Category Archives: Crete Attractions & Tips
March 16, 2024
Piskopiano Village: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Piskopiano Village offers a blend of cultural heritage and leisure activities. Visitors can explore the traditional architecture and local museums, such as the Museum of Rural Life or engage in outdoor adventures like Jeep safaris and hiking. The village provides a serene escape with scenic views and various dining options, from cafes to Cretan tavernas. Beaches near Piskopiano, like Hersonissos Beach, are just 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) away, offering clear waters and sandy shores for relaxation and water sports. Families and solo travelers can find suitable spots for sunbathing or enjoying the Mediterranean climate, which averages 26°C (79°F) in the summer. Travelers can easily navigate Piskopiano and its surroundings thanks to local car rental services. Different options range from economy to luxury vehicles, ensuring a comfortable journey whether exploring nearby attractions or venturing further across Crete. Competitive rates starting from €12 ($13.08, £10.44) per day make it an affordable choice for visitors. Read article
March 11, 2024
Chania Markets: Everything You Need to Know
Chania Markets relates to the different marketplaces and bazaars located in Chania, a charming city on the Greek island of Crete. Chania Markets provide a lively and varied shopping experience, presenting a variety of goods, including fresh vegetables, regional crafts, textiles, spices, and authentic Greek fare. Chania Markets serve as shopping destinations and sites of cultural and historical value, representing the region's rich tradition and way of life. Read article
March 11, 2024
Heraklion Markets: What to See and Find in Central Market 🛒
The Heraklion Markets, known as the Central Market, are a thriving and busy centre in the middle of Heraklion, Crete. "Heraklion Markets" refers to the city's several marketplaces and retail locations, each offering a distinct experience. The central market complex is an essential element of the cultural and gastronomic character of the city. Read article
March 5, 2024
27 Great Tours in Heraklion That You Must Do
Heraklion is the biggest and most important city on the Greek island of Crete. Heraklion is significant to history and culture because it was one of the most significant places in the Minoan society, which lived thousands of years ago. Heraklion is now a busy, modern city with a mix of historical places, a lively culture and beautiful scenery. Heraklion is on the northern coast of the biggest Greek island, Crete, which is the fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. The city is in the middle of the northern coast of Crete. Read article
February 28, 2024
Platanias Beach: Breathtaking Beach in Crete
Platanias Beach is a beautiful and crowded seaside destination with considerable tourism development. It was once a quiet seaside village which transformed into a vibrant suburb of Chania. Platanias beach is mainly known for its long, sandy shoreline, clear blue waters and stunning views of the nearby Thodorou islet. The frequent bus services from Chania City and its accessibility make Platanias Beach an attractive and convenient destination for local and international tourists. Platanias Beach has many amenities to enhance visitors' experience, including beach bars, restaurants, umbrellas, sunbeds, showers and various water sports options. The Blue Flag status has been awarded, signifying its cleanliness, high environmental standards and well-managed facilities. Platanias Beach also hosts a lively nightlife scene, with several nightclubs and bars that attract locals and tourists, who dance and enjoy themselves until the early hours. Read article
February 2, 2024
11 Most Popular Museums in Heraklion to visit!
A significant highlight of Heraklion is its rich collection of museums, each telling a unique story of the region's vibrant history. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is among the city's most popular institutions, offering visitors an in-depth look at Crete's Minoan civilisation through its extensive artefact collection, which spans from the Neolithic period to Roman times. Read article
January 24, 2024
Chrisoskalitissa Monastery: History, Etiquette, Tour and Car Rental Guide
Chrisoskalitissa Monastery is a Greek Orthodox monastery on the western coast of Crete, Greece. Its name is derived from the Greek words "chriso" (meaning gold) and "skala" (meaning step) from a legend about a humble nun whose steps turned to gold as she climbed the stone stairs leading to the monastery and the name "Chrisoskalitissa" was born. The monastery was constructed during the Byzantine era in the 15th century. It was built atop a towering seaside cliff overlooking the Libyan Sea. Read article
January 24, 2024
Kalypso Beach: All you need to know by Locals!
Kalypso Beach, also known as Pirates' Fjord Beach, is located on the southern coast of Crete. Kalypso Beach, pronounced as "kuh-lip-soh", offers a relaxing environment that attracts visitors seeking a peaceful escape. It is blessed with an abundant geography, having rocky shores and waters that gently kiss the shoreline. Kalypso Beach is set against a background of rugged coastal terrain, it provides a perfect spot for recreational activities. The climate in Crete is characterised by warm summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with summer temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) and mild winters averaging 15°C (59°F). Read article
January 13, 2024
10 Interesting Facts about Heraklion
Heraklion is the most prominent region of Crete and is situated between Rethymno and Lassithi on the island's eastern side. Heraklion is one of Crete's most populous cities. Heraklion is often associated with the historical Knossos Palace. The capital of Crete is beyond its connection to the famous palace and there is more to learn about Heraklion. One interesting fact about Heraklion is that it has been home to human civilization for ages. Humans have inhabited Heraklion since approximately 2000 B.C. Read article
December 30, 2023
Exploring Crete: 5 Days in Crete Itinerary
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, a gem in the Mediterranean with a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty. Crete spans across its vast landscape, allowing visitors to find a blend of stunning beaches, ancient ruins and picturesque towns. 5 days in Crete offer ample opportunity to dive deep into the essence of the island.The history of Crete dates back to ancient times, with the Minoan civilization that once thrived here being among the earliest in Europe. Palaces and artefacts unearthed over the years provide a glimpse into a society that existed thousands of years ago. The island later saw the influence of various conquerors, from the Romans and Byzantines to the Venetians and Ottomans, each leaving their indelible mark. Read article
November 28, 2023
Chania Airport: Why Choose Chania?
Chania International Airport "Daskalogiannis" (IATA: CHQ, ICAO: LGSA) is situated on the Akrotiri peninsula of Crete, offering travellers captivating coastal views. Chania airport serves as a vital transportation hub for the city of Chania, located approximately 14 kilometres (8.7 miles) to the south. The strategic location makes it the gateway for tourists exploring western Crete, drawing an increasing number of visitors to the enchanting region of Greece. The precise geographical coordinates of the airport allow precise navigation for travellers and aviation professionals. Read article
November 20, 2023
12 Best Chania Beaches to visit in West Crete!
Chania is located on the northwest coast of Crete and is home to some of Crete's most beautiful beaches. The remote and secluded Balos Beach, known for its soft sand and lack of crowds, can only be reached by car. Elafonissi Beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and pink-hued sands created by crushed seashells. Just east of the city, quiet Marathi Beach offers relaxing pebbled shores and crystal clear waters perfect for unwinding. Chrissi Akti or "Golden Beach" right in Chania has soft golden sand, beach clubs and views of the old harbor. Further from the city, options like the hidden cove of Seitan Limania, the famed Stavros Beach, the picturesque Kalypso Beach south of Rethymno and family-friendly Loutraki Beach provide beautiful settings with fewer tourists. The beaches around Chania have their own unique charm as they share pristine natural beauty, serene atmospheres and easy accessibility whether by car, bus or foot, making them prime coastal destinations on Crete's northwest coast. Read article
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
