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Top reasons to visit Crete

• Stunning Beaches: Crete is famed for its picturesque beaches, from family-friendly Rethymno Beach to secluded nudist spots, perfect for relaxation.
• Rich History: Explore ancient sites and serene monasteries that showcase the island's fascinating cultural heritage.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking trails and activities like golf and water parks, catering to all adventure seekers.
• Vibrant Local Life: Experience live music and friendly locals, adding to the island's warm atmosphere.
• Island Hopping: Use Crete as a base to explore nearby Greek islands, enhancing your travel experience.

Find great hotels in Crete

Discover the enchanting island of Crete, where a variety of hotel accommodations await to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking family-friendly resorts, beachfront havens, or adventurous aparthotels, Crete boasts a diverse selection of the best hotels. Immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying top-notch services and facilities tailored for a memorable getaway. Your ideal Cretan escape is just around the corner!

• Creta Maris Resort - All Inclusive: This 5-star resort is perfect for families and business travellers seeking a vibrant beach holiday experience. Creta Maris Resort stands out with its all-inclusive offerings, including unlimited dining options, children’s activities, and wellness classes like Pilates and yoga. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach, a variety of land and water activities, and business amenities such as a conference centre and co-working space. The numerous entertainment and fitness options, along with a dedicated children’s club and arcade, make it an ideal choice for those looking to mix relaxation with family fun.
• Mitsis Laguna Resort and Spa: This eco-certified 5-star resort combines luxury with environmentally friendly practices, making it a haven for eco-conscious travellers. Situated on the beachfront, Mitsis Laguna Resort offers a full-service spa featuring detoxification wraps and sports massages. Guests can unwind by the pool or enjoy the on-site waterslide. The elegant atmosphere, paired with a focus on sustainability, creates a unique spa-themed getaway that rejuvenates both body and mind, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat by the sea.
• Agapi Beach Resort - Premium All Inclusive: This 4-star all-inclusive resort caters to adventurous families and spa enthusiasts alike. Agapi Beach Resort offers a range of adventure sports, including waterskiing and parasailing, along with nearby hiking and biking opportunities. The resort features a full spa with treatments like body scrubs and a Turkish bath, ensuring relaxation after an active day. With its family-friendly amenities, including a children's club and shared playground, this resort provides a delightful balance of adventure and leisure for guests of all ages.

Where to stay in Crete

Crete offers a stunning blend of beautiful beaches, rich culture, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for every traveller. Explore Rethymno Beach for its family-friendly atmosphere and striking sea views. Discover secluded spots and romantic locales that capture the essence of island life. With nearby islands to visit and a welcoming vibe, your next trip to Crete promises unforgettable experiences amidst friendly locals and breathtaking landscapes.

• Chania: Nestled in the western part of Crete, Chania is a delightful city that harmoniously blends stunning beaches, rich culture, and outdoor adventures. Its charming old town, with narrow alleys and Venetian architecture, invites exploration. The city experiences a moderate seasonal influx of visitors, peaking in April and from June to July, making it a vibrant hub for beach lovers and culture enthusiasts. Must-visit attractions include the lively public market, where local produce and crafts abound, and the nearby stunning beaches, including family-friendly options and even nudist beaches for the adventurous. Chania is perfect for those seeking a taste of both relaxation and cultural immersion.
• Hersonissos: Located on the northern coast of Crete, Hersonissos is a bustling city and a favourite among families and beachgoers, especially during the summer months from June to August. The area is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring a plethora of water parks, golf courses, and a picturesque marina. Visitors can enjoy the sun on beautiful sandy beaches, while the lively promenade offers an array of dining and entertainment options. With its seasonal appeal and family-friendly activities, Hersonissos promises an exciting holiday experience filled with fun and adventure.
• Rethymno: Situated between Chania and Heraklion, Rethymno boasts a captivating blend of historical charm and natural beauty. This city’s visitor numbers peak in the summer months, especially from June to August, attracting those keen on beach life and cultural exploration. The well-preserved Venetian harbour and old town showcase a rich history, while nearby beaches provide ample opportunities for relaxation. Adventure seekers can indulge in activities like karting and educational tours, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Rethymno offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and cultural adventures for all types of travellers.

Things to do in Crete

Crete offers a fantastic mix of beach, outdoor, and cultural experiences. You can enjoy a round of golf, splash about in a water park, or explore the island's stunning hiking trails. Don't miss out on live music performances and the chance to discover interesting places around Crete, making your holiday a memorable adventure filled with diverse activities.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience in Crete, visit Chania Central Market and Agora, both bustling public markets where you can find local goods. If you're up for a drive, head to OLEA Shopping Center for a mix of family-friendly shops and city vibes.

Recreation

Pankritio Stadium offers an invigorating atmosphere with its sports activities, perfect for fitness enthusiasts. For a fun family outing, Sissi Mini Golf provides adventure-filled moments amidst beautiful surroundings. Ethniko Athlitiko Kentro Chanion is your go-to for wellness and relaxation, featuring serene spaces to unwind and rejuvenate.

Adventure

At Star Beach Water Park, dive into thrilling slides and relax by the pools, perfect for family fun. Watercity Waterpark offers a variety of attractions, ensuring an adventurous day under the sun. For a different thrill, Rethimno Kart lets you race against friends in a go-karting experience filled with excitement.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Crete at Sunset Beach for a lively drink with romantic vibes. For a family-friendly outing, visit Sasteria Observatory to enjoy entertainment under the stars. Don’t miss Erofili Theatre, where culture and romance blend for an unforgettable evening.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Crete

When planning your trip to Crete, consider visiting between December and February for the best hotel deals. Aim to book about a month in advance for lower rates, especially on Saturdays, and check Expedia for last-minute offers. To save on transportation, utilise the local bus system, which is both affordable and efficient. Additionally, explore free activities like hiking the stunning landscapes or visiting historical sites. Combining your accommodation with flights and activities through package deals can also help you stick to your budget while enjoying Crete's charm.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Crete is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Crete are December to February, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Crete is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Crete is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Crete is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can sort your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to filter your search by hotel type. For instance, if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with a range of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels ready for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay in Crete with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Crete

Crete offers a perfect blend of beach, outdoor, and cultural experiences for tourists. Visitors can enjoy stunning beaches, explore serene monasteries, and discover the unique charm of nudist beaches. The island is also a gateway to other Greek islands, making it an ideal spot for those seeking adventure and relaxation. With its rich history and beautiful landscapes, Crete promises unforgettable experiences for every traveller.

• Balos Beach: Experience the stunning natural beauty of Balos Beach, renowned for its soft white sands and turquoise waters. The beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, offering a relaxing environment with picturesque views of the surrounding cliffs.
• Elafonissi Beach: Known as a nudist-friendly destination, Elafonissi Beach boasts unique pink sand and beautiful shallow waters. It’s a great spot for those looking to unwind in a more liberated setting, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
• Balos Lagoon: Balos Lagoon is a breathtaking natural wonder where you can enjoy outdoor activities amidst spectacular scenery. The lagoon offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for picnics and photography, showcasing Crete's magnificent landscapes.

Best time to go to Crete

The best time to visit Crete is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
February	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
March	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	62.2°F (16.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	73.9°F (23.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
August	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
September	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
November	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Moderately Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Crete

When visiting Crete, you can fly into three major airports. Heraklion Airport (HER-Nikos Kazantzakis) is a mere 3.2km from the city. Nearby, you'll find GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel just 3.2km away, alongside the luxurious Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa, located 14.5km away. Chania Airport (CHQ-Ioannis Daskalogiannis) is about 93.3km distant, with excellent hotels like Kiani Beach Resort Family and Isla Brown Chania Resort, both just 8.0km away. Lastly, Sitia Airport (JSH) is located 58.0km away, with Sitia Beach City Resort & Spa situated only a mile from the terminal, offering convenient access for travellers.