Exploring the Wonders of Crete: A Journey to Remember
Crete: How to Get There, Where to Stay, and What to See
Crete, the largest Greek island, is a dream destination for many travelers. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder why. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip to this Mediterranean paradise.
Requirements
- You must have a vaccine or a PCR test taken no later than 72 hours before arrival.
- Fill out the form on the website travel.gov.gr, register, and obtain a QR code. It’s best to do this in advance as it can take up to 24 hours to receive.
- Travel insurance is required, although it may not be checked.
Getting There
Crete is accessible only by air. The island has two airports, located in Heraklion and Chania. We flew into Heraklion as we had booked a villa there. For the best deals on flights, check out Skyscanner, where you can compare prices and find the most suitable option for you.
Car Rental
To explore Crete’s diverse cities and beautiful beaches, you’ll need a car. Public transportation is available but not very reliable. We recommend two car rental services:
- Protos Car Rentals: More affordable but may have limited availability.
- Monza Rent a Car: A wider range of vehicles to choose from.
We rented an Audi A3 convertible, a dream come true for us, costing 100 euros per day. Car rental prices vary depending on the class, ranging from 20 euros per day. It’s advisable to opt for full insurance coverage to protect against any potential accidents or theft. With full insurance, you won’t have to leave a deposit.
Accommodation
We chose our accommodation through Airbnb, selecting the Panoramic View Villa in Olive Groves in Heraklion. The cost was $75 per night, with a discount applied as we booked it just a few days before our arrival. Crete offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences.
Other notable options include:
- Apartment with roof terrace in Chania
- Antonia’s blue apartment in Rethymno
- Minos Country Living Aristides Studio in Argyles
Cities
The most beautiful cities in Crete are Rethymno and Chania. Heraklion is less touristy but still worth a visit.
Beaches
Crete is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. The most popular ones include Balos, Elafonisi, Bali, and Matala. We visited Balos, and it was the most breathtaking place we’ve ever seen. Be prepared for a challenging journey to get there, but it’s well worth the effort.
Food and Culture
The Greek cuisine and culture are incredible. Here are some must-visit restaurants:
- Peskesi in Heraklion: Delicious Greek cuisine. Be sure to make a reservation.
- Kastella in Heraklion: Amazing seafood dishes.
- Queens Room in Rethymno: Excellent seafood and meat dishes with a view of the sea and palm trees.
- Achinos in Rethymno: Authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions.
- Ginger Concept in Chania: A popular spot for photos, but check the menu first.
- Palazzo Almare in Chania: Delicious seafood with a beautiful sea view.
Crete is an island of power and beauty. It’s a place where you can’t help but feel overwhelmed with emotion. Every step you take is a compliment to the island’s magnificence. Walking by the sea, you’ll feel an immense sense of happiness and gratitude.
Our trip to Crete was spontaneous. We hadn’t planned on visiting the island, but one evening, while browsing Airbnb, we stumbled upon a house that captivated us with its authenticity. The available dates were limited, and we couldn’t resist the opportunity to stay in such a unique place.
The house was surrounded by olive groves, with breathtaking views and a rich history. Breakfast there was a special moment, filled with the sounds of cicadas and the scent of the Mediterranean air. We explored the island in our rented convertible, driving from one beach to another, and then returning to the olive groves that inspired us and reminded us of the fleeting nature of life.
We visited ancient cities like Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion, observing the locals and simply enjoying each other’s company. We took photos on the terrace, drank wine, and danced. Crete is a great love that will forever remain in our hearts.
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