Are you considering Crete for your next vacation? An excellent idea, this island will offer you wonderful moments between beaches, traditional villages, archaeological sites and mountains.
Here are all the details to answer your question: Is Crete safe? With all our tips for a carefree vacation.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
How safe is Crete? Quick response
Yes, on the whole Crete is a safe destination. It’s easy to travel here, even on your own. The few risks to be aware of are the currents on some beaches, the intense heat in summer, some winding mountain roads and minor theft, as in all tourist resorts.
Crete is a Greek island where Greek laws apply.
WHERE TO STAY IN Crete
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Crete (coming soon)
- The most beautiful hotels (coming soon)
- 5-star hotels (coming soon)
- Boutique hotels (coming soon)
- Hotels for families (coming soon)
- Adults-only hotels (coming soon)
Select by city:
- Best hotels in Heraklion
- Best hotels in Chania
- Best hotels in Rethymnon
- Best hotels in Malia (coming soon)
What to do in an emergency Medical care
Before I tell you about a few risks to be aware of, the first thing is to know what to do in an emergency. Dial 112 to contact the emergency services. This is a European number, enabling you to contact people who speak different languages.
Crete has a well-developed healthcare system, particularly in the main towns of Heraklion, Chania and Rethymnon. There are public hospitals and private clinics equipped to deal with most medical emergencies. In more remote areas, local health centers provide first aid.
We even got to try out the public hospital in Heraklion after a fall, and it went really well. Friendly and efficient.
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Is it dangerous to drive in Crete?
Not really. On the whole, driving in Crete is fairly easy. The main road along the north coast is in good condition. There are, however, a few mountain roads that are narrower and more winding, notably those leading to the Lassithi plateau or certain hilltop villages.
Local drivers can sometimes drive fast and quite casually compared to the rules. Stay alert, especially on narrow roads where two vehicles have difficulty passing each other.
Parking in big cities like Heraklion can be tricky. We recommend that you use paid parking lots rather than searching the streets.
RENT YOUR CAR IN Crete
- Our preferred agency is Rental Center Crete
everything is included in the price and the service is excellent. No stress! - Choose a car with a decent engine for greater comfort on the few mountain roads.
- Book early for choice.
- If you prefer more choice, compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars
Is it safe to drink the water in Crete?
Yes, you can drink tap water in Crete. There’s no danger. The water is treated to European standards. However, in some tourist areas, it can have a slightly chlorinated taste or be more mineralized. Most visitors therefore prefer bottled water, which remains very affordable on the island.
In mountain villages, the water often comes from natural springs and tastes excellent.
Crimes and the big picture – travel for a single woman
Greece is one of Europe’s safest countries for travellers, and Crete has a particularly low crime rate. Of course, as in all tourist destinations, pickpockets can be found in busy areas, especially ports and markets.
It’s best not to leave anything visible in the car, but crimes against tourists are rare.
Crete is a great destination for women exploring alone. We have found that the island offers a welcoming and respectful environment. The Cretans are renowned for their hospitality and kindness to visitors. Even in remote areas, we felt safe. The only precaution is to tell someone about your itinerary if you’re hiking alone, but that’s a rule that applies everywhere.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Crete a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Coming soon!
Dangers of sun and heat
Crete enjoys generous sunshine, particularly between May and September. The sun can be intense, especially in July and August, when temperatures regularly exceed 30°C. Protect your skin when exploring, whether on the beaches or at archaeological sites. These places often lack shade!
Advice:
- Apply sunscreen regularly (don’t forget your feet and the tops of your ears).
- Wear a hat and sunglasses
- Drink water regularly
- Avoid visiting archaeological sites or hiking between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. in midsummer.
- Seek shade during the hottest hours
Note that some beaches have palm tree areas, but these are not numerous (Preveli, Vai…). See our selection of themost beautiful beaches.
Risks in the ocean
Crete is renowned for its magnificent beaches with crystal-clear waters that invite you to take a dip. Not too many dangers from marine animals. It’s currents and waves that can present a risk. But not on every beach.
Some beaches on the north coast are well protected and ideal for family bathing. Others, particularly on the south coast, are more exposed to winds and currents. Beaches battered by the meltémi (a north wind in summer) can be subject to high waves.
Advice:
Check the beach flag if there is one, and read the signs explaining the dangers of the beach. If you’re not sure about the conditions, ask the locals or lifeguards.
Be sure to check the weather conditions before heading off to isolated beaches. Choose calm days to explore these places. Wear water shoes if possible to protect your feet.
Hiking hazards
Crete is also known for its spectacular hiking in gorges and mountains, including the famous Samaria Gorge. Beware that some hikes involve rocky passages and exposed sections. In the mountains, the weather can change rapidly, especially in spring and autumn.
The gorge can be dangerous when it rains, as the water rises very quickly and creates torrents. Indeed, the authorities close the Samaria Gorge and other similar trails when conditions are unsafe.
Advice:
We advise you to start your hikes early in the morning, to avoid the heat. Take enough water (at least 2 liters per person), wear good walking shoes, charge your phone, and let someone know your itinerary.
Check the weather forecast before setting off, and don’t hesitate to give up if conditions look unfavorable. In the gorges, look out for warning signs about the risk of flooding.
Take guided hikes for added safety – see options
Natural hazards
Crete is located in a seismic zone. Earthquakes occur occasionally, although most are of low intensity and go unnoticed. Modern buildings comply with anti-seismic standards.
Forest fires can break out in summer, especially during periods of drought and strong winds. The authorities are putting preventive measures in place and monitoring areas at risk. If you see a fire or smoke, call 112 immediately.
Scammers and scams
Again, as a tourist destination, you may come across a few scams. The most common are cabs that don’t use the meter or take longer routes, especially from airports.
In some very touristy restaurants, the bill may include unadvertised extras. Always check the bill before paying. However, these situations are the exception. The vast majority of Cretan shopkeepers are honest and welcoming.
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Safety in major cities
How safe is Heraklion?
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is generally safe for travelers. The crime rate is low. However, as in any large city, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in busy areas, especially around the central market and harbor.
Traffic can be chaotic, and pedestrians need to be vigilant when crossing. We recommend exploring the historic center on foot rather than by car.
Is Chania safe?
Chania is a particularly pleasant and safe city. Its old Venetian port and picturesque alleyways attract many visitors, but the atmosphere remains peaceful.
Just be careful with your belongings in the more touristy areas, especially around the port. Alleys can be slippery after rain, so take care when walking, especially in the evening.
Is Rethymnon safe?
Rethymnon is also a very safe destination for tourists. This medium-sized town offers a tranquil setting for exploring the old town and the Venetian fortress.
As elsewhere, keep an eye on your valuables in busy areas, especially along the beach and in the historic center. But all in all, we found Rethymnon particularly welcoming and safe.
Is Agios Nikolaos safe?
Agios Nikolaos is a small tourist town renowned for its lake and harbor. It has a very low crime rate and we felt totally safe here.
The only precautions to be taken are when you leave your belongings on the beach or on the café terraces around the lake, where it’s best to remain vigilant as everywhere else.
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? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Crete
Driving tips
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Crete (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon (coming soon)
Attractions in Heraklion
Balos Lagoon (coming soon)
Spinalonga (coming soon)
