What are the must-see sights in Crete, Greece?

Crete boasts incredible sights! Knossos Palace, the legendary Minoan palace, is a must. The Samaria Gorge, Europe's longest gorge, offers a challenging but rewarding hike. For stunning beaches, Elafonisi with its pink sand and Balos Lagoon with its turquoise waters are unparalleled. Rethymno's Venetian harbor and charming old town are also captivating.

What are the best Airbnb and vacation rentals in Crete?

Pavo Art Hotel , Lavris City Suites and Traditional Apartments Elafos are the most popular Airbnb and vacation rentals in Crete among travelers.

Are there unique natural phenomena in Crete, Greece?

Absolutely! The Samaria Gorge's sheer cliffs and unique ecosystem are a natural wonder. Elafonisi's pink sand beaches are formed by microscopic shells. The Dikteon Cave, said to be Zeus' birthplace, is a fascinating geological formation. Lake Kournas, Crete's only natural lake, provides a tranquil escape.

What are the most popular Airbnbs in Crete?

Among the Airbnbs in Crete, Kokkini Hani Beautiful Family Apartment 100 Meters From The Sea Up To 5 Persons , Astonishing Sunset And Sea View 3 and 7olives 2room Suite No1 - Terrace Seaview - Levanda are the most popular ones.

What essentials should you bring along for a trip to Crete, Greece?

Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for both warm days and cooler evenings. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. Comfortable walking shoes are crucial, especially if you plan on hiking. A reusable water bottle is essential, and insect repellent is recommended, particularly in rural areas.

What are the best vacation rentals with a pool in Crete?

Traditional Apartments Elafos , Bright Luxuriously Simple Apartment With Shared Pool and Villas Palazzo Greco - Agia Galini are the best vacation rentals with a pool in Crete.

What is the average daily budget you should plan for (accommodation, food, transportation, activities) in Crete, Greece?

A daily budget of €80-€150 per person is a reasonable estimate. This can vary greatly depending on your accommodation choices (budget hostels to luxury hotels), dining preferences (local tavernas to upscale restaurants), and activity selection. Transportation costs can be minimized by using public buses.

What are the best rentals for families and kids in Crete?

The best rentals for families and kids in Crete are Pavo Art Hotel , Traditional Apartments Elafos and Raise Heraklion Boutique Apartment 9 .

Where can you find the best restaurants serving local dishes in Crete, Greece, and what are the must-try specialties?

Many tavernas across Crete offer delicious local cuisine. In Chania, try Tamam for traditional Cretan dishes. In Heraklion, Peskes is known for its fresh seafood. Must-try specialties include dakos (a barley rusk salad), kalitsounia (cheese pastries), and various lamb dishes cooked in traditional ways.

What are the best rentals or Airbnbs with a jacuzzi in Crete?

The best vacation rentals or Airbnb with a jacuzzi in Crete are Villas Palazzo Greco - Agia Galini , Astonishing Sunset And Sea View 3 and Spring Apartments .

What are some less-famous attractions in Crete, Greece that are worth the visit?

The archaeological site of Phaistos, a significant Minoan palace less crowded than Knossos, is worth exploring. The charming town of Sfakia, nestled in the White Mountains, offers stunning views and a glimpse into traditional Cretan life. The Preveli Palm Forest, a unique ecosystem near the Libyan Sea, is another hidden gem.

What are the best activities for engaging with locals and understanding their culture in Crete, Greece?

Visiting local markets, like the one in Chania, allows interaction with vendors and a chance to sample local produce. Attending a village festival offers immersive cultural experiences. Taking a cooking class focusing on Cretan cuisine is another great option. Simply engaging in conversations with locals at tavernas or cafes can also be rewarding.

What unique natural landscapes and terrain features can travelers explore in Crete, Greece?

Crete's diverse landscape includes the imposing White Mountains, dramatic gorges like the Samaria Gorge, stunning beaches with varying colors of sand (Elafonisi's pink sand is famous), and the tranquil Lake Kournas. The island's varied terrain offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring diverse ecosystems.

How many days are ideal for visiting Crete, Greece, and what are some itinerary suggestions?

Seven to ten days allows for a good balance of exploration. A possible itinerary could include three days exploring Chania and its surroundings, two days in Heraklion and Knossos, and two days exploring the southern coast and beaches like Elafonisi. Adjust based on your interests—hiking, archaeology, or relaxation on the beach.

How is the weather in Crete, Greece in high season?

High season (June to August) brings hot, sunny weather, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. Expect long sunny days and warm evenings. However, it can get quite hot, especially inland, so pack accordingly.

Crete Vacation rentals & Airbnb

9.2 62 reviews

Vel Boutique Suites

apartment, Agios Vasileios

Vel Boutique Suites, a one-bedroom apartment in Agia Galini, Crete, is a 4-minute walk from Agia Galini Beach and 42km from Psiloritis National Park.
This 55-square-metre self-catering flat offers a private balcony with sea views, a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and parking, sleeping up to two guests.

9.6 139 reviews

Mourtzanakis Residence - Traditional Eco Hotel In Achlada

house, Malevizi

Mourtzanakis Residence, a self-catering property in Achlada, Malevizi, Crete, is situated approximately 22.5 kilometres from the Venetian Walls and Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom villa boasts a private kitchen with modern appliances, a swimming pool, a garden, and stunning sea views; an on-site restaurant offers continental breakfast, and car rental is available for exploring nearby attractions.

9.8 69 reviews

Nikiforos Villa, Private Pool & Bbq, Seaviews, By Thinkvilla

house, Rethymno

Nikiforos Villa, a self-catering property in Skaleta, Rethymno, is a 15-minute walk from Skaleta Beach and 2.3km from Agios Nikolaos Beach.
This 100 square metre villa boasts three bedrooms, four bathrooms, a private terrace with stunning sea views, a seasonal swimming pool, and access to tennis courts and a spa, comfortably accommodating families or groups.

9.3 90 reviews

Erieta Sea View Apartment50m From The Beach

apartment, Rethymno

Erieta Seaview Apartment is a beachfront property in Rethymno, Crete, offering stunning sea views and proximity to Rethymno Beach, the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, and the Municipal Garden.
This self-catering apartment, sleeping up to two guests, boasts a fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a terrace; plus, guests can benefit from airport transfers and bicycle rentals.

9.3 196 reviews

Stella Apartments Malia

apartment, Chersonisos

Stella Apartments Malia, in Malia, Crete, offers a self-catering apartment a 17-minute walk from Central Malia Beach and within 2km of other beaches including Ikaros, Kernos, and Alexander Beach, approximately 29km from Heraklion International Airport.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom flat features air conditioning, a kitchenette with a fridge, a terrace/balcony, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking; nearby amenities include a mini-market, bicycle and car rental services.

9.4 62 reviews

Metochi Villas

house, Agios Vasileios

Metochi Villas, a private villa in Spílion, Crete, is situated approximately 26 kilometres from Rethymno's Archaeological Museum and 37 kilometres from the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna.
This 70-square-metre property boasts two bedrooms, one bathroom, a private pool, and a fully equipped kitchen including a dishwasher, catering comfortably for families or small groups, with free Wi-Fi and parking.

9.6 206 reviews

Nikis Apartments Kisamos

apartment, Kissamos

Nikis Apartments in Drapanias, Kissamos, are situated 8.2km from Kissamos/Kasteli Port and a 16-minute walk from Drapanias Beach, offering convenient access to local amenities.
These self-catering apartments feature stunning infinity pool views, fully equipped kitchens with dishwashers, private balconies, free Wi-Fi, and free private parking; an airport shuttle service is available at an additional cost.

9.4 229 reviews

Olympus Studios & Bungalows

studio, Chersonisos

Olympus Studios is a recently renovated apartment located in Malia, a lively resort town in Crete, just a short distance from the beautiful beaches of Tropical Beach, Sun Beach, and Potamos Beach. This studio apartment is highly rated by guests, with excellent scores for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The studio has a private entrance and garden, offering a peaceful retreat. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, and a terrace with sea and mountain views.

9.9 176 reviews

Villa In Organic' Orgon Farm' ( 3 )

house, Minoa Pediada

This rural stone cottage in Apostoli, Heraklion region, is situated 30 kilometres from Heraklion and offers convenient access to beaches, Knossos Palace (a 25-minute drive), and Minoan ruins (10 minutes).
This family-friendly gîte, accommodating up to six guests in one bedroom and one bathroom, features air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a kitchen with a fridge, private parking, and a garden, with opportunities to participate in farm activities and use shared facilities like an open-air jacuzzi and bicycles.

9.3 64 reviews

Olympia Apartments Heraklion Center

apartment, Heraklion

Olympia Apartments offers a centrally located Heraklion flat, within 0.8km of the city centre and 2.4km from Amoudara Beach, providing easy access to the Venetian Walls, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and Knossos Palace (5.8km).
This 50 square metre self-catering apartment sleeps five, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, a terrace, free Wi-Fi, and one bedroom and bathroom.

No reviews

Charming 1-bedroom Cottage In The Mountain-side Village Of Schinokapsala

cottage, Ierapetra

This Ierapetra holiday home is centrally located, offering easy access to Milonas Waterfall (approx. 22km), Koutsounari Beach (approx. 37km), Pachia Ammos Beach (approx. 72km), and Ierapetra Beach (approx. 61km).
The self-catering property sleeps four guests in one bedroom and one bathroom, and includes Wi-Fi, heating, and amenities such as towels and a hairdryer.

9.1 26 reviews

Paterakis Studios Triopetra

apartment, Agios Vasileios

Paterakis Studios Triopetra, a self-catering apartment in Triopetra, Agios Vasileios, is situated approximately 2.6 km from Triopetra Beach and 2.7 km from Mikri Triopetra Beach.
This one-bathroom apartment offers free Wi-Fi, a private balcony with pool and mountain views, a swimming pool, garden, and free parking; car rental and airport shuttle services are available.

Best family friendly Crete vacation rentals

Among the 55910 accommodations in Crete, here are the 4 best family friendly rentals

9.3 91 reviews

Emorfia's Apartments

apartment, Rethymno

Emorfia's Apartments in Platanes, Rethymno, Crete, offer a convenient base, situated approximately 6 kilometres from the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and 6 kilometres from the Municipal Garden.
This self-catering flat boasts a 51 square metre floor area, comprising one bedroom, a living room, a bathroom, and a terrace, sleeping up to two guests and including free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and private parking.

9.5 30 reviews

At Coast

apartment, Agios Nikolaos

This Elounda apartment, near Skisma and Elounda beaches (a 10 and 8-minute walk respectively), offers easy access to Lake Voulismeni (10.6 km) and Agios Nikolaos (13.2 km).
The 37 square metre self-catering flat comprises one bedroom, a living room, bathroom with walk-in shower, and a balcony with sea views; sleeping four guests and including free Wi-Fi, daily room service, and a modern kitchen.

9.6 143 reviews

Modern 2-bedroom Apartment In Heraklion City Center

house, Heraklion

This charming holiday home is situated in the heart of Heraklion, just a short walk from Amoudara Beach and close to the city's historical attractions. The property has consistently received excellent ratings from previous guests for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The two-bedroom property offers a comfortable living space with a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and a balcony with city views. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including air conditioning, a jacuzzi, a terrace, a garden, and free parking.

9.2 42 reviews

One Bedroom Apartment With Pool

apartment, Agios Vasileios

This one-bedroom apartment is located in Plakias, a coastal town situated 32 kilometres from the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and 27 kilometres from the Fortress of Frangokastello.
The 45 square metre apartment offers a private entrance, a swimming pool, a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine and free parking.

Best Crete vacation rentals with a pool

Among the 55910 accommodations in Crete, here are the 4 best rentals with a pool

9.1 393 reviews

Porto Kaza

apartment, Siteia

Porto Kaza apartments are situated in Sitia, Crete, just under 1 kilometre from Sitia Public Airport, 30 kilometres from Ferma, and 40 kilometres from Ierapetra.
These family-friendly flats offer one bathroom, a kitchenette with fridge, microwave, toaster, stovetop, coffee machine and kettle, air conditioning, a 32" LED TV, a terrace/balcony, plus access to a swimming pool and spa, all with excellent cleanliness and user ratings.

9.6 146 reviews

Cypriana Apartments

studio, Ierapetra

This apartment is located in Ierapetra, about 15 kilometres from the city centre, close to beaches like Mavros Kolympos, Tis Grias To Pidima, and Maheridi. It has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The apartment is family-friendly and offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, a terrace, a garden, parking, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while still being close to the city centre and the nearby beaches.

9.6 144 reviews

Evgoro Luxury Suites

house, Agios Vasileios

Evgoro Luxury Suites is located in Agia Galini, a charming coastal village in southern Crete, 47 kilometres from Heraklion Town and 31 kilometres from Réthymno Town. The property has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The accommodation offers two bedrooms and covers 60 square metres. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a terrace, a garden, a restaurant, room service, free parking, air conditioning, and internet access.

9.8 10 reviews

Avidianos' -Family Perfect- Residence

house, Rethymno

Avidianos' -Family Perfect- Residence is located near Astérion in Rethymno, Crete, approximately 2.1 km from Sfakaki and Eleven Beaches, and 2.9 km from Skaleta Beach.
This 200 square metre villa boasts four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and accommodates up to 17 guests, featuring a private pool, jacuzzi, and terrace with stunning sea views; free Wi-Fi and parking are also provided.

Frequently Asked Questions about vacation rentals in Crete

What are the must-see sights in Crete, Greece?
Crete boasts incredible sights! Knossos Palace, the legendary Minoan palace, is a must. The Samaria Gorge, Europe's longest gorge, offers a challenging but rewarding hike. For stunning beaches, Elafonisi with its pink sand and Balos Lagoon with its turquoise waters are unparalleled. Rethymno's Venetian harbor and charming old town are also captivating.
What are the best Airbnb and vacation rentals in Crete?
Pavo Art Hotel, Lavris City Suites and Traditional Apartments Elafos are the most popular Airbnb and vacation rentals in Crete among travelers.
Are there unique natural phenomena in Crete, Greece?
Absolutely! The Samaria Gorge's sheer cliffs and unique ecosystem are a natural wonder. Elafonisi's pink sand beaches are formed by microscopic shells. The Dikteon Cave, said to be Zeus' birthplace, is a fascinating geological formation. Lake Kournas, Crete's only natural lake, provides a tranquil escape.
What are the most popular Airbnbs in Crete?
Among the Airbnbs in Crete, Kokkini Hani Beautiful Family Apartment 100 Meters From The Sea Up To 5 Persons, Astonishing Sunset And Sea View 3 and 7olives 2room Suite No1 - Terrace Seaview - Levanda are the most popular ones.
What essentials should you bring along for a trip to Crete, Greece?
Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for both warm days and cooler evenings. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. Comfortable walking shoes are crucial, especially if you plan on hiking. A reusable water bottle is essential, and insect repellent is recommended, particularly in rural areas.
What are the best vacation rentals with a pool in Crete?
Traditional Apartments Elafos, Bright Luxuriously Simple Apartment With Shared Pool and Villas Palazzo Greco - Agia Galini are the best vacation rentals with a pool in Crete.
What is the average daily budget you should plan for (accommodation, food, transportation, activities) in Crete, Greece?
A daily budget of €80-€150 per person is a reasonable estimate. This can vary greatly depending on your accommodation choices (budget hostels to luxury hotels), dining preferences (local tavernas to upscale restaurants), and activity selection. Transportation costs can be minimized by using public buses.
What are the best rentals for families and kids in Crete?
The best rentals for families and kids in Crete are Pavo Art Hotel, Traditional Apartments Elafos and Raise Heraklion Boutique Apartment 9.
Where can you find the best restaurants serving local dishes in Crete, Greece, and what are the must-try specialties?
Many tavernas across Crete offer delicious local cuisine. In Chania, try Tamam for traditional Cretan dishes. In Heraklion, Peskes is known for its fresh seafood. Must-try specialties include dakos (a barley rusk salad), kalitsounia (cheese pastries), and various lamb dishes cooked in traditional ways.
What are the best rentals or Airbnbs with a jacuzzi in Crete?
The best vacation rentals or Airbnb with a jacuzzi in Crete are Villas Palazzo Greco - Agia Galini, Astonishing Sunset And Sea View 3 and Spring Apartments.
What are some less-famous attractions in Crete, Greece that are worth the visit?
The archaeological site of Phaistos, a significant Minoan palace less crowded than Knossos, is worth exploring. The charming town of Sfakia, nestled in the White Mountains, offers stunning views and a glimpse into traditional Cretan life. The Preveli Palm Forest, a unique ecosystem near the Libyan Sea, is another hidden gem.
What are the best activities for engaging with locals and understanding their culture in Crete, Greece?
Visiting local markets, like the one in Chania, allows interaction with vendors and a chance to sample local produce. Attending a village festival offers immersive cultural experiences. Taking a cooking class focusing on Cretan cuisine is another great option. Simply engaging in conversations with locals at tavernas or cafes can also be rewarding.
What unique natural landscapes and terrain features can travelers explore in Crete, Greece?
Crete's diverse landscape includes the imposing White Mountains, dramatic gorges like the Samaria Gorge, stunning beaches with varying colors of sand (Elafonisi's pink sand is famous), and the tranquil Lake Kournas. The island's varied terrain offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring diverse ecosystems.
How many days are ideal for visiting Crete, Greece, and what are some itinerary suggestions?
Seven to ten days allows for a good balance of exploration. A possible itinerary could include three days exploring Chania and its surroundings, two days in Heraklion and Knossos, and two days exploring the southern coast and beaches like Elafonisi. Adjust based on your interests—hiking, archaeology, or relaxation on the beach.
How is the weather in Crete, Greece in high season?
High season (June to August) brings hot, sunny weather, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. Expect long sunny days and warm evenings. However, it can get quite hot, especially inland, so pack accordingly.

Best Crete vacation rentals with a balcony

9.5 29 reviews

Irini Panorama

house, Agios Vasileios

Irini Panorama, a villa in Agia Galini, is located a few steps from Agia Galini Beach, 40 kilometres from Psiloritis National Park, and 48 kilometres from the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna.
This family-friendly villa offers 65 square metres of living space with three bedrooms, accommodating up to 11 guests, and features a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, complimentary WiFi, a hot tub, and private parking, with stunning sea and mountain views from its terrace and garden.

9.1 120 reviews

Fabrica

house, Apokoronas

This Apokoronas holiday home, located in Vamos, is 3.5km from the Gavalochori Historical-Folklore Museum and 32km from Rethymno Archaeological Museum.
The property offers self-catering kitchenettes, private balconies with mountain views, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, on-site yoga classes, and convenient car rental, perfect for exploring the region.

9.6 191 reviews

Cloudberry

apartment, Apokoronas

Cloudberry is a well-rated apartment located in Kalyves, a coastal village in Apokoronas, just 3 kilometres from the beach, 19 kilometres from Chania city and 26 kilometres from Chania International Airport. The apartment has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall user experience.
The apartment has a kitchen with a fridge and dishwasher, as well as air conditioning and a terrace or balcony with sea views. Guests can also enjoy a peaceful garden, free Wi-Fi and parking.

9.9 135 reviews

Niriides Apartments

apartment, Kissamos

Niriides Apartments is situated in Kissamos, just 18 kilometres from the beautiful Gramvousa Island and close to the town centre and the port.
The self-catering apartment is family-friendly and pet-friendly and offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a tennis court, and a fitness centre.

Best Crete vacation rentals with parking

9.1 23 reviews

Central Rooms

apartment, Ierapetra

Central Rooms is a one-bedroom apartment located in Makry Gialos, just a 5-minute walk from Makrigialos Beach and 34 kilometres from Sitia Public Airport.
This apartment accommodates up to five guests and features a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a balcony with city and sea views, with parking also provided.

9.4 146 reviews

Crete Garden Apartments

apartment, Agios Nikolaos

The Crete Garden Apartments are situated just a 2-minute walk from Ammos Beach, a short distance from the popular beaches of Almiros and Ammoudi, and close to Lake Voulismeni. The apartments have received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
Each apartment offers a private patio or balcony, perfect for enjoying the warm Cretan weather. The apartments also feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with streaming services, fully equipped kitchens, and private bathrooms with hairdryers, as well as free parking.

9.9 51 reviews

Casa Belvedere Boutique Villa

house, Apokoronas

Casa Belvedere Boutique Villa is situated in Kournas, Apokoronas, just a short drive from the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the Cretan countryside. It has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The villa provides ample space for families or groups of friends, with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the private pool and patio, relax in the hot tub, and take advantage of the fully equipped kitchen, fitness centre, and other amenities.

8.9 57 reviews

Porfyra's Island

apartment, Ierapetra

Porfyra's Island apartment is a self-catering flat located in Makry Gialos, approximately 34 kilometres from Sitia Public Airport and close to Makrigialos Beach.
This family-friendly property offers a terrace with stunning mountain and sea views, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and features including a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and accessibility features for disabled guests; nearby activities include canoeing and hiking.

Vacation rentals in Crete

Best Vacation rentals and Airbnb offers in Crete

Vel Boutique Suites

Mourtzanakis Residence - Traditional Eco Hotel In Achlada

Nikiforos Villa, Private Pool & Bbq, Seaviews, By Thinkvilla

Erieta Sea View Apartment50m From The Beach

Stella Apartments Malia

Metochi Villas

Nikis Apartments Kisamos

Olympus Studios & Bungalows

Villa In Organic' Orgon Farm' ( 3 )

Olympia Apartments Heraklion Center

Charming 1-bedroom Cottage In The Mountain-side Village Of Schinokapsala

Paterakis Studios Triopetra

Best family friendly Crete vacation rentals

Emorfia's Apartments

At Coast

Modern 2-bedroom Apartment In Heraklion City Center

One Bedroom Apartment With Pool

Best Crete vacation rentals with a pool

Porto Kaza

Cypriana Apartments

Evgoro Luxury Suites

Avidianos' -Family Perfect- Residence

Frequently Asked Questions about vacation rentals in Crete

Best Crete vacation rentals with a balcony

Irini Panorama

Fabrica

Cloudberry

Niriides Apartments

Best Crete vacation rentals with parking

Central Rooms

Crete Garden Apartments

Casa Belvedere Boutique Villa

Porfyra's Island