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History, beaches and nature: a Crete vacation has it all to offer
Crete Vacation
Crete is the all-rounder among the Greek islands. The beaches are fantastic and there's so much more! As the largest of the Greek islands, it not only offers dream beaches, but also mysterious ancient ruins and vibrant cities. Picture yourself lounging on the pink sands of Elafonisi, exploring the Palace of Knossos, savoring fresh meze in a quaint tavern, hiking through olive groves, or dancing under the starry sky—if that doesn't sound like the perfect vacation, what does? Whether you’re seeking adventure and relaxation, beach holidays, family vacations, or a romantic getaway, Crete is a place to create unforgettable moments.
Cheapest flight
starts at NaN
Round trip
Flight time (ca.)
3:00 hrs.
from Frankfurt
Airports
HER & CHQ
Heraklion & Chania
Current time
UTC: + 2 hrs.
Why Crete
Snorkeling paradise: Crete boasts some of the Mediterranean's best snorkeling spots, with crystal-clear waters and stunning underwater life. Spots like Ammoudi, Loutro, or Itanos Beach are not to be missed.
Warm welcome: The locals are known for their great hospitality. Plus, Crete is a food lover’s paradise! The local cuisine with its fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, will make any foodie’s heart happy.
Year-round comfort: With over 300 sunny days a year, Crete offers ideal vacation weather all year-round. You can enjoy the beaches in summer and explore the hiking trails in autumn, there’s an ideal time for every activity!
Elafonisi: pink sand and clear waterElafonisi Beach in southwestern Crete is a magical experience with its pink sand and crystal-clear waters. The perfect beach for families—kids can splash safely in the water while the adults soak up the sun. Tip: Arrive early during high season to ensure a good spot at this popular beach.
Balos Lagoon, a pure paradiseBalos is a definite must-see! With turquoise waters, white sand, and a top opportunity for snorkeling. The perfect spot to chill and enjoy the view—pure relaxation guaranteed. The path to the lagoon is a short hike, so bring your camera to capture some amazing scenery.
Vai beach: palm grove and turquoise watersVai Beach is like something out of a postcard with its exotic palms and turquoise waters. It’s the perfect spot to kick back and sip on a coconut. Fun Fact: Vai Beach has the largest natural palm grove in Europe.1/3
Party in HeraklionHeraklion is the place to be for night owls. Bars, clubs, and taverns—the party here doesn’t stop until the early morning. So, party people, let's go! Pro-tip: Start the night in the Lakkos district—it’s the go-to place for cool bars.
Chania nights: pure romanceHow about cocktails at the Venetian harbor in a serene atmosphere? With sea views and stunning sunsets, Chania is the perfect setting for a romantic evening. Finish the night with dinner in one of the cozy taverns in the old town. It’s perfect for a date or just winding down the night.
Rethymno beach parties: dance until dawnRethymno is famous for its beach parties. Whether it's chill beach bars or bustling clubs—here, nights turn into days. Tip: The Baja Beach Club is the place to be for great drinks and chill beats overlooking the ocean.1/3
Samaria Gorge: hiking adventureThe Samaria Gorge is a real adventure. It’s one of the longest gorges in Europe and boasts stunning landscapes with exciting hiking routes. The path takes you along slopes covered in pines and other exotic plants.
Lasithi Plateau: birthplace of ZeusThe Lasithi Plateau isn’t just about windmills; it’s also home to the Cave of Zeus. The king of the gods was supposedly born in this exact cave—an epic story and an awesome place to explore.
Preveli Beach: palms and riverPreveli Beach is a real hidden gem. At this spot, the Megalopotamos River merges with the sea, encircled by a beautiful palm grove. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk or a leisurely boat ride.1/3
Flights to Crete - Heraklion
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Flights to Crete - Chania
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Bucket List for your Crete vacation
"Whenever I fly to Crete with Discover Airlines, I’m always amazed by the island's diversity. Whether visiting ancient ruins or relaxing on one of the gorgeous beaches, Crete has it all. Always a highlight from above!"
Derek, Captain A330
1. Time travel to antiquity
Want to dive into Crete’s history? Check out the Palace of Knossos! It’s packed with fascinating insights into Minoan culture, full of myths and legends. A must-see for history buffs!
2. Beyond the beaches
Nature lovers and families, this is for you! The Botanical Park and Gardens of Crete near Chania are the perfect peaceful spot full of birds singing and floral scents. The ideal location for a picnic in the greenery.
3. Hippie Vibes
The caves in Matala village were once a popular hippie hangout. Walking through the rocky landscape is still a cool experience today. The annual Matala Beach Festival is a blast with art workshops, theater performances, and live music.
4. Quad tour: action through olive groves
Looking for some action? A quad tour through Crete’s olive grove will get your adrenaline pumping. Drive through green landscapes, dusty trails, and discover hidden mountain villages. Perfect for adventure seekers!
5. Harbor chill
Fancy a slow paced day? Agios Nikolaos, with its harbor and Voulismeni Lake, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy some delicious food in a tavern and soak up the atmosphere of the charming town.
Weather & best travel time
Spring and fall are great for families and active travelers who want to hike or sightsee in mild weather and with fewer crowds. Summer is great for beach lovers who don’t mind busier crowds. For couples or hiking enthusiasts, May is ideal when the island is still quiet, and nature is in full bloom.
Best time to travel
April - May & October - November
Most pleasant temperatures
May - June & September - October
Most sunshine hours
July
High season
July & August
Getting around
Crete has plenty of ways to get around. Renting a car allows for the most flexibility, letting you explore the island on your own schedule. Buses are a cheap and convenient alternative. From Heraklion and Chania airports, regular buses run to the city and major tourist spots. They're affordable and great for getting to know your bearings and seeing the island. Taxis are also available and are the faster option, especially convenient if you have lots of luggage. It's best to book these in advance to avoid waiting or high tariffs. Book your flights to Crete with Discover Airlines and you're all set!
Do's and Dont's in Crete
Visit local taverns:
Make sure to try traditional Cretan dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh fish. Family-run taverns are often the best!
Plan at the last minute:
It is recommended to plan visits to popular spots like the Palace of Knossos or Samaria Gorge in advance. This saves time and avoids disappointment.
Olive oil tours:
Learn all about how Cretan olive oil is produced. Many tours include tastings too—a real treat!
Stick to tourist hotspots:
Crete has so much more to offer beyond the touristy areas. Check out smaller villages and remote beaches to experience the island’s authentic side.
Park illegally:
Don’t just park anywhere! Especially in small villages and popular beaches, respect the parking rules and use designated spots to avoid fines while respecting local infrastructure.
Get up early:
Head to the Palace of Knossos early in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds. You'll get to explore this historic site peacefully.
Questions & answers about your Crete vacation
Did you know?
In Greek mythology, Crete was home to the first robot, Talos. Talos was a giant bronze man who guarded the island and scared off intruders with his fiery hugs.