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.
Snorkeling in Crete: Best Locations to Snorkel in Crete
Snorkeling in Crete is highlighted by its clear waters and abundant marine life. The visibility can reach over 30 meters, ideal for observing various species like fish, octopuses, sea turtles, and the Mediterranean monk seal. The rocky seabeds and underwater caves enhance the underwater experience. The optimal snorkeling season is May to October, with water temperatures between 20°C and 27°C. For fewer crowds and good conditions, June or September are recommended.
West Crete: Attractions, Landmarks, Travel Guide and Car Rental
West Crete is in the westernmost part of the island of Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands. This region has the regional units of Chania and Rethymno, stretching from the Akrotiri Peninsula in the north to the Libyan Sea in the south. The origin of West Crete can be traced back to the Minoan civilisation, one of the earliest civilisations in Europe, which flourished on the island from around 2700 BC to 1450 BC. The Minoans established several notable settlements in West Crete, including the sites of Phalasarna, Polyrrhenia, and Lissos, where valuable archaeological evidence, such as pottery, frescoes, and architectural remains, has been uncovered, providing insights into the daily life, trade, and religious practices of this ancient civilisation.
East Crete: Things to do, Landmarks, Travel Guide and Car Rental
East Crete is a region in the easternmost part of the island of Crete, Greece. It is between the Ida Mountains in the west and the Dikti Mountains in the east. This region has a rich history dating back to the Minoan civilisation, one of the earliest advanced civilisations in Europe, which flourished from 2700 BC to 1420 BC. The Minoans were an advanced civilisation that developed an urban culture centred around major palace complexes like those found at Knossos, Malia, Zakros, and Palaikastro in eastern Crete. Their daily lives revolved around these palace centres, which served as administrative hubs, religious sanctuaries, and craft production centres.
Matala Beach: Things to Do, Travel Guide, Beaches and Car Rental
Matala Beach is famous for its splendid beauty and exciting caves. Matala is a vibrant village located 75 km (46,6 miles) southwest of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. Matala boasts a village full of a hippie vibe from its colourful murals, street art, and famous Matala Beach. Matala Beach is one of the most lovely beaches on the island of Crete. According to Greek Mythology, it is on Matala Beach where Zeus swam ashore in disguise as a bull while carrying Europa on its back. Matala Beach is a sandy and pebble beach with crystal clear water. Several water sports are available at the beach, where numerous establishments offer the opportunity to practise some water sports. These water sports include riding jet skis, pedal boats, and snorkelling, to name a few. Inside the village of Matala There are various little shops, studios, taverns, small hotels, small pensions, and a campsite inside the village of Matala. Matala Beach is 250 M long and 45 M wide. It is famous for the carved caves in the rocks and hippies of the ‘70s. During the Roman and Christian period, it was believed that caves were used as burial tombs. Matala was once used as the port of Festos during the Minoan civilization and as the port of Gortyna during Roman rule. The collection of Caves at Matala Beach is carved into the soft white limestone at the north end of the beach. Most of the caves have separate rooms, windows, and stairways, displaying that they were used as living quarters.
24 Most Famous Cretans: Artists, Chefs, Musicians and Scientists!
Crete, the largest Greek island, has been the origin location to many notable people throughout history. The people of Crete have made significant contributions to various fields, including art, cuisine and science. The Palace of Knossos was the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization on Crete. It was used as a central storage point, administrative and religious center from around 1700 to 1400 BC. The people of Crete built the palace and used it for several centuries. Scientists from Crete have also made groundbreaking discoveries, with individuals like Eleftherios Venizelos, a prominent leader in modern Greek history and Nikos Kazantzakis, a computer scientist known for his work on computational complexity. Other notable Cretans include writers, musicians and athletes with international recognition. The people of Crete have demonstrated their talent, creativity and dedication across various disciplines, making the island proud of its native sons and daughters.
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.
South Crete: Beaches, Things to do, Travel Guide and Car Rental
South Crete is the largest and most populous island in Greece. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and busy cities. South Crete is a perfect destination to experience different kinds of adventure and enjoy the attractions and Crete Restaurants that Greece has. South Crete is situated 300 kilometres south of Athens and approximately 200 kilometres north of Africa. During the Palaeolithic age, humans have inhabited the island since at least 130,000 years ago. Crete was the cradle of Europe’s first civilisation. It is considered one of the largest Mediterranean islands. There are good reviews about the peaceful and historical island of South Crete. There are good reviews about the peaceful and breathtaking scenery of South Crete. The food also receives good reviews, mainly because of the fresh ingredients used. The breathtaking beaches make it a popular tourist destination. The tourists' reviews of South Crete are relatively lovely due to its relaxed and quiet ambience. South Crete consists of several beaches, restaurants, hotels and nearby popular tourist destinations, which cater to all the needs of visitors.
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.
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.
Malia Crete: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Malia, a coastal town and tourist resort in Hersonissos on the northeastern part of Crete, Greece, is known for its nightlife, beaches and historical attractions like the ancient Minoan palace of Malia. The town attracts a diverse crowd, particularly young adults, who enjoy the atmosphere, water sports and numerous bars and clubs. Malia also caters to families and those seeking a more laid-back experience with its sandy beaches, such as Malia Beach and Potamos Beach and opportunities to explore the Minoan palace ruins. For those interested in exploring Malia and the surrounding areas, renting a car is a convenient option. Car rental companies in Malia offer various vehicles at different price points, with costs depending on factors like car type, rental duration and season. Compact cars typically cost €30 ($32.9, £26.3) per day, while larger vehicles from €60 ($65.8, £52.6) per day. To rent a car in Malia, individuals must meet requirements such as having a valid driver's license, being at least 21 years old and providing a credit card for deposit. Factors to consider when renting include insurance coverage, fuel policies and the possibility of picking up the car at Crete's airports.
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.
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.
Sitia Airport: Everything You Need to Know ✈️
Sitia Airport, also known as Sitia Public Airport "Vitsentzos Kornaros", is located in the eastern part of Crete, Greece, 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) east of Sitia town. The airport sits near the Cretan Sea coast, 124.9 kilometers (77.6 miles) east of Heraklion and 265.4 kilometers (165 miles) southeast of Chania. Established in 1984, Sitia Airport serves the town and surrounding region, providing domestic flights to Athens and other Greek islands. It is known for its connections to other Greek destinations and proximity to tourist attractions like Sitia Beach, Petras Beach and the Toplou Monastery. Sitia Airport offers essential services such as check-in counters, baggage handling, security screening, a small cafe, parking facilities, taxi stands and a bus stop. Passengers can find various transportation options at the airport, including public buses connecting to Sitia town center, taxis from outside the terminal, car rental desks within the terminal, private transfer services, ride-sharing (if available) and hotel shuttles provided by some local accommodations. The airport plays a significant role in supporting tourism and the economy in eastern Crete despite its small size and lack of international flights, making it an important regional transportation hub.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Stalos Crete: Things to do, Beaches, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Stalos, positioned on 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.
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.
