Crete

Top Spots

Heraklion (capital & markets), Knossos Palace (Minoan archaeology), Rethymno Old Town (venetian alleys), Chania Venetian Harbor (postcard views), Balos Lagoon (turquoise shallows), Elafonissi (pink‑tinged beach), Samaria Gorge (day hike), Matala (caves & beach), Vai Palm Beach (unique palm forest).

Quick Info

• Best time: May–June & Sept–Oct (July–Aug is hottest/packed)
• Get around: rental car highly recommended; buses link major towns
• Must‑do: Knossos + Archaeological Museum (Heraklion), Chania/Rethymno old towns, Balos or Elafonissi, Samaria Gorge (seasonal)
• Local bites: dakos, kalitsounia, Cretan olive oil, graviera cheese, raki/tsikoudia

Tips

• Crete is large — consider basing in west (Chania) and/or east (Heraklion/Agios Nikolaos).
• Start Samaria Gorge early; arrange transport from Agia Roumeli at the finish.
• For Balos/Elafonissi, bring water, sun protection, and check road/ferry conditions.