Top 10 Things to do in Crete

Things to do in Crete

Welcome to the beautiful island of Crete, Greece’s largest and most diverse island. With its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, mouth-watering cuisine, and vibrant culture, there is no shortage of things to do in this Mediterranean paradise. Whether you’re a history buff or a beach lover, Crete has something for everyone. In this blog post we have compiled the top 10 must-see attractions on the island that will leave you absolutely mesmerized! So, pack your bags and let’s dive into our list of the top 10 things to do in Crete!

1. Balos Beach

Balos Beach is a true gem located on the north-western tip of Crete. The beach boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and stunning views that will take your breath away. It’s no wonder that Balos Beach has become one of the most popular destinations in Crete.

To reach this paradise, you can either hike or take a boat trip from Kissamos port. If you choose to hike, be prepared for a challenging but rewarding trek down the steep hillside towards Balos Bay.

Once you arrive at Balos Beach, you’ll be awestruck by its natural beauty. Take a dip in the refreshing blue waters or sunbathe on the soft sands while taking in panoramic views of Gramvousa Island and its Venetian castle ruins.

Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water as there are limited facilities available on-site. Balos Beach is truly an unforgettable experience that should not be missed when visiting Crete!

2. Phalasarna

Phalasarna is a stunning beach located on the western side of Crete. This secluded bay offers crystal clear waters and soft golden sand, making it an ideal location for a relaxing day trip. The beach is not crowded, which adds to its charm and appeal for those seeking peacefulness.

One of the most notable features of Phalasarna Beach is that it’s divided into several smaller coves. Each section provides different amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, showers or even small taverns where visitors can enjoy traditional Greek dishes while taking in the breath-taking views.

The surrounding landscape also contributes to the uniqueness of this destination with gorgeous green hills framing the coastline. Visitors can take advantage of hiking paths around Phalassarna and explore nature trails at their own pace.

For history lovers, there are ancient ruins nearby that will pique their interest. These remains include old walls from fortifications built by pirates who once inhabited this area centuries ago.

Phalasarna Beach is perfect for anyone looking for a quiet getaway spot surrounded by natural beauty and historical significance.

3. Knossos Palace

Knossos Palace, located in the city of Heraklion, is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island of Crete. This ancient palace dates back to around 1900 BC and was once a central hub for Minoan civilization.

The palace covers an area of over 20,000 square meters and consists of four main wings with numerous rooms and courtyards. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about its fascinating history through guided tours or audio guides.

One interesting feature at Knossos Palace is the famous frescoes that have been preserved throughout the centuries. These colourful paintings depict scenes from daily life such as bull-leaping, religious ceremonies, and even depictions of mythical creatures like Minotaurs.

Another highlight at Knossos Palace is the Throne Room with its impressive staircase that leads up to a raised platform where it’s believed kings sat during important ceremonies.

For history buffs or anyone interested in ancient civilizations, a visit to Knossos Palace should be at the top of your list when visiting Crete!

4. Reptisland

Reptisland is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families looking to enjoy a unique experience in Crete. The park boasts an impressive collection of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and turtles.

As you enter the park, the first thing that will catch your attention is the sheer variety of reptiles on display. From small geckos to massive pythons, there’s something to satisfy every curiosity. You’ll get up close with creatures you’ve never seen before – giant tortoises from Madagascar or venomous cobras from Asia.

One of the highlights of Reptisland is undoubtedly their daily shows where trained staff interact with some of the larger creatures such as alligators and crocodiles. It’s an unforgettable experience watching these magnificent animals being fed while learning about their habits and preferences.

Besides viewing reptiles in their enclosures or attending shows, visitors can also explore other areas within Reptisland such as butterfly gardens or petting zoos filled with friendly rabbits and guinea pigs.

Reptisland offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of reptilian species that we don’t often see up close. Children are particularly enchanted by this attraction but adults can equally appreciate its uniqueness.

5. Lake Voulismeni

Lake Voulismeni is an enchanting and picturesque lake located in the heart of the town of Agios Nikolaos. It is known for its deep blue waters, which are believed to be bottomless. The lake has a circumference of approximately 1,200 meters and offers breath-taking views that attract tourists from all over the world.

There are many legends surrounding Lake Voulismeni, one of which suggests that it was connected to the sea by an underground tunnel at some point in time. Another legend claims that the goddess Athena used to bathe in its waters while disguised as a fisherman.

Visitors can take a stroll around the perimeter of the lake or sit on one of its many benches and enjoy a peaceful moment while taking in nature’s beauty. Boats also offer tours around the lake with informative guides telling stories about myths and legends that surround this magical place.

Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, Lake Voulismeni holds great significance for locals as well since it serves as their primary source for drinking water during summer months when demand is high.

Whether you’re looking for a serene location to relax or want to immerse yourself into local history and culture, visiting Lake Voulismeni should definitely be added onto your list!

6. Chrissi Island

Located southeast of Crete, Chrissi Island is a small paradise that boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sand beaches. The island is uninhabited, making it an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the best city.

The beaches in Chrissi Island are truly breath-taking. One of the most beautiful ones is called Golden Beach, named after its fine golden sand. Visitors can swim in the shallow waters or explore the beach’s unique rock formations.

Aside from swimming and sunbathing, there are other activities to enjoy on this island as well. Visitors can hike through its cedar forest filled with exotic flora and fauna or go snorkelling to see colourful fish and coral reefs.

One interesting fact about Chrissi Island is that it used to be a leper colony during ancient times. Its name actually means “golden” in Greek because of its abundance of yellowish rocks found throughout the island.

Visiting Chrissi Island should definitely be included on your list when visiting Crete as it offers not just stunning views but also a glimpse into history and nature’s beauty at its finest!

7. Lychnostatis Open Air Museum

Lychnostatis Open Air Museum is a unique cultural attraction located in the town of Hersonissos. The museum features exhibit that showcases the traditional way of life in Crete, including displays on agriculture, architecture, and crafts.

One of the highlights of this open-air museum is its authentic reconstruction of a Cretan village from the early 20th century. Visitors can wander through narrow streets and courtyards to get a feel for what life was like during that time period.

In addition to its historical displays, Lychnostatis also hosts workshops where visitors can learn about traditional weaving techniques, pottery making, and other crafts that are still practiced today.

The museum’s botanical gardens are another must-see feature. Here you will find over 500 plant species native to Crete, as well as herbs and medicinal plants used in traditional medicine.

Lychnostatis Open Air Museum offers an immersive experience into Cretan culture and history. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with friends or family while learning something new about this fascinating island.

8. Rethymnon Old Town

Rethymnon Old Town is a charming place that can transport you back in time. It’s easy to get lost in its narrow streets and alleys, but that’s all part of the fun! As you wander around, you’ll discover an array of Venetian and Ottoman buildings that have been lovingly restored.

One notable building is the Rimondi Fountain, which dates back to the 17th century. It features three lion heads spouting water into a basin below. The fountain was once used as a meeting point for locals and travellers alike.

Another must-see attraction is the Fortezza Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking Rethymnon Old Town. Built by the Venetians in the late 16th century, it offers stunning views over both land and sea.

As well as historical sites, Rethymnon Old Town also boasts plenty of shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. You can pick up everything from handmade ceramics to traditional Cretan rugs.

When it comes to food, there are numerous tavernas serving up delicious Greek cuisine – from fresh seafood platters to grilled meat dishes. And if you’re looking for some nightlife, there are plenty of bars and clubs open until late.

Rethymnon Old Town is definitely worth a visit if you’re in Crete – whether you’re interested in history or just want to soak up some authentic Mediterranean charm!

9. Falassarna Beach

Falassarna Beach is a true gem of Crete located in the far west of the island. It’s known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine golden sand and picturesque scenery that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The beach itself stretches over four kilometres with plenty of natural shade to relax under. The water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling with calm waves that are still enough for children to play safely. There are also many places where you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds if you prefer more comfort.

But Falassarna is not just about soaking up the sun or enjoying the refreshing sea breeze; it also offers some fascinating historical sites, such as ancient ruins from Hellenistic times. You’ll find a small museum on site displaying artifacts found during excavations in this area.

In addition to exploring history, there are plenty of activities available at Falassarna too, including windsurfing, kitesurfing and paddleboarding. If you’re looking for something less active but equally enjoyable, take a stroll along the beach while admiring the stunning sunset against a backdrop of rugged cliffs.

All in all, Falassarna Beach guarantees an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty, cultural attractions and exciting adventures!

10. Snail Farm and Fun

Snail Farm and Fun is a unique family-friendly destination in Guam. We offer a variety of fun activities for families with kids of all ages, from interactive farm activities to entertainment and educational programs. Our farm offers an array of snails that can be adopted, fed, and cared for by visitors. The farm also features a petting zoo, hay rides, pony rides, mini golf, carnival games, and more! We even offer overnight camping trips so you can experience the farmland at night. Our educational programs include lectures on sustainability and stewardship of our environment as well as classes on snail care. With Snail Farm and Fun, your family will have an unforgettable experience!

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure or cultural immersion, Crete has something for everyone. So start planning your trip today and make sure to add these must-do activities to your itinerary.

We hope that this list has inspired you to explore the beauty and diversity of Crete. Don’t forget to share your own experiences with us in the comments below!