Crete is the largest island in Greece located in the southern Aegean Sea neighboring three continents Europe, Asia and Africa. Crete is a land of great history that can be traced back to the first myths and legends. According to Greek mythology, Crete was the birthplace of Zeus "The Father of Gods and Humans" who later abducted the beautiful nymph from Phoenicia Europa and moved her to Crete. Through marital bliss she then gave birth to Minos, who then became the "King of the Minoans" and King to the first European civilization named after his mother Europa who gave her name to the continent known as Europe. Throughout the centuries Crete has attracted the attention of many conquerors for its strategic position in the Mediterranean Sea, bordering three continents. Surprisingly enough it has maintained its natural beauty, history, culture and traditional values while acquiring the beneficial attributes from its various predecessors.The gorgeous island of Crete is now one of the most popular destinations in all of Greece that attracts millions of people from around the world each year. It has anything and everything one would ask for from a Greek island including amazing beaches, breathtaking views, picturesque villages, delicious Cretan gastronomy and exceptional hospitality. An ideal destination to enjoy sun, sea and sand along with crowded areas to party as well as isolated areas to relax.

Top Destinations in Crete

Once you arrive to Crete you can easily visit the beautiful cities of Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno and Agios Nikolaos. Each of these cities are unique in their own way and offer a little something to everyone that visits them. Be sure to also visit the seaside and hillside villages that play an integral part in the history, culture, tradition and hospitality of Crete. These picturesque villages include Fodele, Kolymbari, Georgioupolis, Panormos, Kissamos and Agia Galini. Ideal locations to stop and taste the exquisite Cretan cuisine and traditional raki at any of the local taverns. Also visit the most popular resorts and beaches that offer soft golden sand and crystal clear sea waters such as Amoudara, Agia Marina, Sissi, Stalis, Plakias and Adelianos Kampos. A must see destinations are Elounda, Maleme, Malia, Bali and Vai Beach that offer a little extra touch in the hearts to those that visits them. You can also take a boat ride and visit the small islands surrounding Crete including Elafonisi Island, Chryssi Island and Spinalonga Island. While you visit these beautiful destinations you can also see the historical sites and archeological monuments as well as the natural beauty of Crete. Top attractions include Knossos Palace and The Venetian Fortress Koules, Kissamos Castle and Museum, Lake Kournas, Lake Voulismeni and Richtis Gorge.

Must See Locations in Crete

Venetian Fortress Kales in Ierapetra

Minoan Town in Malia

Minoan Palace in Malia

Ancient City of Olous in Elounda

Spinalonga Island - "Leper Colony"

Historical & Archeological Sites

Knossos Palace in Heraklion

Venetian Fortress Koules in Heraklion

Old Venetian Harbor of Chania

Venetian Fortress in Rethymno

Pristine Beaches

Falasarna Beach large sandy beach and tropical color sea waters

Matala Beach sandy beach, clean sea water and carved caves in the mountains

Vai Beach exotic location with palm trees, white soft sand & crystal clear sea water

Balos Lagoon most photographed beach in Crete