Are you planning on visiting the beautiful Greek island of Crete sometime soon? Do you want to know what you should do and where to go while you are there?

Crete is a stunningly beautiful Greek island well known for its beaches, ancient ruins, and charming village life. It’s perfect for a relaxing getaway or an exciting holiday full of sightseeing, culture, and adventure. The possibilities are endless, from accomodations at a luxurious hotel Crete to meandering the ancient Palace of Knossos.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach with a cocktail in hand or explore the fascinating history of this region, make sure to check out our list of the best places to visit in Crete – you won’t be disappointed!

The Palace of Knossos

One of the first things you should try to do while visiting Crete is to see the Palace of Knossos. This palace is known to be the largest and the most important Minoan Palace on the whole island of Crete. The palace was built around 1900 BCE and was home to the legendary King Minos. 

The palace is located within the city of Heraklion and is one to put right at the top of your must-see list while staying in Crete. It offers an abundance of Greek history and archaeology that anyone would find fascinating. 

Sitia 

Sitia is a beautiful town in the northeastern region of Crete. It has roughly 8000 people and is the capital of the Lasithi district. It is known for its stunning beaches, beautiful Venetian castle, and traditional pottery. 

If you are considering traveling here, there is no better way than to get to Sitia by ferry from either Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos. Take the ferry to explore the breathtaking coastline and get close to the glorious rocky cliffs. In addition to its jaw-dropping beauty and spectacular waterside views, Sitia offers many other activities. From remarkable archaeological spots to picturesque mountain villages, hiking trails, and unbelievable sunsets – all is yours to explore here.

The Beaches

While visiting Crete or any Greek island, you cannot miss out on visiting the beaches. Greece, including its islands, is incredibly known for its stunning beaches, whether they are busy and full of activity or secluded and great for a private getaway. There are so many beautiful beaches to pick some, so whether you are staying in Chersonissos or Loutros, you can almost always find a stunning beach to visit.

There is no doubt that Crete has some of the best beaches in all of Greece. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Elafonisi, Falassarna, and Balos. Whether you want to relax on the beach and catch some sun or be active while swimming, snorkeling, or windsurfing, you’ll find the perfect spot on the island of Crete. 

The Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is by far one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Crete. The Samaria Gorge spans over 16 kilometers long and is definitely a must-do for those who seek thrill, love the outdoors, and are keen for a good hike. 

The Samaria Gorge is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island of Crete. The gorge is 16 kilometers long and is a great place for hiking and nature lovers. The gorge is also home to the endangered Cretan wild goat, so keep your eyes peeled!

The City of Chania

When it comes to the best places to visit in Crete, the city of Chania should be near the top of your list. This city is the second largest city on the island of Crete and is one of the best places to visit if you want a traditional and authentic Greek experience. 

The city is filled to the brim with culture, plenty of narrow streets, an abundance of cafes and restaurants, and is home to many museums and galleries. While here, check out the Venetian harbor for even more fun. 

Mount Ida

Moving on down our list, Mount Ida is the next place you can’t miss out on when visiting Crete. Mount Ida is actually the tallest mountain on the island of Crete, making it a great place for hiking and nature lovers. The mountain is also home to several rare plants and plenty of beautiful animals, alongside some of the most incredible countryside views you will ever witness.