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Crete Holidays

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The super sunny, picturesque Mediterranean island of Crete has plenty to offer all its holidaymakers. The largest of all the Greek islands, Crete has an abundance of activities to cater for all tastes. Visitors can experience the tranquillity and natural beauty of the landscape, enjoy its flora and fauna, explore the archaeological ruins or simply laze on one of its many stunning beaches. In contrast, there are the busy towns of the north coast and the lively tourist venue of Platanias on the west coast, which has enough activity and night life to keep even the most energetic party-animal happy. Accommodation ranges from luxury in isolated settings to the cheaper package style holidays which prevail on the bustling north coast. Families may prefer the smaller towns of Gouves, close to Heraklion, with their more traditional beach holiday atmosphere and the quiet port of Sissi, brimming with unspoilt charm.

The climate in Crete is typically Mediterranean, offering plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming at the beach and enjoying a plethora of outdoor activities. June, July and August are the hottest months when visitors will welcome the cooling sea breezes accompanied by an ice cold beverage! The best time to enjoy stunning wild flowers and to hike in the rugged inland countryside is during May, before things get too steamy.

Crete appeals to families, couples, groups and singles, which is why it is enduringly popular. For luxury holidays, the smart set head for sophisticated Agios Nikolaos where high-end accommodation and facilities are the norm. Those seeking an all round party experience head for the jumping resorts of Hersonissos and Malia, where the music is loud and the crowds dance till dawn. Crete has something for everyone and can cater for all preferences.

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Crete information

Euro € Currency Euro €
Greek Language Greek
GMT+03:00 Time Zone GMT+03:00
3h 45m Avg. Flight Time 3h 45m
June-September Peak Travel June-September
£2.20 Price of a pint £2.20
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Some 650 miles of coastline make Crete a hub for luxury seaside holidays. Not just for jetting in vitamin D deficient travellers, but for the local Greek population, too. Though, those in the know head here not for a strip of golden sand to call their own for a fortnight, but to immerse themselves in a wealth of architectural and ancient art riches. Crete has a fascinating past – which researchers and archaeologists are still piecing together. Various civilisations left clues behind, but it’s the Minoans that inspire the tallest tales.

Inspired by the crumbling ruins of once mighty palaces, it’s easy to see how local residents and visitors can be swept up in the romanticism of ancient life on this island. The views, natural architecture and stellar coastline certainly don’t hinder the imagination either. Alongside the cultural treasure troves, you’ll also find some more modern attractions and a bustling culinary community waiting to cook up some of the island’s mouth-watering delicacies. Of course, you could just claim your stretch of coastline for a while, but when there’s an ancient palace just around the corner waiting to be explored – that could prove far more tempting.

Crete Aquarium | Crete

Crete Aquarium

Located just outside Heraklion, this well-curated aquarium allows you to see around 200 species from the surrounding Mediterranean waters and beyond. All species are well cared for within their particular eco-systems and the displays here offer a glimpse into the mysteries of the underwater world. The sea turtles temporarily finding refuge at the aquarium are a particular...more

Rimondi Fountain | Crete

Rethymnon Old Town

There’s no more rewarding activity on holiday than losing yourself in the cobbled streets of a charming town. And on Crete, Rethymnon is the place to do just that. This coastal settlement has a maze of streets to idly wander – complete with an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. Narrow alleyways are well-stocked with charming tavernas, artisan craftspeople making...more

Palace of Knossos | Crete

Palace of Knossos

Minoans populated Crete until around 1450 BC, but this stunning palace lay hidden from view until excavation began in 1899. This behemoth of a residence covers 150,000 square feet (more than two football fields) and was once surrounded by a town. Cretan lore states that the palace was once home to the mythical King Minos, though archaeologists dispute this. Lovingly...more

Samaria Gorge National Park | Crete

Samaria Gorge National Park

Experienced hikers will be drawn to the challenge presented by this gorge trail. 10 miles of winding, rocky path through one of the longest canyons in Europe is a four-and-a-half-hour trek not for the faint-hearted. The ultimate destination, Agia Roumeli is only accessible on foot or by boat – but is well worth the visit. This small, quiet village allows a brief...more

Venetian Fortezza | Crete

Venetian Fortezza

This imposing Venetian fortress sits high above Rethymnon’s Old Town and beckons visitors to make the short climb up the hill to explore its ramparts. Originally built to ward off invasion, that fact seems at odds with its beguiling exterior. Presumably the approaching Ottoman’s were supposed to be put off by the armed Venetians that lay in wait within the Fortezza....more

Roman Historical site | Crete

Crete Historical and Folk Art Museum

To see beyond Crete’s current role as a luxury destination for curious travellers, a visit to the Crete Historical and Folk Art Museum offers a glimpse into the island’s rustic past. From exhibitions exploring the island’s traditional farming equipment to the exquisite ceramics created by locals and artists – there’s a unique beauty in every artifact. Ecologically tilling...more

Vai Beach | Crete

Vai Beach

Sun, sea and sand – beautiful as they may be – all pale in comparison to the ancient palm forest that flank this stretch of coast. Vai Beach, also aptly known as Palm Beach, is home to over 5,000 palms – some of which have stood here for over 2 thousand years. Fine golden sands, Blue Flag waters and the shade provided by the palms make this a popular spot...more

Knossos Palace | Crete

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

One of the largest museums in Greece and a gathering place for a variety of artifacts found across the island, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is well worth a visit. From mysterious objects – such as the Phaistos Disk, a clay tablet covered with undecipherable symbols to a collection of Minoan items salvaged from the Palace of Knossos – every specimen has a...more