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Things to do in Crete with a Car Rental

Things to do in Crete with a Car Rental

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Driving at Crete island

 

1. Explore Chania

Χανιά
Chania port

Old Town and Venetian Harbor

 

Highlights:

    • Narrow Streets: The labyrinthine streets are filled with historical buildings, colorful houses, and hidden courtyards.
    • Venetian Harbor: Built by the Venetians in the 14th century, it’s now lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
    • Maritime Museum of Crete: Exhibits maritime history from ancient times to the Battle of Crete during WWII.

Must-See:

      • Egyptian Lighthouse: Originally built by the Venetians and reconstructed by the Egyptians.
      • Firkas Fortress: Offers beautiful views of the harbor.
      • Etz Hayyim Synagogue: The only remaining Jewish monument on the island.

Dining:

    • Tamam: Located in a 15th-century Venetian building offering traditional Cretan cuisine.
    • Glossitses: A popular spot for seafood right by the water.

2. Visit Rethymno

 

Rethymno Old Town

 

Architecture:

    • Venetian: Elegant arches, loggias, and fountains like the Rimondi Fountain.
    • Ottoman: Mosques and minarets, such as Neratze Mosque.
    • Greek: Narrow alleys and traditional houses.

Sightseeings:

    • Rimondi Fountain: Built in 1626 with three lion heads spouting water.
    • Neratze Mosque: Now used as a music conservatory.
    • Historical and Folklore Museum: Housed in a Venetian building with exhibits on local history and crafts.

Fortezza Castle:

  • Experience: Explore the bastions, gunpowder magazines, and churches inside the fortress.
  • Tip: Best visited in the late afternoon for sunset views over the sea.

3. Discover Heraklion

Knossos Palace Crete
Knossos Palace Crete

Knossos Palace

 

History:

    • Minoan Civilization: The most significant archaeological site of the Bronze Age.
    • Excavations: Led by Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century.

Tips:

    • Guided Tours: Highly recommended to understand the complex layout and history.
    • Early Visit: Arrive early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

 

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

 

Exhibits:

    • Minoan Artifacts: Frescoes, pottery, and the famous Snake Goddess figurines.
    • Phaistos Disc: A mysterious clay disc with undeciphered symbols.
    • Collection: Spans from Neolithic to Roman times.

4. Relax in Agios Nikolaos

 

Lake Voulismeni

 

Activities:
    • Stroll: Walk around the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty.
    • Cafes: Relax at lakeside cafes like Migomis and Cafe du Lac.
    • Shops: Browse through local shops selling crafts and souvenirs.

Legend: The lake is said to be bottomless and connected to the sea by an underwater passage.

 

Spinalonga Island

History:
    • Venetian Fortress: Built in 1579, later used as a leper colony.
    • Tours: Regular boat trips from Elounda and Plaka.

Experience:

    • Explore: Wander through the ruins and imagine the lives of the lepers who lived there.
    • Museum: Learn about the island’s history at the small museum.

5. Experience Lasithi Plateau

Plaka at Lasithi
Plaka at Lasithi

Dikteon Cave

 

Mythology:

    • Zeus’ Birthplace: According to Greek mythology, Zeus was born in this cave.

Experience:

    • Hike: A short hike up to the cave entrance.
    • Interior: Admire the impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

 

Windmills

 

Sightseeing:

    • Traditional Windmills: Drive through the plateau to see these iconic structures.
    • Photos: Great spots for photography.

Culture:

    • Villages: Visit local villages like Tzermiado for traditional Cretan hospitality.

6. South Coast Adventures

 

Matala

 

History:

    • Hippie Haven: In the 1960s, Matala was a popular spot for hippies who lived in the caves.
    • Ancient Caves: Carved into the cliffs, used in Roman and early Christian times.

Beach:

    • Relax: Enjoy the sandy beach with crystal clear waters.
    • Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants, and shops nearby.

 

Preveli Beach

 

Scenery:

    • Palm Forest: Unique to this area, adding to its exotic feel.
    • River: The Kourtaliotis River flows into the sea, creating a lagoon.

Tip: Hike down from the Monastery of Preveli or take a boat from nearby beaches.


7. Hike in Samaria Gorge

 

Samaria Gorge National Park

 

Trail:

    • Length: 16 km, starting from Xyloskalo in Omalos and ending at Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea.
    • Difficulty: Challenging, requires good physical condition.

Flora and Fauna:

    • Wildlife: Spot the rare kri-kri goats and various bird species.
    • Vegetation: Diverse plant life, including wildflowers and aromatic herbs.

Preparation:

    • Start Early: To avoid the heat and have plenty of time.
    • Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and wear sturdy hiking shoes.

8. Beach Hopping

 

Elafonissi Beach

Elafonisi
Elafonisi

Unique Feature:

    • Pink Sand: Created by crushed shells.

Activities:

    • Swim: In the shallow, warm waters.
    • Explore: Walk to the small islets nearby.

Facilities:

    • Umbrellas, sunbeds, and a few canteens.

 

Balos Lagoon

 

Access:

    • Boat: From Kissamos.
    • Drive: To a parking area and hike down (steep and rough).

Experience:

    • Waters: Stunning turquoise waters ideal for swimming.
    • Sand: White sand beaches and rocky outcrops.

Tips: Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited.

 

 

Falassarna Beach

Size:

    • Expansive Beach: Plenty of space for everyone.

Activities:

    • Sunbathing: Plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas.
    • Water Sports: Options for windsurfing and snorkeling.

Sunset: One of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset.

 


9. Explore Traditional Villages

 

Archanes:

 

Wine Tasting:

    • Wineries: Visit Lyrarakis Winery and other local vineyards.
    • Tastings: Enjoy wine tastings and learn about local grape varieties.

Explore:

    • Streets: Walk through the village’s colorful streets.
    • Shops: Browse local crafts and products.

Anogeia:

Anogeia old Cafe
Anogeia old Cafe

Culture:

    • History: Known for its resistance against the Nazis in WWII.
    • Music: Vibrant traditional music scene.

Visit:

    • House of Nikos Xylouris: Learn about the famous Cretan musician.
    • Local Taverns: Experience authentic Cretan cuisine and hospitality.

10. Wine Tasting

 

Wine Routes:

 

Regions:

    • Peza: Known for its vineyards and wine production.
    • Archanes: Another prominent wine-producing area.

Wineries:

    • Boutari Winery: Offers tours and tastings.
    • Douloufakis Winery: Family-run with a range of wines to taste.

Experience:

    • Tours: Learn about the winemaking process.
    • Tastings: Sample a variety of local wines.

11. Drive Through Scenic Routes

 

The Amari Valley:

 

Route:

    • Scenery: Lush landscapes, olive groves, and traditional villages.
    • Villages: Visit Thronos, known for its Byzantine church.

Highlights:

    • Thronos Village: Byzantine church of the Panagia with frescoes.
    • Amari Dam: A beautiful spot for a picnic.

The Route to Sfakia:

 

Scenery:

    • Mountains: Rugged terrain with dramatic views.
    • Gorges: Drive through Imbros Gorge.

Stop:

    • Frangokastello Castle: Venetian castle with a beautiful beach nearby.
    • Beaches: Swim at Frangokastello Beach or nearby Orthi Ammos Beach.

12. Visit Historical Monasteries

 

Arkadi Monastery:

 

History:

    • Resistance: Symbol of Cretan resistance during the Ottoman period.

Visit:

    • Church: 16th-century church with beautiful architecture.
    • Museum: Exhibits related to the monastery’s history.
    • Ossuary: Holds the bones of those who died in the 1866 siege.

Monastery of Preveli:

 

Views:

    • Libyan Sea: Stunning views from the monastery grounds.

History:

    • Resistance: Played a role in resistance movements during the Ottoman period and WWII.

Visit:

    • Church: Beautiful frescoes and icons.
    • Museum: Small museum with historical artifacts.

13. Engage in Outdoor Activities

 

Snorkeling and Diving:

 

Locations:

    • Elounda: Clear waters and interesting underwater sites.
    • Agia Pelagia: Popular diving spots with rich marine life.
    • Paleokastritsa: Known for its underwater caves and diverse marine life.

Experience:

    • Guided Tours: Available for both beginners and experienced divers.
    • Marine Life: Discover colorful fish, underwater caves, and ancient shipwrecks.

Caving:

 

Caves:

    • Cave of Zeus (Dikteon Cave): Famous for its mythological significance.
    • Melidoni Cave: Known for its historical and geological interest.

Experience:

    • Guided Tours: Learn about the caves’ history and geology.
    • Exploration: Admire the impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites.

Tips for Driving in Crete

 

  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for narrow, winding roads, especially in mountainous areas. Drive cautiously and be aware of local driving habits.
  • Parking: Use designated parking areas in cities to avoid fines. In rural areas, parking is usually more straightforward.
  • Fuel Stations: Plan your route with fuel stops in mind, especially in remote areas where stations may be sparse.
  • Local Driving Customs: Be aware that locals may drive more aggressively, and it’s common to use the shoulder to allow faster vehicles to pass.

Additional Tips for Using Cars Spot Rent a Car in Crete

 

  1. Booking: Reserve your car online in advance to ensure availability, especially during high tourist seasons.
  2. Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Flexible pick-up and drop-off locations to fit your itinerary.
  3. Insurance: Totaly 100% Full insurance with no excess for peace of mind.
  4. Maps and GPS: Rent a GPS for easy navigation or ask for a detailed map of Crete highlighting attractions and parking spots.
  5. Local Insights: Staff can provide valuable local tips on hidden gems, best routes, and less crowded spots.
  6. Fuel Policy: Fair fuel policy for a carefree trip.

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