Crete
Crete is the southernmost and largest Greek island surrounded by three seas. The coastline of the island is more than 10 kilometers. Crete is divided into four areas.
Heraklion is the central and largest part of the island with the most developed tourist infrastructure. Here you will find the most popular resorts such as Malia and Hersonissos. The main attraction is the palace of Knossos. Lasithi - the eastern part of the island - is famous for prestigious resorts of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. Rethymno in the north and Chania on the western side of the island are characterized by wide sandy beaches and moist winds.
The climate of the island is the most gentle and healthy in Europe - the region has more than 300 sunny days a year. Crete is renowned for its unique healthy environment - the island has no industrial enterprises. The swimming season begins in late April and ends in late November. From the first days of May to the end of October, the average temperature on the island remains within 21-26 degrees. Winter temperature ranges from 13 to 19 degrees. The water temperature does not drop below 17 degrees even in winter.
Sights
Crete is a magical island where dilapidated ancient palaces and temples are harmoniously combined with comfortable hotels and trendy resorts, where modern reality is interwoven with legends and myths.
The Palace of Knossos is the main attraction of the island known to many as the labyrinth of the Minotaur. Here you can find the most unique collection of true masterpieces of ancient masters from the excavations of Crete. In addition, you will find the throne room of the greatest ancient kingdom of Europe in the Palace.
The Samaria Gorge is the longest in Europe. You can get only positive emotions and exciting experience at an altitude of one thousand two hundred meters, admiring the stunning views of snow-white mountains and unusual vegetation.
The Dikteon Cave is Lasithi's major sight. This is the place most closely associated with the ancient Greek myth: this is where the goddess Rhea gave birth to Zeus. The cave is famous not only for legends - it hides many beautiful stalagmites and stalactites of bizarre forms.
Kera Kardiotissa Convent is the monastery on the road to Lasithi dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The icon of the Virgin Kardiotissa, famous for its healing properties, is considered the main shrine of the Byzantine church that is located inside the monastery.
Spinalonga (Leper Island) will show the horrific and terrifying moments of the islanders’ history to all fans of extreme.
The Monastery of Arkadi is the most iconic relic of Crete. Mass suicide of civilians hiding from the Turks became a symbol of independence and heroism of the islanders - those who preferred death, but not slavery.
Moni Toplou Monastery - Panagia Akrotiriani or Virgin Mary of the Cape - this is one of the most beautiful and important monasteries on the island. It is located on a secluded hill and looks like a small fortress surrounded by a 10-meter-high wall.
Entertainment
Above all, Crete is a resort island. Visitors of any age and gender will be able to have some fun. Active guests will enjoy hiking, biking, jeep or horseback riding.
You can also daily visit discos and folklore nights. In addition, try soccer, archery, horseback riding, theater performances and more. Experienced instructors of private centers for windsurfing and scuba diving will teach you the basics of diving or surfing. You just won’t get bored.
Beaches
This is a special attraction of the island. Some of the most famous and fashionable ones are particularly noteworthy. Each of them has its own distinctive feature, for example: Elafonisi is a small beach with pink sand and very warm water. Shallow Makrigialos is an ideal place for families with children. Vai has gained popularity due to the largest natural palm forest in Europe. Preveli is a rocky beach.
What to bring
Usually visitors bring home Cretan olive oil, flavored honey or delicious cheeses. As a souvenir you can buy unique pottery and various items made of wool and wood from local craftsmen.
The Cretan cuisine
It is possible to visit this island without trying the local cuisine. Local taverns on the coast will offer 12 varieties of dishes for “simple peasants.” Live music until the morning and the famous Sirtaki will not leave anyone cold.
Crete is an ideal destination for honeymooners or tourists coming to explore the history and nature of the island. After all, Crete will show enough entertainment and attractions for everyone.
