Greece is an idyllic destination just a few hours flight from Paris. Without even leaving Europe, this country allows us to escape and discover a completely different culture. Crete stands out from the other Greek islands by its authenticity and its landscapes to die for. If you are not yet convinced, discovering the island’s must-sees could well make you change your mind…
The beauty of the whole of Crete is undeniable. But with its area of more than 8000 km², it is difficult for its visitors to see everything in the space of a short stay. Here are for you the most irresistible and best places of this Greek island! Of course, many other places are worth a look in Crete, but we are not going to spoil you everything…
Summary
- Balos Beach
- Elafonisi
- Knossos
- Samaria Gorge
- Spinalonga
- Vai and its surroundings
- The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
Balos Beach
How can you resist the charm of Crete in front of this panorama? It is one of the most famous beaches on the island, and for good reason! Its turquoise blue lagoon and its fine sand delight all the tourists who go there. Isolated, you will need several hours by car and/or boat to get to this beach. But this superb view and the long-awaited swim will make you forget the whole trip!
Elafonisi
Elafonisi est une presqu’île de la Crête. Pour y accéder, il suffit de marcher ou alors de nager par une langue de sable. Celle-ci est célèbre pour son bord de mer au reflet rose. Pour éviter de visiter ce lieu au milieu d’une masse de touristes, mieux vaut s’y rendre en basse saison ou alors tôt le matin en haute saison.
Knossos
Many have a priori that Crete is an island like Greece. However, it is unique given its history at the crossroads of different civilizations. The site of Knossos attracts thousands of tourists every year and still impresses! If you visit Knossos, prefer to opt for a guided tour or find out well in advance to understand the history and the imagination of the different civilizations that guided the construction of these places.
Samaria Gorge
In the White Mountains west of Crete, more precisely in the Samaria National Park, it is possible to discover and venture into magnificent gorges. Unfortunately these are not open all year round, usually only from May to October. The path is very well maintained and allows a pleasant visit to this natural place between mountains, greenery and rivers.
Spinalonga
Also known as the “leper island”, Spinalonga owes its particularity to its fortifications. In Mirabello Bay, you can discover this islet built by the Venetians and then occupied by the Turks. Today the streets are deserted which adds even more charm and mystery to Spinalonga.
Vai and its surroundings
Vaï en Crête is a palm grove located by the sea which makes the landscapes sumptuous. It is the ideal place to enjoy the heat and the sea in an exceptional setting. The surrounding beaches are also worth a visit, as they are much wilder and less crowded.
The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
This museum of Crete founded in 1883 in Iraklio is today one of the oldest and most important in the country. This brings together an impressive collection of objects ranging from prehistory to Roman times that retrace the history of Crete. The visit to the Heraklion Museum is very interesting in addition to the archaeological sites of the region such as Knossos to understand the different influences that allowed Crete to become what it is today.
