Category Archives: Crete Attractions & Tips
May 20, 2024
Kamilari Crete: Things to Do, Facts, Tourist and Car Rental Guide
Kamilari is a village in the southern part of the island of Crete, Greece. It is a traditional settlement built atop three hills - Ovgora, Goulas and Alevrota - offering panoramic views of the surrounding olive groves, the Messara valley, the Libyan Sea and the Psiloritis and Asterousia mountain ranges. Kamilari has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The village gets its name from the Byzantine era, derived from the word "Kamilaris", meaning "the one who rides a camel". This suggests that camel caravans have passed through the area during that period. The area around Kamilari has been inhabited since the Early Minoan times, as evidenced by the discovery of a vaulted Minoan tholos tomb just outside the village, dating back to the beginning of the Neopalatial period (1700 BC). This tomb, known as the "Kamilari tomb", contained significant archaeological findings that are now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. Read article
May 19, 2024
Xerokampos Crete: All You Need to Know by Locals!
Xerokampos Beach is a remote coastal settlement located in the southeastern part of Crete, Greece, 102 kilometers (63.37 miles) southeast of Agios Nikolaos, 44.1 kilometers (27.4 miles) south of Sitia and 69.6 kilometers (43.24 miles) east of Ierapetra. The beach serves as a destination for visitors seeking pristine beaches, clear waters and unspoiled natural beauty away from mass tourism. The climate in Xerokampos is pleasant during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The beach features a variety of textures, including white sand, fine pebbles and clay and the coastline is characterized by small coves, rocky capes and sea caves. Tourism plays a role in the local economy, with a few houses, guesthouses and tavernas scattered throughout the valley. Read article
May 12, 2024
Sougia Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!
Sougia Beach is a 1.08 kilometer long (0.67 mile) pebble beach located in the village of Sougia, 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) southwest of Chania on Crete, Greece. The beach is a relaxing destination for tourists seeking a less crowded and developed area than other resort towns. Visitors can engage in activities such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking the nearby Agia Irini Gorge, and exploring the ancient city of Lissos. The climate in Sougia is pleasant during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). The beach is located at the exit of the Agia Irini Gorge and faces the Libyan Sea. The seabed drops off quickly, resulting in profound and transparent waters. Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, with the village offering accommodations, tavernas, and mini-markets. Archaeological preservation measures limit extensive construction in the area. Sougia Beach attracts tourists primarily during the summer months, and its proximity to hiking trails and historical sites contributes to its appeal as a travel destination on the southern coast of Crete. Read article
May 9, 2024
Zaros Crete: Travel Guide, History and Car Rental
Zaros is a village in central Crete, Greece, 48.4 kilometers (30.08 miles) southwest of Heraklion. It lies at the southern foothills of Mount Psiloritis, at 340 meters (1,115.54 feet). The village is known for its freshwater springs, after which it is named "Zaros", which means "a place with a lot of water" in Greek. Zaros's history dates back to ancient times. Minoans and Romans settled in the area, drawn by the plentiful water supply. Ruins of Roman aqueducts that once supplied water to the ancient city of Gortyna can still be seen. The village also has several Byzantine monasteries, attesting to its long Christian tradition. Read article
May 9, 2024
Agiofarago Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!
Agiofarago Beach is a remote beach located at the end of the Agiofarago Gorge, 74.2 kilometers (46.12 miles) south of Heraklion on the Greek island of Crete. The beach is accessible by hiking through the gorge, which takes 30 to 50 minutes, or by catching a boat from nearby ports like Matala, Agia Galini, or Kali Limenes. The area has a rich history dating back to early Christian times when it served as a center of ascetic life, with around 300 hermits living in isolation within the gorge's caves. In the 14th century, the church of Agios Antonios (St. Anthony) was built, and it remains standing today, along with a well that once supplied water to the hermits. Read article
April 23, 2024
Archanes Crete: Top Attractions, History, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Archanes Village is one of Crete’s most historical villages. Its history dates back to the Minoan era. It is located in the Heraklion regional unit of Crete. Archanes has a beautiful view of the local countryside. The village has a rich history dating from the Byzantine era. In 1961, Nikiforos Fokas defeated the Arabs, who had power over Crete. Then, the Venetians ruled the island in 1205. There are churches built during those times. Later, the village of Archanes was known to be the key location in the revolt of 1897 against the Ottomans. Read article
April 23, 2024
Ammoudara Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!
Ammoudara Beach is a long, sandy beach on the northern coast of Crete, near Heraklion. It extends 7 kilometres (4.3 miles), making it one of the longest beaches on the island. The purpose of Ammoudara Beach is tourism and recreation. It is a popular destination for locals and visitors, offering various amenities and activities. Hotels, resorts, restaurants, and beach bars line the coastline, catering to the needs of tourists. The beach is well-organized, with sunbeds, umbrellas, lifeguards, showers, and changing rooms. The beach's proximity to Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and its international airport makes it easily accessible, contributing to its popularity as a tourist attraction and a significant contributor to the local economy. Read article
April 23, 2024
Voulisma Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!
Voulisma Beach is a coastal destination on the northeastern coast of Crete, Greece. It is popular for the natural setting and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete island. Voulisma Beach has a long stretch of golden sand and turquoise shallow and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and family-friendly activities. The well-organized beach offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports facilities. It has been awarded the Blue Flag certification, recognising its high water quality, safety, and environmental management standards. Read article
April 14, 2024
Rethymno Crete: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Rethymno, a city in Crete, Greece, offers a history and culture. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Venetian-era old town, Renaissance-style buildings and the iconic Fortezza fortress. The city features numerous attractions, including the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, showcasing artifacts from the Neolithic to Roman periods and the Rethymno Old Town, with its atmosphere and traditional architecture. Other notable sites include the Neratze Mosque, Arkadi Monastery and nearby gorges like Myli and Kourtaliotiko. Car rental is a convenient option for exploring Rethymno and its surroundings. Several rental companies operate within the city, offering various vehicles at different price points. Visitors typically need a valid driver's license credit card to rent a car and meet minimum age requirements. Factors to consider when renting include insurance coverage, fuel policies and potential additional driver fees. Rethymno's proximity to other popular destinations, such as Chania and Heraklion, makes it an ideal starting point for discovering Crete. Read article
April 9, 2024
Makry Gialos Crete: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Makry Gialos, meaning "Long Beach", is a coastal village and resort in southeastern Crete, Greece, known for its 1,200-meter (3,937-foot) sandy beach along the Libyan Sea. Located 26 kilometers (16.2 miles) south of Ierapetra and 24.4 kilometers (15.2 miles) east of Ziros, Makry Gialos offers accommodations, tavernas and visitor activities. The village's permanent population was 1495 as of 2024, but it increased during the summer tourist months. For those interested in renting a car to explore the area, Makry Gialos has several car rental companies. Rental costs average €30-€40 ($32.7-$43.6, £26.1-£34.6) per day for economy cars and €40-€60 ($43.6-$65.4, £34.6-£52.2) per day for medium-sized vehicles. Requirements include a minimum age of 21, a valid driver's license and a credit card for the deposit. When reserving a car rental, factors include insurance options, vehicle type, hotel delivery, one-way rental possibility and required documents. The distance from Heraklion Airport to Makry Gialos is 117.8 kilometers (73.2 miles), with transportation options including rental cars, taxis and public buses. The journey takes 2.5 hours by car or taxi, while public transportation may take longer due to transfers. With a rental car, visitors can easily explore nearby villages and attractions at their own pace. Read article
April 9, 2024
Loutro Crete: Things to do, Beaches, Transportation and Car rental
Loutro is one of the prettiest villages to visit in Chania because of the iconic whitewashed villages. Loutro Crete is a perfect destination to experience different kinds of adventure and enjoy the attractions. It is a small, remote seaside village in southern Crete, located 96 kilometres from Chania. Loutro is about a 2-hours drive away from the main town of Chania. The name Loutro got its name from the Greek word “bath” because of the ancient baths in the area. Loutro Crete was originally the harbour of Anopolis high above Loutro. The village was established on the site of modern-day Loutro known as Phoenix. The village name is preserved in the neighbouring village of Phoenix. The first thing to do in order to reach Loutro is by getting into Chora Sfakion. There are three ways to reach Chora Sfakion: by car, bus and by boat. The most convenient way to reach Chora Sfakion is by renting a car for the tourists. From Chora Sfakion, there are two ways to reach Loutro Crete, it is by foot or by boat. The most convenient way would be by riding a boat. The main reason to spend time in Loutro Crete is to unwind and slow down. Tourists enjoy the beautiful scenic view from the seaside. Living in Loutro is peaceful and quiet, which is ideal for those who seek to distress, reconnect and reset. Loutro exudes an unmatched tranquillity and authenticity that permeates every corner of the tiny settlement. Generally, the locals living in South Crete have a humble lifestyle. Read article
March 22, 2024
Kolymbari Crete: Beaches, Things to Do, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Kolymbari, a coastal village in Crete, offers visitors a variety of activities. Tourists can explore local wineries like Karavitakis Winery, where they can taste regional wines in the vineyards. The companies like Mystical Crete Tours provide excursions to iconic spots such as Elafonisi and Balos, diving and private boat tours. The beaches of Kolymbari are a mix of pebbles and sand, stretching over 4 kilometers (2.49 miles) along the north coast. Visitors often enjoy the clear waters and the sun loungers at some cafes and tavernas. The coves near Gonia Monastery offer a quieter experience for those seeking more secluded spots. Travelers to Kolymbari can find convenient car rental services to explore the region at their own pace. Its options range from economy cars to family vans, ensuring there is a vehicle to suit various needs and preferences. Tourists can easily visit nearby attractions such as the Gonia Monastery or drive further to discover the beauty of western Crete. Read article
March 22, 2024
Gavalochori Crete: Things to Do, Travel Guide, Beaches and Car Rental
Gavalochori, a traditional village in Crete, offers visitors a glimpse into Cretan history and culture. The town is home to the Gavalochori Folklore Museum, where one can explore artifacts and learn about the local silk-making, stone-cutting and wood-carving traditions. Visitors can also discover the historical olive oil press and the Venetian wells, which testify to the village's past. Gavalochori is surrounded by opportunities for exploration. The region has several beaches within a short driving distance, such as Almyrida Beach, which is known for its clear waters and recreational options. Nature lovers can enjoy walks around the village, taking in the scenic beauty of the Apokoronas region. Travelers to Gavalochori can benefit from car rental services, allowing them to explore Crete at their own pace. Visitors can find the perfect match for their travel needs through various vehicles, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout their stay. Read article
March 22, 2024
Agia Marina Crete: Beaches, Things to Do, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Agia Marina, a coastal village on Crete's northwestern shore, offers visitors a blend of leisure and adventure. It is a short drive away and travelers can explore historical sites like the Old Venetian Harbor or embrace nature at the Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete. The region provides a variety of water sports and outdoor activities. The beaches of Agia Marina are a highlight for many, featuring a mix of sandy and pebbly stretches along the Mediterranean. The eastern side has softer sands, ideal for sunbathing and relaxation, while the western part offers a more varied landscape with small breakwaters. Families and solo travelers alike find these beaches accessible and equipped with amenities for a comfortable day by the sea. Visitors often rent cars to navigate the island's scenic routes. Local rental services offer a range of vehicles to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring a personalized experience for Crete. Through competitive rates and the freedom to explore at one's own pace, renting a car in Agia Marina is a practical choice for many. Read article
March 22, 2024
Stalos Crete: Things to do, Beach, Nightlife, Travel Tips and Car Rental
Stalos, located in Crete's northern coast near Chania, merges the appeal of a beachside holiday with Cretan culture. The name "Stalos" originates back to its historical role as a resting point for travelers. Activities in Stalos are diverse, catering to a wide range of interests. The beach is the focal point, offering sun loungers, umbrellas and water sports such as jet-skiing and windsurfing, suitable for all ages. Dining in local tavernas allows visitors to savor Cretan cuisine and experience the island's hospitality. Car rental is convenient for those looking to discover more of Crete. Several agencies in Stalos and nearby Chania Airport offer a range of vehicles, ensuring visitors can find a car that suits their needs. Renting a car allows flexibility in exploring the island's historic sites, villages and beaches at one's own pace. It is an accessible choice for travelers aiming to maximize their experience on the island. Read article
March 22, 2024
Kokkino Chorio “Red Village”: A small village in Apokoronas, Chania
Kokkino Chorio is a village in the Apokoronas region of Chania, on the northwestern part of the Greek island of Crete. Its name translates to "Red Village" due to the unique red soil found in the area. The village is known for its traditional architecture, narrow winding streets and views of Souda Bay and the White Mountains. Visitors to Kokkino Chorio can explore a variety of attractions and activities. The Glass Blowing Workshop is a must-see, where skilled artisans use traditional techniques to create beautiful hand-blown glass objects. The Church of the Assumption is one of the three main churches in the village. Hiking lovers can explore the nearby Drapano Gorge, known for its red rock formations and vegetation. Several options are available for renting a car to explore the area. While there are no car rental companies directly in Kokkino Chorio, visitors can easily rent a vehicle from nearby towns such as Kalyves or Chania. The average cost of renting a car in the area ranges from €30 ($36, £27) to €50 ($60, £45) per day for a small to medium-sized vehicle, with more extensive or luxury cars costing between €60 ($72, £54) and €100 ($120, £90) per day. To rent a car, travelers must present a valid driver's license, passport, government-issued ID and a credit card in the driver's name. It is essential to consider factors such as insurance, age restrictions and fuel policies when reserving a rental car in Kokkino Chorio. Read article
March 21, 2024
Agia Pelagia Crete: Beaches, Things to Do, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Agia Pelagia, a coastal village in Crete, Greece, offers visitors a variety of activities. Tourists can explore historical sites like the Heraklion Archaeological Museum or enjoy outdoor adventures like scuba diving and quad safari tours. The area is also suitable for day trips and excursions to nearby attractions. The beaches of Agia Pelagia are a highlight for many travelers. Through several options like Mononaftis and Psaromoura, visitors can enjoy clear waters and organized facilities for a relaxing day by the sea. Water sports and boat excursions provide additional entertainment options. Car rental services are available for those traveling around Agia Pelagia and Crete. The options range from budget-friendly models to more luxurious choices, ensuring travelers can find a vehicle that suits their needs and allows them to explore the island at their own pace. Read article
March 20, 2024
Georgioupolis Crete: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Georgioupolis, a coastal village in Crete, Greece, offers a variety of activities for travelers. Visitors can hike the Imbros Gorge or enjoy underwater adventures at the Paradise Dive Center. The area is also known for its scenic drives and enough opportunities for photography, ensuring a memorable visit for nature and adventure lovers. The beaches of Georgioupolis are a highlight for many. Georgioupolis Beach provides a family-friendly atmosphere with shallow waters and convenient beach bars. Through a more extensive beach experience, the main beach stretches over 10 kilometers (6.21 miles), featuring clean waters and facilities that have earned it a European Blue Flag. The region at their own pace, car rental services like Rental Center Crete offer a range of vehicles to suit different preferences. Visitors can easily discover Crete's hidden gems through competitive rates and the freedom to travel across the island. Read article
March 19, 2024
Kokkini Hani: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Kokkini Hani, a village on Crete's northern coast, east of Heraklion, is accessible and retains an authentic Cretan atmosphere. The resort town of Hersonissos and the traditional village of Koutouloufari offer nightlife and settings. Kokkini Hani serves as an ideal base for exploring Crete's eastern attractions. Getting there is straightforward, with car rental, taxi and bus services from Heraklion Airport. Sitia Airport. The village includes the Kokkini Hani Beach, the historical Minoan Manor Nirou Khani and the Whisky Bar, catering to diverse interests from beach relaxation to archaeological exploration. Its sandy beaches are safe and equipped with amenities, making it suitable for families, while the village's calm and proximity to Heraklion offer a balanced retreat. Despite not being a party hotspot like Hersonissos or Malia, Kokkini Hani offers a mix of bars and pubs for enjoyable evenings. With easy access to the nearest beach, quality accommodations and a selection of dining spots, Kokkini Hani ensures a memorable stay. Car rentals or the convenience of public transport, exploring Kokkini Hani and its surroundings offer into the island's rich history and local life, making it a worthwhile destination for visitors. Read article
March 19, 2024
Gouves Crete: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Gouves Crete is a coastal town in the north of the island, 18 kilometers (11.18 miles) east of Heraklion. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the sun, the sea and the local culture. Gouves Crete has a variety of attractions and activities to suit different tastes and preferences. The main attraction of Gouves Crete is its beaches, which range from sandy to rocky and from crowded to secluded. Some of the best beaches in Gouves Crete are Arina Beach, Marina Port Gouves and Beach Vathianos Kampos. Visitors can relax, swim, sunbathe or try water sports such as windsurfing, jet skiing or snorkeling. Read article
