December 7, 2024
Cloudy - Temp. Max. 7.8 °C
December 8, 2024
Rain - Temp. Max. 8.4 °C
December 9, 2024
Cloudy - Temp. Max. 8.6 °C
MAP
INFO
GALLERY
Information | Details |
---|---|
Name | Crete |
Location | Southern Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea, southernmost part of Greece |
Area | Around 8,336 km² |
Population | Around 635,000 inhabitants |
Capital | Heraklion (Iraklio) |
Official language | Greek |
Currency | Euro (€) |
Maximum altitude | 2,456 m (Mount Ida, also known as Psiloritis) |
Climate | Mediterranean (hot and dry summers, mild and wet winters) |
Local currency | Euro (€) |
Main attractions | Palace of Knossos, Samaria Gorge, Old Town and Port of Chania, Elafonissi Beach, Rethymnon Old Town, Spinalonga Island, Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, Balos Lagoon |
Economy | Tourism, agriculture (olive oil, wine, citrus fruits), livestock, fishing |
Airport | Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER), Chania International Airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” (CHQ), Sitia Public Airport (JSH) |
Main port | Ports of Heraklion, Chania (Souda), Rethymnon, and Agios Nikolaos |
Famous for | Rich history, birthplace of the Minoan civilization, diverse landscapes (mountains, gorges, beaches), traditional Cretan cuisine, vibrant culture |
Popular activities | Exploring ancient archaeological sites, hiking (Samaria Gorge, Mount Ida), beach activities, tasting local cuisine, visiting traditional villages, wine tours |
Unique features | Largest island in Greece, known for its diverse landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to beautiful sandy beaches; birthplace of Europe’s oldest civilization (Minoan); strong cultural identity with unique music, dance, and cuisine; mix of historical, natural, and cultural attractions |
History and culture | Rich historical background as the center of Minoan civilization (circa 2700-1450 BC), with ancient palaces like Knossos; influences from Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman periods; known for maintaining a strong and distinct cultural identity with local traditions, music, and cuisine; vibrant folklore and festivals celebrated throughout the island |
Crete island, the pearl of the Mediterranean and the largest of all Greece, is known worldwide and is undoubtedly a destination that captivates with its rich millennia old history and paradisiacal nature that leaves even the most demanding visitors speechless.
Crete’s beaches are among the most beautiful, featuring shores of soft white, pink, or golden sand and crystal clear, transparent waters. It is a perfect blend of culture, adventure, numerous activities, and relaxation for those seeking it. It is highly sought after for family vacations or romantic getaways for unforgettable moments.
If you’re afraid of getting bored in Crete, know that it will be practically impossible. There are so many places to visit that even three vacations won’t be enough. Lose yourself in the stunning Samaria Gorge, or travel back in time by walking through the sites of Gortyna, Phaistos, or the mythical Knossos with its epic labyrinth that houses the fierce Minotaur. Explore the inland villages where you can savor nearly forgotten dishes of Cretan tradition, and treat yourself to two nights in the enchanting Loutro village.
Speaking of history, Crete can be compared to a time machine. It is here that the Minoan civilization was born, during which the island reached its peak of splendor, followed by the Doric and Hellenistic periods with the arrival of Alexander the Great. One of Crete’s saddest and most tragic chapters was under Ottoman rule, during which the island suffered abuse and persecution. Finally, in 1913, Eleftherios Venizelos (after whom Athens’ airport is named) led Crete and all of Greece to liberation.
A fantastic island with everything you could wish for in a vacation full of relaxation, fun, and culture. So, what are you waiting for?
Read 2627 volte
All things to know about Crete
Contact Us
Fill out the form and we will get back to you as soon as possible with a free quote