Why travelers love it
Heraklion Archaeological MuseumOne of Greece's great museums, holding the finest Minoan art and finds from Knossos.Koules FortressA 16th-century Venetian sea fortress guarding Heraklion's old harbour.KnossosThe largest Bronze Age palace of the Minoans, linked to the legend of the Minotaur.SpinalongaA Venetian island fortress that later became a leper colony until 1957.Agios NikolaosA harbour town around a small lake on the Gulf of Mirabello.Arkadi MonasteryA 16th-century monastery and national symbol of the 1866 uprising against Ottoman rule.
Top attractions
1 Crete itinerary
Crete questions
Is 5 days enough for Crete?
Five days covers the highlights of central and western Crete if you move base once. The south and far east need more time.
When is the Samaria Gorge open?
It is usually open daily from May to late October, with the exact opening date set each spring. It closes in high wind or rain, so check the NECCA notice the day before and buy tickets online.
Do you need a car in Crete?
A car makes this trip much easier, especially for Arkadi and Balos. Buses work between the main towns.
Should you book Knossos tickets in advance?
Yes in summer: buy timed tickets on the official Hellenic Heritage site to skip the queue, and go at opening or late afternoon to avoid heat and groups.