If you’re looking for an amazing Greek island to explore, Crete is the perfect destination. With its stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, and historical ruins, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. And don’t worry – you can see the best part of Crete even without a car!
Is Crete easy to get around without a car?
Crete is easy to explore by bus – they are reliable, cheap, comfortable and have aircon in most cases. The main north coast towns of Chania, Rethymno, Iraklion and Agios Nikolaos all have bus stations where you can then access many rural areas of the island.
What is the best area in Crete to stay?
From west to east, Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos (the last two towns are both in Lasithi) are widely considered the best places for most travelers to stay on the island. All are easily walkable and near several attractions and beaches.
Which is the prettiest part of Crete?
5 Most Picturesque Places to See in Crete
- Balos Lagoon, Crete.
- Samaria Gorge, Crete.
- View of the Island of Spinalonga, Crete.
- View of Voulisma, Crete.
- Agios Nikolaos, Crete.
- Thalassa Villa, St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas.
Is Crete worth visiting without a car? – Related Questions
Is Chania or Heraklion better?
Chania is famous around Crete and Greece for its incredible architecture. Though Heraklion has several impressive buildings, it pales in comparison to Chania. On the other hand, Heraklion is more authentic, for lack of a better word. Both have a lively local population, but Chania is more touristy.
How many days do you need in Crete?
So, the short answer is that you need at least five days in Crete to see a good bulk of the island. And if you have set your eyes on visiting every major attraction, think of two weeks at least. Let alone if you want to see all the island can offer. In an ideal world, you would spend at least a month in Crete.
Which side of Crete has the best beaches?
Another of the most beautiful beaches of Crete is the exotic Elafonissi in Chania, on the westernmost spot of Crete, as well as the long, sandy beach of Falassarna. Finding a perfect beach is not a problem for visitors, as there are nice clean beaches in Crete all around the island.
Which is best east or west Crete?
Historically, most resident expats prefer the island’s more traditional west and while the east is known for its handful of lively holiday resorts, one corner there has become a hot spot for luxury living…
Which part of Crete is less touristy?
Try Kalamaki, which is on the south coast, a few miles north of Matala. It is a small town with a good beach, but not too many tourists, no package tourists, and very few Brits. There are lots of good tavernas, and a couple of excellent ones.
Is Crete picturesque?
The stunning landscape and rich diversity of the island means it is truly one of the most outstanding destinations in Greece which attracts visitors from across the world. If you decide to spend your holiday in Crete, be sure to visit the beautiful villages dotted around the island.
What is the best way to get around Crete?
The best way to get around Crete is via car. There are public buses that connect visitors to the major cities of Heraklion, Rethymnon, Chania and Agios Nikolaos.
Is Chania worth visiting?
It’s a perfect place for a summer vacation, featuring amazing beaches, stunning mountains, imposing gorges, and some of the most refined and tasteful gastronomy in Greece. But Chania is also a remarkable place to visit any time of the year.
What is the main town in Crete?
Heraklion. Heraklion has been the capital of Crete since 1971. It is the fifth largest city in Greece, with a population of approximately 155,000.
What is the best time of year to visit Crete?
Crete has a mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you’re a sunseeker the best time to visit Crete is between June and September. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 32 C and an average low of 22 C.
Is Crete better than Santorini?
Crete has better beaches but they’re spread out and it takes a fair bit of effort to see the best beaches. Santorini is small and it’s easy to get around to all the popular beaches. Crete has more small traditional (non-touristy) villages. Santorini is more romantic and better suited to a honeymoon.
Is it worth visiting Heraklion?
There are plenty of things to do in Heraklion, and so the city is definitely worth visiting. With the famous site of Knossos close by, museums, art exhibitions, and lots of places to eat, Heraklion is a good place to stay and then explore more of thee surrounding area.
Which is nicer Rethymno or Chania?
All in all, Chania appears to have the upper hand over Rethymno as a holiday destination. It is easier to reach, has a more charming old town, prestigious museums and many things to do. On the other hand, the city beach is better in Rethymno, and the same goes for nightlife and day trips.
Is it cheaper to fly to Chania or Heraklion?
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chania and Heraklion, we can see that Heraklion is more expensive. And not only is Chania much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chania would let you spend less money overall.
Which is better Crete or Corfu?
We’d sum it up by saying Crete is better for outdoors adventures and hiking, for out-of-season vacations, and for foodies. Corfu is more classically idyllic, has more family beaches, and is easier to travel to.
Which is the prettiest Greek island to visit?
Santorini. In Santorini the blue of the sea blends with the blue of the sky and the blue roofs of the houses. This island, ranked among the best destinations for a honeymoon in Europe, is also one of the most beautiful Greek islands. The easiest way is to book a direct flight to Santorini.