Things To Do In Crete, Greece

Crete is any traveller or holiday-maker's dream. The island, which is the largest Greek island in Greece, is situated on the south of the Aegean Sea. Crete boasts beautiful turquoise waters, long stretches of white sands and dramatic mountain backdrops. Yet, the island of Crete has managed to maintain its unique, special and individual character despite the huge demand of tourism - through beautiful Medieval castles, impressive Minoan palaces and pretty Venetian towns. The island is bursting with enchanting history and culture. If you fancy a trip that allows you to lie on a stunning beach one day and explore interesting landmarks the next, then Crete is the place for you. Here are a few things to do while visiting:

1. The Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos - the largest Bronze Age archaeological site in Crete - is arguably Crete's most famous and popular historical attraction and is not to be missed. The site is located just south of Iraklio and displays the well-maintained ruins that were first discovered around 1878. The Palace of Knossos has many magnificent and grand recreations including baths, apartments, courtyards and the beautiful palace - all of which come to life to make visitors feel like they are stepping back in time. 

2. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum 

Situated in Heraklion in Crete, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is, again, not to be missed. The museum is widely recognised as one of the largest, greatest and most important museums in the whole of Greece. The museum displays the most complete collections of artefacts from the Minoan civilisation of Crete, ranking it as one of the best museums for Minoan art in the world. The museum displays items such as jewellery and pottery that are grouped chronologically. If you want a real feel and understanding of the richness of Greek history, this is the place to visit. 

3. Venetian Harbour

The old Venetian harbour of Chania is a little harbour that was first built by Venetians in the 1300s to serve as a commercial port and to serve Venetian ships. Today, it is a bustling little area that is rich with an enchanting historic charisma that attracts many tourists. The small narrow paths around the harbour are lined with shops, cafes, tavernas, restaurants and bakeries, making it the perfect little seaside stop-off during your time in Crete. 

4. Balos Lagoon 

If you are a beach bum (or babe) then Balos, the most photographed and famous beach in Crete, is definitely the place to visit - even Prince Charles and Princess Diana visited on their private yacht many years ago! Balos Lagoon is approximately 17km northwest of Kissamos and is most famous for its bright turquoise waters, exotic white sands and stunning natural beauty. If you venture out past the rocks at the entry of the lagoon then you can snorkel - you might even see one of the protected sea turtles or monk seals! 

5. Arkadi Monastery

The 16th century Arkadi Monastery is, once again, a place to visit if you want to experience some Cretan history and culture. The Monastery is located around 23km southeast of Rethymnon and is well known for its Renaissance influence within the architecture. The site is also widely recognised as a symbol of resistance within Crete, as it is the place where many cornered locals massacred themselves in an attempt to fight invading Turks. The Monastery is where many women and children sought refuge during this period and remains an important mark in the history of Crete.  

Thinking of visiting somewhere else in Europe? Read my Things To Do In Rimini, Italy post.