Between golden sandy beaches, rugged mountains and Minoan relics, Crete also boasts a rich architectural offering: colorful Venetian houses, Ottoman fortresses, Orthodox churches and historic ports.
In this article, we share our selection of Crete’s most beautiful towns, each offering a unique facet of Greece’s largest island.
Note: This article is about cities to visit. Alternative: discover Crete’s most beautiful villages (coming soon), and the best towns to stay in.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Most beautiful cities in Crete: summary + Map
Map
Crete offers a beautiful variety of coastal and port towns, each bearing the traces of its Venetian, Ottoman and Greek history.
Here’s the map with our selection of towns to visit:
Which towns in Crete to visit? Quick response
If you only need to visit 3, to get an overview of the different styles:
- Chania, a Venetian town
- Rethymnon
- Heraklion
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1. Chania
Why we love it
Chania is our favorite place in Crete. This north-western town captivated us with its beautifully preserved Venetian port, lined with buildings with ochre and pink facades reflected in the turquoise water. We spent hours wandering through the old town’s maze of cobbled streets, admiring the Venetian and Ottoman architecture that bears witness to the city’s rich past.
The 16th-century lighthouse, standing proudly at the entrance to the port, creates an unforgettable photographic scene. We also enjoyed the cosmopolitan atmosphere in the evenings, when the terraces around the harbor come alive. The combination of historical heritage, nearby beaches and a dynamic gastronomic scene makes Chania a complete destination.
Attractions
- The Venetian port and its emblematic lighthouse
- The old town and its Venetian streets
- The Maritime Museum of Crete
- The municipal covered market (Agora)
- The Janissary Mosque on the port
- Nea Chora and Agioi Apostoloi beaches nearby
See all attractions in Chania.
Location and advice
- Northwest Crete
- Chania International Airport 14km away (20min drive)
- From Rethymnon: 60km (1h by car)
- From Heraklion: 140km (2h by car)
- Don’t try to drive into the old town, park outside.
- It’s the ideal base from which to explore the entire west coast – see our selection of the best hotels.
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2. Rethymnon
Why we love it
Réthymnon perfectly embodies the fusion of Venetian and Ottoman influences. We were charmed by its exceptionally well-preserved historic center, where each alleyway seems to tell a different story. The Fortezza fortress, which dominates the town from the top of its hill, offers splendid panoramic views of the Cretan Sea.
We particularly appreciated the authenticity of the old port, surrounded by colorful houses and family-run tavernas. Unlike some tourist towns, Rethymnon has preserved its local soul. Carved Venetian wooden balconies, Ottoman fountains and slender minarets create a unique architectural setting. The town’s long sandy beach is an added bonus for those wishing to combine culture and swimming.
Attractions
- The Venetian fortress Fortezza
- The old Venetian port
- The 17th-century Rimondi Fountain
- The Venetian Loggia
- The Archaeological Museum
- The town’s long sandy beach
See all Rethymnon attractions.
Location and advice
- North-central Crete
- From Chania: 60km (1h by car)
- From Heraklion: 80km (1h15 by car)
- From Agios Nikolaos: 140km (2h drive)
- It’s the ideal base from which to explore much of the island (although you’ll still need to allow for a long drive) – see our selection of the best hotels.
3. Heraklion
Why we love it
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is a dynamic city. We discovered much more than just a gateway to Knossos. The historic center, surrounded by massive Venetian ramparts, is home to many little-known architectural treasures. We were impressed by the Archaeological Museum, one of the most important in Greece, with its extraordinary Minoan collections.
Lions’ Square (Plateia Venizelou), the beating heart of the city, seduced us with its authentic local atmosphere. You can also enjoy the lively markets, especially the central market where the Cretans come to do their shopping.
Heraklion also offers an excellent gastronomic scene. The town may lack the picturesque charm of Chania, but it makes up for it in authenticity and cultural richness. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to understand contemporary Crete while exploring its ancient past.
Attractions
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- The Venetian fortress Koules on the port
- The Venetian ramparts surrounding the old town
- Morosini Fountain (Place des Lions)
- Agios Minas Cathedral
- Knossos Palace 5km away
- The central market (Agora)
See all Heraklion attractions.
Location and advice
- North-central Crete
- Crete’s main international airport (Nikos Kazantzakis) is located here.
- From Chania: 140km (2h by car)
- From Rethymnon: 80km (1h15 by car)
- Stay in the historic center or on the beach (resorts)
- It’s the ideal base for the heart of the island – see our selection of the best hotels.
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4. Paleóchora
Why we love it
Paleóchora, located on a south-western peninsula, won us over with its relaxed, bohemian character. This small seaside town has a rare feature: two distinct beaches on either side of the peninsula. On one side, a long sandy beach ideal for families, on the other a wilder pebble beach popular with windsurfers.
We enjoyed the alternative atmosphere of the pedestrian streets, lined with family-run tavernas and small craft stores. The ruins of the Venetian fortress, perched on the tip of the peninsula, offer panoramic views of the Libyan Sea.
Paleóchora is a destination for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the big seaside resorts.
Attractions
- The two beaches (Pachia Ammos and Chalikia)
- The ruins of the Venetian fortress Selino Kasteli
- The central pedestrian promenade
- The little fishing port
- Excursions to the island of Elafonissi
- Hiking in the area
See all Paleóchora attractions (coming soon).
Location and advice
- Southwest Crete
- From Chania: 77km (1h30 by car)
- From Heraklion: 200km (3h by car)
- Winding road through the mountains
- Not an ideal destination if you want to explore Crete. It’s more for relaxing and exploring the surrounding nature.
- See top-rated accommodations.
5. Sitia
Why we love it
Sitia represents authentic Crete, far from mass tourism. This eastern port city won us over with its relaxed atmosphere and unspoilt authenticity. Built like an amphitheatre facing the sea, it offers superb panoramic views from its upper quarters.
We enjoyed the local atmosphere on the seafront promenade, where Cretans come to meet at the end of the day. The Venetian Kazarma fortress, although partially in ruins, is a fine example of defensive architecture.
Sitia is also an ideal base for exploring the palm grove of Vaï, the wild beaches of the east and the Minoan site of Zakros. It’s a destination for travelers looking for a more tranquil experience and want to discover the lesser-known face of Crete.
Attractions
- The Venetian fortress Kazarma
- The seafront promenade
- The Folklore Museum
- The city beach
- The Vaï palm grove 25km away
- Nearby Toplou monastery
See all Sitia attractions (coming soon).
Location and advice
- East Crete
- From Heraklion: 130km (2h by car)
- From Agios Nikolaos: 70km (1h15 by car)
- Ideal for a stay surrounded by more locals and for exploring the east coast.
- See top-rated accommodations.
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6. Elounda
Why we love it
Elounda occupies a special place in this selection. Although it has become a seaside resort renowned for its luxury hotels, the old village retains an undeniable charm.
We enjoyed strolling along the harbor, where colorful fishing boats rub shoulders with yachts. The traditional taverns along the waterfront offer quality local cuisine. The view of the island of Spinalonga, a former Venetian fortress and leper colony, adds a fascinating historical dimension.
Elounda is also an excellent base for exploring the Lassithi region, offering a balance between modern conveniences and Cretan authenticity.
Attractions
- The harbour and its colourful boats
- View of Spinalonga island
- Boat trips to Spinalonga
- The sunken city of Olous
- Developed beaches
Location and advice
- Northeast Crete, Gulf of Mirabello
- From Agios Nikolaos = 15min drive
- From Heraklion = 1h
- Several parking lots in the village
- See top-rated accommodations.
7. Ierapetra
Why we love it
Ierapetra holds the title of Europe’s southernmost town. We were surprised by the discreet charm of its old Ottoman town, organized around narrow, shady streets. The small Venetian fortress of Kales, guarding the entrance to the port, adds a touch of history.
The town has a double seafront: on one side the long sandy beach stretching eastwards, on the other the small fishing port and, in the distance, the deserted island of Chrissi.
We enjoyed the atmosphere of an authentic provincial town, far removed from mass tourism. Ierapetra is also the gateway to the less developed, wilder southeast coast. It’s a destination for those who want to combine beaches, authenticity and exploration of the less-frequented surroundings.
Attractions
- The Venetian fortress of Kales
- The old Ottoman town
- The Ottoman mosque
- The long sandy beach
- An excursion to the island of Chrissi
- The house where Napoleon is said to have stayed
- Access to the island of Chrissi is now protected
Location and advice
- Southeast Crete
- From Heraklion: 100km (1h30 by car)
- From Agios Nikolaos: 35km (40min drive)
- See top-rated accommodations.
8. Agios Nikolaos
Why we love it
Agios Nikolaos has a unique asset that sets it apart from other Cretan towns: Lake Voulismeni. This 64m-deep circular body of water, linked to the sea by a narrow channel, creates a spectacular backdrop in the heart of the town. We loved sitting on the terraces around the lake, watching the ballet of boats and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
The city exudes a cosmopolitan charm, yet remains on a human scale. We enjoyed the promenade along the harbor, lined with boutiques and cafés, as well as the small beaches within easy reach of the center. Agios Nikolaos is also an excellent base for exploring eastern Crete, including the island of Spinalonga and the traditional villages of the surrounding mountains. The mix of tourist sophistication and local authenticity makes this a well-balanced destination.
Attractions
- Lake Voulismeni and its terraces
- The marina
- The Archaeological Museum
- Ammos and Kitroplatia beaches
- An excursion to the island of Spinalonga
- Mirabello Bay
See all Agios Nikolaos attractions (coming soon).
Location and advice
- Northeast Crete
- From Heraklion: 65km (1h by car)
- From Rethymnon: 140km (2h by car)
- From Sitia: 70km (1h15 by car)
- See top-rated accommodations.
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3 other towns and resorts in Crete
If you’re looking for destinations with a focus on beaches and seaside activities, these three towns offer excellent tourist facilities.
Malia
Malia is a lively seaside resort, particularly popular with young travelers. It boasts a long, golden sandy beach lined with hotels and restaurants. Beyond its image as a party destination, Malia is also home to an important Minoan archaeological site just a few kilometers from the center.
We enjoyed the dichotomy between the traditional old Cretan village inland and the modern tourist area along the coast.
From Heraklion: 30 min by car
See top-rated accommodations.
Plakias
Plakias, nestled in a sheltered bay on the south coast, offers a quieter atmosphere than Malia. We were charmed by its long beach of grey sand and pebbles and the spectacular cliffs that surround it. The town retains a relaxed character and attracts a clientele of independent travelers and hikers.
The surrounding area abounds with gorges to explore and secluded beaches accessible by boat or on foot. Plakias is an excellent base for discovering the wild south of Crete while enjoying comfortable tourist facilities.
From Rethymnon: 45min by car
See top-rated accommodations.
Bali
Bali (not to be confused with the Indonesian island) is a former fishing village transformed into a modestly sized seaside resort. Built around several small coves with crystal-clear waters, it offers a picturesque setting surrounded by hills.
We appreciated its family atmosphere and its four beaches with different characters.
Bali remains on a human scale despite its tourist development. It’s an attractive option for those looking for a seaside holiday in a natural setting without the hustle and bustle of the big resorts.
From Heraklion: 45min by car
See top-rated accommodations.
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
