Two weeks in Crete is the time it takes to explore this Greek island from west to east without missing a beat: secluded beaches, spectacular gorges, Minoan ruins, mountain villages and generous cuisine. From the northern coast to the wild southern shores, from the White Mountains to the eastern tip, each day brings its own set of contrasts.
We’ve put together this 15-day road trip itinerary to offer you a complete tour of Crete, at a steady but reasonable pace. Here’s our day-by-day program, tested on site, to help you prepare for your trip.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
2-week itinerary in Crete: choices
With 2 weeks, you can tour the island, selecting the most memorable stops. We’ve made sure we’ve got the balance right:
- nature, history, architecture
- and also more intense days and more restful days.
Here are a few driving times to give you an idea of the destination:
This itinerary starts counter-clockwise from Heraklion airport.
You can also land in Chania and start between days 4 and 5 and finish on the first.
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
Practical tips for a 15-day road trip in Crete
What type of car?
You absolutely need a car for this road trip. We recommend reserving your vehicle in advance, especially if you’re traveling between May and October. You’ll need a compact car, but not the smallest engine: mountain roads can be narrow and winding.
See offers from our preferred car rental company – or read all our car rental tips.
Driving in Crete
The main roads are in good condition, but as soon as you leave the north coast, the network becomes narrower and more winding. Some stretches towards isolated beaches become unpaved tracks. Be careful: goats regularly cross the road and locals sometimes drive in a sporty manner. But overall, no major difficulties. See all our tips for driving in Crete.
Day 1 – Heraklion to Rethymnon via the north coast
Total driving time: approx. 2h
Your road trip starts at Heraklion airport. Once you’ve collected your rental car, head west towards Rethymnon. The road follows the northern coastline, offering a variety of panoramic views. We’ve planned three stops along the way.
Stop 1 – Village of Fodele
30 minutes from Heraklion, Fodele lies in a valley planted with orange trees. This village is considered the presumed birthplace of the Renaissance painter El Greco (Domínikos Theotokópoulos). The Byzantine Panagia church is well worth a visit, as are the flower-lined alleyways. Here, we found an immediate joie de vivre, far from coastal traffic – an ideal introduction to the Cretan countryside.
Stop 2 – Melidoni cave
Not far from Rethymnon, the Melidoni cave boasts a subterranean decor of stalactites and stalagmites of imposing proportions. The site also bears a sombre memory: in 1824, hundreds of Cretans who had taken refuge in the cave were asphyxiated by Ottoman troops. A memorial honours the victims in the main hall.
We were struck by the contrast between the geological beauty of the site and the gravity of its history. The cool interior (around 18°C) is a welcome respite from the heat of summer.
Open daily in summer, only at weekends in winter.
Stop 3 – Rethymnon Fortress (Fortezza)
On arrival in Rethymnon, head for the Fortezza, a Venetian citadel overlooking the old town from its promontory. Built in the 16th century to protect the city from Ottoman raids and pirate attacks, it offers unobstructed views of the sea and rooftops below. Inside, you’ll discover the remains of barracks, a church converted into a mosque and cisterns. We recommend a visit in the late afternoon, when the ramparts are bathed in golden light.
Overnight accommodation in Rethymnon. Book 2 nights.
See our selection of the best hotels in Rethymnon.
Or go directly to all top-rated accommodations.
Day 2 – Arkadi and Réthymnon
Total driving time: 1h30 loop
Stop 1 – Arkadi Monastery
25min southeast of Rethymnon, the Arkadi monastery is a symbol of Cretan resistance. During the 1866 uprising against the Ottoman Empire, hundreds of fighters and civilians entrenched here preferred to blow up the powder magazine rather than surrender. Its Venetian Renaissance facade is surprisingly elegant in the midst of the mountains, with its columns and arcades. We were struck by the calm that reigns within the walls – in stark contrast to the violence of past events. Allow around 1 hour on site.
Stop 2 – Village of Margarites
Close to Arkadi, Margarites perpetuates a pottery tradition whose origins date back to Minoan times. Several workshops line the narrow streets, and you can watch the craftsmen shape the clay according to gestures handed down from generation to generation. The village is also worth a visit for its stone houses and views over the valley. We enjoyed a coffee in the small central square – a simple, pleasant moment.
Stop 3 – Old town of Rethymnon
Spend the afternoon in Rethymnon’s old town, one of the best preserved in Crete. The narrow streets mix Venetian mansions and Ottoman facades, Rimondi fountains and minarets – all traces of successive dominations. The small Venetian port boasts numerous taverns facing the sea. We took pleasure in exploring the side passages, away from the main thoroughfare, to find flower-filled courtyards and artisan boutiques.
Find out more about Rethymnon’s attractions.
2nd night in Réthymnon.
Day 3 – Lake Kournas and Chania
Total driving time: about 1h30
Stop 1 – Lake Kournas
At the foot of the White Mountains, Lake Kournas is Crete’s only natural freshwater lake. Its surface changes color hourly, from emerald green to deep blue. You can rent a pedalo, take a swim or stroll along the banks. In season, freshwater turtles can be seen near the shore. We recommend arriving early in the morning to enjoy the site before it gets too crowded.
Stop 2 – Chania Archaeological Museum
Housed in the former church of San Francesco, a 14th-century Venetian edifice, the Archaeological Museum of Chania covers the history of western Crete from Neolithic to Roman times. Minoan pottery, terracotta sarcophagi and gold jewelry make up the collections. The building itself deserves attention for its volume and architecture. We found the tour to be clear and reasonably sized: allow around 1 hour for the visit.
To save time, take your tickets with an audio guide.
Stop 3 – Venetian port of Chania
The Venetian port of Chania is considered one of the best preserved in the eastern Mediterranean. Built in the 14th century, it features former arsenals, colorful facades and waterfront restaurants. The Venetian lighthouse, at the end of the pier, remains one of the city’s landmarks.
We suggest you walk along the quays in the late afternoon, then choose a table facing the harbor for dinner. The setting is particularly pleasant at sunset, when the buildings take on warm hues.
Find out more about attractions in Chania.
Overnight accommodation in Chania. For 4 nights.
See our selection of the best hotels in Chania.
Or go directly to all top-rated accommodations.
Day 4 – Boat trip to Balos lagoon
Driving time: 1h to the port of Kissamos
A day devoted entirely to one of Crete’s most photographed sites. The boat trip from Kissamos combines the Balos lagoon and the fortified island of Gramvousa.
On the island of Gramvousa, the remains of a 16th-century Venetian fortress crown the summit. The climb is steep, but the panoramic view over the Cretan Sea rewards every effort.
From the boat’s deck, the turquoise waters of the lagoon gradually take shape – a striking gradation of blues and greens. On land, you can take advantage of your free time to swim in the shallow, warm waters, whose sandy bottom blends white and pale pink.
Make sure you bring sun cream, a hat and suitable footwear: there’s virtually no shade on site.
Be careful, this is a popular excursion, so book in advance to secure a place on a boat! See excursion options to Balos
2nd night in Chania.
OUR GUIDE TO Crete
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- 5 Maps to Help You Find Your Way
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Day 5 – Akrotiri Peninsula
Total driving time: approx. 1.5 hours on a loop
Just a few kilometers northeast of Chania, the Akrotiri peninsula brings together several points of interest in a small area. The day alternates between monasteries, coves and accessible beaches.
Stop 1 – Akrotiri monasteries
The peninsula boasts several monasteries, the most famous of which is Agia Triada Tzagarolon, founded in the 17th century. Its Venetian Renaissance architecture and olive groves are well worth a visit. The monastery produces its own wine and olive oil, for sale on site. We appreciated the peacefulness of the place, far from the hustle and bustle of the seaside.
Open daily.
Stop 2 – Seitan Limania Beach
Seitan Limania is a narrow cove wedged between two cliffs, a miniature fjord with intensely blue waters. The view from the parking lot alone is worth the detour. Access to the beach requires a steep 15-minute walk (good shoes recommended). The swimming area is small and can be crowded in summer. Alternatively, you can simply contemplate the panorama and walk to the next, more accessible beach.
Stop 3 – Kalathas beaches
For a more relaxed end to the day, the beaches of Kalathas and Stavros offer calm, shallow waters. Stavros is famous as the setting for the film “Zorba the Greek” (1964). We ended the day with a late afternoon swim – the best time to enjoy the calm.
3rd night in Chania.
Alternative Day 5 – Hiking in the Samaria Gorge
Driving time: 1h to the entrance to the gorge
The Samaria Gorge is Crete’s most famous hike: a 16km descent through the White Mountains National Park, from the Omalos plateau to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli. The passage through the Portes de Fer, where the walls are only 3m apart, remains the highlight of this traverse.
Allow 5h to 7h for the walk, depending on your pace. A boat will then take you back to Chora Sfakion, followed by a bus to Chania.
Please note: the gorges are only open from May to around October. Leave early in the morning, take plenty of water and wear good walking shoes.
Given the logistics involved, it’s best to book an organized excursion!
See options from Chania
4th night in Chania.
Day 6 – West coast
Total driving time: 2h30 to 3h30
A day devoted to the west coast, the wildest part of the island. You’ll head south along the coast, ending with a sunset at Elafonisi.
Stop 1 – Falassarna beach
Falassarna is a long stretch of golden sand bordered by crystal-clear waters. Regularly cited as one of Crete’s most beautiful beaches, it faces due west – an ideal location for sunsets. The remains of an ancient city are nearby. In high season, deckchairs and a few tavernas are available. We took a morning swim here before heading south again.
Stop 2 – Chryssoskalitissa Monastery
Perched on a rocky outcrop facing the sea, the monastery of Chryssoskalitissa (“the golden step”) dominates a breathtaking coastal panorama. Legend has it that one of its 90 steps is made of gold – visible only to the sinless. This small, white monastery can be visited quickly. The site is best appreciated for its unobstructed views of the surrounding wild coastline. We spent about 30 minutes there, just enough time to explore the chapel and admire the horizon.
Stop 3 – Elafonisi and sunset
Elafonisi is undoubtedly Crete’s most famous beach(see list of the most beautiful). Its shallow lagoon with turquoise waters and pinkish sand, colored by fragments of shells, create a remarkable natural setting.
Stop 4 – Sunset at Elafonisi
We recommend arriving mid-afternoon and staying until sunset: the orange hues on the pink sand create a memorable spectacle. In summer, the beach is very busy during the day, but the crowds thin out considerably in the late afternoon.
Overnight in Elafonisi
Accommodation options in Elafonisi are limited. See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Or return to Chania for a 5th night (more driving today, or more driving tomorrow).
Day 7 – Loutro by boat
Total driving time: approx. 1h30 (excluding boat)
You leave Chania for the south coast. The road crosses the Imbros Gorge before descending to Chora Sfakion, the departure point for the boat to the remote village of Loutro.
Stop 1 – Road through the Imbros Gorge
The descent to Chora Sfakion takes you through the Imbros Gorge, where the rock faces close in on either side of the road. The narrowness of the valley and the verticality of the cliffs make for an impressive journey. We were surprised by the radical change of scenery between the high plateau and the southern Mediterranean coast – only a few kilometers separate the two worlds.
Stop 2 – Chora Sfakion and boat to Loutro
Chora Sfakion is a small port on the south coast from which ferries run along the coastline. Set sail for Loutro (approx. 20min crossing). From the bridge, the mountainous coastline plunging into the sea is a remarkable sight. We advise you to check the timetable in advance: the frequency of ferries varies according to the season.
See cruise options on the south coast
Stop 3 – Village of Loutro
Loutro is a white village accessible only by boat or on foot, nestled in a protected cove on the south coast. With no cars or roads, the place exudes a rare tranquility. The white houses are reflected in the calm waters of the bay. You can swim, have lunch in one of the seaside tavernas or hike to the nearby coves. We were seduced by the slow pace of the village – the kind of place where you lose track of time. Take the boat back to Chora Sfakion in the late afternoon.
Overnight in Chora Sfakion.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Day 8 – South coast: gorges, beaches and villages
Total driving time: approx. 3h30
A busy day along the south coast, between gorges crossed by car, wild beaches and mountain villages. This is one of the most varied days of the route. An early start allows you to take full advantage of each stage.
Stop 1 – Kourtaliotiko Gorge by car
Leaving Chora Sfakion to the east, the road enters the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, one of the most spectacular on the island. The rock faces close in around the roadway, while the slopes are lined with abundant vegetation. Viewpoints allow you to stop and gauge the depth of the gorge. We found this route as gripping as some hikes – without the physical effort.
Stop 2 – Preveli Beach
Preveli beach is one of the most unusual in Crete: a palm-fringed river flows into the sea, forming an unexpected, almost tropical landscape. You have two options: admire the view from the top and continue towards the monastery, or descend a steep path about 20min from the parking lot. At the bottom, you can walk or swim up the river to reach a small natural lake shaded by palm trees. We recommend you bring water and a hat: there are no facilities on the beach.
Stop 3 – Preveli Monastery
Resting on a hill overlooking the Libyan Sea, the monastery of Prevéli played an active role in the Cretan resistance. During the Second World War, the monks helped Allied soldiers leave the island. The site offers uninterrupted views of the coast and houses a small museum devoted to icons and liturgical objects. The visit takes about 30min.
Stop 4 – Village of Spili
Returning to the road, a short stop at the mountain village of Spili is a must. Its Venetian fountain, adorned with 25 sculpted lion heads from which flows drinking spring water, is the focal point of the visit. The steep lanes reveal stone houses and ancient churches.
Stop 5 – Triopetra Beach
Our favorite in Crete (because we love rock formations). Triopetra owes its name to the three monumental rocks rising out of the sea. This untamed beach on the south coast offers a grandiose backdrop, much less crowded than the northern beaches.
Stop 6 – Sunset in Matala
End this long day in Matala, famous for its caves carved into the cliffs that line the beach. Arrive for sunset: the golden light on the cave walls creates a striking tableau.
Overnight in Matala. Book for 2 nights.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Day 9 – Matala, Phaistos and Gortyna
Total driving time: approx. 3h
Minoan and Roman history is on the agenda. Two major archaeological sites are just a short distance from Matala, on the fertile Messara plain. The second part of the day takes you eastwards along the southern coast.
Stop 1 – Matala caves and walk to Red Beach
Before leaving Matala, take the morning to visit the beach caves. In the 1960s-70s, these caves were home to an international hippie community – including singer Joni Mitchell, who used them as inspiration for her song “Carey”.
Finish off with a short hike to Red Beach. This 20-minute coastal path hugs the cliffs and leads to a secluded beach surrounded by reddish rocks. The area is sparsely developed and often frequented by naturists. The ochre color of the cliffs stands out against the blue of the sea – a striking contrast.
Stop 2 – Phaistos archaeological site
Phaistos, the second-largest Minoan palace after Knossos, occupies a hill overlooking the Messara plain. Unlike Knossos, the site has not been reconstructed: you can observe the remains as they were unearthed by archaeologists. It was here that the famous Phaistos disc was discovered, whose writing remains undeciphered (the original is on display at Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum). We found the atmosphere more serene than Knossos, and the panoramic view over the plain and Mount Ida is superb.
Stop 3 – Gortyna
15 minutes from Phaistos, the site of Gortyna reveals another layer of Crete’s history. This city became the Roman capital of the island and of the province of Cyrenaica from the 1st century B.C. The remains of a 6th-century Christian basilica, a Roman odeon and, above all, the code of laws of Gortyna – one of the oldest legal corpuses in Europe, engraved in stone. We were fascinated by these 2,500-year-old inscriptions governing daily life.
Stop 4 – Coastal road to Makry Gialos
The road between Matala and Makry Gialos runs along the south coast through arid landscapes dotted with olive groves and greenhouses. Views of the Libyan Sea follow one another, and the road passes through several rural villages that offer a glimpse of Cretan agricultural life. Take your time: there are many bends and panoramic views that invite photo stops. We found this to be one of the most beautiful stretches of the road trip.
Stop 5 – Makry Gialos
Makry Gialos is a small, discreet seaside resort on the southeast coast, with a long sandy beach and shallow waters. Less touristy than the north coast, it offers a good choice of accommodation and restaurants. We found it a restful stopover – ideal for taking a breather between two busy days of sightseeing.
Overnight at Makry Gialos.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Day 10 – Wild East Coast
Total driving time: approx. 3h
A great day’s exploration of the eastern tip of Crete, the least visited part of the island. One site follows another, from abandoned villages to palm groves unique in Europe. Leave early to see it all.
Stop 1 – Ghost village of Etia
Etia is an abandoned village whose ruins of stone houses blend into the surrounding arid hills. The most notable building is the Venetian manor house De Mezzo, a large 15th-century residence that has partially collapsed. The silence that reigns here is evocative: it’s easy to imagine the life that once animated these walls.
Stop 2 – Road to Xerokampos
Then descend to Xerokampos. This is a magnificent stretch of road, winding between the gorge and the sea in a striking mineral setting.
Stop 3 – Xerokampos beach
Xerokampos is an isolated hamlet in the far south-east, surrounded by several sandy beaches and crystal-clear coves. Tourist development is almost non-existent, giving the place a raw character. We enjoyed an almost deserted cove – one of those moments of solitude that are particularly appreciated in high season.
Stop 4 – Zakros
Kato Zakros combines a Minoan archaeological site (Zakros Palace, Crete’s fourth Minoan palace) with a small pebble beach lined with tavernas. The site, close to the sea, can be visited in around 45 minutes. The beach is a good place to have lunch with your feet almost in the water. We appreciated the calm of this corner of the island and the proximity of the ruins to the shore.
Stop 5 – Vai palm grove
Vai is home to Europe’s largest natural date palm grove – some 5,000 trees lining a golden sandy beach. The contrast between the palm trees, the sand and the turquoise sea evokes a tropical setting unexpected in the Mediterranean. In summer, the beach is equipped with deckchairs and a refreshment bar. Legend has it that the palm grove was formed from date pits discarded by Arab pirates. We recommend climbing the nearby hill to enjoy the view over the whole site.
Stop 6 – Sitia
End the day in Sitia, a lesser-known town that we love for its authentic atmosphere(see our list). We enjoyed the local atmosphere on the seafront promenade, where Cretans come to meet at the end of the day. The Venetian fortress Kazarma, although partially in ruins, is a fine example of defensive architecture.
Overnight in Sitia.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Day 11 – Mochlos to Elounda
Total driving time: approx. 2h
Stop 1 – Village of Mochlos
Mochlos is a fishing village set on the edge of a small bay, facing an islet housing Minoan remains. It’s a quiet, untouristy place – perfect for a morning coffee by the water. The tavernas serve grilled fish caught that very morning. We liked this village for its unspoilt atmosphere, in contrast to the seaside resorts of the north coast.
Stop 2 – Gournia archaeological site
A few kilometers from Mochlos, Gournia offers a different view of Minoan civilization. It’s not a palace, but an entire town: you’ll wander through the narrow streets of an ordinary Minoan city, among craftsmen’s houses, workshops and small squares. Less visited than the great palaces, this site gives a concrete insight into daily life 3,500 years ago. We found the visit more informative than some of the more prestigious sites.
Stop 3 – Voulisma Beach
Voulisma (also known as Istron Beach) is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the north-east coast. Its fine sand and shallow turquoise waters make it a pleasant place to swim. In summer, umbrellas and refreshment stands are available. We spent a welcome moment of relaxation here between cultural visits.
Stop 4 – Kritsa village
Clinging to the side of a mountain, Kritsa is renowned for its textile crafts (tablecloths, traditional weavings) and steep alleyways. The nearby Panagia Kera church features some of the best-preserved 13th-14th century Byzantine frescoes in Crete. The village offers beautiful views over the valley below. We suggest you allow around 1 hour for the whole visit.
Overnight in Agios Nikolaos or Elounda. We prefer Elounda.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Day 12 – Spinalonga and Malia Palace
Total driving time: approx. 1h (excluding boat)
Stop 1 – Fortress island of Spinalonga
Spinalonga is a small fortified island in the Gulf of Mirabello, accessible by boat from Elounda or Agios Nikolaos (15-30min crossing). The island has had three successive lives: Venetian fortress (16th century), Ottoman stronghold, then leper colony from 1903 to 1957 – one of the last in Europe. Victoria Hislop’s novel “The Island of the Forgotten” contributed to its fame. A visit to the ruins provides an insight into the daily lives of the island’s forced residents. We found the place deeply moving.
See excursion options to Spinalonga.
Stop 2 – Malia Palace
The third-largest Minoan palace on Crete, Malia is distinguished by its immediate proximity to the sea. Less reconstructed than Knossos and less perched than Phaistos, it reveals its foundations and courtyards in a pleasant coastal setting. It was here that the bee pendant, a masterpiece of Minoan goldsmithery, was unearthed (on display at Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum). The site is generally less crowded than the other palaces. We enjoyed the sea breeze that accompanied our visit to the ruins.
Stop 3 – Malia Beach
Overnight in Malia. Book for 3 nights.
See our selection of the best hotels in Malia (coming soon)
Or directly all the best rated accommodations.
Day 13 – Myths and local life
Total driving time: approx. 2h
Stop 1 – Cave of Zeus (Dikteon Andron / Psychro)
According to Greek mythology, it was in this cave on the Lassithi plateau that the titanid Rhéa gave birth to Zeus, king of the Olympian gods, to save him from his father Cronos, who was devouring his children. The 200-step descent reveals evocatively shaped stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by a discreet lighting system. A small underground lake completes the setting. The climb back up is strenuous, but well worth the effort.
Stop 2 – Lassithi Plateau
The Lassithi plateau lies at an altitude of around 840m, surrounded by mountains. It is one of the few inhabited plateaus in Crete. Once covered with thousands of windmills used to irrigate crops, some have been restored. The villages are mainly agricultural: potatoes, cereals and almond trees. A panoramic tour by car takes you around the plateau. We loved the unspoilt atmosphere of this place, far removed from coastal tourism.
Stop 3 – Lychnostatis open-air museum
Back on the coast, the Lychnostatis open-air museum near Hersonissos recreates traditional Cretan life through dwellings, workshops and gardens. You’ll discover an oil mill, a wine press, a furnished peasant house and craft demonstrations. This ethnographic museum is well designed to capture the rural lifestyle that has shaped Cretan culture. We enjoyed this hands-on immersion in the island’s traditions – a good complement to the archaeological tours.
2nd night in Malia.
Day 14 – Knossos and Archaeological Museum
Driving time: 40min to Knossos
Stop 1 – Knossos Palace
Knossos Palace is Crete’s most visited archaeological site and the heart of Minoan civilization. Partial reconstructions carried out by British archaeologist Arthur Evans in the early 20th century show the proportions and decoration of this complex, which contained over 1,300 rooms. The restored frescoes (copies on site, originals in the museum) bear witness to a sophisticated society that mastered architecture and maritime trade over 3,500 years ago. We recommend arriving as soon as the museum opens, to avoid groups and the heat. Allow 1h30 to 2h for your visit.
It’s worth noting that Evans’ reconstructions are the subject of much debate among archaeologists, some of whom consider them too interpretative. This controversy adds an interesting dimension to the visit.
Book your guided tour tickets now, to learn all about this incredible place!
Stop 2 – Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion houses the world’s largest collection of Minoan art. After exploring the sites, it’s here that everything makes sense: the original frescoes from Knossos, the Phaistos disc whose writing remains undeciphered, the bee pendant from Malia, the rhytons (ritual vases) in the shape of a bull’s head. The collections range from Neolithic to Roman times. We were fascinated by the finesse of the Minoan objects and the sophistication of this civilization. Allow at least 2 hours for an in-depth visit.
Book your audioguide tickets now to avoid the queues!
Overnight in Heraklion. Book for 2 or 3 nights depending on your departure date.
See our selection of the best hotels in Heraklion.
Or directly all the best rated accommodations.
Day 15 – Heraklion at your convenience and departure
The last day of your Cretan road trip is devoted to discovering Heraklion, the capital and largest city of Crete. Often overlooked by travellers in a hurry, the city is well worth a visit. Find out more about attractions in Heraklion.
You can start with the Koules maritime fortress, built by the Venetians in the 16th century to guard the entrance to the port. It offers beautiful views of the bay and fishing port. Continue along the Venetian ramparts that encircle the historic center. Rue du 25 Août (25is Avgoustou) links the port with Place des Lions (Plateia Liontarion) and its Morosini fountain.
We also suggest a visit to the Agios Minas Cathedral, a stroll through the covered market on 1866 Street for its stalls of herbs, cheeses and honeys, and a break in one of the cafés around El Greco Square. If you have the time, the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology offers an original, interactive approach to Greece’s scientific heritage.
Depending on the time of your flight or ferry, you can enjoy a last swim on one of Heraklion’s nearby beaches, or simply savor a last cup of Greek coffee on the terrace.
Heraklion airport (Nikos Kazantzakis) is 5km from the town center. If you’re taking the ferry to Athens (Piraeus) or the Cyclades, the port is in the town center.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the budget for 2 weeks in Crete?
Expect to pay around €50 to €120 per night for a mid-range hotel, €30 to €50 per day for tavern meals, and around €35 to €75 per day for car rental (including insurance). Entrances to archaeological sites and museums cost between €5 and €20.
Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
Booking in advance is essential, especially for tourist areas such as Chania, Elafonisi and Agios Nikolaos. In May-June and September-October, you can be more flexible, but you’ll need to allow time to look for accommodation. We prefer to concentrate our time on sightseeing!
Can we adapt this itinerary to 3 weeks? Or reduce it to 10 days.
With 3 weeks, you can tour the whole island at a more relaxed pace, adding rest days and extra stops like Paleochora, the Omalos plateau or a beach day in Malia. See our 3-week itinerary in Crete for the full program.
Coming soon: our 10-day itinerary.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
What to do in Crete
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful cities
Most beautiful beaches in Crete
Best archaeological sites
Best museums
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Crete
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
Attractions in Heraklion
Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
