A Planning Guide to Help You Visit Crete

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If you’re planning to visit Crete, there’s more to it than just swimming. So, read on as we dive into everything you need to know to make a memorable trip to the largest island in Greece.

Take a Hike When You Visit Crete

While nothing beats taking a cool swim on Crete’s coast, walking along the coast provides a great adventure. If you didn’t already know, Crete is on the E4 hiking route. If you’ve never been there, it’s almost the distance of Europe and you’ll stumble upon some of the most treasured parts of Crete located on the southwestern side of the coast.

The treks match the swim experience. So, before you visit the coast and swim, hiking from the higher points is a great idea and it offers an amazing view of the entire area. With the SwimTrek guide, everyone is bound to fall in love with the route as they explore it in a hands-on way.

You definitely need to visit the foot of Samaria Gorge. On the discovery trip, you’ll encounter a world that’s truly imaginative and well worth the full hiking experience. However, it should be noted that it’s a complete day’s travel at 16km. During the journey, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the forested areas, the streams, and the imposing cliffs.

Be sure to explore the paths through Samaria Gorge in Crete. Image by Albrecht Fietz from Pixabay

Hop Around the Island

Crete is filled with a ton of activities and sites to see if you’re willing to take the time and explore. So if you’re looking for another adventure, why not hop on over to Paleochora? Paleochora is located on the island in the southwestern corner and you’ll find several astonishing beaches over there. It’s easy to get there by car and car rental in Crete can be quick and easy.

Beautiful view of the bay near Paleochora, Crete. Photo courtesy Adobe Stock images

However, the beaches are truly a sight to behold and they’re located just under the mountains dotted by greenery. Before you head south why not spend some time being mesmerized as you wander through Chania’s Old Town cobbled streets. When you visit the town, you’ll be able to find a truly authentic Mediterranean vibe that’s filled with cafes and restaurants. Upon reaching the southern coast, there are a lot of villages that make your island-hopping even more fun.

Beautiful street in Chania, Crete island, Greece. Photo courtesy Adobe Stock

Or, if you want something more relaxed then why not take a trip to Chrissi via blue-daily-cruises.com. It is a captivating and naturally beautiful setting to experience Mediterranean life.

There are also some great places to stay during your visit to Crete. Check out some of the hippest places to stay in Crete to add even more character to your vacation.

Unusual Sights to See When You Visit Crete

If you’re one of the curious explorers, then you’ll love being a SwimTrekker. If the water and being by the water lets you feel at one with your inner self, then you need to visit the one and only Elafonisi beach. This magical beach is located on the southwestern coast and can be spotted by its light pink sand.

Tropical beach with turquoise water and red sand, in Elafonisi, Crete, Greece. Photo courtesy Adobe Stock

The sand gets its color from very tiny pink shells that line the shores. The loggerhead sea turtles also seek shelter at the beach but are a rare find. So, if you happen to stumble upon one, you’re quite special.

Located very close to Chania is Seitan Limania, a natural site. Seitan Limania is the perfect mix of turquoise flowing to and through the rocky cliffs. The view from the top is the perfect hill down juxtapose. So, take the hike and head down to the beach where you’ll discover a number of places to dive into the flat waters.

Become King of the Castle

If you’re a fan of forts and history, then you’ll feel like you’re in heaven when you visit the island. The Firka Fortress in Chania is a superb place to begin your exploration. The walls of the fortress stretch as far as the coast and provide stunning views of the Mediterranean.

The Frangokastello castle is closer to Crete and is often visible during swims. So, if ever you find yourself being able to visit, then you definitely need to visit an all-time favorite site that is just as good or even better than swimming to most. Keep in mind that the on-land experience is even more amazing than what you get from the sea. At the water’s edge, you’ll feel as though it could fit into the palm of your hand.

Dark clouds over the castle at Frangokastello on the Greek island of Crete. Photo courtesy Adobe Stock

Set Your Taste Buds Alight

The fishing village of Loutro gives tourists and adventurers the perfect opportunity to sample tons of fresh seafood. A favorite among most travelers is the fresh fish and lamb. So head out and visit Chora Sfakion to try one of their mouth-watering pies.

Greek coastline village of Loutro in southern Crete. Photo courtesy Adobe Stock

The pieces look like fluffy pancakes and taste even more delicious. If you’re interested in these pies then you can have them with a bit of honey as you let your tastebuds run wild with any classic Cretian meal that will leave you filled and having some serious cravings.

Enjoy your trip to Greece and set out on the experience of a lifetime when you visit Crete. Be sure to check out Wander for more great articles about what to do when you visit Greece.