Some travelers prefer to plan their vacation to avoid surprises, while others would rather go with the flow and decide what to do on the spot. If you are planning a trip to Crete, make a list of some must-see places. Here is a list of 20 places to see while on holiday on this Mediterranean island.
The longest in Europe and visiting it will not leave you indifferent. The trail offers 18 kilometers of spectacular scenery and landscape. You may even see some endemic animal species such as the Cretan badger or the spiny mouse. Although this hike can be a little daunting, at the end you will be rewarded with beautiful views of the Libyan Sea, which hugs the southern coast of the island.
Knossos Minoan Palace
Knossos, located about five kilometers from Heraklion, is considered the oldest city in Europe and its Minoan Palace is a must-see. Knossos, opened in 1878 Minos Kalokerinos, was once the ceremonial and political center of Minoan civilization and culture. The palace had more than 1,200 halls, some of which have been reconstructed to reflect its grandeur. The earthquake destroyed the main palace, built around 2000 - 1700 BC. A more magnificent palace was built in its place, but there is evidence that it was destroyed in 1450 BC, possibly by a volcanic eruption on Santorini, the same thing that destroyed ancient city Akrotiri.
Elafonissi is small piece heaven on earth. Situated 70 kilometers from Chania, Elafonissi, outstanding for its natural beauty, crystal clean water and beautiful sandy beaches, is on the list of the protection program environment Natura 2000. In some places, the sand appears pink, taking on an unusual color due to thousands of crushed shells. A great holiday opportunity for everyone, Elafonissi is a stunning place where you can spend the day sunbathing or exploring hidden coves.
Phaistos Minoan Palace
Another highlight of Crete and another echo of the Minoan civilization is the palace in Festose, located on a hill overlooking the plain. Less known and popular among tourists than the ruins Knossos, it displays simple architecture and boasts a central courtyard as well as what is believed to be the royal residence. This is also the place where the famous disk was found in 1908 - an artifact whose mysterious meaning has yet to be unraveled.
Balos Bay
Bay located in the west of Crete Balos is a must visit. Like Elafonissi, this is one of the most picturesque places in Crete. Its exotic landscapes, stunning beaches and turquoise sea make it a popular destination among holidaymakers. But if you don't want to take vitamin D all day, you can visit a small uninhabited Gramvousa Island, famous for its Venetian fortress.
One of the best museums in Europe, the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, located in the city center, is located on the site of a Venetian Franciscan monastery destroyed by an earthquake in 1856. With an impressive collection of archaeological finds from across the island of Crete, the museum houses many treasures of the Minoan civilization found throughout the island.
Creta Aquarium Cretaquarium
One of the largest in Europe, the Cretan Aquarium, which first opened in 2005, gives visitors the opportunity to see a unique sea world Mediterranean. With a variety of marine organisms such as fish, sharks, jellyfish and even tiny seahorses, the aquarium showcases a rich variety of marine life. The Cretan Aquarium will be entertaining and educational for guests of all ages, making it a must-see.
Travelers can find the Cave of Zeus, also known as Diktaio Andro, in the eastern part of Crete, near the village of Psychro. If not for its mythological significance, the cave would not be much different from the other 3,000 caves located on the island. But the Cave of Zeus is more than a simple cave. Legend says that this is the place where the goddess Rhea gave birth to Zeus. With such important significance, this place is very attractive to visitors these days.
Kourtaliotiko Gorge
Kourtaliotiko Gorge, or Asomatos Gorge, is a beautiful natural wonder located about 20 kilometers from Rethymnon, near the village of Koksare. It is a place of incredible beauty, with a breathtaking wild landscape, diverse flora and fauna, including many rare species birds. About 2.5 kilometers long, the gorge ends at the Preveli Lagoon and is ideal for lovers of mountain scenery or those looking for an escapade in the wild.
Impressive Kules fortress, also called Rocca al Mare, is a Venetian construction located in the old port of Heraklion. The fortress, built in the early 13th century, is one of the most famous monuments in the city and a symbol of Heraklion. Today the fortress is open to the public and often hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
Housed in a former Venetian Franciscan monastery, the Archaeological Museum of Chania houses an extensive collection of Neolithic and Minoan artifacts, as well as treasures from the late Roman periods. The collection grew from donated items from the collection of Konstantinos and Marika Mitsotakis, and the exhibits, which are located in chronological order, include Minoan pottery, stone carvings, seals, jewelry and other items.
Cathedral of Agios Minas
The majestic Cathedral of Agios Minas in Heraklion is one of the largest in Greece. Construction of the temple began in 1862 in honor of the city's patron saint, Saint Minas, and was completed in 1895, while Crete was still under Turkish rule.
Maritime Museum of Crete
Established in 1973, the Maritime Museum of Chania, located at the entrance to the Firka fortress in the old harbour, houses an extensive collection of models of modern and ancient ships, navigational instruments, military relics and memorabilia, historical photographs and paintings, which are classified in chronological order. The exhibition includes several sections, such as symbols, the Venetian occupation, the Bronze Age, post-war period etc. A visit to the museum will be exciting for your family and friends.
Located near the village , dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is a 17th-century Orthodox monastery built on a cliff. Legend has it that it got its name because the steps leading to the monastery were golden. The monastery, built in Venetian times, is a famous place of pilgrimage and includes a folklore museum.
Located on the seafront in Heraklion, the Natural History Museum of Crete introduces visitors to the unique natural environment Crete and the Mediterranean. Explore the ecosystems of Crete, mainland Greece and the Mediterranean Sea. The museum features various rooms where visitors can see the giant Deinotherium, which is the largest prehistoric animal that ever lived on the island, an earthquake simulator, an Erevnotopos discovery center and a section designed for children.
Located just outside the city and built in 1587, Arkadi Monastery is an example of one of the best Venetian churches on the island. During the 19th century, the monastery was one of the most prosperous on the island and served as the main center of resistance against the Ottomans. Indeed, during the uprising of 1866, villagers and partisans took refuge on the territory of the monastery. After a two-day siege, the soldiers and local residents were captured, locked in a gunpowder warehouse and burned. The monastery was heavily damaged by the explosion of gunpowder barrels and, although many were killed, including Turks and Cretans, this tragic event stimulated the Cretan independence movement.
Mount Psiloritis
The most high mountain in Crete, reaching 2,456 meters - is considered a sacred mountain. Legend has it that this was the birthplace of Zeus. There is also the Cave of Zeus, which is located on the Nida plateau. Part of the European hiking trail E4, the mountain is ideal for hikes where you can see beautiful nature and discover small mountain villages.
Gortyna
Located south of Psiloritis complex Gortyna(or Gortys) is a Greco-Roman archaeological site with small ruins scattered across fields and olive groves. Explore the site and admire the Church of St. Titus, built in the 6th century. At the height of the Hellenistic era, Gortyna was the most powerful and prosperous city of the island and dominated Crete.
Although Crete is part of Greece, it has its own history and culture. Tourists love places such as Knossos and the Samaria Gorge. For those who love a relaxing holiday, we can recommend a relaxing holiday in cities and villages. Here are the top 10 attractions of Crete:
1. Knossos
European civilization began on 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.
It 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 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, near Chania. This national park holds miracles within itself wildlife.
IN winter time The gorge is closed due to flash floods. In summer there are 6-hour walks here. They end nearby in Agia Roumeli; you can get back to the city by ferry or bus.
3. Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
The building is currently being reconstructed, so most of the collections are inaccessible. 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 on the island. It was once the capital of Crete. The old town attracts tourists with its 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 town of Cydonia during the Roman period. The best way to see the sights of Chania is by horse-drawn carriage.
5. Lake Kournas
Surrounded by lush fields, mysterious forests and beautiful white mountains, Lake Kournas is the only freshwater lake in Crete. Nearby there are a number of taverns and the attraction of Lappa - 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 there are hundreds of white windmills irrigating the fields. According to myths, Psychro Cave is considered the birthplace of Zeus. You can get to it along a steep path. The walk takes 30 minutes.
7. Anogia and Zoniana caves
There is a sad story associated with the Anogia cave. During World War II, occupying German troops destroyed the village near the cave to the ground, killing all the men in revenge for a captured German soldier. A memorial was erected in memory of the tragic events.
Nikos Xylouris, the legendary Cretan musician who died in 1980 at the age of 43, was born in this village. Every year the village hosts the Yakintha music and theater festival in honor of the musician. Nearby there 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 fishermen can often be found. There are many taverns on the lake shore delicious dishes and drinks. Almost in the center of the city there 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 was closed in 1957.
10. Loutro
Do you want 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, and relax from the bustle of the city on the pebble beach.
Crete is the ancient and largest island of Greece. There is a healing climate, beautiful beaches in warm, cozy bays, luxurious resorts, generous nature, invigorating air, cypress and yew alleys, flower beds, alpine lakes, fabulous waterfalls, olive trees and vineyards. Oh ancient buildings, which are found here literally at every step, we know from school textbooks.
The island is steeped in ancient legends; literally all the places here are famous for their stories.
Thirty centuries ago, according to legend, here in the dungeon of the Knossos Palace, the cannibal monster Minotaur lived with King Minos, who ate beautiful girls and young men.
The hero Theseus dealt with the monster, and ancient state died after the eruption of the Santorini volcano.
The best attractions of Heraklion and other cities of Crete
You can write a lot about Cretan attractions, because throughout its centuries-old history the island has seen prehistoric Dorian times, the Minoan civilization, witnessed Byzantine rule, survived the Venetian era and the capture of the Ottoman Empire.
The town of Gortyna is located 46 km from Heraklion. This is almost the only ancient city that has been partially preserved.
The city is intertwined different eras and styles. The ancient Greek amphitheater and Temple of Apollo in the olive grove are adjacent to the Egyptian sanctuary of the gods Isis and Serapis.
Excavations of Gortyn continue, and perhaps in a few years it will appear in a completely different form.
The city of Aptera was mentioned in clay tablets found in the Palace of Knossos, dating back over 33 centuries. It had 2 seaports, was famous for trade, crafts, navigation, and minted 76 types of coins. It is located on the top of a hill. The name stands for "wingless".
According to legend, the Sirens lived here and were deprived of their wings by Zeus. The outline of the city resembles a bird in flight. Huge tanks for storing either water or grain, cannonballs and drawings of a catapult are well preserved here. Aptera is located 15 km from Chanea.
Where to go and what to see in Crete with children?
Crete is a very good choice for a holiday with a child.
There are clean beaches, a healthy climate and delicious food similar to ours.
The Greeks are very well-mannered and love small children. The best time to relax is in May or September-October. In Crete, there are two types of holidays with children – a hotel or an apartment.
Usually hotels provide a crib, menu, playgrounds, and a mini-club. Behind 10 euros per hour A nanny can sit with the child.
Supermarkets sell baby food in cans, formula, milk and other necessary goods for children. So, if you live in an apartment, you can buy them at a local store.
A holiday for three in a decent hotel with meals costs on average 60-70 thousand “wooden” in 2 weeks. Resorts for family vacation with children a lot.
It's pretty quiet places, there is all the necessary infrastructure, sandy beaches with a smooth entrance to the sea, for children there are swimming pools with sea water.
It is interesting to visit the following attractions with children:
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Marine Aquarium in Gouves near Heraklion will delight you with colorful fish and huge sharks.
It is open all year round. In the summer season from half past ten in the morning to nine in the evening, and in the winter - until five in the evening. Cost of admission for adults 8 euros, for children – 6, for children under 5 years – for free. There is also a cafe here. -
IN water park “Aqua Plus” near Hersonissos there is entertainment for adults and children, swimming pools with slides for kids. It is open during the summer season from ten in the morning to seven in the evening.
A visit to it will cost adults 20 euros, and for children over five years old - 12. The cafe has ice cream. You can also take photos there.
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It is considered the largest in Crete Water City water park next to the Kokkini Hani resort. There is everything for the little ones - swimming pools with slides, fountains, bridges.
He works from ten in the morning until half past seven in the evening. The ticket costs 22 euros and 16 euros. E-tickets 10-15% cheaper. The cafe has everything you need to have a good meal.
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Waterpark “Star Beach”- the only one located on the seashore.
Entry is free, but you have to pay for a sunbed 3 euros. There are several swimming pools with slides for children and adults.
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Lake Kourna near Gergioupolis west of Rethymnon quiet, calm a nice place with small fishes near the shore.
The restaurants have playgrounds for children, and there are many ducks and geese around, who happily take food from your hands. Catamaran rental costs 7 euros per hour. You can sunbathe on the shore.
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Very interesting excursions on trains to Rethymno and many other resorts. On such trips you can learn a lot of interesting things about the crafts of the island - pottery, production olive oil, growing vegetables.
Cafes and restaurants located on tourist routes have a separate children's menu. - this is the highest plateau in all of Greece, not just the island, which is inhabited.
- The flora here is not typical for Greece, but rather resembles the Alpine flora.
- This is a picturesque corner of nature, the beauty of which is complemented by man-made canals, gardens and mills, which literally abounds in “special” places.
Routes for independent travel by car
Renting a car in Crete is not a problem; there are many small companies involved in this business.
It is more economical to choose a small car, the roads here are excellent, and the traffic is not very intense.
Although there are a lot of “reckless people”. Fines for speeding are significant. Parking is very difficult to find. There are often traffic jams due to goats scurrying everywhere.
Gas stations do not operate 24 hours a day; few of them are open until 11 pm.
Excursion routes should be chosen based on what you want to see.
Monasteries of Crete– this is a must see. This is a special national flavor, calm, restraint and tranquility, all of them are located on hills, from where a beautiful panoramic view opens. There are many legends and stories associated with them.
On the mountains of the Akrotiri peninsula, in a deep gorge, there is the amazing rock monastery of Katoliko. This truly secluded place is located away from busy routes - the oldest Orthodox monastery in Crete, dating back to the 5th century. Hermits lived here.
You can get to the monastery along a rocky path, passing Ursa Cave. According to legend, in this cave there was healing spring, where a bear got into the habit of walking and bullying people. The Virgin Mary turned her into stone.
Indeed, the large stalactite in the cave resembles a bear. From the cave you can cross a stone bridge to the monastery. You can get to it from the city (20 km), and then go down on foot.
If you are planning to visit several interesting places in a day, then an approximate route could be like this. Visit first Sfendoni cave(Sentoni, Sendney). Near it there is a tavern where they sell tickets for 4 euros with a diagram of the cave in Russian. At the same time, you can have breakfast here and admire the view of the valley.
After this you can inspect old church of Axos, climb the path to the remains of a fortress dating back 30 centuries and admire the panorama of the sea from here. The nearest village on the coast is Panormos. Here you can have lunch, sunbathe and swim on the beach.
Then continue the route to Arkadi Monastery- a symbol of the struggle for the independence of Crete. The territory of the monastery is buried in flowers. You can attend the evening service. An ancient legend says that the monk Arkadius saw the glow of an ancient icon at this place, and a monastery was built here.
It is famous for the art of gold embroidery, which can be seen in the monastery museum. At the end of the 19th century, rebels surrounded by Turkish invaders exploded gunpowder stored in Arkadi's storeroom and died themselves, destroying half of the enemy army.
The monastery was rebuilt, preserving the memory of the heroes.
That's all. The day is over and it's time to return to the hotel. Rethymnon is just a stone's throw away.
Tatiana Solomatina
What to see on the island of Crete?
Hello, dear readers! I'm with you again, and today we'll talk about paradise Greece - the island of Crete. Crete is not just one of the most famous and attractive Greek islands for tourists, it is a special territory, practically a “state within a state.” It has its own history, its own traditions and customs, culture and folklore.
And if it is generally accepted that it is in Greece that European civilization takes its origins, then we can safely say that Greek civilization, in turn, takes its origins from the Minoan culture, the cradle of which to this day is the island of Crete. Rest assured, you will have something to see in Crete!
And this article will help you figure out what attractions are most interesting to tourists and what is worth seeing if you decide to vacation on the island of Crete.
The town of Agios Nikolaos is located just 70 kilometers from Heraklion, the administrative center and capital of the island. Tourist information for the resort can be viewed.
The city is located on the shores of the famous (at least in name!) Mirabello Bay. Mirabello Bay is able to win the hearts of even the most demanding and discerning tourists, which is not at all surprising, because literally translated from Italian language its name means "beautiful view".
In the central part of the town of Agios Nikolaos there is a lake with interesting name Vulizmeni. A couple of centuries ago it was connected to the bay by digging a canal. And now this natural complex gives a special charm and beauty to the city, attracting true connoisseurs of natural beauty and landscapes.
Agios Nikolaos is a must see. You should definitely take a walk along the local embankment, which is literally “strewn” with various restaurants, taverns and cafes, where you can try a variety of local dishes, as well as cuisines from other countries.
The city's museums display interesting exhibitions dating from both the pre-Christian period and our era. At the western end of the bay is the beautiful church of Panagia Vrefotrofou, built in the 12th century. It is also definitely worth a look if you find yourself in the beautiful Agios Nikolaos.
Western part of the island: Chania city
Chania is the main city in the west of the island, located 160 km from the capital. It is rightly called one of the most beautiful settlements on the entire island, not to mention the fact that the city is old. Its main attraction is the part of the city known as the “old town”, as well as the Firax fortress (of Venetian origin) and the local harbor located in it.
In Chania, even today you can easily find cobbled streets; they fit very harmoniously into the overall design of the resort, preserving the spirit of past times and giving the city a special atmosphere.
Numerous restaurants allow you to try local cuisine, which further strengthens the attachment to this city that every tourist feels after parting.
Of the museums in Chania, it is definitely worth visiting the Maritime and Archaeological. In the Maritime Museum you can see an exact model of what the city was like in the 17th century, with shipyards and a harbor. The second museum presents rich exhibitions that fully reflect the history, life and culture of the island of Crete in its western part.
Spinalonga Island and Elounda Resort
On the coast of Mirabello Bay, a few kilometers from the resort of Agios Nikolaos, the fashionable resort town of Elounda, beloved by many tourists, is located throughout the world. Looking at it today, it’s hard to believe that it was once a small fishing village.
However, modern residents have tried to preserve the fishing port of Elounda as one of characteristic features and the main attractions of the city. The port still has that special atmosphere that was typical of the ancient village where ordinary fishermen lived.
The beaches of Elounda are considered one of the best; they are annually and almost traditionally celebrated with Blue Flags, which are a symbol of the impeccable cleanliness of the waters and coastal zone.
In the boundless waters of the sea, not far from Elounda, there is the island of Spinalonga, on which powerful defensive structures, equipped here back in 1579 by the Venetians, have survived to this day. It was these fortresses that allowed Spinalonga to maintain its independence from the Ottomans, even when in 1669 the rest of Crete was subjugated by them.
Another interesting fact about the island of Spinalonga - in the period from 1903 until 1957, its territory remained the last and only colony where lepers were taken.
Taking an excursion to the island to learn about its history and admire it now is not difficult. Boats regularly go from both Elounda and Agios Nikolaos to the island of Spinalonga.
Anoia and the ancient cave of Sfedoni
Anogia ((another name is Anoia) is a village, although by the standards of the island it is quite a large settlement. It is located high (more than 700 meters above sea level) and geographically belongs to Rethymnon (the name of the prefecture). During the 2nd World War During the war, the village was almost completely destroyed by the Nazis, but today it has been revived.
Nikos Xylouris, one of the most famous Cretan musicians, who later became a real legend of the island, was born in Anouia. For many years now, in the month of July, in honor of his memory, a festival dedicated to almost all types of art and music has been held in his homeland, in the village of Anoia.
But the main interest among tourists in this part of the island is undoubtedly the 145-meter high Zoniana Cave (its other name is Sfedoni Cave). It is located near the village of Anoia. The cave is famous, firstly, for its age (preliminarily it is more than 8 million years old!), and secondly, it contains a huge number of beautiful stalagmites and stalactites of red, white and gray colors.
Lassithi Plateau and the legendary Dicteon Andron Cave
The Lasithi Plateau is often perceived as a kind of border between the Eastern and Central parts of the island of Crete. This place is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful on the island. And there are a number of reasons for this:
One of the must-see places here is the village of Krassi. The Laundry dating back to the Venetian period has survived to this day. A huge plane tree grows here, which is considered to be the oldest tree on the entire island. Not far from the village there is the monastery of Our Lady of Kera Kardiotissa, which houses miraculous icon. Be sure to come here and ask the Mother of God for your cherished...
Finally, be sure to see the famous Dicteon Andron cave in Crete. It was here, according to ancient legends, that the great Zeus was born. But the relationship with the Supreme ancient Greek God– is far from the only reason for the popularity of this cave.
Located at an altitude of more than 1 km above sea level, it is rightfully considered the most beautiful among those in Crete (and there are more than 200 of them here). In the Dikteon Andron cave there are stalactites of amazing beauty.
The longest gorge in Europe, Samaria
In the southwest of the island of Crete there is the Samaria Gorge, which is considered the longest in all of Europe. For this reason or because it is amazingly beautiful here, this place in terms of tourist attendance occupies a confident 2nd place among the attractions on the island.
A tour of the gorge is a 17-kilometer walk, during which every step you take will be surrounded by the beauty of the unique local nature. And although at first the length of the route may scare many tourists, do not rush to give up the walk. Here's the thing: most along the way, you just need to go down, so even tourists who are not fully prepared in terms of sports can overcome this “test”.
The journey through the gorge usually begins in the village of Omalos, and if the first half of the journey may seem somewhat monotonous - there are simply beautiful natural landscapes around, then in the second part an amazing surprise awaits you. We are talking about the so-called Iron Gates of Sidiroportes. This place is a passage in which the width is approximately 3 meters, and above your head there are slopes, the height of which can reach up to 300 meters!
The walking route ends in the village of Ayia Roumeli, from where there is direct access to the sea. By sea, regular transport can easily reach the settlements of Sougia or Chora Sfakion, and then take a bus to the city of Chania. By the way, the village of Omalos (the starting point of the walking route along the gorge) from the city of Chania can also be reached by bus.
A tour of the Samaria Gorge is not an easy one physical activity a task for tourists, but the vivid impressions received will fully justify it all. The main thing is not to forget to take with you something comfortable and strong. sports shoes, as well as water.
Ancient Knossos and Knossos Palace
The most popular and visited place by tourists on the island of Crete today is considered to be the ancient Palace of Knossos, which was excavated and reconstructed, albeit partially, at the beginning of the 20th century. It is believed that the first buildings in these places arose approximately 6 thousand years before the birth of Christ, however, the flourishing of the Minoan civilization (predecessors Ancient Greece) scientists tend to attribute it to the period 2700 - 1450 BC.
The Palace of Knossos is considered to be the center of this very Minoan civilization, which at one time was one of the most developed and advanced on a global scale. The Palace of Knossos has about 1,300 rooms and could accommodate approximately 12,000 people!
The archaeological garden in Knossos is accessible to tourists, and a huge number of them every year begin their acquaintance with the sights of the island from here!
Of course, here are not all the interesting places on the island, but I have indicated the most important and popular attractions of Crete. This material will help you decide what to see in Crete. Now it will be easier for you to figure out which excursions to choose while vacationing on the island.
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Tatiana Solomatina
TOURISTS' ANSWERS:
Crete, with its amazing nature and centuries-old history, is so rich in various attractions that you will need quite a bit to see them all. a large number of time and even several vacation trips, you won’t be able to see everything. Therefore, I will tell you about some of them that you can see or visit by combining these excursions with a vacation on the island.
The first thing that tourists who come to Crete for the first time are probably trying to see is the Palace of Knossos, which is associated with many different myths and legends, the most famous of which is the myth of the Minotaur, who lives in the labyrinths of the palace and devours young men and women who were sent here in the form of donations . As a result, Theseus managed to defeat the Minotaur and use the ball of thread that Ariadne gave him to get out of the labyrinth. The history of the palace goes back more than four thousand years, during which it was damaged by earthquakes and rebuilt. The Palace of Knossos is located near the capital, or more precisely the administrative center of Crete, the city of Heraklion, named after the hero Greek mythology Hercules. You can get to it yourself by bus, which departs from a kiosk located next to the bus station with the inscription “Palace of Knossos”. The bus runs quite frequently and the round trip fare is approximately four euros. You can also get there by rented car; there should be no problems with the search, since there are signs everywhere that you can navigate quite easily. It is, of course, better to visit the palace accompanied by a guide, since the main interest is the stories associated with the Knossos Palace. There are signs installed on the territory of the complex, by which you can navigate what this or that section of the palace is like, as well as the direction of further travel for inspection. The Palace of Knossos is open to the public from 8.00 to 19.00 in summer and from 8.00 to 15.00 in winter. The entrance ticket costs six euros. 
Right there in Heraklion, the coastal fortress of Koules immediately catches your eye. It was built in the 14th century, but what we see now is a building of a later period, restored after an earthquake in the 16th century. It acquired its current name after Turkish rule, and the original name was Rocca al Mare. The lower floors served as housing for the defenders of the fortress, storage facilities and even a prison. A walk through the territory and interior of the fortress will seem quite interesting and exciting. The citadel is open to tourists from 8.30 to 15.00 every day except Monday. The entrance fee is two euros. 
On the east coast of the island you can visit the excavations of the settlement of Zakros, with an approximate age of about four thousand years and which belongs to the Minoan civilization, named after Minos, who was the mythical king of Crete. Zakros on the territory of ancient Crete was one of the administrative centers and is currently the best preserved. During excavations, the ruins of a palace and about a dozen different buildings were discovered here, which served as workshops, storage rooms, a bathroom, a swimming pool and even an archive. In addition, many different objects were found, including tablets with linear writing, rock crystal dishes, and in one of the amphorae well-preserved olives were discovered, the age of which is approximately three thousand years. For independent trip need to get to settlement Kato Zakros, near which this open-air museum is located. Don't forget to bring a supply with you drinking water, especially if your travel time falls in July or August, when Crete is especially hot. Entrance to the complex costs three euros, opening hours are from 9.00 to 15.00 daily, except Mondays. 
One of the most visited places in Crete is the Dictian Cave, which is located in the Dictian Mountains on the southern part of the island near the village of Psychro. It is also called the cave of Zeus, since according to legend, the goddess Rhea, hiding from her husband, gave birth to Zeus in this cave, where he grew up. The cave is decorated with its bizarre shapes by stalactites and stalagmites; during excavations, offering tables and an altar were discovered. In the depths of the cave itself there is a small mountain lake in which Zeus swam. You can buy an excursion to visit the Dictaean Cave at any travel agency in Crete. For a more comfortable journey, I advise you to wear comfortable shoes, since from the bus stop to the cave itself it is a walk of eight hundred meters, and uphill, since the cave itself is located at an altitude of more than a thousand meters above sea level, and the road is quite difficult. Also, do not forget to take some warm clothes with you, since it is quite cool and damp inside, where again you will need comfortable shoes to avoid slipping on the wet stones. Entrance to the cave is paid and costs four euros; when purchasing an excursion, they are usually included in the price. 
For lovers of ecotourism, an excursion to the Samaria Gorge, which is considered the largest not only in Crete, but throughout Europe, may be very interesting. Long years it served as housing and refuge for the island's inhabitants, first from the Turks during the Ottoman invasion, who were never able to take possession of the gorge. In the last century, rebels dissatisfied with the dictatorial regime and resistance fighters fighting against German troops. Half a century ago the gorge received the status National Park and the population living on its territory was resettled. Every year this gorge is visited by more than two hundred thousand tourists from different countries. Here, in addition to the amazing and unique nature, you can see the preserved buildings of people living in different time local residents, and the creation of a reserve on the territory of the gorge intends to preserve interesting species of animals and fauna, as well as the nature of the White Mountains. I would like to immediately warn tourists planning to walk through the gorge that this is a rather difficult excursion, it’s definitely not worth taking children, and it’s not worth talking about supplies of drinking water and comfortable equipment, it’s clear that you can’t do without it. It is best to choose a non-hot period, then the trip will be more comfortable. The entrance ticket costs five euros. 
