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Crete, Greece

Travel guide · Greece

Crete: what to see and when to go

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Crete is Greece's largest island, with enough mountains, gorges, beaches and villages for weeks of exploring. It was home to the Minoans, Europe's first advanced civilisation, and its food and hospitality are legendary.

What to see and do in Crete

  1. Knossos

    The Minoan palace near Heraklion, with its frescoes in the city's archaeological museum.

  2. Chania

    A Venetian harbour and old town, the island's prettiest city.

  3. Samaria Gorge

    A 16 km descent through one of Europe's longest gorges, open from spring to autumn.

  4. Balos and Elafonisi

    Lagoon beaches with pink-tinged sand and turquoise water in the west.

  5. Villages and the south coast

    Mountain villages with raki, and car-free coastal hamlets like Loutro.

Tours and tickets in Crete

Best time to go

The most pleasant months: May – Nov.

Weather month by month
MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. high17°16°18°21°25°29°32°32°29°25°22°18°
Rainy days1011105621155610

Getting there

FromFlight timeReturn flight
London 4 hr≈ €240 · See flights
New York 11 hr≈ €560 · See flights
Los Angeles 15 hr, 15 min≈ €650 · See flights
Dubai 4 hr, 30 min≈ €270 · See flights
Singapore 12 hr≈ €580 · See flights
Sydney 20 hr≈ €760 · See flights
Stay≈ €70 per night

3 nights from London: ≈ €470 per person, flight and stay included.

Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.

Essentials

Country
Greece
Currency
Euro
Good for
sea · food · calm · nature
How long to stay
5–8 days
Where to stay
Chania for the west; Heraklion or Rethymno for the centre; Elounda for the east.Find a place to stay in Crete

Plan your trip

Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Crete, one tap each.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the weather like in Crete and when should you go?

The most pleasant months: May – Nov. Average highs range from 16° in February to 32° in July.

How many days do you need in Crete?

5 to 8 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.

What does a few days in Crete cost?

Accommodation runs at around €70 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €470 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 4 hr.

Where should you stay in Crete?

Chania for the west; Heraklion or Rethymno for the centre; Elounda for the east.

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