The main airports in Crete are Chania International and Heraklion International, both well served by budget airlines. $148. Heraklion is located on the north coast of Crete and is home to the main airport of the island. Some beaches are considered 'insider tips' among locals and tourists and can only be reached on foot, while other beach areas regularly host large numbers of sun-hungry visitors. 20 BEST Crete Beaches To Visit - The World Pursuit The beautiful unspoilt Samari Gorge is a major tourist attraction of the island and was created by a small river running through the White Mountains. There are lots of good value hotels in Sitia, though in general decor is a tad dated check Booking.com for prices and availability. Again due to its relative remoteness, youll be able to leave your disco shoes at home as well have none of that here, thanks very much. A small town located on a small peninsula in southwest Crete, Paleochora is ideal if you want a bit of both. But it would be a shame to miss out on the excellent tavernas in Panormo. Value 4.1. For those who love to explore there are ruins all over the area dating from the Neolithic and Roman periods which, with a bit of tenacity can be uncovered and discovered. Top 26 Unspoilt Places to Visit in Crete for Travel Snobs The Ottoman influence is front and centre at the Hamam Oriental Suites, housed in a former hammam building some rooms have hot tubs. WHERE TO STAY in CRETE - Best Areas and Towns - Santorini Dave Located in the south-eastern corner of the island is this tranquil, pristine, white-washed village full of traditional charm. The KTEL bus station is in the new town, a 10-minute walk from the main harbour see PDF timetables. Karavostasi Beach 432 Beaches By selsfield2003 Worth the walk ( or the ride on the mini train) Great beach - lovely clear water and 2 amazing tavernas. Even the briefest of strolls through the village will showcase many of the wonderful pottery studios. THE 10 BEST Quiet Hotels in Crete 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor The wonderful White Mountains are located in Western Crete, and their gleaming shine is the dominant feature of the region. You wont find parties and bars here, oh no. There are of resort hotels in Bali strung out along the coast many are looking a bit dated but there are a few standouts. Crete is divided into four provinces, each headed up by a regional capital on the north coast Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Agios Nikolaos. But the highlight is the peaceful and picture-perfect sugar cube village of Loutro, with its whitewashed walls and electric blue seas. Courgette balls, broad beans, moussaka and mezedakia. On the beach itself, there is a tavern that sells local nibbles and drinks as well as sunbeds. Despite the small size of Falassarna, its a popular spot and has a reputation for being one of the best beaches in Crete. It also provides stunning views from all angles. Paleochora is the main resort town on the south-west coast. Fortunately, the prices in Elounda dont have a Hollywood price tag. You can find private plunge pools at Miramare Resort & Spa. The walk can take upwards of two hours depending on ability and speed, but also inclination, make sure you take your time to soak up the beautiful views and atmosphere. THE 10 BEST Luxury Beach Resorts in Crete - Tripadvisor Beach Life - The property has a private beach area (complete with an open-air cineam in the evenings) - ideal for a quiet beach getaway. The White Houses are traditional waterfront houses decorated in local antiques and cool whites and blues. Domes Noruz Chania, Autograph Collection 6. Transfer time: 20 minutes from Heraklion International airport. Its raw beauty is undeniable, with glassy aquamarine waters and swirls of pastel-pink sands kissing the shore - a natural phenomenon caused by thousands of . Utterly relaxing. Very good. But almost every island has at least a few great swimming beaches. Blue Palace Luxury Collection has views across to Spinalonga, an extensive spa, and direct access to a pebble beach. Lyttos Mare 5. There are actually three beaches within walking distance from the cobbled stone street village, all of which are pretty shallow and nestled amongst some really lovely local topography, allowing for some rather nice snorkelling experiences. Bali is roughly halfway between Rethymno and Heraklion there are bus services both but not as frequent as other resorts. Falassarna is located on the west coast of the island around a 2 hour 40 minute drive from Heraklion airport. Slap bang in the middle of the northern coastline, the city of Heraklion (also spelt Iraklio or Iraklion) is the capital and its surrounding coastline is some of the busiest and most developed on Crete. Try the spotless Marina Hotel, or the beautiful white and blue decor and sea views atElektra. If commercial isnt your thing then there are numerous guesthouses in the area, all offering their own unique brand of hospitality, many with floral and fragrant herb gardens. On a budget? Euphoria Resort 7. Honeymoons - A haven of tranquility with private villas with mountian and sea views, spoiling massages and haute cuisine overlooking the bay. Ferries leave Sitia once a week for Rhodes, Karpathos, and Kassos. If you can get beyond immediate appearances, it has a likeable vibe there are some excellent museums and a good bar and music scene propped up by the local student population. Glika Nera Beach 190 Beaches By 849jeremyn Lasithi, the easternmost province of Crete, is home to some of its most luxurious hotels as well as its wildest and most traditional areas. Home / Beautiful Places / Top 26 Unspoilt Places to Visit in Crete for Travel Snobs. 5. A lively beach town, the resort of Bali is set around a handful of coves in a scenic bay. 1. The thrum centres around the Venetian harbour, the cafe-packed backstreets, and the extensive beach which extends to the east. The pink sands of Elafonisi are one of the main attractions in west Crete, with coachloads arriving every day to bathe in the glorious lagoon-like waters. Despite its proximity to larger resorts, the bus service to Sissi is limited, so its better suited to couples looking for a quiet place to stay in Crete or those wanting to explore the wild Agios Ioannis peninsula by car. Its a windswept and low-key kind of place, with remnants of a hippie vibe. Plaka has a lovely beach, especially lovely if you dont like sand getting everywhere, as its made from pebbles. Transfer time: 2hrs from Heraklion International airport, 10 minutes from Sitia Public Airport. The Royal Blue Resort. Several celebrities (including Brad and Angelina in happier days) have been spotted walking on its sandy shores, this combined with it being a hotspot for European dignitaries just adds to the appeal. For those who dont fancy a steep, heady climb on their holidays, it is possible to hire a fishing boat in Agia Roumeli to take you to Domata. Palazzo Duca is one block behind the harbour and is clean and modern with comfortable Cocomat mattresses. 8. There are some bars, but they are more likely to be full of civilised locals than your standard 18-30 gangs. Its set back from the town but is 4* and modern, with 3 pools and spacious rooms. Cretes famous hippie beach is located on the south coast the name will be familiar to any fan of Joni Mitchell, who lived in the caves here for a short time as described in the song Carey. There is a Venetian architrave, Byzantine churches, frescos from the 14th century, and oodles of lush green countryside as a backdrop. Theres a regular bus to Heraklion, and its possible to reach Rethymnon and Agios Nikolaos for day trips too. Anissaras, Hersonissos, Crete. Although the hippies have long since been moved on, and the caves protected and closed to the public, the town retains a laidback feel despite the explosion of tourism here. With the exception of Paleochora, that is. Minos Beach Art Hotel Agios Nikolaos, Crete 129 rooms from 336. An epic choice of restaurants and bars. The scenery as you traverse the coast road with steep hills and lush greenery gives views that will take your breath away. Transfer time: 1hr 45 minutes from Chania International airport. With steep sandy-coloured rocks dropping directly into the sea in this horseshoe-shaped bay and crystal clear water it is postcard perfect. But the rowdy bars are largely confined to one strip the Malia Mile, and the party doesnt start until later in the evening. The nearest rooms are a few miles away try the sereneGlykeria Hoteland Elafonisi Resort. Off the beaten track, this tranquil hotel is ideal for a simple seaside holiday for families. Transfer time: 1hr 40 minutes from Chania International airport. Sumptuous suites and villas have cool contemporary interiors and fabulous sea views, and many with their own private pool. Aside from the peacefulness of the region, it is hard not to be astounded by the artwork the elements left behind- a series of terraces in the rock face which, will undoubtedly leave you awestruck. On a budget? 4.4/5 Wonderful! The beach here is better than any at Hersonissos, which is 5km away. Theres an excellent selection of tavernas, and its a short drive to Agios Nikolaos for city delights. Numerous beautiful beaches with soft sand or colored pebbles are found in the prefecture of Chania in western Crete. Enter dates to see prices. It is hardly surprising then that there are a world-class selection of beach hotels to choose from. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Where to Stay on Corfu: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Kefalonia: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Lefkada: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Zakynthos: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Skiathos: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Rhodes: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Mallorca: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Ibiza: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on Menorca: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide, Where to Stay on the Turkish Coast: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide. Transfer time: 1hr 30 minutes from Chania airport. On the harbour: If youre after a harbourfront hotel with a sea views balcony just bear in mind that noise and light from the restaurants below go on until late. A spoiling stay. Clearly, the island has so much more to offer aside from the famous mythology and legends, there are also sites of architectural, historical, and natural importance, that will leave any visitor completely enthralled! 25 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World - Travel + Leisure The resorts spread out in either direction along the coast. For something different, highly rated Ammos Hotel in Agioi Apostoli brings a touch of Scandi cool to proceedings. Elafonisi Lagoon is located on the west coast of the Greek island of Crete around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion Airport. #1 Best Value of 1,305 Crete Beach Hotels "Beach - Currently sitting on the beach I can tell you it is a little sun trap! Heres a complete rundown on where to stay in Crete to help you choose which part of the island to choose, which town, resort or beach is for you, and the best beach hotels, whether youre booking accommodation DIY or looking for a package vacation. Self-catering and BBQ are available for all. Most accommodation is in Paleokastro village which is a short drive from several excellent beaches including Kouremenos, Hiona, and Mandati. Rooms with floaty linen curtains have excellent sea views from their large glass windows. The local fare in many of the harbour tavernas is about as close as you can come to freshness, maybe even caught meters from where you sit. The village itself is loaded with a rich history, including a museum which houses finds of Minoan archaeological importance found nearby and you can hear tales about the towns colourful past and folklore in the many local tavernas. Plenty of suites and private villas have pools. Many Chania beaches are among the best on the island, such as Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi. As with the other northern cities, it has a Venetian Fortress (the Kazarma) and an Archaeological Museum. all were excellent and we recommend this hotel with a true "vacation vibe" to all couples wanting a quiet and relaxing vacation on the wonderful beach of Crete". Located to the eastern side of the island of Crete, Kato Zakros is a bit out of the way, but well worth the visit. Head west for quieter beaches at Amnisos or Tobrouk. One of the best beaches in the south coast of Crete, You can actually park the car by the beach, there are a couple o. Sougia is located on the South West Coast of Crete around 3 hour and 20-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Check TUI for packages including hotels and flights. Kato Zakros is located on the east coast of the island around a 3 hour journey from Heraklion airport. 1,438 reviews. If you are looking for a bit of space then Plakias offers one of the largest beaches in Crete. A good selection of bars and restaurants. A wonderful place to visit and stay in Crete! THE 10 BEST Quiet Resorts in Crete - Mar 2023 (with Prices Another sleepy Crete village, Tsoutsouros is undeveloped and charming (just how we like it). Its a relaxed resort town (well compared to its busier neighbours) and if you want a no-nonsense turn-up and relax on the beach holiday then this is a good choice. There are some quieter beaches in the area if youre up for a bit of scrambling, and things calm down in the evening once the coaches have packed up for the day. !" Breakfast included 2022 2. Its an easy and cheap bus ride to Knoss from Heraklion. Also along the main harbour, youll find the stylish Elia Zampeliou Boutique Hotel and the funky Alcanea Boutique Hotel. The best beach in the area is at Anissaras, this is a 4 kms taxi ride west from Koutouloufari and any taxi driver will know where it is. Koutouloufari is awash with luxury adults-only complexes. Meanwhile, the main beach of the area, West Triopetra or Chatzi, is characterised by beautiful coarse sand which casts unusual colours across the beach and water. Inland Heraklion region is home to farmland and vineyards, whereas the coastline spreading east from Heraklion is also the most developed on Crete, and home to its most famous (and infamous resorts). See More, An opulent resort comprising five hotels in one on a private peninsula. Sougia is located on the South West coast of the island around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion airport. The main cities and towns on the north coast are linked by regular buses each regional capital has buses going to the south of its region. There is also a domestic airport in Sitia with flights from Athens. Malia can be a great option for cheap last minute packages keep an eye on Lastminute.com for deals. Check the rooms and prices on Booking.com. Some of the beach resorts along Rethymnon beach include: The area around Platanes is popular and sandy. The further out, the quieter it gets. Some suites have access to a private hot tub on the roof terrave. Boasting unspoilt bay views, life plays out on a different tempo here. The best beaches and coves in Crete incl. insider tips - Corissia . Options are spread out along the vast beach so check the location before booking if you want to be closer to the castle for proximity to the few tavernas and cafes. Not overly touristy (though all the amenities are present), it has a working town feel albeit one with an Ottoman mosque, Venetian Fortress, and Blue Flag Beach. So many people make a beeline for Rethymno that its surrounding villages are something of a hidden gem. The walk between these two areas is truly stunning, the path along the way is marked with cairns to guide your route thankfully as it is easy to get distracted by the views! Budget alternatives include Axos Hotel and Swell Boutique Hotel. It can be as quiet or as rowdy as you like. This ultra-luxurious haven combines the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools. Classy Veneziano Boutique Hotel is in a beautifully renovated historic building. 17. Tourism here peaked in the 90s and as such it has a slightly careworn feel and is friendly but not busy. callback: cb At Finikounda in south-western Peloponnese, it's a simple beach resort with honey-hued beaches, space for 80 campers, and 16 sizeable bungalows with their own bathrooms, cooking facilities. A small collection of traditional stone cottages make the perfect base for families. If you think of a sleepy Greek fishing village, you probably have images of small boats bobbing in quartz waters, piles of multicoloured nets, and fishermen unloading their catch before nipping off to the Taverna for a cheeky ouzo. Anissaras beach http://www.flickr.com/photos/brownieboy27/4986950206/in/set-72157624948245648 Report inappropriate content roseyManchester manchester Triopetra is surrounded by Siderotas mountain, olives groves, and of course, the seafront, the area is named after the three majestic rocks that rise out of the ocean at the edge of the peninsula. Packages to Stalis are available through TUI. The area is also crisscrossed with donkey paths that make it fantastic for walking (its possible to walk to Plaka). ". THE 10 BEST Quiet Resorts in Crete 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor I loved Ligaria a small and charming seaside village located on the north side of Crete especially its lovely beach which has the same name. In certain lights as well, Balos Beach has a hint of pink sand. Few make it out this far, despite its calling card the impressive (but empty) Venetian castle on its shore. There are lots of lovely places to stay in Rethymnon. #26 Best Value of 502 Quiet Hotels in Crete. If you want to be closer to the beaches, Nostos Beach Boutique Hotel is freshly renovated and has a pool, beach bar and day beds. Agios Nikolaos is located on the east side of the island around a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Its not particularly health and safety friendly, but if you are brave enough youll be rewarded with a view of a hidden church built within the caves. Chanias maze of old town streets have been prettied up for the tourists, but they still retain a charming atmosphere especially if you can catch them in spring before the masses arrive. East of Sitia the crowds really thin out most tourists dont make it beyond this point. However, if you would like to sit outside one of its handful of tavernas with a carafe of the local red and a plate of vine leaves then this is the quiet place to visit in Crete for you! Georgioupolis Resort Aquapark & Spa offers a unique holiday experience to those that want to enjoy the incomparable Greek Hospitality whilst seeking top quality services in a relaxing environment, excellent gastronomy as well as a . The 680-room Creta Maris Beach Resort is a beachfront all-inclusive resort a 10-minute walk from Limenas Hersonissos village. See More, A home-away-from-home set in a stunning rural spot with beaches, bars and tavernas a walk away. The best of the rest are: Creta Blue Boutique Hotel & Suites, Villa Ippocampi,Casa Bianca Boutique Hotel,Abaton Island Resort & Spa, Cooks Club. Plaka is also the gateway to the Spinalonga, the small fortress island that famously housed a leper colony and is now one of the main day trips in the area. })(); For all the legal bits go to myDisclaimer and Privacy Policy, Cretan cooking experience in the mountains, check rooms and availability on Booking.com, 10 Perfect Gifts for Foodies Who Love Greece (Ideal for a Hamper), 10 Best Places for a Sunny Winter City Break in Europe. If youre bringing the familiy you may prefer a villa with a pool have a look at Philoxenia Villas which has fresh modern decor and is 200 yards from the beach. Service 4.3. There is no shortage of boutique in the winding Venetian streets of the old town. This is a natural beauty spot which is an absolute pearl, but youve got to time it right. Transfer time: 1hr 10 minutes from Chania International airport, 1 hr 10 minutes from Heraklion International Airport book a transfer. Much of the south-west coast is rocky and inaccessible, with steep cliffs that drop dramatically into the sea and small beaches that form at the end of gorges. Once youve driven (carefully) to the town youll find a laid-back vibe and easy-going atmosphere that is synonymous with most of the lesser-known spots on the island. Mount Ida is the tallest peak of the range, named after the daughter of the King of Crete according to Greek mythology. Glyka Nera is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete and definitely one of the most unspoiled places to visit on the island, with deep blue water and fine white sands. Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection Show prices Enter dates to see prices 16 best beaches in Mexico, from surf escapes to peaceful bays | CN If you have a car then you might also want to consider accommodation up in Mirtios village above the bay. And if you'd like your own private pool, as well as access to a private beach, Refine your search to our Guru's recommendations for. Outside this, its a large resort town with an excellent (though busy) beach, an unashamedly commercial centre, and a charming old quarter (Old Malia), where youll find traditional houses and tavernas. Balos Beach, Crete. This amazing place is like the Caribbean side of Crete. Its known for its calm waters, and for being a nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. For a mix of the two - great beaches and some nightlife - Paros is perfect. Crete Quiet Resorts & Hotels : Book a Hotel Room at one of many Quiet The best beaches in Crete | CN Traveller The older part of town (Ano Hersonissos or Palia Hersonissos) is set back from the coast and has lots of little family-run tavernas. The 12 Best Crete Beach Hotels (Greece) | Oyster.com All rooms boast sea views and Egyptian cotton sheets; the best have a private terrace hot tub and marble bathroom. The resorts here are some of the nicest places to stay on Crete. That said, they are exposed to the northwesterly Meltemi wind which blasts Greece throughout the summer beware big waves and undercurrents when the wind is blowing, pay attention to local advice. Three excellent restaurants, salt water pools and an extensive spa complete the picture on this luxe stay. There are few roads in the area, and some of the villages are accessible only by boat. And theres an ancient Minoan site that youre likely to have to yourself. ; SOUTH: Most of the main beach resorts are on the south coast, busier on the west side and getting quieter the further east you get. The best quiet beach in Crete? - Crete Message Board - Tripadvisor Transfer time: 25 minutes from Heraklion International airport. And its one of the warmest places in the Mediterranean in winter. Whitewashed and chic Cyano Hotel is the best place to stay in Plakias rooms are spotless, the beds are comfy, and its a short walk to the shops and beach. Candia Suites are close to the harbour with clean modern interiors and bicycle rental available. Transfer time: 2 hours 30 minutes from Heraklion International airport. Ligaria is located on the north coast of Crete around a 30 minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Palm-fringed Preveli is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches on Crete. The beach is large and there are a range of tavernas and shops offering food at a very reasonable price. It gets very popular and usually attracts people who go there for clubbing. Start the day with farm-to-table breakfast before a bike ride. On the beautiful beach of Kolymbari, 20 km from the city of Chania, lies Grand Bay Beach Resort. There are a number of hotels right on the beach such as the modern and comfortable Sofia Hotel. The lazy river was a particular highlight. Heraklion is Cretes capital and the largest city on the island. The small city of Sitia is a working port town with a pleasant seafront promenade, a sandy town beach, and a slow lifestyle. See More, Experience luxury in abundance at this peninsula hotel with contemporary, stylish decor and sea views. Rooms mirror the outdoors, blue and breezy, some suites come with terraces and pools. Most of these are connected to town by regular bus. on: function(evt, cb) { Its deliciously quiet in shoulder season. Chora Sfakion: A few upmarket options here such as the No Problem Luxury Suite (it has a bathtub), and the excellent value Livikon Hotel and Samaria Hotel which both have fresh white and blue decor and seaview balconies. Crete's Best Beach Hotels | The Hotel Guru There are plenty of options for self-catered too, likeVilla Niki. Beach bums are better off at Plakias (see below). This area is perfect for beach lovers (although its worth noting that the main beach does get very windy). The southeast coast is one of the least touristed parts of the island. Its unsurprisingly popular with returnees. The modern rooms boast private balconies overlooking the bay, gardens or pool. It is flanked by steep, mountainsides, home to a sizable herd of goats (judging from the clinking of bells) as well as a tepid sea, sheltered by a lush bay. For those on a smaller budget, have a look at the small and friendly Nostos Hotel which is a few minutes from the main harbour. Transfer time: 1hr 35 minutes from Chania International airport. If you want a bit of light culture there is a church (Agios Panteleimon) on the Western side of the village, it has a gorgeous mosaic floor and is not commercial in any way (if you want to see it youll have to go to the kiosk on Sougia beach and ask for the key yourselfseriously)! 9 Theofanus Street, Chania, Crete Island, 731 00. Be aware that roads and bus routes in the south are sparse, its easier to plan an itinerary that takes in one region or travels along the north coast. The famous Preveli Palm Beach with its exotic date palm forest at the end of Kourtaliotiko Gorge is 5km away. You cant miss it, its called Youth Hostel Plakias. On the Venetian harbour: is the 5 star Ambassadors Residence which has rooftop hot tubs. Heraklion itself is not quite an attractive destination in the same way that Chania and Rethymnon are much of its historic architecture was damaged during heavy bombing in WWII. "The location is perfect as is one of the best beaches on the island, being quiet yet with locals around, and close enough to the Venetian Harbour for day or evening trips.". Transfer time: 1hr 15 minutes from Heraklion airport. Walking through the forest is sublime, and the river that cuts through it is clean enough to swim in (we should hope so as it leads directly out onto Plakias beach). Each of these areas offers exceptional hotels, fantastic dining, and a wide range of nearby . The area is popular with locals, which should tell you something, and as a result, the beachside cuisine in the local tavernas is to a pretty high standard. Here, you can available of the offerings from the nearby tavernas and umbrellas are available. Check Paleochora rooms and prices on Booking.com. If you want to meet other travellers there are two hostels in town Intra Muros and So Young, but private rooms in traditional domatia or apartments can be foundfor a similar price. Accommodation in Frangokastello is all self-catered and around the same price point. If youve braved the paddle (or walked over the sandbar leading to the island) youll be rewarded with water that is the temperature of bathwater, soft pink sand (particular to this area only), and pictures that youll treasurePrizes awarded for spotting a sea turtleand deducted for duckface Instagram postsenjoy! A small village consisting simply of a few hotels and tavernas, shops and restaurants, and a church, but what Loutro lacks in modernity it makes up for in nostalgia and panorama. Agios Nikolaos Best for families A favourite of package holiday companies, Agios Nikolaos is one of Crete's biggest but most charming resorts, making it a great choice for families.