Knossos Palace is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site in Crete and served as the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization. The palace is located 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) southeast of Heraklion and includes over 1,000 interconnected rooms built around a central courtyard. Its construction began around 1900 BCE and continued in phases, with Minoan builders using local materials and advanced techniques to create a multi-story complex without modern tools. The site is recognized for its architectural layout, frescoes, and artefacts such as pithoi, sculptures, jewellery, tools, seals, and Linear A tablets. These findings offer insight into Minoan religion, trade, writing systems, and administrative practices. Knossos is strongly tied to Greek mythology, particularly the legend of King Minos and the Minotaur. Read article
Koutsounari Beach stretches along Crete’s southern coast, a beautiful shoreline popular for its soft sand, colorful pebbles, and deep, translucent waters. The beach features a mix of organized and natural areas, catering to different visitor preferences. The central section offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, an organized space easily accessible by car or public transport. Read article
Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre is a specialized educational and conservation institution located in Hersonissos, Crete, dedicated to the rehabilitation and exhibition of marine and reptilian species. A public aquarium and reptile rescue center, it was founded in 1995 by marine biologist John McLaren, and stands as Crete’s first facility of its kind, distinct from other local institutions such as Cretaquarium and Thalassocosmos due to its hands-on approach and rescue-centered mission. Read article
Anogia in Crete is a historic mountain village located 39.9 kilometers (24.8 miles) from Heraklion Airport and 122 kilometers (75.8 miles) from Chania Airport. Set on the slopes of Mount Psiloritis at 750 meters (2,460 feet), it is the highest village in Crete and known for its strong cultural identity, resistance history, and traditional crafts. The village is characterized by narrow stone alleys, multi-level neighborhoods, and a central square that serves as the heart of local life. Travelers can reach Anogia by car, bus, or taxi. Driving offers the most flexibility, especially when exploring nearby sites such as the Ideon Cave, Nida Plateau, or Skinakas Observatory. Read article
Monastery context centers on religious institutions for monks or nuns focused on worship, contemplation, and service, typically within architecturally significant complexes. Crete monasteries form a core part of Eastern Orthodox heritage, acting as spiritual centers and custodians of Cretan culture and history. Crete has over 80 active monasteries, providing direct insight into Byzantine and Venetian eras through preserved sanctuaries and monastic traditions. Read article
Driving in Crete provides visitors with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the island's diverse landscapes, charming villages and ancient ruins at their own tempo. It is essential for travellers to be knowledgeable about road safety, driving etiquette and the car-rental procedure to ensure a pleasant and trouble-free trip. Read article
Anissaras is a beach town in the northern coast of Crete, located 24 kilometers (15 miles) east of Heraklion and 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles) from Hersonissos town, a popular resort town. Anissaras is known for its collection of luxury hotels and resorts including Mitsis Royal Mare (ex. Aldemar Royal Mare), Mitsis Laguna Resort and Knossos Royal Beach hotel. Anissaras Beach stretches along this coastline and is characterized by a combination of sandy and rocky sections. Anissaras beach is mostly man-made and well-organized, offering amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars. The beach is popular for snorkeling and diving due to its rocky seabed, which attracts marine life. Visitors to Anissaras appreciate the clear waters, though they are advised to wear protective footwear because of the presence of sea urchins in some rocky areas. Read article
Therisos Gorge, located 6 to 10 kilometers (3.7 to 6.2 miles) south of Chania, is one of the most accessible hiking areas in Crete. The gorge spans 6 kilometers (3.7 miles), with a paved road running through dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. The gorge is formed by the Kladisos River, and holds historical significance as the site of the 1905 Theriso Revolt. The surrounding area is protected under the Natura 2000 network, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Read article
Topolia Gorge is a limestone canyon located in western Crete, near the town of Kissamos, stretching for 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) with rock walls reaching up to 300 meters (984 feet) Topolia gorge offers an accessible hike suitable for visitors with basic fitness and was formed by water erosion during the Neogene period. The gorge is home to diverse flora and fauna, with historical sites like the Cave of Agia Sofia nearby. Hiking Topolia Gorge typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, following a rocky riverbed. Maps of the gorge show key landmarks, though few rest areas or water sources are available. Various hiking routes connect Topolia to nearby villages and scenic points. Read article
Imbros Gorge is an 8-kilometre (4.97 miles) hiking route in southern Crete. Imbros Gorge is part of the E4 European hiking path. The narrowest point of the gorge measures 1.60 meters (5.25 feet), framed by cliffs rising 300 meters (984 feet). Imbros Gorge runs parallel to Samaria Gorge and lies 57 kilometres (35.42 miles) southeast of Chania. Read article
The Palace of Phaistos is an archaeological monument located on the island of Crete that provides an intriguing look into the life of the ancient Minoan people. The ancient palace, which dates back to the Bronze Age, is rich in history and culture. Phaistos, a once-thriving Minoan city, now lies in ruins amid the lush Messara plain, providing tourists with a rare opportunity to learn about its interesting past. Read article
Erotokritos is a historic love story written by Vitsentzos Kornaros in the early 17th century, using the Cretan dialect of the Greek language. The story centers on Erotokritos and Princess Aretusa, two young lovers from different social classes who face exile, hardship, and personal trials before achieving a happy ending. The plot is set in ancient Athens and unfolds through key moments of separation, bravery, and reunion, reflecting deep lessons about loyalty, endurance, and sacrifice. Read article
Hersonissos is a prominent coastal resort town located in the Heraklion regional unit on the northern coast of Crete, Greece, distinguished for its dynamic blend of tourism infrastructure, vibrant nightlife, and historical maritime significance. 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
Lendas Beach is a quiet, unspoiled coastal spot on the southern shore of Crete, cherished for its calm waters, rocky backdrop, and relaxed setting. The beach combines sand and pebbles, with a shallow sea entry that deepens gradually, making it safe for casual swimmers and families. Sunbeds are available for free, and the beach stays peaceful even in peak season due to its remote location and low tourist traffic. Lendas is located 70.3 kilometers (43.7 miles) south of Heraklion, reachable by a fully paved road, and offers basic services like tavernas, mini markets, and small guesthouses. Read article
Tourists can get to Crete via ferry from mainland Greece and several nearby islands. The main routes connect Piraeus to the Port of Heraklion and the Port of Souda Bay. Seasonal ferries link Crete with Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, Milos, Rhodes, Karpathos, Kythira, Kos, and other destinations. Ferry routes to Crete sail at least once daily to several times weekly, depending on the season and operator. The travel time ranges from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 16 hours and 30 minutes. Distances vary from 63 nautical miles (117 kilometers, 73 miles) to 210 nautical miles (389 kilometers, 242 miles). The cost of ferry tickets to Crete typically ranges from €20–€100 (£17–£85), depending on the route, vessel type, and travel season. Major routes operate year-round, though some island connections run seasonally. Read article
Ferma Beach is a small, unorganized beach located on Crete’s southern coast, just 11.9 kilometers (7.4 miles) east of Ierapetra. The beach is cherished for its peaceful setting, natural shade from shoreline reeds, and consistently calm, warm waters, ideal for travelers desiring a quiet alternative to busier resorts. Ferma has a sandy shoreline, surrounded by scattered rocks and caves, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and light exploration. The translucent waters, gradual depth, and lack of crowds make it especially suitable for families and casual swimmers. Read article
Aradena Gorge is one of Crete’s most dramatic Gorge natural landmarks, stretching 15 kilometres (9,32 miles) from the abandoned village of Aradena to the secluded Marmara Beach on the island’s southern coast. Aradena Canyon was formed through millennia of erosion and tectonic activity, and offers a challenging but rewarding hiking experience, featuring steep descents, narrow passages, and vertical drops aided by metal ladders. Read article
Panormos Beach is a quiet, family-friendly destination located 21.6 kilometers (13.4 miles) east of Rethymno on Crete’s northern coast. Panormos beach is set in a natural harbor and features soft, golden sand and calm, shallow waters suitable for swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxation. Its wind-protected setting and proximity to the traditional village of Panormos create a peaceful environment for visitors of all ages. Panormos name comes from the Greek word "Πάνορμος", which means "sheltered harbor". Panormos village is pronounced "PA-nor-mos" in English and written "Πάνορμος" in Greek. Panormos has a population of 500 residents. Panormos beach is partially organized with sun loungers, umbrellas, and basic amenities, while the village itself hosts tavernas, cafés, and small shops just steps away. Popular nearby attractions include Spillies Beach, Melidoni Cave and Varkotopos Beach. Read article
Vai Beach is one of the most iconic coastal attractions in eastern Crete, famous for its rare palm forest, soft golden sand, and clear blue waters. The beach is located 24.1 kilometers (15 miles) northeast of Sitia, offering an exotic landscape paired with organized facilities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and a canteen. Vai is accessible by car rental, with parking near the entrance and a short walking path to the shore. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and hiking to the nearby lookout point above the palm grove. Vai beach welcomes kids and pets and is free to enter year-round, making it ideal for all sorts of travelers. Read article
Agia Roumeli is a quiet, remote coastal spot on Crete’s southern coast, recognized for its dramatic scenery, black pebbled shoreline, and clean, refreshing waters. This beach offers a peaceful atmosphere far from heavy tourism and commercial noise, often visited by hikers completing the Samaria Gorge trail. Agia Roumeli Beach provides the perfect setting to swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or simply relax after a long hike, with sunbeds available in some areas and large stretches left natural and unorganized. The beach is only accessible by ferry or on foot, making it one of the most secluded destinations on the island. Visitors usually combine a scenic drive and short ferry ride from small ports like Hora Sfakion, Sougia, and Palaiochora to reach the village. Agia Roumeli is best visited between late June and early October when water temperatures are warm. Read article
