It's the largest Greek island and the fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean. The largest town is the capital‚ Heraklion‚ which is also Crete’s administrative and commercial centre. As a visitor‚ you can expect around 300 days of sunshine per year and temperatures in the region of 30 degrees or more thanks to the island's Mediterranean climate. This makes Crete one of the sunniest islands in the Mediterranean. A mountain range stretches across the whole island‚ starting at a fairly low level in the north and steepening towards the south coast. Probably the best-known mountain on the island is Mount Ida‚ which also features the island's highest peak‚ Psilotiris‚ which is 2456 metres high.

A blue and white nature and hiking paradise

Crete is ideal for those who prefer to reach their destination on foot rather than by hire car‚ as the island boasts a wide variety of flora and is known as the home of numerous herbs.

The spectacular Samaria Gorge captivates many a hiking fan‚ and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Europe. Do you prefer to stay away from the crowds of tourists? If so‚ we recommend a hike through parts of Sitia Geopark. From Mouliana and Cape Sidero in the north‚ then southwards towards Xerokampos‚ the landscape is dotted with historic villages‚ picturesque mountain landscapes and idyllic coastal areas waiting to be discovered on countless hiking routes. Have you always wanted to see a waterfall? If so‚ we have an enchanting hiking tip for you. Start your hike on Richtis beach‚ and after around 30 minutes you’ll end up in the midst of its namesake‚ Richtis Gorge. A waterfall awaits you here‚ descending along moss-covered slopes and into a small lagoon.

Beaches

Picturesque beaches‚ turquoise water‚ and bays as far as the eye can see. Greece's beaches are often compared to the Caribbean - and even paradise!

Vai Beach is situated in the northeast of Crete. One of the few genuine palm beaches in Europe‚ it is home to the rare palm species “Phoenix theophrastii”‚ which stretch as far as the white sand.

Elafonisi and Balos beaches‚ the long sandy beach of Falassarna‚ the turquoise bay of Xerokambos and the picturesque bay of Seitan Limani beach are also hugely popular. We advise against making the descent to Seitan Limani unless you are wearing sturdy footwear.

If you like peace and quiet‚ you’ll love the bay of Ammoudion beach‚ located in the southeast of the island.

Sights

Crete - mountain idylls and antiquity

If you want to immerse yourself in the real Greece‚ you really should visit the idyllic and historic mountain villages in the southwest of the island.

In Kouses‚ a small village with a population of 300‚ you will find alleyways surrounded by traditional Greek stone houses as well as the herb shop “Botano”‚ which featured in the German TV programme “Zu Tisch auf Kreta” on ZDF. All varieties of Cretan teas and spices are available there.

Chania‚ known as the loveliest town in Crete‚ boasts a magnificent old town‚ numerous historical buildings‚ archaeological relics from the Minoan civilisation‚ and a Venetian harbour with a lighthouse. The cosy tavernas and cafés on the attractive harbour promenade are the perfect place to linger and relax.

Other notable sights on the island of Crete are the exquisite Agia Triada monastery with its Orthodox church‚ the ancient Knossos Palace‚ the Roman settlement of Lasaia‚ the fortress in Rethymno‚ the impressive harbour fortress in Koules‚ and Aptera‚ a city state in ancient times.

Food & drink

There’s a saying in Crete‚ “Let’s eat bread”‚ which means‚ “Be my guest”.

Tavernas and fresh fish can be found all over Greece. However‚ stews are a real staple of Cretan cuisine. One of the most popular dishes on Crete is tsigariasto. This is an oven-baked dish in which vegetables and potatoes are braised with goat or lamb until the meat falls apart. Fresh‚ home-baked bread is served with every meal.

Come to the Mediterranean to experience the delicious flavours of Cretan cuisine‚ and enjoy your food with a glass of wine‚ fresh from the region.

Love to LEAV to Kreta!

Book your flight to Heraklion in Crete now! Become a beLEAVer!