Things to do in Crete with a Car Rental
1. Explore Chania
Old Town and Venetian Harbor
Highlights:
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- 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:
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- 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.
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Dining:
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- 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:
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- 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:
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- 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
History:
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- Minoan Civilization: The most significant archaeological site of the Bronze Age.
- Excavations: Led by Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century.
Tips:
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- 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:
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- 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:
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- 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:
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- Venetian Fortress: Built in 1579, later used as a leper colony.
- Tours: Regular boat trips from Elounda and Plaka.
Experience:
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- 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
Dikteon Cave
Mythology:
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- Zeus’ Birthplace: According to Greek mythology, Zeus was born in this cave.
Experience:
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- Hike: A short hike up to the cave entrance.
- Interior: Admire the impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Windmills
Sightseeing:
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- Traditional Windmills: Drive through the plateau to see these iconic structures.
- Photos: Great spots for photography.
Culture:
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- Villages: Visit local villages like Tzermiado for traditional Cretan hospitality.
6. South Coast Adventures
Matala
History:
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- 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:
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- Relax: Enjoy the sandy beach with crystal clear waters.
- Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants, and shops nearby.
Preveli Beach
Scenery:
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- 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:
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- 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:
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- Wildlife: Spot the rare kri-kri goats and various bird species.
- Vegetation: Diverse plant life, including wildflowers and aromatic herbs.
Preparation:
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- 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
Unique Feature:
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- Pink Sand: Created by crushed shells.
Activities:
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- Swim: In the shallow, warm waters.
- Explore: Walk to the small islets nearby.
Facilities:
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- Umbrellas, sunbeds, and a few canteens.
Balos Lagoon
Access:
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- Boat: From Kissamos.
- Drive: To a parking area and hike down (steep and rough).
Experience:
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- 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:
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- Expansive Beach: Plenty of space for everyone.
Activities:
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- 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:
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- Wineries: Visit Lyrarakis Winery and other local vineyards.
- Tastings: Enjoy wine tastings and learn about local grape varieties.
Explore:
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- Streets: Walk through the village’s colorful streets.
- Shops: Browse local crafts and products.
Anogeia:
Culture:
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- History: Known for its resistance against the Nazis in WWII.
- Music: Vibrant traditional music scene.
Visit:
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- House of Nikos Xylouris: Learn about the famous Cretan musician.
- Local Taverns: Experience authentic Cretan cuisine and hospitality.
10. Wine Tasting
Wine Routes:
Regions:
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- Peza: Known for its vineyards and wine production.
- Archanes: Another prominent wine-producing area.
Wineries:
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- Boutari Winery: Offers tours and tastings.
- Douloufakis Winery: Family-run with a range of wines to taste.
Experience:
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- Tours: Learn about the winemaking process.
- Tastings: Sample a variety of local wines.
11. Drive Through Scenic Routes
The Amari Valley:
Route:
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- Scenery: Lush landscapes, olive groves, and traditional villages.
- Villages: Visit Thronos, known for its Byzantine church.
Highlights:
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- Thronos Village: Byzantine church of the Panagia with frescoes.
- Amari Dam: A beautiful spot for a picnic.
The Route to Sfakia:
Scenery:
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- Mountains: Rugged terrain with dramatic views.
- Gorges: Drive through Imbros Gorge.
Stop:
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- 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:
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- Resistance: Symbol of Cretan resistance during the Ottoman period.
Visit:
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- 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:
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- Libyan Sea: Stunning views from the monastery grounds.
History:
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- Resistance: Played a role in resistance movements during the Ottoman period and WWII.
Visit:
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- Church: Beautiful frescoes and icons.
- Museum: Small museum with historical artifacts.
13. Engage in Outdoor Activities
Snorkeling and Diving:
Locations:
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- 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:
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- Guided Tours: Available for both beginners and experienced divers.
- Marine Life: Discover colorful fish, underwater caves, and ancient shipwrecks.
Caving:
Caves:
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- Cave of Zeus (Dikteon Cave): Famous for its mythological significance.
- Melidoni Cave: Known for its historical and geological interest.
Experience:
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- 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
- Booking: Reserve your car online in advance to ensure availability, especially during high tourist seasons.
- Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Flexible pick-up and drop-off locations to fit your itinerary.
- Insurance: Totaly 100% Full insurance with no excess for peace of mind.
- Maps and GPS: Rent a GPS for easy navigation or ask for a detailed map of Crete highlighting attractions and parking spots.
- Local Insights: Staff can provide valuable local tips on hidden gems, best routes, and less crowded spots.
- Fuel Policy: Fair fuel policy for a carefree trip.