Day 1: Chania - Start your Crete adventure by exploring the charming old town of Chania. Take a stroll by the Venetian Harbor and the lighthouse. Visit the Municipal Market, offering delicious local products. Check out the exhibits at the Archaeological Museum of Chania. End your day with a Cretan dinner at a traditional taverna. (100 words)
Day 2: Samaria Gorge - Embark on the famous Samaria Gorge trek, which takes around 5-7 hours to complete, depending on your pace. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the longest gorge in Europe. Stop for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters at the end. Take a boat to the village of Agia Roumeli. (100 words)
Day 3: Rethymno - Explore the charming old town of Rethymno, which has a unique blend of Venetian and Ottoman architectural features. Visit the Fortezza fortress, the Venetian Loggia, the historic arcades of Rimondi Fountain, and the Neratzes Mosque. End your day with a relaxing swim at Preveli Beach. (100 words)
Day 4: Knossos Palace & Heraklion - Visit the Knossos Palace, the most important archaeological site on Crete. Learn about the Minoan civilization and see the numerous ancient artifacts. Head to Heraklion, the capital city of Crete, and visit the Historical Museum of Crete and the Koules Fortress. End your day by sampling local delicacies at the Food Market. (100 words)
Day 5: Spinalonga Island - Take a boat tour to the Spinalonga Island, a small islet off the northeastern coast of Crete. Discover the rich history of the island from being a Venetian fortress to a leper colony. Enjoy a swim at the nearby bays and beaches. (100 words)
Day 6: Elafonisi Beach - Take a scenic drive to the beautiful Elafonisi Beach, famous for its shallow turquoise waters and the white and pink sand. Enjoy the idyllic landscape and the unique flora and fauna of the region. Have a picnic and enjoy the beautiful sunset. (100 words)
Day 7: Agios Nikolaos & Spinalonga Island - Visit Agios Nikolaos, a charming seaside town, and explore Lake Voulismeni, surrounded by relaxing cafes and shops. Take a boat tour to the Spinalonga island to see it in a different light during the daytime. (100 words)
Time and Costs Estimates
Chania (1 day, $35)
Samaria Gorge (1 day, $30)
Rethymno (1 day, $25)
Knossos Palace & Heraklion (1 day, $40)
Spinalonga Island (1 day, $30)
Elafonisi Beach (1 day, $20)
Agios Nikolaos & Spinalonga Island (1 day, $35)
Total Estimated Costs: $215
Transportation
Transportation during your trip depends on your preferences. You can rent a car and drive around the island or choose between buses, taxis, and private transfers. The car rental costs around $35/day, and gas prices average at $1.50/liter. Buses are the most affordable option and cost about $2 for shorter distances and $10 for longer ones. Taxis cost around $1.50 per km, and private transfers start at $50 per way. Keep in mind that some mountainous roads can be challenging, and parking can be difficult in busier areas.
Useful Tips
If you have more time, you can explore other nearby villages like Apokoronas, Plakias, or Agia Galini. For a more adventurous experience, try out water sports, horse riding, or paragliding. If you are short on time, you can combine some activities and visit Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion in one day, but this requires planning and an early start.
Airports
Crete has two international airports, the Heraklion "Nikos Kazantzakis" (HER) and the Chania "Ioannis Daskalogiannis" (CHQ). HER is located 5 km east of Heraklion, while CHQ is situated 14 km outside Chania. Both airports are well-connected to various European cities, including London, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Taxis and public buses are available from both airports to the city centers and the major tourist areas, and the journey time takes around 20-30 minutes.