Jump directly to main navigation Jump directly to content

Camping in Crete

The best places & tips for your holiday

A camping holiday in Crete offers the perfect combination of nature, freedom and adventure. Whether right on the beach, in the mountains or near traditional villages, the island has something for every camper. Camping in Crete is suitable for families, couples and individual travellers who want to experience nature, tranquillity and Cretan flair.

The best campsites in Crete

Crete has numerous campsites that cater to different needs:

  • Camping near the beach: For example, in Agios Nikolaos, Chania or Rethymno, ideal for beach holidays and water sports.
  • Family-friendly camping: Many sites offer pools, playgrounds and sanitary facilities for children.
  • Nature and mountain camping: Remote sites in the Lefka Ori or near the Samaria Gorge offer peace and quiet and beautiful hiking trails.
  • Tents & motorhomes: Most campsites are equipped for tents, motorhomes and small cabins.

Tips for camping in Crete

  • Best time to travel: May to October – the weather is warm, the sea is inviting for swimming and most sites are open.
  • Equipment: Always bring a tent, sleeping bag, camping stove, sunscreen and water.
  • Prices: Costs vary between £20 and £50 per night, depending on facilities and location. Some more luxurious sites may cost more.
  • Reservations: It is worth booking early, especially in the high season (July–August).

Activities & surroundings

  • Hiking: Many campsites are located near hiking trails, e.g. to the Samaria Gorge or in the White Mountains.
  • Water sports: You can snorkel, dive or surf at the coastal sites.
  • Culture & villages: Discover traditional Cretan villages, taverns and regional specialities near your campsite.

Insider tips for your camping holiday

  • Hidden bays: Remote spots on the south coast or west Crete offer peace and quiet and pure nature.
  • Wild camping: Officially only permitted to a limited extent – find out about local rules in advance.
  • Regional specialities: Shop at local markets to buy fresh produce for your camping stove at reasonable prices.

A camping holiday in Crete is ideal for anyone who loves nature, the sea and freedom.

With numerous campsites for families, couples and adventurers, lots of leisure activities and unique landscapes, Crete offers everything you need for an unforgettable camping holiday.

 

Campsites

District of Chania

  • Drapanias, Campsite Mithimna
  • Daratos, Campsite Chania
  • Nopigia, Campsite Nopigia
  • Palechora, Paleochora campsite

Rethymno district

  • Agia Galini, Camping No Problem
  • Missiria, Camping Elisabeth
  • Plakias, Camping Apollonia

Heraklion district

  • Chersonissos, Camping Caravan
  • Chersonissos, Camping Hersonissos-Anissaras
  • Heraklion, Creta Camping
  • Matala, Camping Matala
  • Meleses, Minoan Camp
  • Pitsidia, Komos Camping

Lasithi district

  • Ierapetra, Campsite Koutsounari
  • Sisi, Sisi Camping