No wonder Crete makes people’s bucket lists worldwide. But with such a large island and so much information from biased holiday companies out there. How do you answer the question: What to do in Crete?
Well, there is plenty of info on Crete’s awesome beaches and tasty food that draws travellers to this Mediterranean paradise. As well as details of its activities, from swimming in crystal-clear waters to visiting remains from the Minoan era. But not enough people talk about the best places on Crete to discover the real Crete away from the masses of sun loungers. So if you are looking for the best places in Crete, here is:
An Insiders Guide: What to Do in Crete
I remember the first time I set foot on Crete – the warm Mediterranean breeze and the stunning turquoise water. But I wanted to leave behind the mass tourism and spend a while discovering a few of the best places on Crete that people often keep to themselves!
Of course, there are many beautiful Cretan towns and villages. Each particularly has its own unique history and charm. Most travellers know Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymno. However, you’d hardly experience true Cretan life in these developed coastal towns.
Instead, head around the island to find traditional villages that most holidaymakers will never see.
1. Anogia Village
I visited one of Crete’s most beautiful and traditional villages. There you’ll find traditional Cretan cuisine tastes and flavours. We went to a lovely family tavern and tasted food cooked the local, traditional way!
You won’t find lamb cooked the same anywhere else in Greece. The method is called “antikristo”! Lamb pieces (or any meat) cook around the fire, not directly over it. It’s a slow process, taking about an hour and a half. Consequently, it cooks the meat perfectly, keeping all its juicy tenderness and flavour! An amazing taste experience.
We also ate apaki, another Cretan delicacy! Village meats come from locally-raised animals fed fresh herbs. Likewise, any cheese products come from their farms, giving a delicious, fresh, preservative-free unique taste.
I highly recommend visiting this village and checking out the local tavernas. Its history dating back to the 1800s is astonishing too.
2. Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos sits on the ancient site of Lato-Etera town. This is where Cretan tourism began. It gradually became a favoured area, thanks to the wonderful coastline, clean beaches (nine awarded a European Blue Flag), plus the rich variety of ancient sites.
For those wondering what to do in Crete, Agios Nikolaos offers much for young and old alike. It’s ideal for walkers, history/culture seekers, and has nightlife for every taste. It’s also a great centre for water sports, with hotels and sports centres providing pools, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts.
The picturesque harbour’s centre has the curious little round Voulismeni lake, with surrounding cafes – a popular meeting spot for locals and visitors. Additionally, one of the Aegean’s most beautiful marinas was built here in 1994.
The little winding town streets offer numerous small shops to browse. Many sell traditional Cretan crafts, jewellery, embroidery and a wide variety of other goods. You’ll find plenty of tavernas and restaurants around the centre, offering a wide range of Cretan culinary specialities.
What to Do in Crete: Tours
3. Hora Sfakion
A Hidden Gem
Chora Sfakion or Sfakia is a small fishing village on Crete’s southwestern side, about 75 kilometres from Chania town. This charming village sits right on the Libyan Sea coast, overlooking a serene bay.
It’s a rare place far from mass tourism, though hikers from Samaria Gorge arrive by small boat in the afternoon, with few staying overnight. Being away from major resort areas makes it a perfect offbeat spot for relaxation seekers.
However, it offers accommodation options like hotels, apartments and studios. Situated on the seafront are excellent restaurants and cosy fish taverns, serving delicious local food and popular Sfakian honey pies.
The village is famous as a resistance centre against occupying Venetian, Turkish and later German forces. The area remained isolated. Sfakians are known for being fierce, independent, and very strong-willed. They will fight to the death if they have to.
Locals are mainly fishermen, farmers, and shepherds, also involved in tourism. They take pride in hospitality and produce excellent olive oil and many cheese varieties.
Stunning Scenery and Activities
There are several reasons you might want to travel to this village. The Imbros Gorge and quaint Komitades village are fine examples. This should almost definitely be on your list of what to do in Crete. As Sfakia’s shoreline hosts some of Crete’s most beautiful beaches like Fragokastelo, Glyka Nera, Loutro and nearby Illigas.
The village itself has two beaches. One beach is in front of the main road. The other, called Vrissi, is on the west side behind the breakwater. Both have fine pebbles, crystal-clear waters and sun loungers for rent.
Several hiking trails start from the village. You can hike all the way to the historical Anapolis city, the remote Loutro fishing village, or to Agia Roumeli and Samaria Gorge’s entrance.
Near the village is a small 1526 Venetian fortress, part of a defensive tower system. Visiting it provides stunning views of the village itself and the endless blue sea.
4. Paleochora
If you’re unsure of what to do in Crete, the town of Paleochora makes an ideal Cretan destination.
Paleochora has several sights nearby. Additionally, you can visit the ancient city of Anapolis only 6 kilometres away. Particularly noteworthy are the well-preserved Venetian fortifications. You’ll find the Monastery of St. John the Baptist close by too.
The main attraction is Paleochora’s stunning natural setting. Accordingly, many people come to hike the famous Samaria Gorge. The entrance is just 18 kilometres from town.
During my hike through the Samaria Gorge, I was awestruck by the towering cliffs and the narrow canyon’s natural beauty, making the challenging trek well worth the effort. Also you can explore other scenic gorges like Anydri and Agia Eirini.
Similarly, the beaches around Paleochora draw visitors. The two town beaches offer sun loungers and beach bars. Nevertheless, more secluded coves exist just outside town if you prefer to get away from it all. Also, don’t miss magical Elafonisi Beach, a protected nature reserve only 37 kilometres away.
Overall, Paleochora provides the perfect relaxing seaside getaway. Undeniably, its picturesque charm and wealth of natural attractions make it an ideal Cretan destination. Unquestionably, you’ll find something for every taste here.
What Makes Paleochora Special?
Your attention is captured by Paleochora’s enchanting whitewashed houses draped in oleander and bougainvillea flowers. Likewise noteworthy are her pretty pathways and streets with cosy cafes having decorative facades. Most of all, her gorgeous tree-lined “urban boardwalk” is lit by lovely wrought iron street lamps.
Paleochora has 2,000 permanent residents. Years ago they unanimously decided at a town meeting that keeping tourists happy was their job. (That’s the running joke).
They succeed so well, treating tourists like special guests at the star bride’s wedding feast – a perpetual one! Paleochora’s atmosphere is like a grand swimming pool party, but here the Libyan Sea is the pool. Everyone jump in!
All this, plus the rapturous views gift wrapping Paleochora on three sides, seductively reveal the bride’s many layers: the town’s own temptations, the heavenly sandy beach assortment, and the wild wonders beyond.
Paleochora outshines her coastal counterparts; she’s an unbeatable catch. It seems the entire world wishes to behold Paleochora, bride of the Libyan Sea.
What to Do in Crete: Tours
5. Loutro
What to Do in Loutro
When you arrive in Loutro, you’ll get how quaint (and tiny!) this village is. There’s not that much to do besides eat, drink, swim. And if you feel energetic, go for a walk or hike. However, be sure to bring cash as we found not everywhere accepted cards and there was no ATM.
When you get off at the harbour, you’re greeted with a map showing Loutro’s different sights and various restaurants/hotels/cafes. Nevertheless, you can also just explore the village on foot. There’s no real beach, just pebbles, but the incredibly blue waters make up for it. We really regretted not bringing our swimsuits!
The village is peaceful with beautiful views all around. You can relax at the waterfront cafes or hike up to the hilltop fort ruins for panoramic vistas. Similarly, you may spot the occasional boat ferrying supplies or visitors. Overall, Loutro offers a tranquil retreat from busier areas.
Hiking Around Loutro
We decided to walk up the hill left of the harbour. This provides a beautiful viewpoint next to old fortress ruins. You can keep walking along this footpath (the E4 Pan-European trail) and eventually reach Agia Roumeli. If you hike eastwards instead, you’ll reach Hora Sfakion, passing by Sweetwater Beach which is apparently also worth visiting.
After the viewpoint, we walked a bit further to build up an appetite before lunch. Here, we came across the beautiful little Church of Christ the Saviour (Sotiros Christou), with its white building clearly standing out against the blue sea backdrop. We also came across an old church built right into the cliffs. It looked really pretty but did not seem to be used anymore.
Overall the area is beautiful and peaceful, making for a very nice change from some of the busier places we visited during our Crete trip. The hiking trails offer stunning coastal views and access to hidden gems like the abandoned churches. You can take it easy with a short stroll or challenge yourself on the longer paths.
Food and Drink in Loutro
We found Loutro offered a number of food options. Once off the boat, after walking around a bit, we stopped at one cafe for an iced coffee just to sit and take in the view.
The village is quiet and feels miles away from everyone and everything – so a great place to switch off from social media and relax!
We then had lunch at the Akti Tavern. Here we had quite a choice of dishes, including fresh seafood. Everything was delicious – we would definitely recommend you checking this out.
Additionally, Loutro has several other restaurants and cafes lining the waterfront. Most highlight fresh, local ingredients like just-caught fish and organic produce. Despite its tiny size, you’ll find a variety of cuisines represented from traditional Greek tavernas to Italian pizzerias.
Particularly memorable are the scenic outdoor dining settings with amazing views of the cove and cliffs. You can linger over a leisurely meal while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. Many places offer reasonably priced house wines and craft beers too.
6. Spili
Authentic Village Life
Around 28km south-east of Rethymno, in Agios Vassilios province, you’ll find the small, exceptionally pretty village of Spili. This beautiful mountain village, with around 800 people, stands at an altitude of 430km.
The area is lush and green with many little mountain streams and plenty of trees. In the village square shaded by plane trees, are marble fountains with sculpted lions’ heads providing drinking water from the clear, refreshing Psiloritis Mountain rivers.
Narrow lanes lead from the square up to the village neighbourhoods. Here you can see traditional-style houses with flower-filled gardens and amazing views.
The village’s traditional architecture blends beautifully with the natural surroundings. Additionally, Spili feels peaceful and unhurried – the perfect escape from busier tourist areas.
Many visitors come to relax, take scenic walks, and experience authentic Cretan village life. You’ll find quaint cafes serving local specialities. like kalitsounia cheese pies and mountainous views at every turn.
Historic Sights and Natural Wonders
Spili particularly impresses with its historic fountains providing fresh spring water. Unquestionably, trying a drink from these iconic lion-head spouts will always remain on my list of what to do in Crete.
The cool, pure water comes directly from Mount Psiloritis. Similarly impressive are the historic churches, some beautifully preserved examples of Byzantine-era architecture.
Inside these churches are wonderful examples of wall frescoes and religious icons. For instance, in Agios Georgios church there is a unique wall painting representing the Holy Trinity, with the Holy Spirit depicted as a dove flying from God’s lips.
The road from Spili continues towards Agia Galini, which has a fine beach and was one of Crete’s first developed tourist resorts. Gorges of incredible magnificence criss-cross the region’s mountains.
Going west on the road toward Spili, there is the village of Koxare with 333 people living there. Koxare became famous for the impressive Kourtaliotis Ravine, 3km long ending at the famous Preveli Lagoon.
This narrow ravine has wild beauty, with barren slopes full of waterfalls and caves. When windy, you hear sounds like clapping hands or “kourtala” in the local dialect. The ravine also contains the church of Agios Nicholaos.
From Spili it’s very easy to visit Skisma Cave too. This natural wonder features striking stalactites and stalagmites formed over millennia. Similarly impressive are the surrounding trails through lush greenery. Many consider it one of Crete’s must-see attractions.
Overall, Spili makes an ideal base for experiencing Crete’s mountainous interior and taking advantage of the numerous activities and attractions the island offers. In this peaceful village, you can immerse yourself in local culture, history and breathtaking nature away from the busier coasts.
What to Do in Crete: Tours
7. Elounda (Schisma Eloundas)
For those still wondering what to do in Crete, the village of Elounda particularly stands out for its upscale yet laid-back atmosphere. You’ll discover Elounda in the Heraklion region of Crete. Although about an hour’s transfer from the airport, the journey is undoubtedly worth it. Elounda is frequently described as Crete’s swanky resort area.
Spa hotels nestle in the mountains here, while luxury yachts fill the harbour. However, it doesn’t have the vast water parks of other towns like Malia. Although we saw some families, this resort has a more adult feel.
Upscale Yet Authentic Charm
Taverna after taverna lines the harbour, all offering traditional Greek dishes and amazing seafood. We ate at a different taverna nightly. I even had a Shirley Valentine moment with a table on the seashore. The meal was always finished with a complimentary raki.
The village retains an authentic Greek island vibe despite the fancy hotels and marina. You can spend relaxing days strolling the waterfront or beach, pausing at harbourside cafes. Similarly, take a boat tour to explore the scenic Mirabello Bay and tiny islets offshore.
Additionally, Elounda provides easy access to major archaeological sites like the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos. Or head inland to experience Crete’s rugged mountainous interior and traditional villages. No matter your interests, Elounda makes an excellent base for discovering the best of this historic island.
Secluded Snorkelling at Dianiskari Beach
Elounda has a Blue Flag, sandy beach just past the harbour with sunbeds and umbrellas. However, since our hotel was at the other village end, we took a 20-minute daily walk to Kalydon Peninsula’s Dianiskari Beach. The more popular Kolokith Beach is further around the coast, but Dianiskari ticked all our boxes with easy sea access from the small shingle beach or rocks.
I bought a snorkelling set from the village and spent so much time the next day marvelling at the wide variety of fish that my back got quite badly sunburnt despite wearing SPF 50 sunscreen. Lesson learned: snorkelling requires a t-shirt!
Dianiskari particularly appealed with its seclusion compared to Elounda’s main beach. The clear, shallow waters were ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Likewise, the pebbly shoreline provided space to spread out away from crowds. We enjoyed having this little beach largely to ourselves most days.
Additionally, the peninsula setting offers stunning views of Elounda Bay’s islets and luxury yachts. Early mornings and evenings were especially tranquil for strolls along the coastline. Undeniably, Dianiskari made for a much more relaxing beach getaway during our Elounda stay.
8. Spinalonga Island
A boat trip to Spinalonga was definitely a top priority. Wear sensible shoes if you want to fully explore the island, as the ground is pretty uneven on the higher levels. The island has undergone some restoration over the last few years, and the market street is brightly painted as it would have been when inhabited.
Standing on the small quay there, it shocked me how close Spinalonga was to the mainland. We contemplated how hard it must have been to be banished to the island and watch families carrying on normally on the mainland.
The vibrant colours and restored buildings particularly bring the island’s past to life. You can vividly imagine Spinalonga as a bustling settlement, just one of the many cultural attractions waiting to be experienced by visitors looking into what to do in Crete.
Guides provide fascinating historical context about how it operated as a leper colony for many decades until 1957.
Additionally, exploring Spinalonga offers incredible views back towards Elounda and the rugged Cretan coastline. The island’s protected status allows abundant wildflowers and wildlife to thrive undisturbed. Hiking to the Venetian fortifications atop the highest points rewards with panoramic Aegean vistas.
Overall, a visit provides an immersive glimpse into this island’s unique chapter of Greek history. Unquestionably, Spinalonga leaves a lasting impression with its haunting beauty and remarkable story of human perseverance.
What to Do in Crete: Tours
Latest Posts: Greece
Travel Planning Guide for What to do in Crete
Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Crete
Buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Therefore, enjoy your holiday in Crete stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Visitors Coverage Insurance.
Renting a Car in Crete
Indeed, renting a car is easy and is a great way to discover what to do in Crete? Consequently, I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.
Finding the Perfect Accommodation
The best way to book your accommodation in Crete is with Booking.com. In fact, it’s my go to site to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Booking Flights to Crete
Lastly, for air travel, I recommend booking your flight with Omio. Moreover, it has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights to discover Crete.
