Crete Holidays

Crete: Introduction

Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands and is nestled between the glittering waters of the Sea of Crete and the Libyan Sea. Despite only seeing around 60 days of rain per year, Crete’s lush greenery makes it one of the most beautiful Mediterranean islands, and despite being well known for guaranteed sun and long golden sands, it is also a land of contrasts. From fertile coastal plains to rugged mountains, and from busy coastal resorts, to cosmopolitan cities and isolated hillside villages, holidays to Crete are filled with exciting opportunities.

With long and cloud-free summers, Crete is a perfect destination for a cheap beach holiday and there is a host of attractive coastal resorts to choose from. Visitors to Rethymno share an endless sandy beach with wild turtles, whilst enjoying an old town steeped in a rich history. Museums, churches and gardens stand next to waterside fish restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs. Party animals will find a non-stop celebration in Hersonisos or Malia, with entertainment for families and children also available. The extensive range of both luxury and budget accommodation makes this resort a great option for package holidays to Crete. Holiday-makers looking for a bit of peace and quiet can venture further south to the agricultural town of Ierapetra, where you will witness the famous Greek hospitality.

For those looking to experience the hustle and bustle of a city break, Heraklion is Crete’s biggest urban jungle, with cafes, restaurants, clubs and designer shopping galore. There is also Crete’s most important archaeological museum and the nearby palace of Knossos to explore. Chania is also a great option for a cheap Crete holiday, with a stunning Venetian harbour and unique accommodation in restored modern buildings. Water-sports fan should check out the clear waters of Sitia, a small and friendly town that makes a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding aged mountain villages. Wander off the beaten coastal track to inland Crete to find spectacular views of rugged mountains and wonderfully isolated villas. With paragliding, guided hikes and horse-riding at the Lefkoritis Mountain Resort, and hunting in the Askifou Valley, Crete holidays are a great choice for walking enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike. Climb further into the mountains for delicious fresh trout in Zaros and to swim in a lake surrounded by the Rouvas forest.

Cretan food is well known around the world for being both tasty and healthy, and is thought to protect the island’s inhabitants from many afflictions. Choose from an outstanding selection of restaurants to sample local delicacies such as snails, traditional mountain lamb, or kotosoupa, a chicken based soup with lemon, and souvlaki kebabs. Embrace Cretan culture by eating ‘meze’ at a small taverna in the late evening, washed down with the traditional parting gift of grape drink raki.

Check our Hot Offer holidays section for cheap package holidays to Crete to start looking forward to a sunshine getaway now, or browse our range of Crete villas and Crete cheap flights to tailor your own perfect holiday.

Other Greek holiday destinations available
Corfu,  Kefalonia,  Kos,  Lefkas,  Preveza,  Rhodes,  Skiathos and Zante