The Samaria Gorge is an exciting trek through a stunning landscape that includes a river, towering cliffs, and diverse flora and fauna. The hike takes about four to six hours, depending on fitness level, and ends at a beautiful beach where hikers can take a refreshing dip.
The Balos Beach and Lagoon is a breathtaking location that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring wild nature. This pristine beach is surrounded by turquoise waters and pink sand. Visitors can take a ferry from Kissamos port to get there.
The Knossos Palace and Museum is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete. The site features amazing ruins that date back to 2000 BC, including frescoes, wall paintings, and a labyrinth that is said to have been the home of the mythical Minotaur. Visitors can take an audio tour of the site, which takes about two hours.
Agia Pelagia Beach is a tranquil location perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. This beautiful beach is surrounded by rocky hills and clear waters that make it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants and cafes on the beachfront that offer local dishes and refreshing drinks.
Travelers can rent a car from a rental company at either airport (Chania and Heraklion) for an easy and enjoyable way to get around. A taxi or shuttle bus is also available from the airport to the city center. However, the recommended way to get to Balos Beach is by ferry from Kissamos port, which is 20 minutes away from Chania by car.
If you have more time, consider exploring other great locations like Elafonisi Beach, Chania Old Town, and Spinalonga Island. For those who want to add some adventure, try hiking the Imbros Gorge or exploring the Dikteon Cave. If you have a shorter itinerary, consider picking two locations to explore in-depth rather than cramming too much into a short period of time.
Crete has two international airports: Chania International Airport (CHQ) and Heraklion International Airport (HER). Heraklion is the biggest hub and has the busiest and the most direct connections to international airlines. CHQ is located closer to many of the must-visit destinations in Crete, and it has a more relaxed and easygoing atmosphere. Both airports offer car rental services and public transportation options like buses and taxis.