Crete: Minoan Palaces, Gorges and Pink Beaches
Description
Greece's biggest island has the Palace of Knossos, hiking through Samaria Gorge and lagoon beaches like Balos and Elafonissi. Crete is a place to hire a car.
Heraklion is the airport and the Minoan history stop: the Palace of Knossos (entry about EUR 20) and the archaeological museum. The west is for beaches and hiking: Chania with its Venetian harbour, the pink sand of Elafonissi, the lagoon of Balos reached by boat from Kissamos, and Samaria Gorge, a 16 km hike that takes six to seven hours (EUR 10, open May to October).
The island is large, so choose a base. Chania is the best for visitors, while Heraklion is the best for transport. Cretan food is mostly vegetable-based, with dakos, stuffed vine leaves and wild greens everywhere, so vegetarians eat well even without special restaurants.
Activities
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Palace of KnossosThe largest Minoan palace, with the throne room and frescoes. Entry about EUR 20; a guided tour is extra. Go early to beat the heat and the coaches.Book
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Elafonissi BeachA pink-sand lagoon beach on the south-west tip, with shallow water that is good for families.Free
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Chania Old Venetian HarbourA picturesque harbour with a lighthouse, mosque and tavernas; free to walk.Free
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Heraklion Archaeological MuseumThe best collection of Minoan art in the world; entry about EUR 12.Book
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Rethymno Old TownA Venetian old town with a fortress and lanes full of tavernas.Free
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Top things to do in Crete
Gallery
Where to eat
Mid-range Veganato
Vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Iraklio 712 02, rated 5.0 on Google by 1,033 guests.
Vegetarian options
Mid-range MAD IRIE
Vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Matala 702 00, rated 4.9 on Google by 484 guests.
Vegetarian options
Mid-range Merastri
Vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Iraklio 713 06, rated 4.8 on Google by 2,794 guests.
Vegetarian options
Mid-range Aloni - Traditional Cretan Restaurant
Vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Greece, rated 4.9 on Google by 768 guests.
Vegetarian options
Mid-range Arodamos Stone Grove
Vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Greece, rated 4.9 on Google by 751 guests.
Vegetarian options
Mid-range Avli in Malia
Vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Crete, rated 4.9 on Google by 5,005 guests.
Vegetarian options
Mid-range Thigaterra - The Art of Slow Food
Vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Ag. Dimitrios 714 14, rated 4.7 on Google by 3,366 guests.
Vegetarian options
Mid-range Peskesi
Classic regional dishes are served in this snug, rustic-chic eatery that has stone walls & a bar.
Vegetarian optionsWhere to stay
Intra Muros Hostel
Simple rooms & dorms with shared bathrooms in a trendy hostel offering a kitchen & a roof terrace.
Rethymno Youth Hostel
Low-key dorms in a straightforward, vibrant hostel with a shared kitchen, a dining room & a patio.
Stella Island Resort & Spa (Adults Only)
Sleek quarters in a choice resort with outdoor pools, a spa & multiple upscale restaurants.
The Royal Senses Resort & Spa Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton
Mid-range stay in Panormos 740 57, rated 4.5 on Google by 1,215 guests.
Kimpton la Mer Crete by IHG
Upmarket adults-only resort offering serene rooms with balconies or patios, plus a beach & spa.
Nana Princess Hotel
Warm quarters in a premium hotel offering sea views, dining & a spa, plus bars & an outdoor pool.
Amira Luxury Resort & Spa
Luxury stay in Greece, rated 4.8 on Google by 750 guests.
JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa
Luxury stay in Greece, rated 4.6 on Google by 319 guests.