Aptera

A Roman colony built on the ruins of a Minoan site, this archaeological site is a smorgasbord of Crete’s colorful history: an ancient Greek theatre and temple, Roman baths, a Turkish castle and an Orthodox monastery. Many experts predict that future excavations will reveal a new Knossos—now it’s like Knossos without the crowds. On a plateau high above the port of Souda, framed by the White Mountains and the sea, Aptera is worth a visit for the views alone.