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Your Crete Holiday
Embark on your next thrilling adventure with a Crete holiday package, and leave relaxed knowing the finer details have been taken care of. Plus with the ability to tailor your escape, you know it'll be one to remember! The best and easiest way to plan your trip to Crete is to start with its most popular cities, which include Heraklion, Chania and Limenas Chersonisou. Expedia is your one-stop shop when it comes to planning your Crete holiday. From accommodation and flights, to activities and rental cars, we're here to help you create a travel experience like no other.
Top destinations in Crete
Our guide on where to stay in Crete
Chania Town
A noteworthy feature of Chania Town is its captivating waterfront views. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Chania Central Market and Agora.
Where to stay in Crete
If you're looking for a beach-themed holiday in Crete, you're in for a treat. The island offers a wide range of exciting areas and neighborhoods to explore. From the beautiful beaches and charming cafes in Chania, to the vibrant dining and shopping scene in Heraklion, there is something for everyone. Families will love the family-friendly resorts in Rethymno, while history enthusiasts can explore the ancient ruins and museums in Knossos. For a romantic getaway, head to the picturesque port town of Agios Nikolaos. And of course, all of these areas offer stunning views of the crystal-clear sea. Get ready for a memorable beach holiday in Crete!
- Chania: Chania is a popular city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning beaches. You can explore the charming cafes and monuments in the old town, visit the museums and archaeological sites to learn about its rich history, or simply relax on the beautiful sandy beaches. The city's marina provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll, and you can also indulge in some delicious seafood at the local restaurants. With its laid-back atmosphere and crystal-clear sea, Chania is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach holiday.
- Hersonissos: Hersonissos is a small town known for its romantic ambiance and family-friendly atmosphere. The beaches here are pristine and ideal for sunbathing or water sports. You can enjoy a leisurely walk along the hilly coastline, visit the cafes for a refreshing drink, or have fun at the nearby theme park. Hersonissos also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with cocktail bars and clubs. With its beautiful scenery and range of activities, Hersonissos is a great choice for a beach holiday.
- Rethymno: Rethymno is a city that exudes charm and relaxation. Its historical monuments and marina create a unique atmosphere, while the sandy beaches offer a scenic backdrop for sunbathing and swimming. You can visit the zoo or explore the port to experience the local culture. Rethymno is also known for its secluded spots, where you can enjoy a peaceful beach experience away from the crowds. At night, you can unwind with a cocktail and enjoy the vibrant ambiance. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and cocktail culture, Rethymno is a must-visit for a beach holiday.
Explore the best activities and sights in Crete
If you're looking for a beach-themed holiday in Crete, you're in for a treat. The local atmosphere here is perfect for those seeking sun, sand, and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, charming cafes, and delicious dining options, Crete offers a wide range of experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you're interested in shopping, family-friendly activities, museums, or exploring the historical sites and ports, you'll find it all here. Popular resorts for travelers include Agios Nikolaos, Chania, and Elounda. And if you're up for some sightseeing, the two-day tours to Knossos and Samaria Gorge are highly recommended. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for a memorable holiday in Crete!
- Palace of Knossos: Immerse yourself in the rich history of ancient Greece at the Palace of Knossos. This archaeological site is a treasure trove of culture, with its stunning port views and friendly locals. Take a ferry ride to the palace, where you can dine at local restaurants and enjoy a leisurely walk along the sea. Explore the historical ruins and discover the fascinating world of archaeology. For some extra fun, visit the nearby waterpark and cool off in the crystal-clear waters.
- Old Venetian Harbor: Step back in time at the Old Venetian Harbor, a picturesque harbor surrounded by monuments and museums. With its beautiful beach and marina, this small town offers a charming atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the port and soak in the scenic sea views. You can also embark on exciting excursions to nearby volcanoes. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking stunning scenery, the Old Venetian Harbor has something for everyone.
- Balos Beach: Experience paradise at Balos Beach, a breathtaking beach known for its pristine beauty. With its soft sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach is a dream come true for beach lovers. Relax under the sun and take a refreshing dip in the turquoise sea. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning surroundings make Balos Beach the perfect destination for a beach-themed getaway.
Discover the flavours of Crete
When visiting Crete, you'll find a wide variety of delicious local food to try. Start your culinary adventure by visiting Pork to Beef Wild, a highly rated and popular restaurant known for its souvlaki. For a taste of traditional Mediterranean Greek cuisine, head to Πετούσης Αμουδαρα, a moderately rated but highly popular restaurant. And if you're craving more Mediterranean Greek dishes, make sure to visit Gramboussa Restaurant, another highly rated and popular option. These restaurants will give you a true local dining experience and allow you to savor the flavors of Crete.
Best time to visit Crete
Looking to avoid the rainy, cloudy, or uncomfortably hot or cold months? Our table below will help you find the perfect time for your visit to Crete. Here you will find a year-round average temperature of 18.6°C, reaching a peak of 26.0°C in July, August, its warmest month, and dropping to an average low of 11.6°C in January, the coolest month. The annual rainfall averages 72.5mm, with December experiencing the heaviest showers, while July is the driest month.
Month | Temperature (Celcius) | Rainfall | Cloud coverage |
January | 11.6 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
February | 12.1 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
March | 13.1 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
April | 16.8 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
May | 19.5 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
June | 23.3 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
July | 26.0 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
August | 26.0 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
September | 23.5 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
October | 21.4 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
November | 16.8 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
December | 13.4 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
Top reasons for your holiday to Crete
- Stunning Beaches: Crete is renowned for its beautiful beaches, offering sun, sand, and relaxation for beach lovers.
- Charming Cafes: The island is dotted with charming cafes where you can enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee or indulge in delicious local cuisine.
- Delightful Dining: Crete offers a wide range of dining experiences, from traditional tavernas serving authentic Greek dishes to upscale restaurants with international flavors.
- Unique Shopping: Explore the island's markets and boutiques, where you can find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional products.
- Picturesque Ports: Crete's picturesque ports, like Agios Nikolaos, provide a romantic setting with stunning views of the sea.
How to save money on a holiday to Crete
- Take advantage of the Expedia website to find package deals for your trip to Crete, Greece.
- Consider traveling during the low season in Crete, which is from October to December, to get better deals.
- Combine your flights, hotels, and car rentals on Expedia to save money.
- Check out the rewards program offered by Expedia to collect points and save even more.
- Use the search filters on Expedia to find the perfect accommodation within your budget.
- Remember that the peak season in Crete is from May to July, so plan accordingly.
Crete Essential Information
Language | Greek |
---|---|
Currency | Euros |
Local Welcome | Ya su |
Local Goodbye | Yiá sou |
Closest Airport | Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER) |
Top Sights | Agia Marina Beach, Balos Beach and Elafonissi Beach |
Our pick of the best Crete Hotel Deals
Reviewed on 22 Nov. 2024
Reviewed on 9 Dec. 2024
Reviewed on 31 Oct. 2024
Frequently asked questions
Discover the most popular places to visit in Crete
Old Venetian Harbor
Explore the waterfront in Chania Town with a trip to Old Venetian Harbor. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this quaint area.
Palace of Knossos
This stunning archaeological site is one of the world’s most important records of Minoan civilisation and it may well be the oldest city in Europe.