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Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, 160km from the Greek mainland, separating the Aegean from the Libyan Sea. Crete is popular for its stunning beaches, wild natural beauty, mouthwatering cuisine and rich history.
Crete has a varied landscape consisting of mountains, beautiful gorges, rivers, and lakes. It is home to some of the finest beaches in the Mediterranean, with endless kilometres of golden coastline. The island also has some of the famous archaeological sites of Greece, 15th-century monasteries, regal palaces and fascinating museums. In addition, it is the ideal destination for sports and adventure activities like canyoning, hiking and scuba diving.
Crete was once the centre of Minoan civilization, regarded as the earliest civilization in Europe. In coastal areas, towns and villages are divided into two parts: "kato" for the lower villages and "epano" for the upper ones. It is helpful to name these parts while seeking help from locals.
Crete is divided into four main areas - Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Lasithi. Heraklion is the biggest city in Crete and one of the important cities in Greece. Chania is the second largest city on the island and lies on the northern coast of Crete. It has the island's main airport and is a good base for exploring the region's attractions. Rethymno is a wonderful representation of a Renaissance city, displaying a special historical charm. The north part of the island, like Chania and Heraklion, is great for exploring the bars, clubs and nightlife. In contrast, the southern part, including Rethymnon or Agios Nikolaos, is great for the outdoors. These islands are connected by ferries.
Getting Around: The island's diverse landscapes and remote attractions are best accessed by car.
Getting a car or bike rental is convenient and straightforward on Crete. You'll find rental services readily available throughout the island, including near the airport, cruise ports, and ferry terminals. Taxis can be expensensive in Crete.
Bus service is inexpensive but can lead to loss of time due to limited information on timetables.
Stay Options: For first time travellers, Chania is often suggested as the ideal place to stay initially. Rethymno also stands out as a popular spot, particularly for those seeking vibrant nightlife experiences.
Itinerary Planning: You can visit Crete's best beaches by booking a VIP boat tour (Motor boat, sailing boat, catamaran) or renting a boat and exploring by yourself.
Visit outdoor sites in the early morning or late afternoon as the weather can get very hot.
Combined Tickets: Special tickets for a certain group of archaeological sites and museums are available in different towns, to save money. There are no universal cards available to travel within Crete.
Heraklion: Both Knossos and Archaeologiacal museum can be visisted woth a combined ticked costing EUR 16(valid for 3 days).
Lassithi: 6 sites and museums in Lassisthi area can be visited with special ticket costing EUR 7(valid for 5 days).
Chania: 4 sites and museums in Chania region can be visited with a EUR 6 special ticket which is valid for 3 days.
Shopping in Crete offers a delightful blend of traditional crafts, local products, leather goods, raki, and modern goods. Whether you're seeking unique souvenirs or trendy fashion items, Crete has something for everyone. Here are some major areas where you can enjoy shopping on the island:
Heraklion: The bustling capital city boasts a variety of shops, from charming boutiques to well-known brands.
Explore the vibrant streets around Lion Square (Morosini Fountain) for local artisanal crafts, such as pottery, leather goods, and handmade jewelry.
Chania: Wander through the picturesque Old Town with its narrow cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops and quaint boutiques.
Discover the lively Agora Market, where you can haggle for fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Don't miss the Leather Street (Stivanadika) for high-quality leather goods, including bags, belts, and jackets.
Rethymnon: Stroll along the charming Venetian Harbor and browse through the waterfront shops selling handmade ceramics, textiles, and local artwork.
Explore the vibrant shopping streets of Arkadiou and Ethnikis Antistaseos for trendy fashion boutiques and souvenir shops.
Visit the Rethymnon Municipal Market for a diverse selection of local products, including olive oil, honey, and traditional Cretan cheeses.
Agios Nikolaos: Enjoy shopping along the scenic Lake Voulismeni, where you'll find a mix of souvenir shops, artisanal boutiques, and waterfront cafes.
Explore the pedestrianized streets of the town center for unique handmade jewelry, local crafts, and olive wood products.
Visit the weekly market (held on Wednesdays) for fresh produce, clothing, and household items.
Traditional Villages: Venture into the island's charming villages, such as Archanes, Anogeia, and Zaros, where you can purchase authentic handmade goods directly from local artisans.
Shop for traditional textiles, embroidered linens, woven rugs, and pottery, all crafted using age-old techniques passed down through generations.
Heraklion: The island's capital boasts a dynamic nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and tavernas lining the streets of the historic Old Town. Venues like "Central Park" and "Lions Square" are popular for their eclectic music selections and energetic ambiance.
Heraklion offers a welcoming atmosphere with several bars and clubs frequented by the LGBTQ+ community. Venues like "Pixida Bar" and "Buddha Bar" are known for their inclusive ambiance and diverse clientele.
Chania: This picturesque port city offers a charming blend of traditional tavernas and modern bars. The Old Venetian Harbor is a hotspot for evening strolls and waterfront dining, while venues like "Monastery" and "Notos" attract crowds with live music and cocktails.
Rethymno: Known for its medieval old town and vibrant waterfront, Rethymno offers a diverse nightlife experience. Visitors can enjoy cocktails at trendy beach bars along the promenade or dance until dawn at clubs like "Bio Bio" and "Platanias Square."
Agios Nikolaos: This picturesque resort town features a laid-back atmosphere and a variety of seaside bars and cafes. Visitors can relax with a drink overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Voulismeni or join the party at venues like "Amalthea" and "Lotus Eaters Club."
For budget travelers exploring Crete, managing daily expenses efficiently is essential.