Top 10 Places To Visit in Crete - Greece Travel Guide

Summary

In this travel video, Ryan shares his top 10 favorite spots in Crete, Greece. From the scenic city of Hania with its Venetian harbor and lighthouse, to the stunning beaches like Elafonissi and Balos, Crete offers a blend of natural beauty and rich history. Ryan also explores hidden gems like the freshwater Lake Kournas and remote locations such as the village of Loutro. Whether it's cliff jumping, ancient fortresses, or pristine waters, Ryan’s journey captures the diverse charm of the island, highlighting the incredible landscapes and historic sites of Crete.

Takeaways

• 😀 Crete is the largest island in Greece, located in the Mediterranean Sea, offering a wide range of diverse landscapes and activities.
• 😀 Chania, located on the northwestern side of Crete, is a historic city with beautiful Venetian and Turkish architecture, including a restored lighthouse from the 1500s.
• 😀 Seitan Limania Beach is a secluded, picturesque spot with crystal-clear water and cliff jumping opportunities, making it one of the top destinations in Crete.
• 😀 Lake Kournas, the only freshwater lake in Crete, is a serene spot to explore by paddleboat, offering stunning views of surrounding mountains and a vibrant color gradient in the water.
• 😀 Rethymno, a city with medieval history, features a 16th-century Venetian fortress (Forteza) and a lighthouse built in the 1800s, making it a charming and historical place to visit.
• 😀 Spinalonga Island, known for its Venetian fortress and 20th-century history as a leper colony, is a must-see destination with stunning fortified walls.
• 😀 Matala Beach, famous for its artificial caves, was a haven for hippies in the 1960s and remains a unique place to explore, with rich historical significance.
• 😀 Gavdos Island, the southernmost point of Greece and Europe, offers remote beauty with its rock arches and the giant chair marking the southernmost tip.
• 😀 Loutro, a peaceful village accessible only by boat or foot, offers a relaxing, car-free environment perfect for swimming and enjoying the sea.
• 😀 Elafonissi Beach, known for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters, is one of Crete's most famous beaches and is ideal for watching sunsets and exploring secluded areas.

Q & A

What is the significance of Chania in Crete?

Chania is a scenic city located on the northwestern side of Crete, rich in history and beautiful architecture. It dates back to 3000 BC and has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Romans, Turks, and Venetians. Its harbor, featuring Venetian and Turkish architecture, is one of its main attractions, highlighted by a historic lighthouse built in the 1500s.

What makes the beach at Sitan Limani special?

Sitan Limani is a beautiful, small beach located in a cove surrounded by lush greenery. The hike to the beach is short and lined with pink flowers. The clear water and the opportunity for cliff jumping make it a popular spot, offering a thrilling experience for visitors.

What is Lake Kornos, and why is it notable?

Lake Kornos is the only freshwater lake in Crete, located at the base of the mountains. It stands out because of its striking color, with light green waters near the shore and dark blue in the center. Popular activities include paddle boating and walking along the shore to enjoy its serene beauty.

What historical feature stands out in Rethymno?

In Rethymno, the Forteza is a key historical feature. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, it is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Crete. Rethymno also has a beautiful harbor, with a lighthouse built in the 1800s, giving it a similar vibe to Chania.

What is Spinalonga, and why is it historically significant?

Spinalonga is a fortified island in Crete, originally turned into a fortress by the Venetians in the late 1500s. In the 20th century, it became a leper colony until 1957. Today, it's a popular tourist destination, known for its well-preserved fortifications and fascinating history.

What is unique about Matala in southern Crete?

Matala is famous for its artificial caves carved thousands of years ago during Roman times. These caves were once homes and later tombs. In the 1960s, they became a popular dwelling for hippies. Visitors can explore these caves or relax on the beach.

What makes Gavdos Island unique?

Gavdos is the southernmost island in Greece and the most southern point in Europe (excluding the Canary Islands). It is accessible by ferry from towns like Palaiochora. The island is known for its remote, untouched beauty and the famous rock arches at Cape Tripiti, where visitors can kayak through.

What is Lutro known for?

Lutro is a picturesque village in southwestern Crete, known for being car-free, which gives it a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere. The only access is by boat or foot, making it a peaceful retreat. Visitors can also explore the nearby Aradena Bridge, known for its breathtaking views over the gorge.

What is special about Elafonissi Beach?

Elafonissi Beach, located on the southwestern side of Crete, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pink sand. It is a well-known spot in Crete, offering both a popular main beach area with umbrellas and more secluded spots on a sandbar that leads to an island.

What makes Balos Beach a must-visit destination in Crete?

Balos Beach is a remote and stunningly beautiful beach accessible only by boat or foot. It offers amazing water clarity and scenic views, with the added experience of a 20-minute hike down a narrow peninsula to reach the beach. Its remote location and surrounding landscapes make it one of the most picturesque beaches in Crete.