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Crete is the largest Greek island and offers unique landscapes. Between the pink & white sand beaches, the mountains and volcanoes to hike, or the desert landscapes: you will not be disappointed by heading to this destination.
Heraklion, the capital, is rich in museums and various archaeological sites. Chania: with its small 14th century Venetian port, its narrow streets and its typical restaurants. You can go to the island of Elafonisi on foot through the shallow water when the tide allows it to discover this pink and turquoise lagoon. Also, the beach of Balos with its spectacular colors is breathtaking.
While on vacation in Crete, be sure to sample the local wine and dishes made with feta cheese and olive oil, which are world renowned.
Crete, the enchanting Greek island in the heart of the Aegean Sea, is known for its pink san beaches, archaeological sites rich in history, and a vibrant and welcoming culture. This island offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation and cultural discovery, perfect for those traveling alone, with friends, and family!
Being a part of the European Schengen Zone as an island in the country of Greece, US citizens can visit Crete with no visa, but a passport with at least six months of validity for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
✈️ By Plane: The island has two main international airports: Heraklion (HER) and Chania (CHQ). You can travel to Crete cheaply by first flying into Athens with European budget airline, Norse Atlantic Airways. From Athens, you can easily grab a connecting flight to Heraklion or Chania.
🚢 By Ferry: A common option is to take a ferry from Athens to Crete. Other port options include Piraeus, Rafina, or Lavrio.
Crete enjoys a mild climate all year round making it an ideal destination at any time of year.
However, the best season to visit it is from April to September, this is when the weather is nice and the temperatures are warm . It is also the most touristy season, so for those who want to avoid being with many tourists, we advise you not to go there in July and August.
For diving enthusiasts, the best time will nevertheless be during this period since the water temperature exceeds 60 degrees.
For those who enjoy hiking, avoid July and August, when temperatures are high.
The must-see places in Crete
Crete is full of surprises and treasures, but if you have limited time on site, you might as well focus on the most beautiful ones. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Crete to help you plan your itinerary.
The Palace of Knossos
Balos Lagoon
Elafonissi Beach
Chania
Samaria Gorge
Agio Farango Gorges
Rethymno
Lassithi
The islands of Spinalonga and Elounda
Agios Nikolaos
Dakos: Also known as “koukouvayia”, dakos is a traditional appetizer consisting of a piece of hard, dry barley bread (paximadi) topped with fresh chopped tomato, feta or mizithra (a fresh local cheese), Cretan olive oil, oregano and sometimes capers.
Moussaka: Although moussaka is popular throughout Greece, the Cretan version has its own unique charm. It is a baked pie that layers eggplant or potatoes, minced meat sautéed with onion, tomato and spices, all covered in a béchamel sauce and baked until golden.
Sarikopitakia: These are delicious filo pastry parcels filled with mizithra, a Cretan cheese, and then fried. They are often served with honey and sesame seeds, combining sweet and savory flavors.
Chaniotiko Boureki: Typical of the city of Chania, this dish is a baked dish made with zucchini, potatoes, fresh mizithra and mint, covered with filo pastry or sometimes without, and baked until crispy and golden.
Gamopilafo: Traditionally served at Cretan weddings, but also available in some restaurants, gamopilafo is similar to risotto. Made with rice cooked in meat broth and enriched with butter and lemon, it offers a rich and comforting flavor.
Kalitsounia: It looks a bit like baked cheesecake but in a savory version; these pastries can be sweet or savory, filled with Cretan cheese or herbs and vegetables. If sweet, it is served with honey and cinnamon on top
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