Best things to do in Crete

The prettiest town in the east of the island, Agios Nikolaos is a popular resort that preserves its Cretan charm. The town sits on the Gulf of Mirabello, blanketing low hills which rise up from the shoreline. At the centre of town is Lake Voulismeni, where a plethora of pretty fishing boats are tied.

Numerous cafes and tavernas line the north and eastern edges of the lake, while you can climb the south and west sides via some steps for a superb view over the town.  

Moni Arkadiou lies in the Psiloritis foothills some 23km (14 miles) southeast of Rethymno. It was founded in the Byzantine era, although its present buildings date from the late 16th century, and is admired by Cretans as a nationalist shrine.

The Venetian-style church in the middle of the compound has to be one of the most beautiful on Crete, with its facade of yellow sandstone and richly carved belfry, and mock Corinthian columns by each of the twin entranceways. No wonder you’ll want to bask under the sun and admire the building here for as long as you can. 

Heraklion is the fourth-largest Greek city with a lively university scene, prominent fishing harbour and crumbling medieval quarters. This deceivingly unassuming city houses one of the best things to do in Crete: the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

In fact, it’s one of the greatest archaeological collections in the world, bringing finds together from sites across Crete and from every era of the island’s ancient history - pride of place goes to the best Minoan artefacts. 

If you’re wondering what to do in Crete that gets you out in nature and amongst the wildlife, the Samaria Gorge won’t disappoint. The White Mountains are the island’s highest range, with one of Crete’s most enjoyable excursions well worth taking - the 16km (10 miles) walk down the famous Samaria Gorge.

Starting at an elevation of 1240m, it’s the longest gorge in Europe, and along the strenuous trek, you’ll spot ancient cypress trees, rare orchards and soaring birds of prey. Make sure you remember a hat and strong walking shoes if you’re planning to walk the whole route.

When you get to the end, you’ll find the black-sand beach of Agia Roumeli waiting for you. And if you want to extend your journey a little bit further, you can hop on a boat to Sougia or Hora Sfakion. 

You definitely won’t want to miss a visit to Knossos, and most Crete holiday packages won’t let you miss it, either. It’s world-famous for being the place where proof was found that the mythical ancient civilisation of Crete really existed.

Found just a few miles outside the city of Heraklion, and considered to be Europe’s oldest city, this Bronze Age palace is one of the best things to do in Crete. It was the capital and centre of Minoan civilisation from around 6000 BC and has huge archaeological significance.

With excavations revealing its throne room, queen’s bedroom, storerooms, painted frescoes and pillars, it offers a unique and interesting look back into the past. Even though these rooms are mostly reconstructions, they still give an idea of the magnificence of Minoan culture.

Most of us know the tales of the labyrinth and the Minotaur, but seeing where these stories originated adds a fascinating new layer of experience. If you haven’t had your fill of historic culture, the Phaistos is also worth seeing.

Go later in the day to make sure you don’t compromise potential beach time and to take advantage of the thinning crowds. Lovers of history and culture unite on their way to Knossos Palace.

Rethymno has been settled since Minoan times, with Dorian, Greek and Roman remains underlying the present town; there’s also a heavy Venetian influence on much of the architecture as well.

Today, it’s a bustling tourist district which extends to the east - taking advantage of the long sandy bay. The old town is still perfect for a wander around, where you can pause at a harbourside taverna and watch the boats trickle in and out of port.

The island may share many recipes with the Greek mainland, but there are also plenty of dishes found nowhere else. The traditional Cretan diet is considered one of the healthiest in the world - follow the locals for the best places to eat.

A psistaria is a place to eat charcoal-grilled meat dishes, while the taverna is more of an elaborate eatery generally serving steam-tray dishes known as magirefta. A psarotaverna specialises in fish and seafood.

A history lesson masquerading as a city, Chania boasts a Venetian port with no less than Ottoman, Byzantine and Egyptian influences on show – talk about a culture clash!

A great place to watch the sun go down and make the most of fresh seafood, it makes a great final destination when you embark on a walk through the old part of town. A stroll along the walls is a virtual history lesson in itself, while a walk to the lighthouse should also be high on your to-do list.

Some locals have even organised a special accompanied walk through the oldest parts of the city. Not only is this fun and fascinating, but it’s also free – the three f’s! And the best part is that once you reach the finish, you can celebrate with a glass of wine or beer as you enjoy the sunset.

Crete is studded with monasteries, some in ruins, some closed, and some still working - a visit to one or more of them is a unique experience in a holiday full of unique experiences.

Agia Triada is undoubtedly the most beautiful and famous of these monasteries. Found just a short distance from Chania, Agia Triada, or Holy Trinity in English, was built in the 17th century on top of a pre-existing church, and quickly became the most important religious centre on the island.

Surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, the monastery is open to visitors every day. It’s possible to explore its chapels and main church, as well as a small museum. Agia Triada also has a shop selling its own award-winning organic olive oil as well as honey and wine.