About Crete
Legendary Crete, the largest island in Greece, is the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, widely regarded as the first high civilization in Europe. Today, Greece’s most populous island is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, including Knossos, the largest archaeological site of the Bronze Age Minoan civilization. Crete also boasts world-renowned Mediterranean beaches, such as Elafonisi, famed for its pink sand and turquoise water; and the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Samaria Gorge, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Explore Greece
Crete, Greece, Europe
Overview
The castle fortress at Rethymno offers magnificent views of the charming village below, with its domed mosques, authentic restaurants, and quaint shops. Crete’s third-largest city is alive with culture, with an ever-changing community of painters, musicians, and poets, especially during the summer months when vacationing students infuse the island with their unique brand of creativity.
The island’s only natural harbor lies to the south, where whitewashed buildings sharply contrast with the vivid turquoise seas. The sparkling Mediterranean is perfect for diving amidst shipwrecks, sea caves, and colorful underwater creatures.
What To Do
Dive deep beneath the salty Mediterranean Sea; or stay dry and explore its majesty via glass bottom boat.
Visit the home of the mythical Minotaur at the Palace of Knossos, which stands at what was once the heart of the ancient Minoan civilization.
Sip some traditional anise-flavored ouzo liquor or Greek coffee at a quaint café overlooking clear turquoise seas.
Visit the uniquely designed Old Ottoman Mosque, Nautical Museum with model ships, photos and relics of the sea, and Archaeological Museum of Chania, housed in the former monastery of St. Francis along the northwest coast.
Hike to the island’s tallest peak, Mt. Ida, known today as Psiloritis.
When to Go
Surrounded by the spectacular Mediterranean Sea, Crete offers boasts sunshine throughout the year. The best time to visit is during late spring or early summer before the weather turns too hot. The historic sites are also less crowded in springtime, and the weather is pleasantly warm.
Two different climate zones exist on Crete: the southern coast, which is closer to Africa, is warmer, while the northern part of the island is cooler, with snow in the mountains in the winter and spring.
Fast Facts
Eat like a local and enjoy long, slow family-style meals, drinking anise-flavored raki, or wine.
Crete is held to be the mythological birthplace of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, who was raised in a cave on Mt. Ida.
Famous television and movie actress Jennifer Aniston was born on Crete. The waters surrounding Crete are some of the clearest in Europe.
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