

Explore Crete with private guides, boutique hotels, and fully customized itineraries designed by travel experts.
Your tailor-made itinerary – No cost, no commitment
Excellent
4.4 of 5
4,960Reviews
Excellent
Nature lovers or history buffs? Gourmets or beach lovers? Take a trip to Crete, this Greek island with many treasures, where you'll find it all. Between the undeniable hospitality of its inhabitants, its paradisiacal beaches and other mythical sites, your stay in Crete will be one to remember.

The capital of the island of the gods

The most beautiful city in Crete

Greek vacation paradise
Chania is one of Crete’s most beautiful cities, known for its Venetian and Ottoman architectural heritage, colorful harbor, and charming old town streets. From here, head west to Balos Beach, where soft white sand meets brilliant turquoise waters — a true island paradise. Further south, the village of Paleochora offers a laid-back atmosphere and scenic coastal views. Adventurers shouldn’t miss the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s most impressive hiking routes, with dramatic cliffs and breathtaking natural scenery.
Set along the Bay of Almyros, Rethymno offers a picturesque harbor, charming old town, and vibrant local culture. Continue your journey south to Agia Galini, a hillside village with steep, winding streets and coastal views, or visit Plakias, once a small fishing village, now known for its beautiful bay and relaxed vibe. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the nearby region of Spili, home to spectacular gorges, vineyards, and scenic walking trails.
Crete’s capital, Heraklion, offers a rich mix of culture, history, and coastal charm. Stroll through its historic streets to visit museums, Venetian landmarks, and vibrant markets. Nearby, the village of Zaros offers peaceful mountain and sea views. Don’t miss Matala, a former hippie enclave famous for its pink cliffs and seaside caves. History lovers can explore the archaeological site of Malia, home to one of the island’s most significant Minoan palaces.
In Crete’s Lassithi region, discover the seaside resort of Elounda and the nearby peninsula of Spinalonga, once a historic fortress and now a fascinating island to explore. Agios Nikolaos offers charming hillside streets lined with olive and almond trees and scenic harbor views. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, visit Sitia and its surrounding countryside, where hiking trails lead to hidden caves and centuries-old monasteries. If you’re looking for tranquility, head to the quiet old quarter of Ierapetra, where long sandy beaches offer year-round sunshine.
The best time to visit Crete is in spring or fall, when glorious temperatures promise a fantastic vacation and you can enjoy the island's many attractions at your leisure.
US travelers need a valid passport to enter Crete. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Whether you choose Crete or Greece, either way you'll be staying on Greek territory. So it's hard to choose between these two magnificent destinations, where the sun shines and the activities are numerous? Don't hesitate to contact our travel experts, who will be happy to advise you and help you plan a trip that meets your expectations.
Crete lies southeast of mainland Greece, surrounded by the Cretan Sea to the north, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, the Libyan Sea to the south, and the Levantine Basin to the east. The island is easily accessible by air, with flights from major European cities often connecting through Athens.
Custom holiday packages and trips that fit your budget
Itineraries built exactly to your needs
A personal English-speaking, native-European travel expert for every step
Full service assistance before, during, and after your trip
Your tailor-made itinerary – No cost, no commitment
From Knossos to Elafonissi Beach—build your Crete trip with expert planning and private guides.