Crete, Greece

Surrounded by busy tavernas, cafés and gift shops, this romantic port dating to the 14th century is illuminated at night by a Venetian-era lighthouse. Firka Fortress is also worth a visit on the northwestern side of the port, as is the neighbourhood of Splantzia, filled with churches and museums. If you wish to venture outside the old town, the Public Market and Public Gardens fill the city with colour and life.

There are plenty of picturesque villages to discover in Crete, including Elos, surrounded by forests and famed for its Chestnut festival. Also take the time to explore the beautiful Peza region, known as prime wine country. Drive through the area to take in the wild beauty of the vine-covered countryside and visit the stunning showroom of Boutari Winery for a tour and taste.

When visiting Cretan villages, be sure to stroll through quaint local shops. Look out for local woodcarvings, pottery and traditional Cretan costumes.

Chania is home to a wide range of natural beauties including the famous gorge of Samaria. The 18km long attraction is a real marvel, blessed with running water and ponds. The gorge is renowned as the longest gorge in Europe and one of the most impressive in the region.

Crete is bursting with churches and monasteries waiting to be marveled at. Be sure to visit Agia Triada Tsagarolon and Chrisoskalitissa Monastery, perched on an enormous black rock overlooking the bay beyond.

Iraklion, Rethymno and Chania have their share of a la mode nightclubs, but to experience the real Crete, look out for traditional music and dance at tavernas or village festivals. Cretan dance and music are the most exuberant in Greece—no one can resist the spirit and enthusiasm of this most important aspect of local culture. After all, Zorba the Greek was filmed in Crete! Platanias and Paleochora are perfect places to spend your evenings, full of quaint taverns, trendy cafes and bars, and bustling clubs.

Crete's rich history dates to the Neolithic period, when people first appeared on the island around 6000 BC. Interestingly, the Minoan civilization dominated the island for over 1200 years, with many remnants of this ancient civilisation found around the island. The most renowned site worth visiting is the Palace of Knossos. Here, you’ll spot beautiful frescos and imposing architecture. You can also see fascinating artefacts from past civilisations in several museums including the Archeological Museum of Chania, housed in a 14th-century Venetian church.

Crete is home to outstanding beaches with long stretches of white sand and coloured pebbles. Some of the most famous are Agia Marina Beach and Kalyves Beach, located in one of the greenest areas of Greece about 20km east of Chania. For the more adventurous at heart, plenty of deserted coves and lovely bays are scattered along the Cretan coast to explore.

Just off the coast of Chania is the uninhabited small islet called Elafonissi – the perfect spot to spend the whole day relaxing on the deserted beaches or exploring the island’s flora and fauna. Balos Beach in Kissamos is another stunner. It’s also one of the most photographed locations in all of Greece! While you’re beach-hopping in Crete, try out some fun water sports or sporting activities, including deep-sea diving, mountaineering, kite surfing and sailing.