🏝️ Crete: a complete guide to the island of Zeus
European civilization was born here and the most ancient city in Europe has been preserved. From here Daedalus and Icarus flew towards the sun. On this island, El Greco began his journey in painting, and Theseus emerged from the labyrinth of the Minotaur. We are talking about the famous Greek island of Crete, whose history lasts for more than one millennium. Tiqets.com offers great tour options for your summer holidays in Crete. We tell you how to spend a holiday on a mythological island and combine history and modernity.
Tips before your trip
- Don't break the rules. In Crete, the fines are quite high: not wearing a seat belt will cost €350, driving through a red light will cost €700, and speeding by 30 km/h or more will cost €350 and a two-month driving ban.
- Leave a tip. In small cafes, €1-1.5 is enough, but in large restaurants, count on 10% of the final check.
- Come to the beach with “yours.” You can rent an umbrella and sun lounger on every beach on the island, but buying it in a store will cost much less and save a lot on your budget. Plus, you can use them every day.
- Don't trust private taxis. Take care of your safety. Choose a taxi from official carriers, and agree on the price in advance. By the way, make sure that the driver has turned on the meter and you are traveling at the established rate.
- Check out the list of festivals. Just imagine that Crete hosts special festivals of wine, hippies, potatoes and pottery. Before traveling, be sure to check which festival falls on the dates of your visit and go there.
Main cities and attractions
Heraklion
Heraklion is the capital and largest city of the island of Crete. This is not just a city, but a real museum, which was named after the famous Hercules.
Many tourists form their first impression of Crete after landing at Heraklion Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport. It perfectly combines the historical past and the vibrant present.
Be sure to plan a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion (adult ticket price: €12). Valuable artifacts from Minoan culture make it one of the most popular and interesting museums in Greece. History comes to life here!
Don't miss the chance to see religious shrines: the Cathedral of St. Titus, the Cathedral of St. Mina and the Church of St. Catherine. Walk along the Old Port and the Venetian fortress of Martinengo, stop and take in all the details of the Morosini Fountain.
Rethymno
Rethymno is suitable for lovers of noisy parties, and fans of history and culture. The city is located in one of the most picturesque places on the island of Crete.
Rethymno will take you to Italy from the first seconds. It was built by the Venetians and added everything that we love Venice for: a unique architectural style, narrow streets and compact colorful houses.
Rethymno is famous for its picturesque landscapes. Just look at the noisy mountain rivers, dense pine forests, rocky gorges and clear lakes! For nightlife lovers there are bars, clubs and restaurants. Unusual festivals are regularly held in Rethymnon: a vibrant carnival (February), Renaissance (June-September) and Wine (July).
Be sure to go to any of the museums that you like. Here are the best ones:
- archaeological (entrance ticket costs €4);
- paleontological (€3);
- sea (€3);
- church (free admission);
- historical and ethnographic (€4);
- Museum of Contemporary Art (€3).
Just 15 kilometers from the city and you will find yourself in the unique Arkadi monastery. It became a symbol of the struggle of Orthodox believers against the Turkish invaders. In the Preveli Monastery you can see a miraculous cross with precious stones. Be sure to take time to explore the Old Town, Old Port and Fortezza.
Chania
The second largest city and the former capital of the island. The Old Town of Chania is considered one of the most beautiful places in Crete, and the New Town perfectly absorbs the features of modern European life. Here, as in Rethymno, the spirit of Italy never leaves travelers.
How to spend time in Chania? We advise you to stroll along the atmospheric streets, visit the noisy bazaar and buy souvenirs. Afterwards, head to the harbor shore and enjoy the incredible views from the shore.
Be sure to plan a visit to the Castelli Fortress and the Cathedral of the Three Martyrs. By the way, in the maritime museum you can see a model of the city from the 17th century. Another recommendation is Odos Skridlof, or Leather Street. Leather goods are sold here, and some products can be ordered with individual designs.
Agios Nikolaos
Celebrities and world-class stars often relax here, comparing it with Monte Carlo. Agios Nikolaos is great for tourists on a high budget.
The city is located in a mountainous area, and hidden within it is the incredible Lake Vulismeni. Legend has it that Aphrodite herself rested in its waters. Admit it, have you already wanted to swim in it?
From June to October, the island hosts the Lato cultural festival. We recommend going to the small fortress island of Spinalonga, see the Church of St. Nicholas and get acquainted with the history of the city in the archaeological museum (€4 per ticket for an adult).
20 kilometers from Agios Nikolaos is the Church of Panagia Kera, where tourists come from all over the world to venerate the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which has miraculous and healing properties.
Hiera Peter
This small city with a population of 12 thousand people is the southernmost city in Europe. It is famous for its incredible beaches and organic products.
The modern district of Pano Mera is responsible for entertainment in the city, and the old Kato Mera is responsible for the historical heritage. Hiera petra is considered one of the largest agricultural centers on the island of Crete. The climate creates ideal conditions for the ripening of berries, vegetables and fruits, which all of Europe loves so much. Be sure to order dishes made from natural products in local cafes and restaurants.
Mark on the map the Venetian Kales Fortress, the Ottoman Mosque at Kato Mera and the Church of Christ. Another must visit is Napoleon's House, where the famous commander stayed for just one night during his trip to Egypt.
- The most beautiful port cities in Europe and Asia
- The best restaurants and cafes for families with children around the world
- How do airlines deal with transporting pets in the cabin?
Food: what to try?
Gyros
Gyros are made from chicken or pork, which is wrapped in fresh pita bread along with tzatziki sauce, tomato, onion, herbs and cucumber. You can try it absolutely everywhere: it is one of the most popular dishes of Greek street food.
Souvlaki
Souvlaki is a Greek version of kebab made from cubes of pork, chicken, lamb or beef. Usually the dish is served with a piece of bread or pita bread, tomatoes, parsley, onions, and less often with chips and yogurt or tzatziki.
Moussaka
This is a casserole made from minced lamb and eggplant with the addition of bechamel sauce. It is the sauce that gives it a wonderful golden and crispy crust during baking. If desired, lamb meat can be replaced with beef, and eggplants with zucchini or potatoes.
Tzatziki
The famous sauce is made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic and spices (dill, mint or parsley). It goes great with meat dishes or serves as a stand-alone snack. Tzatziki is always eaten cold, and in establishments it is often served with gyros and souvlaki.
Bugatsa
Bugatsa is a traditional filo pastry pie filled with custard and semolina. Sometimes minced meat or cheese is added to the filling. Now in Greece there are separate establishments – bougatsopolis – that specialize exclusively in this pie.
Answers to the most popular questions
When is the best time to go on vacation to Crete?
The beach season on the island lasts from May to October. The average temperature of water and air is ideal for swimming and comfortable relaxation.
The hottest months are July and August. The air warms up to +30°C, and the water – up to +25°C. The weather is sunny and dry, the sea is calm, there is practically no precipitation.
September and October are perfect for holidays with children. At this time, the heat gradually decreases, and the sea still remains warm.
If you plan to explore the historical monuments and nature of the island of Crete, book your trip in the spring.
Which Crete beaches are best to relax on?
Elafonisi, Anissaras and Bali are great places for families with children. For beautiful views, head to Preveli, Vai and Red Beach. Noisy parties are the specialty of Star Beach. If you want privacy, your option is Chrissi and Devil's Harbor.
By the way, two beaches in Crete – Voulizma and Star Beach – are marked with the international quality mark Blue Flag.
What souvenirs should you bring from your trip?
The minimum souvenir program is olive oil, olive soap and a figurine of Zeus.
We advise you to pay attention to leather goods, ceramics and komboloi (Greek rosary beads). The skill of Greek artisans is famous throughout the world.
An excellent gift option for yourself and your loved ones would be natural cosmetics, jewelry and, of course, traditional Cretan costume.