5 Reasons Why Crete, Greece Should be on Your Bucket List

Believe it or not, I actually went to Crete, Greece on a complete whim AND if I’m being entirely honest, I had no idea this island even existed. I had to Google it a week before I decided to book a last minute week long trip while I was living in Italy. Everybody knows the world famous Greek islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, Ios, etc. HOWEVER, did you know that Crete is actually the largest of the Greek islands?

If you’re looking for a holiday (or stop over!) filled with relaxation, adventure, breath taking views and delicious food then this island is for you. Crete definitely does not have the same party vibes as Santorini and the other popular islands for young folks, but I (a 22 year old) had a great time with my 20 year old girl friend! Crete would be a PERFECT destination for a girls vacay, a romantic trip with your bae or a honeymoon! Important: all of my reasons for going to Crete below are most accessible if you stay in Chania – I will be doing another post on some budget friendly places to stay so stay tuned. However, Chania is also FILLED with luxury hotels and resorts so if that is more your style then Crete is still right for you. I’m telling you, Crete really is your perfect destination. Be sure to include it on your itinerary for the Greek islands and here are 5 amazing reasons WHY:

1. The Perfect Island to Rent a Car & Road Trip!

Due to the vast size of Crete, it is the perfect island to rent a car and beach hop around everyday if that’s your vibe! This option gives you the freedom and flexibility to travel the island how you want. The public transport here can only get you so far – a lot of the best attractions are inaccessible using it. PLUS, renting a car is decently affordable (especially if you know how to drive standard!) and the roads are easy and safe to drive outside of the main city centre of Chania. So you can easily drive to catch all the gorgeous sunsets at different beaches every single night!

2. Seitan Limania Beach

This absolutely BREATHTAKING secret beach is enough of a reason on its own to visit Crete. This “secret beach” is amongst the rocks on the shorelines of Crete. The crystal clear aqua blue water is the perfect place for a swim to cool down from the heat. You can also jump off the rocks (cautiously of course!), the water is super deep. The bottom is white sand so you can see right down super clearly. It is truly unlike any other beach in Crete.

Tips:

Be sure to get there as early in the day as you can because it does get quite crowded by midday.
Bring an umbrella if you want to be in the shade because there is little to no shade on the beach.
Wear appropriate shoes for the trek down to the beach. It is not too long of a hike, but it is quite steep, so would not recommend wearing flip flops!

3. Amazing Hiking & Views

Yes, this does sound quite broad but I promise it will live up to the hype. The hike is to the ruins of the Katholiko Monastery, which is located on the North side of Akrotiri in Chania and past the Gouverneto Monastery. Katholiko is the oldest monastery in Crete (it was founded during the 11th century!) After taking in the ruins, don’t forget to continue on towards the ocean and be prepared to be floored by the view. This experience will not cease to amaze, it offers SO much. It’s a moderate hike but more challenging going back up but it’s definitely worth the effort, especially after relaxing on the beach the day before. There is so much history to see – it’s like going back in time and if you go early on in the day you will be alone/very few others will be there.

4. It's Budget Friendly

The island is overall incredibly budget friendly. From food, transportation, alcohol, activities and accommodations. While it is also very possible to have a luxury vacation – a budget friendly one is also very doable.

Tips:

Choose to stay in a hostel or budget hotel (there are many!) – stay tuned for a post on budget accommodations in Crete.
Hit up the grocery store and buy food and drinks to keep in your hotel/hostel. Eat breakfast before you leave & pack a picnic lunch for your beach day!
Beach hop! This is FREE and there are an infinite amount of beaches in Crete – just bring your own beach towel if you don’t want to rent a sunbed.

5. Chania's Old Venetian Harbour

A beautiful port filled with boats, lively entertainment, and restaurants with local food and fresh seafood. Not to mention, the buildings are stunning and colourful! It is also the perfect spot to catch the sunset. The streets behind the harbour are filled with cute boutique shops and it is fun to wander through and look around (even if you aren’t going to buy anything – cause let’s face it, it’s probably overpriced in this area!)

Overall, I hope that this beautiful Greek island is now on your bucket list! Crete has so much to offer and is full of life, especially in the summer months. Do yourself a favour and add Crete to your Greek island bucket list alongside the more touristy ones for a more local and authentic experience. PS this short guide is only the beginning of everything that this island has to offer!