Crete is the kind of place that stays with you. The largest of Greece’s islands, it has a distinct identity that sets it apart and this is something you feel instantly, whether you’re stepping into a village kafenio (café) or catching the scent of thyme-covered hills after a swim.
Crete may draw millions of visitors each year (over 5.3M tourists visited in 2024), but its soul remains gloriously old-world. Yes, there are sleek beach clubs and five-star stays, but wander a little and you’ll stumble upon grandfathers sipping raki over a game of backgammon in the village square, and matriarchs stirring slow-cooked stews in local tavernas, just as their mothers did before them.
In many ways, Crete is to Greece what Sicily is to Italy: big, bold, and bursting with culture, pride, and a fierce sense of self. The island is rich with ancient ruins, rugged mountains, and some of the best food you’ll eat anywhere in the country. But more than anything, it’s the people who make it unforgettable. Cretans are famously hospitable- generous, warm, and proud of their roots. Many will tell you they are Cretan before they are Greek. Not out of disloyalty, but because their connection to this land runs so deep. It’s a place where tradition isn’t just remembered, it’s lived, daily.
And much like Sicily, Crete is often underestimated in scale. This is not a place to rush, as each region unveils its own distinct character, from mountain villages and olive groves to crystalline coves and Venetian ports. To truly explore the island in its entirety would take weeks, not days. That said, even a short escape can offer a rich taste of Crete’s charm, leaving you dreaming of your return before you’ve even left.
So where to begin? Here are three essential places to get a taste of what Crete is all about.
Chania- The Romantic One
Set on the island’s northwest coast, Chania feels like a Mediterranean daydream. The old town is a swirl of Venetian facades, Ottoman remnants, and flower-draped balconies overlooking a postcard-perfect harbour. The town is best explored on foot so you can lose yourself in the alleyways, stop for bougatsa (custard pastry dusted with cinnamon), and when strolling, you can just take your time.
The vibe here is equal parts stylish and nostalgic, with boutique hotels tucked into restored mansions and candlelit dinners served beside the sea. Beyond town, the region boasts some of Crete’s most iconic beaches (Balos, Elafonissi, and Falassarna) as well as charming mountain villages where time slows down. To get around freely when discovering places outside town, we recommend hiring a car.
Don’t miss: Hiking the 16km-long Samaria Gorge- one of Europe’s longest canyons.
Rethymno- The Quiet Charmer
Often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours, Rethymno sits sweetly in the middle. Its old town is smaller than Chania’s but is still charming, with narrow streets, elegant arches, and pastel-hued buildings that whisper of past eras. It’s ideal for travellers who want to soak in culture without so many people around.
This is a town that rewards a slower pace. Spend mornings walking along the Venetian harbour, afternoons browsing little artisan shops, and evenings dining at family-run tavernas that feel like you’re in someone’s home. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a local festival, as Cretans love to celebrate, and you’ll be invited to join in. Their traditional dancing is a beautiful sight- poised and deliberate, with intricate footwork that just draws you in.
Don’t miss: Heading to the top of Fortezza, where the entire town of Rethymno unfolds before your eyes, showcasing its unique blend of history and beauty.
Heraklion- The Lively Heartbeat
Heraklion is Crete’s capital and busiest city, often used as a jumping-off point for travellers, though it’s well worth lingering a little longer. It’s dynamic and energetic, with a strong urban beat, but still grounded in tradition. The city is home to the legendary Palace of Knossos, the centre of Minoan civilisation and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.
Foodies, take note: Heraklion’s culinary scene is one to watch, blending tradition and innovation with flair. Think meze bars pouring natural wines, modern tavernas reinventing Cretan classics, and lively markets overflowing with fresh herbs, cheeses, and olive oil. One of our favourites is Thigaterra– a one-stop spot where you can eat, drink, and shop local flavours before you head home.
Don’t miss: A visit to the Cretaquarium, which is the largest aquarium in Greece and is located just outside the city. It’s not only home to an impressive range of Mediterranean marine life, but also plays a key role in conservation efforts to protect the region’s sea creatures.
