Follow the local

Five Winter Destinations in Crete: Villages of Pride

Are you considering a winter visit to Crete? Don't hesitate! Despite the drop in temperature, the island offers numerous must-see destinations that are just waiting to be explored. So why wait? Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable winter adventure in Crete today!

Bundle up in hats, thick jackets, and even ski gear, and set out to explore the stunning mountain destinations awaiting your discovery!

You'll experience the lifestyle of livestock breeders, encounter mitata (stone buildings serving as shepherds’ shelters) along the way, and, of course, warm up with some raki!

Here are five villages that shine with pride every winter (and beyond).

Anogia

Axos, Mylopotamos

Tzermiado, Lassithi Plateau

Krousonas, Malevizi

Omalos, Chania

Photo: By Evangelos Mpikakis Via Unsplash

Heraklion: A Bar Scene for Guaranteed Fun!

Beer or cocktail? Wine or whiskey on the rocks?

After a wonderfully exhausting day, filled with dives or strolls through the charming alleys of a Cretan village, at the end of a shopping marathon with endless bags in hand, a drink is the perfect way to wrap up the adventure known as ‘exploring Crete’.

When paired with good music, the experience truly comes alive!

In the Heraklion region, you'll find numerous bars where you can have a great time, savour your drinks responsibly, and unwind!

Photo: By Emily Andreeva Via Unsplash

Top 10 Museums in Heraklion

History and culture are two concepts deeply intertwined with the trajectory of Crete, spanning from the time of Minos to the present day.

If you're passionate about art, eager to learn, and curious about the nature and tradition of Crete, you're in luck! The regional unit of Heraklion is home to museums with significant exhibits and offers various experiences to immerse yourself in.

Here is a list of the top ten museums in Heraklion, based on visitor preferences:
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Lychnostatis Museum
Natural History Museum of Crete
Historical Museum of Crete
Museum of Ancient Greek Technology
Thirathen Museum of Musical Instruments
N Kazantzakis Museum
Menelaos Parlamas Agricultural Museum
Agia Aikaterini Museum of Christian Art
Museum of Cretan Ethnology

Photo from Heraklion Archaeological Museum: Region of Crete

SUP Adventure in Crete

Crete is enveloped in stunning shades of blue!

During the summer months, visitors to the island soar to red-hot numbers.

However, many people seek more than just simple dives; they crave an adrenaline rush to enrich their experience.

Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is rapidly becoming one of the most popular recreational sports worldwide. It offers a blend of exercise and exploration!

If you're keen to explore the seas of Crete while standing on a board and paddling, get ready!

The Mountains of Crete

If your heart lies in the mountains rather than the sea, Crete will not disappoint you!

You can plan hiking, cycling, or any activity that invigorates you and allows you to breathe freely atop a lofty peak.

Crete boasts several prominent mountain ranges. In Lassithi, there's the Dikti mountain range, crowned by its highest peak, Spathi, reaching 2,148 metres. Central Crete is home to Psiloritis, where the peak of the Holy Cross stands tall at 2,456 metres. And in Chania, you'll encounter the majestic White Mountains, the largest range on the island, with Pachnes towering at 2,453 metres.

Photo: By Manos Chainakis Via Unsplash

Captivating Bridges Across Crete!

Stone bridges captivate the imagination with their stunning beauty and grandeur. Despite Crete not boasting large rivers, visitors are greeted with bridges and arches that leave an indelible mark.

Starting from Chania, where the Hellenistic arch in Apokoronas stands tall, our journey takes us to Rethymno: the ancient Eleftherna bridge and the bridge near Lake Preveli await exploration. Finally, we conclude our tour in Ierapetra, at the Myrtos bridge!

Discover the Most Popular Lakes of Crete!

Looking for a perfect Sunday outing with the family?

What could be more delightful than a lakeside picnic? Pack some finger food, a charming picnic basket, and prepare to revel in the serenity amidst stunning blue vistas!

Don't forget to bring along your binoculars for birdwatching—you'll definitely want them!

Crete offers several options for a picturesque lakeside experience, including Lake Kournas in Apokoronas, Chania; the tranquil Lake Zaros in the regional unit of Heraklion; the scenic lake in Thrapsano, within the Municipality of Minoa, Pediada; and, of course, the famous Lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos!

Photo: By manos koutras Via Unsplash

Skiing in Crete: Believe It or Not, It's Possible!

Crete has earned accolades from the New York Times as a spring skiing destination. Are you up for the challenge?

Equip yourself with the proper gear and prepare for a one-of-a-kind experience in the snowy mountains of the island!

Psiloritis and the White Mountains await your adventurous spirit.

It's evidence that Crete isn't just perfect for summer holidays; every season offers its own unique charm. Especially when the island adorns itself in white!

Photo: Region of Crete

Beautiful Fishing Villages of Crete

‘Ah, the scent of the sea!’ Such exclamations often escape the lips of those wandering through the fishing villages of Crete. These are places where the fishermen's catch takes precedence, where tavernas serve up the freshest of seafood, and where visitors indulge in delightful meze accompanied by ouzo or raki.

Explore picturesque hamlets like Milatos and Plaka, or venture into renowned tourist destinations whose fame extends far beyond the island's shores. From the iconic Elounda, which needs no introduction, to the charming locales of Kissamos and Agia Galini, each region offers its own unique charm.

No matter where you choose to spend your holidays, one thing is certain: the culinary delights awaiting you will leave an indelible mark on your memories.

Photo: fotogenix Via Vista.Create

Museums and Heroic Deeds in Crete

The history of Crete, unfortunately, bears the scars of conflict and bloodshed.

The island's inhabitants have endured deprivation, war, and occupation throughout history. Despite these challenges, their courage remains unparalleled, earning praise from poets for their unwavering bravery.

Throughout Crete, there are museums commemorating wartime experiences and dedicated to the struggles for liberation.

Notably, among these museums are the Argyrakio War Ethnological Museum located in Episkopi, part of the Municipality of Hersonissos in Heraklion; the War Museum of Askyfou situated in the regional unit of Chania; and the Museum of National Resistance of Therisso, found within the Municipality of Chania.

Go-Karting for All Ages!

Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a cautious driver, safety always comes first!

If you're itching to don the right gear—perhaps a uniform and definitely a helmet—and take control of the wheel, look no further than a go-kart track!

In Crete, there are options suitable for both adults and children, providing a taste of real driving behaviour in a safe environment. So, why not indulge in an activity the whole family can enjoy together?

Discover some of Crete's distinctive carnival festivities worth experiencing!

Let Loose at the Wild Carnival Celebrations in Crete!

If you opt to spend your holidays during Carnival (‘Apokries’) in Crete, here's what you need to know: you're in for a fantastic time!

If you're spending your Carnival holiday in Crete, get ready for an unforgettable time! Whether you're dressing up as a pirate, queen, harlequin, or anything else your heart desires, join the crowds filling the streets of cities and villages across Crete for the carnival festivities!

Rethymno hosts the top carnival event, but you can also enjoy the fun in Souda, Malia, Heraklion, Sitia, Ierapetra, Agios Nikolaos, Neapoli, Kissamos, Paleochora, and Tympaki. Get ready for dancing and singing galore!

Photo: gioiak2 Via Vista.Create

Discover Crete's Charm on Two Wheels!

If cycling is your passion, fear not – in Crete, you won't have to leave it behind!

In the Heraklion region, numerous opportunities await for exhilarating bike excursions. Adventure is a key ingredient in all the following suggestions.

Embark on mountain biking expeditions, explore gorges, visit significant landmarks, and uncover the monasteries of Heraklion!

Family-friendly Horse Riding Adventures Await!

Consider it a bucket-list item: a family excursion to Crete!

Are you seeking unique activities to bond with your children? To create lasting memories and share experiences that will forge lifelong connections?

If you're fond of horses and riding is your forte, there are opportunities for your son or daughter to saddle up on these magnificent and majestic animals under the guidance of skilled experts!

Exciting Water sports Adventures Await on Hersonissos Municipality's Beaches

Are you a water sports enthusiast? Do you relish diving or water skiing? Curious about flyboarding and eager to give it a try?

The beaches of Hersonissos Municipality, including Analipsi, Hersonissos, and Malia, offer the perfect setting for a variety of aquatic activities.

Below are some choices for you to get your adrenaline pumping and enjoy yourself. Take the plunge!

Enchanting Seaside Churches in Hersonissos Municipality

Before you pay them a visit, ensure you have a quality camera in tow. Besides the allure of the churches themselves, you'll be eager to capture the stunning landscape they inhabit: nestled beside the sandy shores, amidst tamarisk trees!

Light a candle, and relish the sunset! Hersonissos Municipality boasts numerous picturesque churches, including:

● The Church of St Constantine and St Helen in Gouves

● Agios Nikolaos at Hersonissos Port

● The Church of Agia Marina in Analipsi

Camping in Crete: Know the Rules!

Is free camping what you're looking for? It's essential to understand that in Crete, much like the rest of Greece, strict laws prohibit the pitching of tents or parking caravans in archaeological sites, beaches, forested areas, and public spaces.

Violating these regulations can result in hefty fines and even detention!

The best way to savour a night beneath the celestial canopy is by opting for organised camping facilities.

Here are a few enticing options to consider!

Meet Kritsotopoula, a Symbolic Woman!

Kritsotopoula is a legendary figure associated with the picturesque village of Kritsa, nestled within the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos.

This area is steeped in the lore of a remarkable woman named Rodanthi, affectionately known as Kritsotopoula.

Her original residence, now converted into the Kritsotopoula Folklore Museum, stands at the centre of the village.

Legend has it that the Turkish commander, Hursit Aga fell in love with the only daughter of Kritsa's priest, Rodanthi. Tragically, he murdered her mother, abducted Rodanthi, and coerced her into converting to Islam before marrying her. However, on their wedding night, the courageous Rodanthi bravely put an end to her tormentor's life. Disguised as a man, she became known as ‘Spanomanolis’ and valiantly fought against the Turkish forces, ultimately meeting her heroic end in battle in 1823.

School Life Museums in Crete

Think museums are dull? Not appealing to children?

Think again! In Crete, there are two museums dedicated to school life, and they're anything but boring!

Explore the School Museum of Rethymno and the Museum of School Life in the Municipality of Chania, and you might find yourself yearning to relive those school days all over again!

12 Treasures at the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum

Located in Varvari or Myrtia, a beautiful village within the Municipality of Archanes, Asterousia, lies the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum.

In its halls, the museum showcases 12 treasures:

The original manuscript of ‘The Ascent’
The Mt Athos Notebook-Calendar
Handwritten drafts of Kazantzakis' ‘Odyssey’
A collector's first edition of 'Life and Times of Alexis Zorbas'
Kazantzakis' Cretan ‘vourgiali’ (rucksack)
The screenplay by Anthony Quinn for the film ‘Zorba the Greek’
Costume designs by G Tsarouchis for the film ‘Christ Recrucified
Costume designs for the theatrical production of ‘Sodom and Gomorrah’
Artefacts from the Spanish Civil War
A portrait-sketch of Kazantzakis by Fotis Kontoglou
A life-sized terracotta figure of Kazantzakis
A photo album featuring Nikos Kazantzakis in Crete in 1945

Experience Earth's Bounty Celebrations!

The richness of the Cretan soil knows no bounds!

The holy soils of this island yield an abundance of delectable produce.

Throughout Crete, local communities take pride in their bountiful harvests, often celebrating with lively events.

If you're fortunate, you may find yourself at one of these festivals, indulging in perfectly crafted meze infused with passion and creativity, and dancing to the rhythm of Cretan folk music and more!

Can you last until dawn? There's only one way to find out!

Experience the Shepherd's Life!

Don't be surprised if, even in central areas, you encounter goats or flocks of sheep along your way!

Many Cretans have dedicated their lives to livestock farming, and it's no wonder, considering the high quality of local meat.

Discover how you can immerse yourself in the shepherd's lifestyle during your time in Crete!

Dive into Adventure!

Your dream holiday doesn't have to be limited to lounging on the beach or reading a book while sunbathing.

If you're craving an adrenaline rush, it's time to go diving!

If you're on the island with your family, beginner lessons are available!

Explore the captivating seabed of Crete and create unforgettable memories for young and old alike.

Discover Diving Adventures in Lassithi!

With its crystal-clear waters and diverse coastline featuring golden sand or pebbles, Lassithi, the easternmost point of Crete, offers endless blue emotions.

Dive into the depths of Voulisma Beach and uncover the secrets of the Palm Forest in Vai, rumoured to have connections with pirates.

For a family-friendly experience, consider Xerokampos, while cosmopolitan Elounda boasts the enchanting Kolokytha Beach. Make sure to visit Almyros Beach in Agios Nikolaos, and don't forget to explore the palm-lined shores of Erimoupolis Beach.

Makris Gialos is perfect for those seeking endless diving opportunities, and the charming village of Myrtos is not to be missed.

In Kato Zakros, combine your beach visit with thrilling adventures, while Kitroplatia Beach offers a journey back in time.