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TOP sightseeing attractions and excursions

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is a true paradise for explorers. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, it offers countless attractions that will captivate every visitor.

Crete impresses with its stunning natural scenery, from majestic mountain ranges and deep gorges to idyllic beaches with crystal-clear waters. Highlights include the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest in Europe, and beaches like Elafonissi with its pink sand or the Balos Lagoon, which brings a Caribbean vibe to the island.

The island is a living open-air museum that delves deep into European history. The Palace of Knossos, the center of Minoan civilization, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Other remarkable ruins, such as Phaistos or Gortyn, bring ancient history to life and tell the story of Crete’s illustrious past.

Crete is home to picturesque towns and traditional villages. The old town of Chania, with its Venetian harbor, and the old town of Rethymno, with its narrow alleys and historic buildings, are true gems. Beyond the cities, charming villages like Archanes or Anogia invite visitors to experience authentic Cretan life up close.

Crete’s monasteries and churches are not only architectural masterpieces but also important witnesses to the island’s history. The Arkadi Monastery is a symbol of Cretan resistance, while the Cave of Zeus on the Lassithi Plateau offers a mystical glimpse into Greek mythology.

In addition to its attractions, Crete is also a haven for food lovers. The traditional Cretan cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and local cheese, is a highlight of any visit. Small tavernas across the island provide an opportunity to experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

Agia Galini

Picturesque coastal village on the south coast

Agia Irini / Sougia

Agia Irini Gorge (hike) and small coastal village

Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos, the bay of Elounda, Spinalonga

Amari Valley + Potamon Dam

Fertile and picturesque valley + Amari Dam

Anogia

Music plays a central role in people's lives

Aptera

Roman theatre + cisterns, Temple of Apollo + fortress

Aquarium

The CretAquarium reveals an enchanting, beautiful world

Archanes

The main attraction is the Byzantine church of Agia Triada

Argyroupoli

Argyroupoli is built on the ruins of the ancient city of Lappa

Askifou Plateau

Impressive plateau

Botanical Garden - Chania 

20 hectares of plants, herbs and trees

Chania - City

Beautiful harbour city with a great atmosphere

Chersonisos

The beach promenade and the city centre are lined with bars, clubs and restaurants

Chora Sfakion - Loutro

Picturesque villages on the south coast

Elafonissi

Discover the "Pearl of the South"

Elos

The area surrounding Elos is ideal for hiking and exploring

Falassarna

Picturesque coastal village with a beautiful beach

Fodele

Birthplace of the famous Renaissance painter El Greco

Folklore evening

Zuschauen und mittanzen

Frangokastello

The town is known for its impressive Venetian fortress

Open Air Museum Lychnostatis

The Lychnostatis open-air museum on Crete is a cultural highlight

Gavdos

Gavdos is the southernmost inhabited island in Europe and lies south of Crete

Georgioupolis

The village lies at the mouth of the river Almyros

Gerakari

The Amari Valley is one of the most scenic areas in Crete

Gortys

One of the most important archaeological sites on Crete

Gramvoussa

Combined bus and boat tour with swimming fun

Harakas

The fortress itself is a remarkable testimony to the past

Heraklion

Capital city of Crete

Ierapetra

The southernmost city in Europe

Imbros Gorge

Hike through a riverbed, approx. 2 - 3 hours

Chrissi Island

Chrissi is uninhabited and is part of the Natura 2000 protected area.

Kalamafka

A highlight of the village is the small rock chapel of Agios Antonios

Kali Limenes

This hidden gem belongs to the municipality of Foinikas

 

Kalyves

A charming coastal village on Crete

Kandanos

The martyr village

Kastri

Authentic Cretan experience off the beaten track

Kato Zakros

Minoan palace far away from mass tourism

Kavros

Extensive sandy beach, ideal for families with children.

Kissamos

Breathtaking coastal scenery and a rich history

Monastery Arkadi

Crete's most important national monument

Monastery Preveli

Monastery above the palm beach

Knossos

Crete highlight: The largest Minoan palace

Kolymbari

Coastal village with the Gonia monastery, fishing harbour

 

Kournas Lake

The only freshwater lake in Crete

Kourtaliotiko-Schlucht

It is one of the most impressive and scenic gorges in Crete

Kremastos

Kremastos is a picturesque village in the heart of the Greek island of Crete

Kritsa / Kloster Kera

Centre of Cretan craftsmanship, Panagia Kera Monastery

Country & People

Experience villages, tradition and nature up close

Lasithi Plateau

Plateau, Dikteon Cave and Vidiani Monastery

Maleme

Historically significant - German military cemetery

Malia

Malia is famous for its lively nightlife

Margarites

The pottery tradition of Margarites dates back to the Minoan era.

Matala

Hippie caves and beach festival

Omalos

Omalos plateau in the heart of the White Mountains

Palaiochora

Natural beauty with historical significance

Palekastro

Charming village, ancient fortress and golden sandy beaches

Phaestos

The second largest Minoan palace

Plakias

Bizarre landscapes with beautiful bays

Rethymno

Enchanting coastal town on the north coast

Samaria Gorge

An impressive hike, approx. 5-6 hours

Santorini

Santorini, the volcanic island

Seitan Limnia

Spectacular beach on the north-west coast

Sfendili

Sfendili, often referred to as the ‘sunken village’

 

Sitia

Beautiful harbour and waterfront promenade

Spili

The landmarks of Spili are the Venetian lion fountains

Spinalonga

The former Lebra colony.

Therisso

Beautiful gorge and Cretan specialities

Thrapsano

The village is particularly famous for its pottery

Tylissos

Particularly noteworthy are the remains of large clay pithoi (storage jars)

Palm beach Vai

Largest natural palm grove with a beach

Vamos & Vrisses

Tradition and authenticity, a paradise on the river

Waterparks

An experience not only for children and young people

Zaros

Zaros is famous for its spring water


Lists: Caves, museums, canyons and waterfalls

Caves

Sorted by region

Museums

Sorted by region

Gorges

Crete is known for its impressive gorges

Waterfalls

Richtis waterfall, Mylonas waterfall, Kourtaliotiko waterfall, …