Things to see and do in Crete

Just a stone's throw from Heraklion, the legendary Palace of Knossos invites you on a journey through time spanning almost 4,000 years. As the largest Minoan palace and the most famous archaeological site on the island, the Palace of Knossos is one of the undisputed highlights of any trip to Greece.

So it's no wonder that the impressive site attracts almost 500,000 visitors a year. If you want to explore the historical site in detail and learn more about the world-famous legend of the Minotaur, you should bring enough time with you and join one of the fantastic guided tours on site.

After visiting Knossos Palace, it is worth taking a trip to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to find out more about the excavation site and important Minoan finds.

Get a combined ticket for the palace and museum and use your visit to one of the most important collections of antiquities in Greece to relive almost 5,500 years of history with countless objects.

For example, admire the Phaistos Disc, the impressive sarcophagus of the Holy Trinity and the Ring of Minos. Or be enchanted by the fresco of the Leap of the Bull.

Southwest of Crete, an (almost) Caribbean flair awaits beach holidaymakers and those seeking relaxation. To reach this natural treasure, however, you first have to follow the almost 1.5-kilometre-long sandbank of Crete to the offshore island paradise.

Then enjoy the beautiful sandy beach of Elafonisi, which shimmers pink due to tiny shell particles. Refresh yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the national park. Discover the fantastic flora and fauna. Observe starfish, small fish and, with a bit of luck, even turtles up close. And spend an unforgettable day on Greece's enchanting coast.

A visit to the Arkadi Monastery near Rethymnon brings Greek history to life. It was here that the Cretans fought back against their Ottoman occupiers in 1866 and laid the foundations for the island's independence in 1897.

So if you want to find out more about the history of Crete, you should visit the basilica, the monastery museum and the historic powder magazine. If you look closely, you can still see bullets fired during the defensive battles of 1866 in the stump of the old cypress tree in the monastery courtyard.

The charming coastal town of Chania is one of the most beautiful places in Crete. Visit the multicultural town and marvel at its multifaceted architecture.

From the Venetian harbor and the majestic Porta Sabbionara to the impressive Hasan Pasha Mosque, the Egyptian lighthouse and the Jewish quarter, there is plenty to discover here.

In addition, the historic old town of Chania is particularly impressive with its countless winding alleyways and various cozy cafés and restaurants. These are perfect for enjoying the spectacular flair of the city with a glass of wine and a local specialty or two.

A true highlight for hikers and active travelers in Greece is the picturesque Samaria Gorge in western Crete. One of the longest gorges in Europe, it stretches nearly 10 miles (16 km) between sheer rock walls that rise up to 1,970 feet (600 m).

A hike through the gorge is the perfect way to experience Crete’s unique nature and its enchanting flora and fauna up close. Cross the river again and again on charming wooden bridges, take in breathtaking views, and marvel at the “Iron Gate,” where the cliffs narrow to just 10 feet (3 m) apart.

Holidaymakers who want to observe Crete's fascinating underwater world up close should visit the fabulous CretAquarium in Gournes. In addition to turtles, jellyfish, grouper, sand and tiger sharks, an impressive 2,000 animals can be found in 60 different tanks under the surface of the water. At the same time, various interactive stations invite you to learn more about the life of the sea creatures and the sensitive ecosystem of the Mediterranean. So don't hesitate and set off (together with your children) on an unforgettable discovery tour of the colorful Cretan marine world!

The small village of Matala on Crete's south coast is particularly popular with visitors interested in history. Because while Zeus, according to Greek legend, came ashore in Matala in the form of a bull with the Phoenician princess Europa, you can still visit a group of Neolithic caves here today.

These were mainly used as burial sites during the Neolithic period, but were actually inhabited in the 1960s. Celebrities such as Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens are said to have spent the night here.

If you want to refresh yourself after visiting the caves on Matala's coast, you should visit the red sandy beach of Kokkini Ammos !

Visit the beautiful harbor town of Agios Nikolaos on the Gulf of Mirabello for an unforgettable vacation on Crete. Explore the popular town on a relaxed stroll through the old town or enjoy the many local delicacies in one of the charming cafés and typical tavernas.

Take a boat tour directly from the town's harbour to admire the beautiful harbour town with its colorful row of houses from the water. Or relax on the shores of the impressive Voulismeni lake. Whatever you decide, a visit to Agios Nikolaos should not be missed on your vacation.

The island of Spinalonga is just 9 miles (15 km) from Agios Nikolaos. The last leper colony in Greece was located here until 1957. From 1903, lepers were condemned to a life of isolation here.

Today, the moving history of the island and its inhabitants can be traced through numerous information boards, photos and former buildings. However, you can also visit the remains of a Venetian fortress on Spinalonga, which was built here in the 16th century and currently offers visitors a fantastic view of the coast of Crete.

Just 25 miles (40 km) from Heraklion, the fascinating ruins of Gortyn offer an insight into what is probably the oldest code of law in Europe. The large inscription dates back to the 5th century BC and still includes twelve of the original 42 stone blocks, which deal with rules of conduct and regulations ranging from family law to criminal law.

A visit here can also be perfectly combined with an excursion to the nearby ruins of the Basilica of Titus, the Temple of Apollo and the large labyrinth cave. Plan enough time for this and then take your time to reflect on your impressions back in Heraklion.

In Preveli, Crete's second largest palm grove offers a spectacular backdrop. Here, the metre-high palm trees not only line the coast, but also the banks of the Megalopotamos mountain stream and the nearly 3.7-acre (15,000 m²) Preveli Lake.

Nature lovers, active vacationers and those seeking relaxation will all get their money's worth here. Simply explore the breathtaking surroundings. Follow the emerald green river to the sea. Refresh yourself in the enchanting lake. Or enjoy the unique view over the cliffs from the west.

Another highlight for outdoor fans and active vacationers is a visit to the Lassithi Plateau in the east of the island. Experience the Cretan mountains up close on unforgettable hiking excursions.

Visit local sights such as the Marian monastery of Kera Kardiotissa. Or go in search of clues in the cave of Psychro. According to Greek mythology, not only was Zeus born here, but the cave is also considered one of the most important cult sites of the Minoans.

In any case, one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in Crete is waiting to be discovered on the nearly 50-square-mile (130 km²) plateau.

Experienced hikers who are in the mood for more after trekking on the Lassithi Plateau should definitely not miss out on the White Mountains of Crete.

At an altitude of up to 8,040 feet (2,450 m), you can explore Crete's largest mountain massif here. Follow the serpentines to Omalos and start an unforgettable trekking tour through the rugged mountain world from here. Be inspired by the solitude of the region and the fascinating rock formations of limestone, granite and dolomite. Enjoy the spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks, the Samaria Gorge and the surrounding region.