Crete, Greece Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Crete is a stunning island located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of the Greek mainland. It is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. From its charming coastal towns and breathtaking beaches to its rugged mountains and ancient ruins, Crete offers something for every traveler. With a warm and sunny climate, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that Crete is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventure in nature, or a dive into Greek history, Crete has it all.

Why Crete, Greece?

  • Crete is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
  • The island of Crete is home to the oldest city in Europe, Knossos.
  • Crete is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean Sea.
  • The island of Crete is the birthplace of the famous Greek mythological figures Zeus and Europa.
  • Crete is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as dakos, moussaka, and kaltsounia.

Crete, Greece Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
57° F
46° F
February
57° F
46° F
March
61° F
48° F
April
66° F
52° F
May
73° F
58° F
June
81° F
65° F
July
84° F
69° F
August
84° F
69° F
September
81° F
65° F
October
72° F
60° F
November
66° F
54° F
December
61° F
49° F

Average Rainfall

January
5.7 inches
February
4.1 inches
March
3.3 inches
April
1.4 inches
May
0.6 inches
June
0.2 inches
July
0.1 inches
August
0.1 inches
September
0.7 inches
October
3.2 inches
November
3.1 inches
December
4.5 inches

Overview

Encircled by a dazzling fringe of turquoise flecked with darkest blue, you’ll soon see why the mighty Minoans, Europe’s first great civilisation, laid claim to this fabled land. Step back in time through Crete’s many treasures, traces of bygone societies who sought after the island. Take in the grandeur of the Minoan Palace at Knossos or stroll the Venetian streets of picturesque Chania harbour, peppered with pretty boutiques.

From the seclusion of your luxury villa, you’ll get a taste of timeless Crete. Choose from properties perched above the fine-sand beaches and glittering lagoons that dot the northern coast, or opt for the rugged cliffs and hidden pink coves of the southern shores. Either way you’ll enjoy a backdrop of the lofty White Mountains at the island’s centre, snow-capped peaks soaring in the distance.

Lose yourself in lazy villages, white houses clustered at the water’s edge or spend long days gazing out into the mesmerising blue from the comfort of your infinity pool. By night, your chef will whip up Cretan cuisine - thick crumbly cheeses drizzled in local olive oil and honey, washed down with a glass of home-grown wine. Breathe in the fragrant mountain breeze, laced with wild thyme and rosemary, as you look down on the twinkling lights of the harbour below.

History

Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, has a long and fascinating history that spans over 5,000 years. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa has made it a coveted territory for numerous civilizations, leaving behind a rich and diverse cultural heritage.

The earliest evidence of human presence on Crete dates back to the Neolithic period, around 7000 BC. The island was initially inhabited by the Minoans, a sophisticated Bronze Age civilization that flourished from 2700 BC to 1450 BC. The Minoans, known for their advanced architecture, art, and trading networks, left behind impressive ruins such as the Palace of Knossos, which still stands today.

In the 15th century BC, the Minoan civilization was abruptly ended by a catastrophic eruption of the Thera volcano, causing massive destruction and leading to the decline of the Minoans. This opened the door for the Mycenaeans, a Greek-speaking tribe, to conquer and rule Crete for the next several centuries.

Around 1400 BC, the island faced a series of invasions and occupations by different powers, including the Dorians, the Romans, and the Byzantines. In 824 AD, Crete was conquered by the Arabs and remained under Islamic rule for the next 137 years, until it was recaptured by the Byzantines in 961 AD.

In the 13th century, Crete became a Venetian colony and thrived under Venetian rule for over four centuries. The Venetians heavily fortified the island, building impressive castles, such as the famous Fortezza in Rethymno, to protect it from invaders. During this time, Crete also saw a flourishing of the arts, with the emergence of the Cretan School, which produced renowned artists and masterpieces of religious iconography.

In 1669, the Ottomans conquered Crete, ending the Venetian rule and ushering in a period of oppression and resistance. The Cretan people fiercely fought against the Ottoman occupation, with several rebellions and revolutions taking place over the next two centuries.

In 1898, Crete finally gained autonomy and became a semi-independent state under the protection of the Great Powers. However, it wasn’t until 1913 that Crete officially joined Greece and became an integral part of the modern Greek state.

Today, Crete continues to be a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. The island’s past can still be seen and felt in its ancient ruins, medieval towns, and traditional villages, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in delving into the fascinating history of Greece.

Transportation on Crete, Greece

Getting to Crete, Greece and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
  • Children under 12 or less than 150 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
  • Adhere to speed limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h; Open roads: 90 km/h; Rural highways: 110 km/h; Motorways: 130 km/h
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Overtake on the left, and keep to the right unless overtaking on multi-lane roads.
  • Roundabouts: Yield to traffic already in the roundabout and use your indicator when exiting.
  • Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
  • In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

Local Transportation

Greece offers a variety of transportation options for travelers, including buses, trains, ferries, and taxis. Buses are the most popular mode of transportation, with extensive routes and affordable prices. Trains are another option, although the network is not as extensive as buses. Ferries are a great way to travel between islands and offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Taxis are widely available in cities and can be hailed on the street or called in advance. Overall, Greece’s transportation system is efficient, affordable, and provides a convenient way to explore the country.

Know Before You Go...® - Crete, Greece Travel Tips

Before making their way to Crete, Greece , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Crete, Greece even more relaxing.

Capital: Heraklion
Population: 630,000 (estimated)
Size: 3,219 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 220/240
Time: zone:+2 (GMT/UTC )
Official Language: The official language spoken in Crete is Greek, specifically the Cretan dialect. However, many locals also speak English as a secondary language, especially in tourist areas. Other languages spoken in Crete include Italian and German.
Currency:
  • Crete uses the Euro as its official currency (€).
  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas in Crete. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Diners Club. However, some smaller businesses and local shops may only accept cash, so it is always a good idea to have some Euros on hand.
  • ATMs are widely available throughout the island, making it easy to withdraw cash using your debit or credit card. However, be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for foreign cards, so it is best to check with your bank beforehand to avoid any surprises.
  • Traveler's checks are not commonly used in Crete, and it may be challenging to find a place that accepts them. It is better to use credit or debit cards or withdraw cash from an ATM instead.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping in Crete is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. It is customary to leave a small tip for good service.
  • The standard tip in restaurants is 5-10% of the total bill.
  • Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
  • Tipping tour guides and drivers on organized tours is also not expected, but a small tip is appreciated for exceptional service.
  • The standard Value Added Tax (VAT) in Greece is 24%, which is included in the price of goods and services.
  • Visitors from non-EU countries can claim back the VAT on certain purchases by filling out a tax-free form and presenting it at the airport at departure.
Dress Code: The dress code in Crete is typically casual and relaxed, with lightweight and comfortable clothing being the most common choice.
Topography: Crete is a rugged island with a varied landscape, including mountains, valleys, plateaus, and a long coastline, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and scenic exploration.
Telephone: Country code: +30 Area code: 282

Crete, Greece Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Crete, Greece villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons!

See our favorite Greece villas for weddings.