For many travelers, Crete is a favorite in the Greek archipelago. Tourists have been arriving here since the first charter planes to Greece, and many of them choose to revisit. Crete is a large island, and there many things to see and do. On Crete, you can find everything from traditional villages and bustling towns to the lush scenery and wonderful paradise beaches.
This Island is actually a personal favorite in Greece, and this is a list of the top things to do on Crete as a tourist.
Elafonissi
This paradise beach is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful. The beach is known for its sand that shimmers in pink. Here you will find a shallow beach with crystal clear waters in turquoise color that is suitable for the whole family. Elafonissi is located approximately 1.5 hours drive from Chania and should not be missed when you go to Crete!
Knossos
I can recommend a visit to Knossos if you’re interested in history. Here you can learn more about the Minoan civilization while you’re checking out the remains of the old capital. The surrounding area also offers beautiful scenery and picturesque vineyards.
Samaria
Like hiking and beautiful views? Then Samaria is something to write down on your list of “things to do in Crete.” Samaria is Europe’s longest gorge and along the way you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and fantastic views of the countryside. Do not forget sunscreen, hat, water, and comfortable shoes.
Amari valley
Amari valley is home to several small traditional Greek villages and lots of lush olive and fig trees. If you like being out in nature, this is a lovely place to visit.
Loutro
A delightful small coastal village surrounded by rock walls and crystal clear waters. Loutro is what one might call a traditional Greek village, where you will see traditional white buildings with blue doors and windows. If you like lamb, a stop at the local restaurant is well recommended.
Agios Nikolaos
Although this place is becoming more and more touristy, it still manages to maintain its Greek charm. As a tourist in Crete Agios Nikolaos is perhaps the coziest and most charming resort on the island. Have you longed for the traditional Greece? Then you will find lots of this in Agios Nikolaos.
Diving & Snorkeling
For those who love to snorkel and dive, Crete is an excellent destination. There are plenty of companies that arrange diving and snorkeling tours, which includes the chance to swim with turtles and discover caves and explore life under the sea.
Biolea
A family business who’s producing olive oil. Here you can learn more about how you produce olive oil. Quite naturally, the tour ends with a customary tasting of different varieties of olive oils. If you would like to buy oils to bring with you home the price here is very competitive.
Rethymnon’s old town
Even if you live in Chania or another tourist resort on Crete, you should not miss out on visiting the old town of Rethymnon. Here you will stroll around in narrow alleys with lots of cozy cafés, shops, restaurants, and bars. The stores sell Greek products, and there are plenty of varieties.
I bought sponges, spices and a couple of different liqueurs and olive oil.
Because many tourists come here, the prices are set higher than usual. So do not forget to bargain before you buy something.
Go-Kart & Mini Golf
If you go to Crete on a family trip, fun activities are always appreciated. Mini Golf is available at several places. I can recommend a particular place which is located just outside Rethymnon. Just drive straight ahead on the road that runs through the town and leads to the go-kart track The miniature golf course will be on your left after about 5-10 minutes.
The go-karting track is called Rethimno Kart and is about 10-15 minutes outside of Rethymnon by moped or car. It’s quite cheap, and you get to go on a drive for about 5 minutes. The staff is friendly and helpful. I can recommend this even if you do not go to Crete with his children.
Balos Beach and Lagoon
It is not only Elafonissi Beach impresses from Crete’s beaches. Balos Beach is another paradise beach where you can enjoy the shallow crystal clear waters of turquoise and sand of the finest quality. Beautiful nature surrounds the lagoon; this is an incredible place to spend a whole day.
Bring a cooler with lunch and drinks when the supply here is not particularly large. The best way to get here is by boat.
Hersonissos
Do you like long, relaxing days on the beach or at the pool and then go out and party all night long? Then Hersonissos is a place for you. The party is going on more or less around the clock, but during the daytime it is more relaxed, and most people relax on the beach or at a pool area.
Hersonissos is actually one of Greece’s hottest party venues, and people from many different countries in Europe come here to party, especially people from the Netherlands.
Chania
Crete’s most popular tourist destination is an attraction in itself and absolutely worth a visit if you do not live there. The area along the port is incredibly beautiful and cozy. Chania is considered by many to be one of Europe’s most beautiful port cities, and there are plenty of charming taverns where you can eat and have a drink as well.