Aposelemis Gorge is the longest gorge in northern Heraklion, located near Analipsi, Agriana, and Kato Gouves in eastern Crete. The gorge stretches 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) to 1 kilometers (6.21 miles), with vertical walls reaching 0.2 kilometers (0.12 miles) and an elevation change of 100 meters. The Aposelemis River, which flows after rainfall, has shaped the gorge over time. Hikers follow trails that pass ancient stone bridges, Venetian arches, and wildlife habitats. The hike is rated easy to moderate and takes 2 to 4 hours. Read article
Heraklion’s dining scene reflects its cultural blend, offering both fine-dining experiences and traditional taverns. Sir Papafigos, located 1.1 kilometers (0.68 miles) from the city center, serves inventive Mediterranean dishes for prices between €9 ($10.46, £7.80) and €21 ($24.41, £18.21), while Avli, 1 kilometers (0.62 miles) away, focuses on seafood and Mediterranean cuisine priced between €15 ($17.44, £13.01) and €25 ($29.06, £21.68). Traditional flavors are preserved at Merastri, where dishes like lamb from a wood oven cost between €9 ($10.46, £7.80) and €22 ($25.58, £19.08), and Chagiati, a family-run tavern, offers hearty meals for €10 ($11.63, £8.67)–€15 ($17.44, £13.01). Read article
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
Kommos Beach is one of the longest beaches on the Greek island of Crete. It lies in the southern part of the island, about 66 kilometers (41.01 miles) southwest of the capital Heraklion. Kommos Beach is about 5 kilometers (3.11 miles) long and is backed by tamarisk trees, carobs and sand dunes. Read article
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
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
Chania is a beautiful city on the northern coast of Crete, Greece, celebrated for its Venetian harbor, winding cobbled streets, and rich culinary heritage. Chania’s food scene is a delicious reflection of its past, offering everything from classic Cretan dishes to global flavors with a creative twist. Chania caters to every taste, from visitors searching for cozy tavernas serving time-honored recipes to diners seeking modern restaurants crafting innovative cuisine. Read article
Matala is famed for its stunning sandstone cliffs, unique cave dwellings, and laid-back charm, yet its vibrant culinary scene is equally noteworthy. Matala village in southern Crete offers diverse dining experiences, from traditional Greek tavernas to contemporary restaurants with panoramic sea views. Matala's eateries are celebrated for their delicious meals, warm hospitality, and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Visitors are spoiled for choice, whether craving authentic Cretan dishes, fresh seafood, or international cuisine. Restaurants in Matala feature spectacular settings, from cliffside terraces to tranquil beachfront spots. Read article
Malia is known for more than just its sun-soaked beaches and lively nightlife. It also offers a diverse gastronomical scene that draws inspiration from traditional Greek cuisine, while also embracing flavours from around the world. In Malia, many top-rated restaurants cater to every palate, serving a range of specialities, from fresh seafood caught in the nearby Aegean Sea to hearty Cretan dishes and gourmet international fare. Avli in Malia uses locally sourced ingredients that bring the island's traditional recipes to life. At the same time, Maliaport Restaurant specialises in the freshest seafood dishes, enjoyed against the backdrop of stunning sea views. For those fond of Italian cuisine, The Brasserie Pizza, Pasta & Grill offers a myriad of pizzas, pasta and grilled dishes, crafted with the freshest ingredients. Taverna Eva, a family-run establishment, stays true to Greek culinary traditions, serving home-cooked meals in a charming and relaxed setting. These restaurants, each with its unique menu, ensure a memorable dining experience in Malia. Read article
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
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
Acqua Plus Waterpark is the largest waterpark in Crete, offering over 50 rides and attractions suitable for all age groups. It operates from early May to mid-October, but is especially popular in July and August, when visitor numbers peak. The park is divided into zones for thrill-seekers, families, and children, with standout rides including Kamikaze, Spacebowl, Black Holes, and a dedicated island for younger children. A history spanning over 20 years, along with certifications from the Hellenic Tourism Authority and the World Waterpark Association, supports its reputation for safety and operational quality. Read article
Nea Chora Beach is a centrally located coastal attraction in Crete, 1.3 kilometers (0.8 miles) west of the Chania Old Town and 1.9 kilometres (1.18 miles) west of Chania’s city center. Nea Chora beach is cherished by locals and tourists alike for its golden sand and shallow, calm seas. Nea Chora is partially organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and cafés, while its promenade links to seafood tavernas and nearby attractions. Visitors at Nea Chora Beach can enjoy swimming, beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and sunset walks. Nea Chora is well-connected by foot, bus, taxi, and car rental for tourists exploring further. Read article
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
