Crete is a fabulous island offering a host of pleasures: dream beaches, major archaeological sites, magnificent landscapes, a wealth of hiking possibilities, an authentic hinterland and a gastronomy renowned the world over. We visit Crete regularly and here are our favorite places on the island: our top 10 must-see places in Crete.
Discover also our good addresses: hotels, accommodation, restaurants… in Heraklion, Chania, Loutro.
1- Chania
Chania is the island’s second-largest city. It is, of course, one of Crete’s must-sees. Full of charm, it features a variety of Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman influences. There are some lovely museums (notably the Archaeological Museum), good restaurants and a lively nightlife.
If you’d like to find out more about Chania, read our article Best-of: What to do in Chania, Crete?
2- Knossos Palace
Renovated in the early 20th century by archaeologist Evans, Knossos Palace is a major archaeological site. It is one of Crete’s must-see sites. Here, you can imagine the grandeur of Minoan civilization. Legend says that this is the place of the famous labyrinth where the Minotaur was trapped.
To find out more about Knossos, we tell you all about it in Visit Knossos Palace in Crete.
3- Samaria Gorge
Located in south-west Crete, in the heart of the Samaria National Park in the White Mountains, these gorges are among the longest in Europe. The canyon is 16km long and has a vertical drop of 1,230m! If you like hiking, this breathtaking site, recognized and protected by Unesco, is sure to please!
If you’d like to discover these famous gorges, find out more in our detailed article Hiking in the Samaria Gorge: information and tips.
4- Balos lagoon
Crete is renowned for its sublime beaches and turquoise waters. For lovers of idleness, picture-postcard landscapes and swimming, Balos lagoon is an absolute must on Crete. This beach is famous for its translucent sea and white sand.
For a day’s cruise in Balos lagoon, there are several options:
- A day trip from Rethymnon: Gramvoussa islands and Balos lagoon, at a low price
- From Heraklion: day trip, Gramvousa and Balos
- From Chania: day trip to Gramvoussa via Balos Bay
5- The town of Rethymnon
Rethymnon is home to many ancient remains from different periods. It’s a pleasure to stroll through the old town and along the charming port. Here you can admire the fortress and the Tis Nerantzes mosque. There’s also a large beach. The suburbs aren’t very pretty…
6- Matala, its beach and caves
Matala is one of the must-see destinations in Crete. Situated in the very south of the island, Matala Beach is well known. In the 1960s-70s, hippies made it famous all over the world. They came to enjoy the natural environment and live in freedom, settling in caves dug out during the Paleolithic era. In fact, they return here every summer for the Matala Festival, held on this famous this famous cliff-cave beach.
7- The pink sandy beach of Elafonissi
Considered to be the most beautiful beach in Crete, Elafonissi has an air of paradise about it. Its pinkish sandbanks make it unique. The beach is well preserved, and fortunately there are no large buildings on the seafront. A must-see during your stay in Crete.
Elafonissi beach is easily accessible by road. You can also go there as part of a day trip with transport included:
- from Rethymnon
- from Heraklion
- and also from Chania
8- Heraklion
Crete’s main city, Heraklion is not lacking in interest. Its fascinating archaeological museum is well worth a visit. It is one of the most beautiful museums in Greece. It’s home to some real treasures, some of which date back to prehistoric times, as well as numerous artefacts from the Minoan civilization. But there’s so much more to see and do in Heraklion!
To find out more, read our article What to see and do in Heraklion?
9- The island of Spinalonga
Made famous by Victoria Hislop’s novel“The Island of the Forgotten“, Spinalonga is a place steeped in history. The island was home to a leper colony in the first half of the 20th century. Today, you can still admire an imposing Venetian fortress and the remains of a leper village. There are also beautiful beaches.
Want to find out more about Spinalonga? Then read our detailed article A day on the island of Spinalonga.
10- The Lassithi plateau and the Zeus cave
The ascent to the Lassithi plateau, also known as “the valley of 10,000 mills”, is a unique experience. It leads to the famous Dikteon cave, which, according to legend, is where Zeus was born. The cave can still be visited today. The walk is magnificent and the descent into the cave, an archeological site, is an incredible experience! Admission costs 6 euros. If you go there, we can recommend a tavern, a real favorite. All products are from the farm, and the bread is homemade. What’s more, Costas the waiter has a contagious joie de vivre! The view is magnificent. Tip: ask for the ready-made meals. Rousapidia
The scenery and panorama are exceptional.
Laure M.
updated January 30, 2024
