Category Archives: Crete Attractions & Tips
November 7, 2023
Heraklion Airport: Everything You Need to Know
Heraklion Airport, with the official name Heraklion International Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis", occupies a spot on the northern coast of Crete, Greece's largest island. Heraklion Airport’s proximity to Heraklion city makes it convenient for travellers. It ensures a short travel time to the heart of the city and the airport’s coastal position provides travellers with an enticing aerial view of the Mediterranean Sea during arrivals and departures. Read article
November 4, 2023
10 Amazing Beaches in Heraklion for Crete Travelers
Heraklion serves as the capital and is the most populous city on Crete, positioned on the island's northern coast. The city's population exceeds 200,000, ranking it as Greece's fifth most populous city. Heraklion's history spans thousands of years, with habitation evidence tracing far back. The palace at Knossos, a pivotal site of the Minoan civilization, is located to the city's south. Successive eras of Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Venetian, and Ottoman rule followed the Minoan decline. The city's architecture and landmarks reflect this complex history. Heraklion assumed the role of Crete's capital in 1971. It currently stands as a dynamic center for the economy and tourism. As the capital, Heraklion hosts museums, historic sites and beaches that draw visitors. Its coastal setting, active port, and nearby beaches contribute to its significance as a vacation destination. Read article
October 31, 2023
Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery: History, Hiking and Car Rental
Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is an active 14th-century monastery located on a hillside overlooking the sea just 27.9 km (17.3 miles) northwest of Neapoli on Crete's northern coast. Founded during Venetian rule in the late 1300s, Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is a historical and spiritual site located in Crete, Greece, about 14.8 km (9.1 miles) south of the village of Dikte. The monastery holds deep-rooted significance and is renowned for its stunning architecture and religious importance in the region. Accessible by road, visitors can reach Kera Kardiotissa Monastery by renting a car, making it a convenient option for exploring the area. Kera Kardiotissa Monastery boasts a rich history dating back to mediaeval times. Originally constructed on a steep seaside hill, the monastery's origins can be traced to centuries ago. Over the years, it has played a significant role in the religious and cultural heritage of Crete, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. Read article
October 21, 2023
11 Known Ports of Crete: What Do You Need to Know?
The 11 known ports of Crete play a crucial role in the island's significance and its appeal as a holiday destination, including popular ones like Heraklion Port, Chania Port and Rethymno Port. Crete is strategically located in the Eastern Mediterranean, making its ports vital for trade, commerce, tourism and connectivity to mainland Greece and neighbouring countries. Read article
October 6, 2023
Maridaki Beach: A lesser-known Secluded beach in South Crete!
Maridaki Beach, a lesser-known beach in Crete, is a natural attraction that blends untouched beauty. Maridaki Beach is a small village approximately 65 kilometres (40 miles) south of Heraklion. Maridaki Beach’s location is perfect for tourists seeking an escape from bustling city life or crowded tourist destinations. A popular spot among locals, Maridaki Beach is less frequented by tourists, adding to its peacefulness. Maridaki Beach features a wide pebble landscape with rocks and caves where one can find shelter and shade. At the back of the village, you'll find old plane trees and a small tavern, encapsulating a traditional Greek lifestyle. Read article
October 1, 2023
Transportation Guide in Crete: Which One Is Best for You?
Crete is located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Crete is strategically located in the southern Aegean Sea, south of mainland Greece and north of the African coast. Crete's unusual geographical location has contributed to the island's appeal as a top tourist destination. The island draws visitors because of its magnificent vistas, rich historical legacy and active local culture.Air travel is the most efficient way to get to Crete. Many major cities have daily flights to Athens via various carriers, such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Turkish carriers, Egypt Air and Gulf Air. Take a domestic flight to Crete's Heraklion or Chania airports upon arriving in Athens. There are numerous charter flights available during the peak tourist season, notably during the summer months. Read article
October 1, 2023
Airports in Crete: Where To Begin Your Tour in Crete?
The simplicity and effectiveness of using the Crete airports are made available to travellers when they set out on a trip to the island. There are various reasons to choose a plane to go to Crete. It significantly reduces travel time, ensuring visitors quickly reach the captivating Greek island. Crete's airports are important entry points for both domestic and international travellers, which is essential to the island's tourist industry. Read article
September 19, 2023
Heraklion Archaeological Museum: History, Collection and How to Visit
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum, also called the Heraklion Museum, is a well-known place on the Greek island of Crete. The museum has an amazing collection of artefacts that tells about the history and culture of ancient Crete, especially the Minoan culture. The museum is in Heraklion, which is the capital city of the Greek island of Crete. It is right in the middle of the city, making it easy for both locals and tourists to visit. Read article
September 19, 2023
Chania Archaeological Museum: What to See, History and How to Get There
The Chania Archaeological Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and displaying the archaeological heritage of Crete, Greece. The Chania Archaeological Museum houses a diverse collection of items from many historical periods, providing insights into the area's rich history.The Chania Archaeological Museum is located in Chania, Greece, in the historic centre of Chania in the area of Halepa. The museum is conveniently positioned in the heart of town, making it accessible to both locals and tourists. Read article
September 18, 2023
Odigitria Monastery in Sivas: History, Location, Tour and Car Rental
Odigitria Monastery is a historic male monastery dating back to the Byzantine era. Odigitria Monastery is located in southern Crete's Asterousia Mountains. The monastery has a fortress-style architecture built in the 14th century. It played a key role in resisting Ottoman forces in the 19th century. Today, it remains an active religious site, home to a small community of monks.The monastery is near the village of Sivas in the Heraklion region of Crete. It's 61 km southwest of Heraklion town. Odigitria Monastery is still inhabited. It houses a small community of monks who maintain the grounds and participate in religious activities. There is no entrance fee is required. The monastery is open from sunrise to sunset. Modest dress code is mandatory. Photography is restricted in certain areas. A shop sells monk-made products like olive oil. Read article
September 16, 2023
Agia Triada Monastery (Tzagkaroli): History, Hiking, Tour and Car Rental
Agia Triada Monastery, also known as "Holy Trinity Tzagaroli Monastery", traces its origins to the 17th century. It was founded by two Venetian noble brothers, Jeremiah and Laurentios Tzagarolis. Their profound devotion to Orthodox Christianity led them to establish this sanctuary dedicated to the Holy Trinity. The monastery's architectural design and sacred artwork reflect their dedication. Agia Triada Monastery, blending Venetian and Byzantine styles, stands atop a hill overlooking the Cretan landscape. Over the years, it has been a center for Orthodox monastic life, enduring historical events like Ottoman rule. Read article
September 15, 2023
Archaeological Site of Olous: Where is It and How to Get There?
Olous existed as an ancient Dorian city that extended across the sides of the isthmus linking the Spinalonga Peninsula to the mainland. The historical city is located within the modern-day town of Elounda in Crete. Olous Archaeological Site is famous for its rich history and the relics of its previous civilizations that have survived the passage of time. Ruins in Crete provide insights into the lives, culture and architecture of the ancient people who lived in the area.Researchers believe that an earthquake that occurred in the area sometime in the second century AD produced a local shift that led to the city being submerged. Olous flourished throughout history, including the Minoan, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. The city was well-known for its maritime trading role and as a link between Crete and other Mediterranean civilizations. Its history is linked to the rise and collapse of various cultures and empires that ruled the region. Read article
September 10, 2023
Cave of Agia Sofia: Where Is It and How to Get There?
The Cave of Agia Sofia is a captivating natural wonder that holds historical, cultural and geological significance. The Cave of Agia Sofia is an awe-inspiring underground place shrouded in mystique, renowned for its unique rock formations, breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites that have been shaped over thousands of years. The cave offers a mesmerising journey through time and nature's artistic craftsmanship nestled deep within the Earth's embrace.Stepping into the Cave of Agia Sofia is like entering a hidden realm, where an otherworldly atmosphere envelops visitors. The air is cool and damp, creating an ethereal ambience that enhances the sense of wonder and adventure. Read article
September 10, 2023
Melidoni Cave: Where Is It, Myths, Rules and Nearby Attractions
Melidoni Cave or Gerontospilios, is a limestone cave near Melidoni village in northern Crete, Greece. Melidoni Cave is located in the Mylopotamos municipality on the southern slope of Kouloukonas Mountain. Melidoni Cave is one of the Crete caves that is significantly smaller than Dikteon Cave (Psychro's Cave). The cave has historical and geological value since it has contributed to the island's history and has beautiful structures. Locals sought safety in the cave in 1824 during the Cretan Revolution but sadly perished when the entrance was set on fire. Melidoni Cave is now accessible to the public and offers guided tours so that visitors explore its fascinating chambers and discover more about the geology and historical backdrop of the cave. Read article
September 7, 2023
Monastery of St. George Selinari: History, Etiquette, Hiking and Car Rental
Monastery of St. George Selinari is an ancient Orthodox Christian monastery located in the Selinari Gorge between the villages of Neapolis and Vrachasi in eastern Crete, Greece. Perched atop a hillside overlooking the sea, this tranquil monastery dedicated to Saint George has a long and storied history dating back to the Byzantine era. Monastery of St. George Selinari gets its name from its dedication to Saint George, a revered 4th-century martyr and its location in Selinari. The earliest foundations of the monastery can be traced back to the 10th century, but most of the current buildings and architecture reflect later expansions and renovations in the 16th to 20th centuries. Throughout its long history, St. George Selinari Monastery has endured destruction, invasions and disasters, only to be repeatedly rebuilt and restored by generations of devoted monks. Today, visitors can explore the Monastery of St. George Selinari’s serene courtyards, ornate chapels and a small museum displaying historical artefacts and religious treasures. The resident monks are welcoming and provide insights into monastic life. Read article
September 5, 2023
Richtis Gorge: A Secluded Jungle Gorge and Waterfall
Richtis Gorge, a natural wonder on the eastern side of Crete, Greece, is a stunning geological formation with unparalleled hiking experience. Richtis Gorge is known for its lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls and the meandering river that flows through it, culminating in a secluded beach by the sea. The name "Richtis" is derived from the ancient Greek word for "waterfall", aptly describing one of the gorge's most captivating features. Historically, the area surrounding Richtis Gorge has been inhabited since Minoan times and it holds significant archaeological interest. The formation of Richtis Gorge is a fascinating tale of geological processes that have taken place over millions of years. Richtis Gorge was primarily shaped by the erosive power of water, as the Richtis River gradually carved its way through the limestone and rock formations of the region. Over time, the constant flow of water, aided by seasonal rains and natural springs, eroded the softer layers of rock, creating the deep ravines and intricate pathways that characterise the gorge today. Read article
August 31, 2023
Kouremenos Beach: A Windsurfing Paradise Beach in East Crete!
Kouremenos Beach is a long sandy beach on the eastern coast of Crete that offers natural beauty, crystal clear waters and excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Kouremenos Beach is located on the eastern coast of Crete, about 21 kilometres (13 miles) east of Sitia and 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) east of Palekastro. It is the longest beach in the area, with a length of more than 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles) and it is surrounded by tamarisk trees that offer shade and greenery. Read article
August 29, 2023
Ilingas Beach: A Secluded Beach near Sfakia in South Crete!
Ilingas Beach is a small, secluded beach located 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) west of Chora Sfakion in the southern part of Chania, western Crete. Nestled at the end of Kavi Gorge, Ilingas Beach features crystal-clear turquoise waters that create a soothing ambience, perfect for relaxation and water activities. One of the remarkable aspects of Ilingas Beach is its natural beauty and surroundings. Surrounded by big mountains and with a backdrop of scenic landscapes, Ilingas Beach offers breathtaking views that captivate visitors. Read article
August 28, 2023
Kato Zakros: Location, Attractions, Hiking and Car Rental
Kato Zakros beach is part of the village of Kato Zakros. Kato Zakros beach provides a safe environment for leisurely swimming and snorkelling with its wonderful bay and crystal-clear waters. The beach's remote location ensures a sense of privacy, making it an ideal destination for those who seek solitude. One of the main attractions near Kato Zakros beach is the Zakros Gorge, also known as the "Gorge of the Dead". This geological wonder makes a spot for an adventurous hiking experience through unique rock formations and rich vegetation. The hike takes approximately two hours and leads to the ancient Minoan Palace of Kato Zakros, providing an enriching glimpse into Crete's distant past. Read article
August 26, 2023
Koutsounari Beach: Breathtaking Beach in Crete
Koutsounari Beach is a long and wide beach in Koutsounari, a small seaside village located 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) east of Ierapetra and 43 kilometres (26.7 miles) southeast of Agios Nikolaos in Crete. Koutsounari Beach is known for its coarse greyish sand of southern Crete, crystal clear water, family-friendly atmosphere and amenities, making it an ideal spot for a memorable beach vacation. Read article
