
Greece’s largest and southernmost island offers a mix of beautiful beaches, historic ruins and glamorous hotels. Vast and amazingly diverse, the island’s topography ranges from the snow-capped peaks of the White Mountains to miles of pristine golden sands on the southern coast. Traditional mountain villages and dramatic ravines attract hikers year-round, but beach lovers are guaranteed great weather from April to October.
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Perfect forFamilies | Intellectuals | Romantics
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When to goJune-August | September-November | March-May
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Ideal length of stay1-2 Nights
Designing Your Journey
Work with Indagare to design the perfect itinerary for an immersive journey. Our travel experts know the destination inside and out, and they can make recommendations based on your travel needs and preferences.
Essential Crete
Crete is perfect for itineraries that involve outdoors activities and laid-back fun. Here is just one example of what our destination experts can create for you.
Day 1
Spend your first day exploring Elounda, a village of 1,600 locals that is regarded as the most “high-end” area. However, the town is still fairly small and laid-back. From here, you can take a quick water taxi to Spinalonga Island—the last leper colony in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—for a guided tour. Enjoy dinner at an Indagare-recommended restaurant.
Day 2
Head to the north-western side of the island for a day of hiking. The Sameria Gorge is an incredible spot, where you will hike approximately 9 miles to the south side of the island to a secluded beach, where Indagare can arrange a picnic; alternatively, you can lunch at Taverna. After relaxing and taking in the scenery, a private boat will bring you back.
Day 3
For your last day in Crete, Indagare can arrange a variety of special experiences. You can enjoy a private tour of archaeological dig sites with the island’s top archaeologists, you can venture out on another, more difficult guided hike or jeep safari of the island, and you can try a “Minoan Taste” dinner, which is prepared using ancient methods and can either be an interactive cooking class or a served dinner. Contact our travel specialists to find the right experience for you.
Where To Stay
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities, including upgrades, early check-in, breakfast, spa credits and more. Look for the Indagare Plus logo in the reviews.
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Blue Palace
A classic, elegant resort with an array of facilities and amenities
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Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas
This ritzy waterfront resort put Elounda on the map and still has the edge over the competition.
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Saint Nicolas Bay
Casually cool resort overlooking a sandy cove, with first-class spa and service.
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Ammos
This effortlessly stylish seaside hotel has carved a niche in designer chic for families.
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Casa Delfino
This 17th-century mansion sits in the heart of Chania’s Old Town, combining old warm charm with modern amenities.