaos + Ierapetra). Length - 256 km.

At the resort, resort.

Crete is the largest Greek island. It attracts tourists unique landscape– forest, mountain, sandy, sea. The island has a mild and healthy climate. The air there is always clean and fresh, because there are no industrial enterprises nearby.

The sun shines on Crete 340 days a year. The swimming season lasts from late April to mid-November. Winter is short, not frosty, with above-zero temperatures from 13°C to 16°C. That's why large quantity tourists spend their holidays there days a year.

The island of Crete is washed by three seas:

  • in the north - Cretan;
  • in the south – Libyan;
  • in the west - Ionian.

These seas are completely different, which is noticeable even to the naked eye. It's remarkable what every tourist can find in Crete perfect place for your vacation.

Where are the best beaches in Crete?

First of all, you need to choose a resort place on the island of Crete in accordance with your preferences during your holiday, and beautiful beaches there are in any area of ​​the island - sandy and pebble, crowded and secluded. There are even very small beaches that can only be reached by swimming.

There are beautiful beaches in every area of ​​the island.

Geographically, Crete is divided into four administrative units (nomes):

  • Chania (western part),
  • Rethymno,
  • Heraklion,
  • Lassithi.

The parts of Crete are not alike. Each territorial unit has its own characteristics.

Holidays in Chania

Here, in addition to many kilometers of beaches, there are deep caves, gorges, and bays. And the entire city is surrounded by mountains that are lime-colored. The holiday will be more to the liking of wildlife lovers.

In Chania you can see ancient churches, fortresses, palaces of nobles, museums, and monuments.

Beaches of the Libyan Sea

In the village of Agia Roumeli and around it, the beaches are famous for their black sand. On the Falassarna coast, the beaches were once the seabed. The sea receded a kilometer and smooth sands remained.

This place is often held music festivals. The nightlife is very active, which attracts young people here. Against the backdrop of a fun holiday, you can immerse yourself in the history of the island.

Rethymno

Lovers should go to Retino cultural life. Archaeological areas, galleries, the Monastery of Arcadia, the Idean Cave, the Rimondi Fountain, houses from the Venetian era and many other attractions are concentrated here.

There are many picturesque beaches in this area. The longest beach stretches from Georgioupoli to Rethymnon at a distance of 15 km. In the city of Rethymno itself, active youth will have fun. And near the city there are quiet villages suitable for quiet families.

Heraklion is the administrative capital of the island of Crete

In the central part of Heraklion, there are the Knossos Palace, the Gortyna Palace, the Archaeological Museum, etc.

In the area of ​​Heraklion tourism infrastructure more developed than in other places in Crete. Along the coast of the Cretan Sea there are comfortable hotels, water parks and noisy resort centers. Active recreation enthusiasts will find all kinds of water sports here.

Eastern part of Crete - Lasithi

Lassithi will delight you with the earliest fruits and vegetables. The Vai palm grove is located here. Lasithi is the greenest and most picturesque part of the island.

There are many beaches in this area, mostly quiet, sheltered from the wind. Coastline It is strongly indented, therefore it forms many bays and bays.

The best beaches in Crete

Name the most best beach in Crete it is impossible to be sure. It is different for every vacationer. All of them are beautiful and unique in their own way, and the island of Crete is famous for them.

Each beach on the island of Crete is beautiful and unique in its own way.

Most tourists prefer to relax on a beach with soft sand. The choice of such beaches is very large. Their advantage is that they are always clean; every morning technical workers comb the sand with a rake.

But there are also tourists who prefer pebble beaches. Undoubtedly, pebbles are very beneficial for your legs and back.

Almost all beaches are well-maintained and equipped with attractions.

Lying between Africa and Europe, Crete is the largest and southernmost island of Greece. In addition, this is also a thick book with Greek myths, revealed on the most interesting pages. Caressed by the sea, Crete always lives up to the expectations of both those who dream of a quiet, serene holiday and those who dream of glamorous hotels.

When to go

The sun floods Crete 300 days a year, most of the rainy and cloudy days occur in winter. Real spring comes in March, when everything around turns green and the first vacationers appear on the beaches. Is it true, swimming season opens only at the end of April or beginning of May, but these months - best time to explore the sights. The hottest months and the warmest water are in July and August. In September, the heat begins to subside, but the warmed sea and southern winds extend the holiday season until the end of October.

The best time in Crete for a holiday with children is June, when the sea has already warmed up, but there is no sweltering heat, and September-October, when the sun is no longer so hot and the sea is still warm.

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Beach holiday

Paratrailing will give you an amazing feeling of freedom - flying with an instructor on a tandem motorized wing (office site in English)

One of the best hiking trails is along the longest Samaria Gorge in Europe in the Lefka Ori Mountains. Those who complete this path will be treated to a truly extraordinary sight - relic grottoes, stone chaos and sheer walls up to 600 m high rising above their heads. In the narrowest place at the Iron Gate, where the rocks converge at a record low of 3.5 m, there once lived then the oracle of Apollo still echoes, in which you can hear the prediction of your fate.

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Vacation with children

A popular destination for families with children is Chania, with inexpensive apartment hotels and wide, shallow beaches, and the surrounding area of ​​Heraklion, with all-inclusive hotels.

Children will love the modern water parks of Crete: “Limnopolis” in Chania (office site in English) or “Water City” in Anopolis with different slides, pools and hot tubs. They have cafes and snack bars, including a special children's menu.

When purchasing tickets online - a 15% discount.