Category Archives: Crete Attractions & Tips
February 4, 2026
Chania Airport Guide ✈️: All You Need to Know!
Chania International Airport (CHQ), officially named Ioannis Daskalogiannis Airport (IATA: CHQ, ICAO: LGSA) is located 14.3 kilometers (8.9 miles) from Chania Town on the Akrotiri Peninsula. It serves both domestic and international flights and functions as a joint civil-military facility alongside the Hellenic Air Force. Chania airport plays a vital role in Crete’s tourism sector, local economy, and defense network. The airport offers various services for travelers, including restaurants, duty-free shops, ATMs, car rental desks, medical support, and free Wi-Fi. Read article
February 3, 2026
Heraklion Airport Guide ✈️: All You Need to Know Before Arriving
Heraklion International Airport (HER), officially named Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, is located [distance km="4.4"] east of Heraklion Town. It is the busiest airport in Crete and a key entry point for international and domestic travelers. The airport plays a vital role in the island’s economy, tourism, and trade, serving as the main gateway to central and eastern Crete. Read article
January 16, 2026
Bali Crete: Holiday Guide, Things to Do, Car Rental, Beaches and Nightlife
[intro]Bali in Crete is a coastal village and emerging holiday destination situated [distance km="53"] west of Heraklion and [distance km="30.4"] east of Rethymno. Bali was defined as a former fishing settlement but now has evolved into a low-impact, family-friendly resort village that retains its authentic charm and Cretan identity. According to the Hellenic Tourism Organization, this type of resort exemplifies Crete’s shift toward sustainable tourism, which now comprises over 35% of the island’s rural hospitality offerings. The village features four organized beaches, amphitheatrically built hillside neighborhoods, and modest yet efficient tourism infrastructure. Read article
January 14, 2026
Smart Guide to the 20 Best Beaches in Crete (Updated 2026)
The best beaches in Crete refer to the most ecologically pristine, culturally significant, and tourist-preferred coastal destinations on the largest Greek island. These beaches are characterized by their unique geomorphology, biodiversity, and heritage connections. Crete, with a coastline exceeding [distance km="1000"], offers over 100 officially recognized beaches, many of which have been awarded the Blue Flag certification for water quality, safety, and environmental management. Read article
January 14, 2026
14 Top Rethymno Beaches to visit in 2026: Explore Preveli, Bali and Agia Galini Beach
A Rethymno beach refers to any of the diverse coastal areas lining the northern and southern edges of the Rethymno regional unit in Crete, Greece. These beaches are known for their geological diversity, ecological richness, and cultural accessibility. Spanning over [distance km="20"] along the Cretan Sea, the coastline of Rethymno includes organized urban beaches, secluded coves, and ecologically protected zones. According to the Hellenic National Tourism Organization, Crete boasts more than 100 Blue Flag beaches, and Rethymno contributes significantly to this achievement with its clean waters and sustainable practices. Read article
January 13, 2026
20 Best Things to Do in Heraklion in 2026: Explore Koules Fortress, El Greco and Archaeological Museum!
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is a complex urban and archaeological landscape, blending Minoan heritage with vibrant modern life. Heraklion, defined as a major Mediterranean cultural hub, saw over 2 million international arrivals in recent years, underscoring its status as a top-tier destination in Greece. The city serves as the gateway to Europe’s earliest advanced civilization - the Minoans - whose legacy is physically manifested in the ruins of the Palace of Knossos, just outside the city center. Read article
January 13, 2026
16 Best Things to Do in Chania in 2026: Visit Elafonissi, Old Town and Samaria Gorge
Chania is a multifaceted cultural and historical hub on the northwest coast of Crete, renowned for its Venetian architecture, archaeological richness, and Mediterranean landscapes. Defined as one of Crete’s most visited municipalities, Chania recorded over 1.5 million tourist arrivals in recent years, highlighting its enduring appeal. According to Dr. Eftychia Stavrianopoulou, Professor of Mediterranean Studies at the University of Crete, “Chania represents a living museum - where Venetian, Ottoman, and Minoan legacies shape the rhythm of contemporary life”. Read article
January 6, 2026
Hersonissos Crete: Holiday Guide, Things To Do, Beach and Car Hire
[intro]Hersonissos is a coastal town in Crete located [distance km="25"] east of Heraklion, popular for its mix of lively nightlife and traditional charm. The town is dotted with beaches, theme parks, cultural sites, and a vibrant port district, attracting a wide range of travelers worldwide. Tourists who travel to Crete with kids often enjoy visiting Sarandaris Coves, Lychnostatis Open Air Museum, and Aquaworld Aquarium. Party lovers seeking nightlife head to the Hersonissos Strip, where bars and beach clubs stay open late. Daytime activities include watersports at Star Beach, strolling in Koutouloufari village, and boat trips to Dia Island. Hersonissos welcomes over 700,000 tourists annually, making it a vital contributor to Crete’s tourism-driven economy, according to the Hellenic Statistical Authority. Read article
September 28, 2025
Skaleta Crete: Holiday Guide, Things To Do, Beaches and Car rental
[intro]Skaleta is a seaside village on Crete’s northern coast, located [distance km="12.5"] east of Rethymno, [distance km="69.5"] west of Heraklion, and [distance km="73.6"] east of Chania. Skaleta was originally a fishing and farming community, and has grown into a holiday resort with hotels, tavernas, and guesthouses along the coast while retaining traditional homes and traces of Byzantine history. Its sandy shoreline connects to the larger bay of Rethymno, forming the main attraction. The best time to visit Skaleta is between June and September, when temperatures range from [temp c="24"] to [temp c="30"]. The village is described as quiet, safe, and practical for families and couples, offering beach access, small shops, and connections by car or bus to nearby towns. Read article
September 4, 2025
Spili Crete: Holiday Guide, Things To Do, History and Crete car hire
Spili is a traditional mountain village in Crete located [distance km="106"] south of Heraklion and [distance km="84.4"] southeast of Chania. The village has around 634 permanent residents, serving as the administrative center of Agios Vasileios municipality while maintaining its small-village charm. Spili is positioned at the foot of Mount Vorizis, and has historically developed as an agricultural and trade hub before tourism, now blending local life, agriculture, and visitor services. Its cobbled lanes, whitewashed houses, and plane tree–shaded squares shape the character of the settlement. The Venetian Lion Fountain, with [amount euro="9"] lion-head spouts pouring natural spring water at [temp c="13"], stands as its most recognizable landmark and central meeting place. Read article
September 3, 2025
Adelianos Kampos: Holiday Guide, Things To Do, Beach and Car hire
[intro]Adelianos Kampos is a coastal village situated [distance km="6.2"] east of Rethymno, on Crete’s northern shoreline. Adelianos Kampos is known in Greek as "Αδελιανός Κάμπος", and the name translates to “Plain of Adele,” referencing its proximity to the inland village of Adele, located [distance km="2.9"] south. The village was once reliant on olive cultivation and livestock farming, and then transitioned into a seasonal tourist destination in the 1980s. It has around 600–700 permanent residents, but the population increases significantly in summer. Visitors are drawn to its long, sandy beach, calm waters, and accessible location near the E90 highway. Seasonal infrastructure includes hotels, beach bars, mini-markets, car rentals, and restaurants, making the area especially appealing to families and couples. Peak season spans June to September, with temperatures between [temp c="24"] and [temp c="30"], making it ideal for beach holidays and slow-paced exploration. Read article
August 29, 2025
Kourtaliotiko Gorge & Waterfall: Hiking, Map, Attractions and Car Hire
Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a [distance km="7"] canyon in southwest Crete. Gorge formation resulted from tectonic uplift, karstic weathering, and river erosion over 5–10 million years. The cliffs at the Kourtaliotiko Gorge reach 600 meters. A [distance km="0.04"] waterfall near Agios Nikolaos chapel marks a central feature. The Gorge location lies between the Kouroupa and Xiron mountains. Wildlife in the Kourtaliotiko gorge is under Natura 2000 protection. Entry requires [amount euro="5"] daily or [amount euro="15"] annual pass. Read article
August 28, 2025
Richtis Gorge Crete: Waterfall, Hike, Map, Attractions and Crete Rent Cars
Richtis Gorge in Crete is a [distance km="4"] long gorge in Lasithi Prefecture, Crete. Richtis Gorge stretches from Exo Mouliana to Richtis Beach. Richtis Gorge was formed through tectonic uplift and water erosion. The gorge has a [distance km="0.35"] elevation change and features a [distance km="0.02"] waterfall, ancient infrastructure like Lachanas Bridge, and remnants of Minoan, Greek, and Roman settlements. Olive trees over 3,000 years old confirm its agricultural history. Richtis Gorge includes archaeological layers with tools, pottery, and irrigation systems. Read article
August 21, 2025
10 Best Restaurants in Heraklion: Where to Eat & Drink
Heraklion’s dining scene reflects its cultural blend, offering both fine-dining experiences and traditional taverns. Sir Papafigos, located [distance km="1.1"] from the city center, serves inventive Mediterranean dishes for prices between [amount euro="9"] and [amount euro="21"], while Avli, [distance km="1"] away, focuses on seafood and Mediterranean cuisine priced between [amount euro="15"] and [amount euro="25"]. Traditional flavors are preserved at Merastri, where dishes like lamb from a wood oven cost between [amount euro="9"] and [amount euro="22"], and Chagiati, a family-run tavern, offers hearty meals for [amount euro="10"]–[amount euro="15"]. Read article
August 15, 2025
14 Best Bars in Agios Nikolaos Crete: Rooftop, Pubs, Sports & Cocktail Spots
Bars in Agios Nikolaos are defined as licensed establishments that serve alcoholic beverages and often provide entertainment, contributing significantly to the town’s tourism-driven economy. According to the Hellenic Tourism Organization, nightlife venues in Crete, particularly in coastal towns like Agios Nikolaos, attract over 30% of the island’s annual visitors. These bars are classified into several types, including beachfront lounges, traditional Greek tavern-style bars, craft cocktail venues, and music-focused pubs. Read article
August 14, 2025
Kommos Beach Crete: A Naturist-friendly Beach in Crete
Kommos Beach is one of the longest beaches on the Greek island of Crete. It lies in the southern part of the island, about [distance km="66"] southwest of the capital Heraklion. Kommos Beach is about [distance km="5"] long and is backed by tamarisk trees, carobs and sand dunes. Read article
August 14, 2025
15 Best Restaurants in Agios Nikolaos Crete for Traditional & Waterfront Dining
Agios Nikolaos is a seaside town in eastern Crete renowned for its gastronomic diversity, traditional tavernas, and waterfront dining venues that reflect the island’s deep-rooted culinary heritage. A restaurant, by definition, is a commercial establishment where food and beverages are prepared and served to customers. According to the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, over 70% of visitors to Crete prioritize food experiences as a key part of their trip, highlighting the importance of restaurant quality and authenticity in travel planning. Read article
August 14, 2025
12 Top Restaurants in Sitia Crete: Where to Eat by the Sea this summer!
Sitia’s culinary landscape is defined by its diverse range of dining establishments that cater to every financial plan, from budget-conscious travelers to those seeking gourmet indulgence. A restaurant, by definition, is a commercial establishment that prepares and serves food and drinks to customers, often reflecting local culture and ingredients. Over 70% of visitors to Crete in 2023 rated local food experiences as the highlight of their trip, according to the Hellenic Statistical Authority, underlining the island’s reputation as a culinary destination. Read article
August 8, 2025
Crete With Kids: Things to Do, Family Activities, Beaches and Travel Tips
Crete is an ideal family holiday destination, an island filled with places to see and things to do for travelers with a baby, toddler, child, or young adult. Families can explore ancient ruins, interactive museums, nature parks, and calm beaches across all regions of the island. Heraklion has plenty of family-friendly attractions and is a regional hub known for education and history. Cretaquarium displays Mediterranean sea life, an aquarium designed for visual learning and interactive play. Knossos Palace presents vivid Minoan ruins, an open-air site that helps children and young adults understand ancient civilization. The Natural History Museum of Crete provides hands-on science exhibits, a facility with a discovery zone, and an earthquake simulator. The Palace of Phaistos offers spacious walking areas and a quieter archaeological site, making it suitable for younger visitors. Read article
August 7, 2025
Is Crete Safe? Solo Travelling, Wildfires and Earthquakes
Crete is a secure and flexible travel destination, particularly suitable for solo travelers throughout the year. Crete remains a safe destination for solo travelers, supported by cultural awareness, smart planning, and centralized accommodations that reduce isolation risks. The island offers safety-focused solo travel tips that enhance personal security while exploring. Centrally located and well-reviewed lodgings enable easy access to public areas, minimizing night-time walking risks. Read article
