Tips for vacationers or the best places about. Crete. Highlights of East Crete - what a traveler should see

Crete is not a simple Greek island. It was once the center of the Minoan civilization, one of the oldest in Europe. Therefore, if at the origins of European culture is, then at the origins Ancient Greece- Minoan culture. All the peoples who ruled on the island left their imprint here, and there were many of them here: Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Turks.

Generally tourism infrastructure Crete is better than others Greek islands, it is one of the most popular European resorts. And if you are going on vacation to Crete, then here are the TOP 8 places that you definitely need to see.

TOP 1: Knossos Palace

The Palace of Knossos is the most visited attraction in Crete. The first buildings in these territories date back to the sixth millennium BC, but the heyday of the Minoan civilization fell on the period from 2700 to 1450. BC. Most of the finds belong to this period.

The Palace of Knossos is very impressive: just imagine, there were about 1300 rooms that could accommodate up to 12 thousand people. This is even by today's standards a gigantic figure (for example, today's record - the palace of the Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah has 1788 rooms). Here's what he looked like:

Well, it was also in this palace that the legendary king Minos lived, and some researchers believe that it was here that the labyrinth of the Minotaur, built by Daedalus, was located.

TOP 2: Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is visited by about half a million tourists every year. It is located in the southwest of Crete and is one of the longest in Europe. The length of the gorge is 18 kilometers. Scared of such a long walk?))

In fact, tourists usually start in the village of Omalos early in the morning (they stay here for the night), and almost the entire journey is downhill, so you don’t feel a huge distance. Yes, and while you stare around and examine the local beauties, time flies unnoticed, and the path seems easier.

And there is something to see here: in some places the gorge narrows to 3 meters, and steep cliffs rise into the sky for all 300.

TOP 3: Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

The Archaeological Museum is the real pride of Heraklion. It is here that all the artifacts from the excavations are brought.

Of course, the main highlight of the museum is the exposition of the Minoan civilization; no other corner of the world has such a huge collection. But it is only a small part of a huge number of collections that cover about 5 thousand years: from the Neolithic to the Greco-Roman period.

TOP 4: Old Town and Chania Harbor

Chania is the main city of Western Crete and probably the most beautiful on the island. Venetian buildings give Chania a special beauty: this is the Firkas fortress, cobbled streets, and stone houses that you don’t want to part with.

And restaurants and souvenir shops harmoniously fit into all this beauty. What can we say, here they knew a lot about beauty and comfort.

Well, if you get bored walking around the Old Town, then you can visit the Archaeological and Maritime Museums, which are dedicated to the history of western Crete.

TOP 6: Elounda and Spinalonga Island

Elounda is a former fishing village, and today a fashionable resort. They are very proud of the city in Crete, there are very good, world-famous hotels. Well, the beaches of Elounda are annually awarded the Blue Flag for their cleanliness. But, despite the fact that the village has become a very fashionable holiday destination, it has not lost its charm.

The island of Spinalonga is connected to the city by a sandy spit, on which the Venetians built a fort to hide from the Ottomans. And they managed to keep the fortress for a long time: for half a century it stood unconquered, although the whole of Crete was already subject to the Turks.

TOP 7: Lassithi Plateau and Dikteon Andron Cave

The Lassithi Plateau is located approximately on the border between East and Central Crete. And do you know what makes it so special? The fact that the local landscape is not much like Greece, but rather the Alps. Mills, canals and gardens give a special flavor to these places, travelers remain impressed.

Well, not far away is the picturesque mountain village of Krasi, which has preserved the aqueduct of the Venetian era, as well as one of the oldest trees on the island - a giant plane tree.

And, of course, the most beautiful of all the caves of the island is the Dikteon Andron cave: it was here, according to myths, that Rhea gave birth to Zeus.

There is even a small lake here, where, according to legend, Rhea bathed the little god.

TOP 8: Agios Nikolaos

This city is called the local Saint Tropez, it is believed that here are the best hotels on the island. Only you need to go here not for the beach and the sea, but just to stare, immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and huddle in the crowd. There are many restaurants in the city, however, the prices for dishes are often overpriced here, but the food is excellent. But Agios Nikolaos is especially good at night, when all its nightclubs and bars open. Therefore, for everyone who is tired of history, antiquities, hiking through caves and gorges, there is a great opportunity to hang out properly.

Crete has long been on the list of places admired by tourists. Millions of people come here every year to get mass positive emotions and enjoy relaxing. To date, the sights of Crete that are worth seeing are pronounced architectural structures, natural and historical monuments.

Slow life in Crete

Crete has an area of ​​8.335 sq. km. Its main tourism industry is on the north coast, however, in south side Crete all lovers of a quiet secluded holiday enjoy deserted beaches. This island does not have its own volcano, but Mount Santorini is located 130 km from it., the eruption of which at one time led to the appearance of a tsunami. In the history of Crete, this event was the most tragic.

However, life on the island passes slowly, which can be felt even on the first day of your vacation. An atmosphere of calm and harmony reigns here. And so that you can feel as comfortable and cozy as possible, you should initially learn not only about habits and traditions local population, but also what sights are on Crete.

Museums, architecture and other attractions of Crete

The ability to surprise is the main art of Crete. Here are ancient historical buildings that delight and never cease to amaze tourists, returning them to the past. Planning your own unforgettable vacation, be sure to include excursions in your program, and they can be the most different on the island. Believe me, in Crete you will find something to see! Indeed, even a day is not enough to list at least the best sights of the island. In the top most popular places attractions include:

And these are all only the main attractions of Crete, and how much more interesting things you can see with your own eyes - you can’t even imagine.

Regions of Crete that you must visit

Going on vacation to Greece on the island of Crete, it will be unforgivable for a tourist if he does not visit at least some of its regions and their attractions, among which we highlight the best.

The most active, large and developed region, where the capital of Crete is located and international Airport the city of Heraklion. For active tourists and young people who cannot imagine their holidays without discos, nightlife, bars and evening walks ideal island resorts such as: Malia, Stalida, and Chersonese.

The beaches on them are sand and pebble with a smooth entry into the sea, and in themselves they represent an open strip of coast. In the region of Heraklion there are also areas for a quiet holiday:

• Agios - Pelagia;
• Ammoudara;
• Honey;
• Kokkini;
• Gouves;
• Analipsi.

These resorts are perfect for self-guided tours, and since there are quite a few 2-star hotels here, you can save money on accommodation, which means there is a chance for rent a car to go on a trip to the cities of Crete and their attractions. This region is also ideal for family vacation: nearby is a water park and, of course, hotels of 5 and 4 stars, which are intended for a romantic, respectable and prestigious vacation.

East Crete will interest tourists in a remote region - Lasithi, which is designed for elite and a relaxing holiday. The beaches here are gentle small bays with calm sea, convenient entrance and sandy beaches. Also here is the most luxury resort Crete - Elounda. And if you're already headed to eastern part islands, you should look at its following sights:

• the villages of Vai, Psychro, Sisi;
• Vidyani monastery;
• Mirabello Bay;
• Toplou Monastery;
• Cave of Zeus, rich in stalagmites and stalactites.

For young people, independent tourists, a relaxing holiday and with the family, the Rethymnon region is suitable. The beach here is sand and pebble, mixed with a gentle descent into the sea. If you want to spend your holidays in this region, then head to one of these resorts:

1. Sfakaki;
2. Adele;
3. Panormo;
4. Bali.

By the way, here you will also find many interesting sights:

• Monastery of Diskuri, Preveli and Arkadi;
• Patsos Gorge;
• Plakias beach;
• Archaeological Museum;
• City of Rethymno;

The western part of the island of Crete will interest guests with the most its remote region - Chania, to which a serpentine road will lead you. Here is the most beautiful nature, a riot of colors and dense vegetation due to strong rainfall and spring time. The beaches in Chania are the widest on the island and sandy, so this resort is suitable for romantic and family holidays, as well as with teenagers.

The beauty and immensity of the northwestern direction of the island delights. In Almyros Bay, where the sea meets the land, close to the fishing picturesque village Georgioupolis is located amazing place considered the best on the island. Exactly here, according to legends and stories, Zeus, the God of Hospitality, was born. It also offers stunning views of the sandy gorgeous beach Georgioupolis and the ridge of the Levka Ori mountains.

Most southern resort islands - Ierapetra, which is also considered the most luxurious city of Crete. This is a serene quiet town, where there is a feeling of a complete stop of time. Compared with northern resorts, the city of Ierapetra is practically not focused on tourism, as well as the small village of Stalis, however, here you will find how to spend your holidays. And if you are attracted by a more rhythmic lifestyle, then you are definitely not here.

40 minutes from Hersonissos is the resort of Agios Nikolaos, which can be called one of the most beautiful places in Crete. He is known by famous lake Vulismeni, in which, according to the myth, the Goddess Athena herself bathed. It is also the most comfortable resort, where with the onset of night comes the time for incendiary entertainment, significant meetings and various adventures. We can say that the city comes alive with the onset of night.

Acquaintance with the various sights of Crete will allow each tourist to immerse himself in the world of various "mirages" and at least temporarily disconnect from the everyday bustle. An unforgettable combination clean water sea, green valleys, majestic mountains and endless sandy beaches - will be remembered for a lifetime!

The palace of Knossos can be compared with the age of the pyramids of Egypt or the English Stonehenge. The time of the beginning of its construction dates back to the second century BC, and it lasted for more than one millennium. The area of ​​the palace is about 20 thousand square meters and consists of a complex system of hundreds of rooms, which seemed very confusing to the ancient Greeks.

There are many legends associated with the Palace of Knossos. The most famous of them tells about Theseus and the Minotaur. It was in the labyrinths of this palace that the ancient king Minos imprisoned a half-bull, half-man, who every seven years took tribute from the Athenians - 7 girls and 7 boys. Thanks to the thread of Ariadne, the daughter of Minos, Theseus managed to kill the Minotaur and escape with his assistant from the island.

Now you can wander through the intricate galleries and halls of the palace, admire the frescoes of the Cretan artists of that time, dedicated to religious processions, scenes of games, flowers and birds, fantastic griffins.

Particular attention, from the point of view of architectural performance, is occupied by columns - their shape narrows to the bottom, and does not expand, as is usually the case in the buildings of ancient peoples.

Odeon

Crete attracts many tourists every year with its magnificent landscapes, as well as architectural, historical and cultural attractions. One of them is the ruins of the ancient Roman theater of the Odeon. Its origin dates back to the 1st century AD. Under the building of the Odeon there was a round structure of the Archaic Period, in the walls of which there were huge stones with the Code of Gortyn (ancient Roman scripture). They were built into the restored building of the Roman theater. In 824 AD, the Odeon was destroyed by the Arabs.

In 1884, parts of the inscription of the Gortyn Code were accidentally discovered. Then, in 1899, excavations began in the Odeon area, which were led by L. Pernier and F. Albert. They ended only in 1921. In 1956, the Odeon was fortified; at present, the north of the circular wall of the structure is protected by a special structure in which the inscription is embedded.

The Odeon building has two entrances and a semicircular orchestra pit lined with gray and white marble slabs. There is also an elevated stage, also lined with marble and brick. Four wide niches for statues were built in the north wall of the Odeon stage. Of the spectator seats, unfortunately, only three rows of benches have been preserved.

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St. Mark's Cathedral

St. Mark's Cathedral - the building of an ancient Catholic church, today used as Art Museum. The former cathedral is located in the historical center of the city of Heraklion, on the island of Crete.

St. Mark's Cathedral was built in 1239 after the conquest of Heraklion by the Venetians. The building is heavy and rich history: during the period of Venetian rule, the temple served as the main Cathedral island of Crete, from its steps the decrees of the dukes were announced and various decrees were voiced. However, in 1303 the cathedral was completely destroyed by an earthquake and rebuilt only a hundred years later. During Muslim domination, St. Mark's Cathedral was turned into a mosque, and to its architectural ensemble the Turks added a minaret. Only in 1956 the temple was returned to its original appearance.

Currently St. Mark's Basilica does not belong catholic church, but the original name has been retained. Now in this majestic building the Art Museum is located, which exhibits samples of Byzantine medieval painting.

St. Mark's Cathedral is one of the most famous sights of Heraklion and Crete. The walls and columns of the cathedral are literally saturated with the spirit of antiquity, which attracts the bulk of tourists.

A truly heavenly place to relax in Greece is Balos Bay on the northwestern coast of Crete, where the coast is washed by three seas at once: the Aegean, Libyan and Ionian. You can get to Balos by car (jeep is better, as the road is difficult), or, which is simpler, but more beautiful - by ship, and at the same time admire this bay from the sea. Particularly noteworthy beautiful beach Bay of Balos, very beloved by tourists. Balos beach, located 60 km from the city of Chania, is considered the most beautiful beach region. The beach is located in the northwestern edge of Crete, on the Gramvousa peninsula.

The beach is wild, has practically nothing but stunning shores and magnificent and clean sea. It is almost impossible to find sun loungers or at least sun loungers, but this has its own charm.

The water of the bay is saturated with a unique composition of minerals that form an extraordinary phenomenon. azure water. Scientists have calculated that there are about 14 shades in the waters of the bay. It is worth emphasizing that this particular beach is considered the most beautiful in the entire Mediterranean - it is not for nothing that Princess Diana and Prince Charles chose this particular place for their honeymoon.

Museum of Man

The Museum of Man is perhaps the most fun museum that tells about the history of mankind, from a funny exposition of a Stone Age dwelling to a huge “satellite dish” with photographs of Neil Armstrong.

The museum is more theme park, walking along which you will see a funny sculpture of a caveman dog, you can sit on his throne, admire the home-made monuments to Yuri Gagarin and Laika. Some of the exhibits are accompanied by comic signs, which sometimes cause outbursts of laughter from museum visitors.

The Museum of Man is perfect place for outdoor activities.

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Spinalonga Island

The island of Spinalonga is small island-a rock where a temple was built in honor of the lovers Aphrodite and Aris. The island is located opposite the resort of Elounda, in the Mirabello Bay in the east of Crete.

Once there was a colony for lepers, who were brought here from all over Crete to live out their lives, but in 1957 the colony was closed.

The island can be seen as ruins after Greco-Turkish War, and preserved Venetian and Turkish buildings, as well as the church of St. Panteleimon. From here you can enjoy stunning sea views.

The most popular attractions in Crete with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose best places for visiting famous places Crete on our website.

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Hospitable and sunny island Crete is one of the most sought after beach destinations mediterranean sea. Tourists are waiting best beaches in the picturesque bays of the island, the azure and clear sea, as well as the historical antiquities of Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos and Rethymnon.

The first civilization originated in Crete several thousand years before the advent of our era. Many historical monuments have come down to us through the ages. Today, guests of the island have the opportunity to explore the mysterious labyrinths of the Knossos Palace, admire impregnable Venetian fortresses or look at the ruins of ancient cities.

The swimming season in Crete lasts from the end of May to the end of October. The winter months are ideal for sightseeing, as even in January daytime temperatures rarely drop below 15°C.

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What to see and where to go in Crete?

The most interesting and Beautiful places for walks. Photos and a short description.

Ancient historical Center island of Crete, named after the mythological hero Hercules. According to the "Geography" of the ancient Greek thinker, geographer and historian Strabo, the city already existed in the 1st century AD. and was the seaport of the Minoan city of Knossos. Heraklion in different time owned by Arabs, Byzantines, Venetians and Turks. In the Middle Ages, there was the largest slave market in the entire Mediterranean. The island joined with Greece only at the beginning of the 20th century.

The city is located in the western part of Crete. It was built by the Venetians during their reign on the island. Many sights of Rethymno have perfectly survived to this day, central location among them is the Venetian fortress of Fortezza, built at the end of the 16th century. Of the visited and popular places, one can single out the Archaeological and Historical and Ethnographic Museums, the ancient fountain of Rimondi and the Venetian port.

A small town in the north of Crete, famous and popular tourist destination. The predecessor of modern Agios Nikolaos arose on the site of the ancient Dorian settlement of Lato, but gradually fell into decay. New inhabitants appeared already in the Middle Ages during the Venetian rule. In 1646, as a result of the war with the Turks, the Venetians burned the settlement. Agios Nikolaos was reborn for the third time in the middle of the 19th century.

The water park is located in Heraklion, its territory covers an area of ​​more than 80 thousand m². This is the most big park water activities in Crete. It includes 13 pools and many high-speed slides different levels difficulties. Also in the water park there are less extreme rides, so every visitor will find something to do. For children, there are separate pools and playgrounds with a variety of water games.

An ancient monument of the Minoan civilization that flourished in Crete at the time Bronze Age. According to legend, the Palace of Knossos is the same legendary labyrinth where the terrible Minotaur lived. The monster was defeated only by the hero Theseus. It is the bizarre architecture of the palace-temple with numerous moves, dead ends, rooms and passages gave rise to the myth of the Minotaur.

The ancient city is 30 km. from Heraklion, founded presumably in the 20th century BC. in the pre-antique era. The settlement witnessed many civilizations: Mycenaean, Dorian, Greek. During the reign of the Roman Empire, Gortyn was the capital of the island of Crete and the residence of the governor. The city existed until the 9th century AD, in 828 during Arab conquest Crete, it was reduced to ruins.

An ancient city that went under water around the 2nd century AD. as a result of local displacement of the plates of the earth's crust in the region of East Crete. finds archaeological sites testify that Olus was an independent and developed city, they minted their own coins here and maintained friendly relations with neighboring settlements. Foreigners were allowed to settle in Olus, as evidenced by documents found during excavations.

One of the largest museums in Greece, which contains a rich collection of artifacts of the Minoan civilization. Also exhibited in the exhibition halls are exhibits from other periods of the island's history from the Neolithic era to the time of the rule of the Roman Empire. In total, the museum has 20 rooms, arranged in chronological order. During the excavations, new specimens are constantly found, which replenish the museum collections.

Unique architectural monument, which was founded in the 5th century AD. The monastery church dates back to the 16th century. The monastery is located on the slopes of Mount Ida at a height of 500 meters. In the 17th century, Turkish invaders looted the premises and drove the brothers out, but later the monks were allowed to return. In 1866, during the Cretan uprising, the monastery withstood the siege of a 15,000-strong Turkish army.

Greek Orthodox monastery of the 17th century. The founders of the monastery are brothers Lavrentiy and Jeremiah, who come from a respected Venetian family. Construction work continued until the second half of the 19th century, as the monastery was repeatedly attacked by the Turks. As a result of such raids, it was looted and burned most of property. Only after the Cretan Revolution the monastery was restored.

A picturesque monastery of the 16th century, built on the slope of a mountain. The monastery is under the jurisdiction of the Constantinople Orthodox Church. In the 17th century, the building was destroyed by the Turkish authorities. In the 20th century, Preveli was once again plundered and destroyed by fascist troops. The monastery was closed in 1970, followed by many years of reconstruction. In 2013 the monastery was opened to the public.

Convent of the XIII century (or X century according to alternative sources). The first written mention of it dates back to the 14th century. The miraculous icon of the Mother of God of the Heart (Kardiotissa), or rather its copy, is kept within the walls of the monastery. The original was stolen in the 15th century and this moment is located in Rome. It is believed that a copy of the icon also has miraculous properties and is able to cure diseases.

The Venetian Fort in the city of Rethymnon is one of the most significant city attractions. It was erected in the 16th century. Fortezza rises above Rethymnon, it can be seen from any part of the city. The fortress was constantly changing its appearance, during numerous wars with the Turks, the outer walls and buildings suffered. The last restoration lasted almost 20 years, as a result, Fortezza acquired the appearance that it had under the Venetians.

Sea fortress in Heraklion, built by the Venetians in the XIV century. Bas-reliefs depicting a lion, the symbol of the Venetian Republic, are embedded in the main walls of the fort. The name "Kules" was given by the Turks, while the creators of the fort themselves used the name "Rocca al Mar". Which, loosely translated from modern Italian, means "fortress on the sea." The Turks built a small mosque on the territory of the fortification, and also completed the embrasure and space for artillery.

Military Venetian building of the XIV century in the territory of the Cretan community of Sfakion, which was built to protect against pirate raids. In those days, the fortress was called "Castle of St. Nikita", but the name "Frangokastello" was assigned to it, which means "Castle of the Franks". The fort withstood many sieges and assaults, but its walls have survived to this day in relatively good condition.

Spinalonga is a small island in the eastern part of Crete, located opposite the peninsula of the same name. In the 16th century, the Venetians turned this place into impregnable fortress, which was supposed to protect the settlements from pirates. On the ruins ancient acropolis so powerful a fort was erected that even the troops Ottoman Empire after the capture of Crete, Spinalonga could not be taken for another 46 years.

A freshwater lake around which is located the Greek "Saint-Tropez" - the city of Agios Nikolaos. In depth, the reservoir reaches 64 meters. According to ancient legend, the beautiful Aphrodite and the huntress Artemis took baths in the waters of Voulismeni. Until the middle of the 19th century, local residents believed that the lake was inhabited by evil spirits. Voulismeni is connected to the sea by a canal.

Another freshwater lake in Crete, located in a picturesque green valley. The beaches of Kournas are a great alternative seaside resorts Heraklion and Rethymno. A variety of birds, turtles and fish live on the banks and in the water depths. The silence and tranquility of the lake are conducive to long boat trips. Once there was a temple of Athena of Coresia, but the building has not survived to this day.

The cave system located within the Diktea mountain range. According to ancient Greek mythology, here the goddess Rhea hid the newborn Zeus from her husband, the god Kronos. The child was destined to overthrow the power of his father and become the supreme god of the entire Greek pantheon. The cave bore the name of Zeus for a long time and was sacred to the worshipers of the god of thunder.

A fertile plateau in the eastern part of the island, raised above sea level by 820 meters. The plateau is known as the "Valley of a Thousand Mills" (with their help, water was extracted for irrigation of agricultural land for a long time). In the valley are located orchards and large plantations of vegetables. The generous lands of the Lassithi plateau have been cultivated since the time of the Minoan civilization.

Natural attraction of Crete, one of the largest gorges on the Greek islands. Length tourist route along the gorge is about 16 km. IN ancient times here stood the temples of Artemis and Apollo, as evidenced by the surviving ruins. In the VI century BC. in the Samaria Gorge there was a city of Tarra. Since 1962, the territory has been declared a National Park.

A sandy spit of rare beauty, a few tens of kilometers from the resort of Chania, covered pink sand. Many tourists consider Elafonisi the most picturesque beach in the entire Mediterranean. The delicate pink color comes from the remnants of coral and small shells that cover large areas of the spit. The water in the lagoon is always clean, warm and clear. The beach is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay.

A beach located in Messara Bay on the territory small town Matala. It is surrounded by rocks in which numerous caves have been carved. It is believed that ancient people originally lived in them. In the early Christian era, followers of Jesus hid from persecution in the caves of Matala. This fact is evidenced by the remains of catacomb temples and burials of believers.

The bay is located in the western part of Crete. Here is one of the most popular and picturesque beaches, which is famous for the purest white sand with pink splashes and magnificent turquoise water. Despite enough a large number of wishing to swim in the waters of the bay, there is no tourist infrastructure on its shores. In this way, they try to preserve nature in its original form.

Beach on site national park Wai. Here grows the largest palm forest in Europe, consisting of endemic Theophrastus palms. It is believed that plantings appeared due to Phoenician sailors. The beach is very popular with tourists, so a lot of people always sunbathe and swim here during the high season. Especially scenic views Vai can be seen in the rays of the dawn sun.

Although Crete is part of Greece, it has its own history and culture. Tourists love places like Knossos, Samaria Gorge. Those who love a quiet holiday can be advised relaxing holidays in towns and villages. Here are the top 10 attractions of Crete:

1. Knossos

European civilization originated in Crete 9 thousand years ago. Little of it has survived to this day, it was replaced by the great Minoan civilization. Its center was Knossos with a huge palace that belonged to King Minos.

He is mentioned in the legend of Theseus, who killed the Minotaur - half man, half bull. In 1900, excavations were carried out here under the direction of the British archaeologist Arthur Evans.

2. Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is 16 km long, one of the longest in Europe and the most beautiful. It is located in the southwest of Crete, not far from Chania. This national park holds wonders wildlife.

IN winter time the gorge is closed due to flash floods. In summer, 6-hour walks are held here. They end nearby in Agia Roumeli, back to the city can be reached by ferry or bus.

3. Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

The building is currently undergoing renovation, so most of the collections are not available. In order not to disappoint tourists, a temporary exhibition hall was built next to the museum.

4. Chania old town and harbor

Chania is considered the most beautiful resort islands. Once it was the capital of Crete. Old city attracts tourists with narrow cobbled streets and stunning examples of Venetian architecture.

There are many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can have a delicious lunch. The city is based on the ancient city of Cydonia in the Roman period. The best way to see the sights of Chania is by horse-drawn carriage.

5. Lake Kournas

Surrounded by luxurious fields, mysterious forests and beautiful white mountains, Lake Kournas is the only freshwater lake in Crete. Nearby are a number of taverns and Lapp's landmark - the Roman baths.

6. Lasithi Plateau

It is a huge fertile plain covering 25,000 square kilometers, located in the Dictian Mountains. On the plateau are hundreds of white windmills that irrigate the fields. According to myths, the Psychro cave is considered the birthplace of Zeus. It can be reached by a steep path. The walk takes 30 minutes.

7. Caves of Anogia and Zoniana

A sad story is connected with the cave of Anogia. During the Second World War, the occupying German troops destroyed the village near the cave to the ground, killed all the men in retaliation for the captured German soldier. A memorial has been erected in memory of the tragic events.

This village was the birthplace of Nikos Xylouris, the legendary Cretan musician who died in 1980 at the age of 43. Every year the village hosts the Yakintha music and theater festival in honor of the musician. Nearby is another remarkable cave - Zoniana, which is famous for its very beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

8. Agios Nikolaos

- a very nice town, a popular Cretan resort. There is a picturesque harbor where you can often meet fishermen. There are many taverns on the shore of the lake with delicious food and drinks. Almost in the center of the city is Kitroplatia beach.

9. Spinalonga Island

This is a charming place near the coast of Elounda. 800 years ago, the Venetians built fortifications here to guard the entrance to Elounda. Later, lepers lived here, who were brought here from all over Greece. The colony closed in 1957.

10. Loutro

Would you like a relaxing holiday? Get on the boat and sail to the village of Loutro. This is typical Greek village with white and blue houses. Enjoy leisurely walks, swim in the azure sea, take a break from the bustle of the city on a pebble beach.