Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands and comes with an unbeatable beach-blanketed coastline that has delighted millions of visitors over the years. There are sandy beaches, seafront tavernas, ancient palaces and neon nightlife – Crete holidays have it all.
Resorts for all sorts
Agios Nikolaos, Sissi or Stalis will tick all the boxes – especially if sun, sea and sand are your main criteria. For a taste of tradition, head to the hills where you’ll find quaint villages like Koutouloufari and Piskopiano. If it’s world-renowned nightlife you’re after, make it Malia, the island’s party capital.
Step into the past
Crete is steeped in history. Some of the mountainside villages have barely changed in centuries, while the sprawling ruins at Knossos are over 3,000 years old. Heraklion’s museum is one of the finest in Greece and will teach you everything essential about the island’s past, including its glory days under King Minos.
Eating out
It’s a place of delectable cuisine, from your standard cheese and olives to local wine, honey-covered goods and freshly caught fish. So enjoy the fine food and drink as you uncover Crete's Minoan history.
The Palace of Knossos
The ancient ruins of the Palace of Knossos transport you back in time to Minoan Crete. Walk amongst the ruins and mingle through the remnants of the old Palace walls to appreciate the grandeur of the structures, learning about the enchanting Greek mythology that surrounds this mystical labyrinth of buildings.
Aghios Nikolaos Harbour
Immerse yourself in the beautiful harbour surroundings of Aghios Nikolaos with a visit to one of the many bars, cafés and tavernas that line the waterfront. The food can be pricey, but well worth the money for the setting you’re in. Walk along the harbourfront and watch the boats as they moor up.
Watercity
Watercity is Crete’s largest water park. Located in the Anopolis Mountains, it boasts a mixture of rides, from steep drops to children’s slides If you’re a daredevil try the Cyclone Body Slide or race your friends down the Kamikaze. For the fainter hearted, the Lazy River is a more relaxed option.
Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
Get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating reptiles on the planet. Many of the creatures here were either injured or have been rescued, and now have a loving home at the Aquarium. Hands-on interaction with the creatures is encouraged; are you brave enough to pose with the mighty pythons?
Spinalonga Island
The beautiful Spinalonga Island is surrounded by azure blue waters and baron rocky lands. Known as ‘Leper Island’, in 1903 a leper colony was established there to isolate the people suffering from Hansen’s Disease. A walk around the island offers up some of the finest views of the mainland and the perfect swimming spot.
Cave Of Zeus
Learn about the story of Zeus’ birth and how he became the mighty king of the gods. Sitting 1540 metres above sea level and nestled into the side of Mount Ida, Zeus’ Cave looks over the Nida Plateau. The steep walk up to the cave is so worth it. You can stock up first on drinks and snacks from the little shop in the car park.
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