Rightfully considered the cradle of European civilization, then, without a doubt, Crete with its Minoan culture is the cradle of Greek.

What to see in Crete?

No. 10 – Loutro

The small picturesque village of Loutro is located in the southwest of Crete between the villages of Sfakia in the east and Agia Roumeli in the west. There are only two ways to get to Loutro - by boat or on foot; there are no roads here, and this fact gives the village a special charm.
Arriving here by boat, you will invariably fall under the spell of both the settlement itself and the bay in which it is located. Swimming, coffee or a lazy lunch in one of the taverns on the shore - that's all the local entertainment.

No. 9 – Elounda and Spinalonga island

Located just ten kilometers from Agios Nikolaos on the coast of Mirabello Bay, Elounda was once just a fishing village, but now it is a fashionable resort, famous throughout the world for its hotels.
At the same time, the small fishing port of Elounda has not lost its charm, maintaining the atmosphere that reigned here long before this place was given luxury status. The local beaches are just as good and prove their worth every year. high level receiving EU Blue Flags for the cleanliness of waters and coastlines.
Off the coast of Elounda is the island of Spinalonga. In 1579, the Venetians equipped the island with massive fortifications to protect this part of Crete. Thanks to this, even when the Turks completely subjugated Crete in 1669, Spinalonga remained unconquered, and for almost 50 years the Venetian fortress was a constant source of headaches for the Ottomans. Spinalonga is also famous for being the last leper colony from 1903 to 1957.
During the summer months, from both Elounda and Agios Nikolaos, you can take a boat to Spinalonga to explore the island's past in more detail.

No. 8 – Agios Nikolaos

This is where the notorious Mirabello Bay is located. Where did you think? I’m willing to bet that if you hadn’t known about this for sure, Crete would have been named far from the top ten. But this is a digression, and now let’s return to the city itself. Of course, Agios Nikolaos is definitely worth a visit, both for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and views. This task is made easier by the fact that it is located only 70 kilometers from Heraklion. You should come here just to mingle with the crowd and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
By the way, Mirabello translated from Italian means “beautiful view” - and this is true, but Lake Vulismeni, located in its central part, gives the city a special charm. In the century before last, the lake was connected to the bay by a canal, raising the local landmark into a square. The promenade of Agios Nikolaos is teeming with many restaurants, taverns and eateries that offer tourists a taste of local dishes, and the city's museums will offer their unique exhibits from both the pre-Christian period and our era. It is also worth visiting the 12th century church of Panagia Vrethotrophou, located in the western part of the bay.

No. 7 – Village of Anoia (Anogia) and Cave of Zoniana

The village of Anogia is a fairly large settlement, located at an altitude of 750 meters above sea level in the prefecture of Rethymno. During the Second World War it was completely destroyed by the Germans, and the entire male population who failed to escape was shot in retaliation for the participation of local resistance fighters in the kidnapping of General Von Kreipe.
This place is also known as the birthplace of Nikos Xylouris, one of the most famous Cretan musicians of all time. He died in 1980 at the age of 43 and became a Cretan legend. Every July, Anogia hosts a local festival dedicated to music, theater and the arts.
However, the greatest interest of tourists in Anogia is associated with the nearby cave of Sfedoni, also known as Zoniana. 145 meters long and more than 8 million years old, it is famous for its numerous stalactites and stalagmites in three colors: white, red and gray.

No. 6 – Lasithi Plateau and Dikteon Andron Cave

Situated on the peculiar border between Central and Eastern Crete, the Lasithi Plateau is one of most interesting places on the island. Firstly, this is the highest inhabited plateau in Greece, secondly, the local vegetation is more reminiscent of the Alps than Hellas, thirdly, this is one of the most picturesque places on the island, famous for its mills, canals and gardens, fourthly , – the local color that distinguishes this place from advertising posters resort and, finally, a whole series of bright and truly “special” places.
Mandatory points of the route include the mountain village of Krassi with its Laundry of the Venetian period and a giant plane tree, considered the oldest tree on the island, the monastery of Our Lady of Kera Cardiotissa with miraculous icon and, finally, the Dicteon-Andron cave, where, according to legend, Rhea gave birth to the baby Zeus. The latter is especially popular among tourists and the reason for this is not only its connection with the Supreme God Ancient Greek mythology: Located at an altitude of more than 1000 meters above sea level, Dicteon Andron Cave is considered the most beautiful of the more than 200 caves on the island. Of the attributes that connect the cave with Zeus, the small lake in which Rhea bathed the baby, as well as a forest of stalactites called the Mantle of Zeus, are still preserved.

No. 5 – Lake Kournas, Argyroupoli and Ancient Lappa

Located between Chania and Rethymnon, Lake Kournas is the only natural freshwater formation in Crete. Surrounded by lush vegetation and mountains, it is a place where you won't regret spending your time. To entertain tourists, Kournas has a river bus and catamarans, and numerous taverns are located on the banks. Girls in Kournas are fascinated by the small freshwater turtles that are found here in large numbers. According to legend, the lake is connected by underwater channels to underground springs in Athens, but it is difficult to believe that this myth is reality.
A few kilometers from Kournas on site ancient city Lappa is located in the village of Argyroupoli. First of all, this place is famous for its water springs, which, under the hot Cretan sun, contributed to the growth of lush tropical vegetation, while the changes in topography led to the formation of numerous waterfalls. Enterprising locals use the water wealth of the surrounding area to drive water mills, and many local houses are built, among other things, from the stones of ancient Lappa. By the way, there is also something to see in the Ancient City.

#4 – Chania: Old Town and Harbor

Located 160 km from Heraklion, Chania is the main city of Western Crete and one of the most beautiful settlements on the island. The main attraction of Chania is the old town with the harbor and the Venetian fortress of Firkas. Cobbled streets that harmoniously fit into the interior of the city, numerous restaurants and the spirit of antiquity give Chania a special atmosphere, which is always very difficult to part with later. What can I add here, the Venetians knew how to give comfort to their settlements, and in the old town of Chania their skill is still felt like nowhere else in Crete.
The Archaeological and Maritime Museums deserve special attention in Chania. The first presents a rich collection of exhibits reflecting rich history western Crete, the feature of the second is an accurate model of the city of Chania from the 17th century with a harbor and Venetian shipyards.

No. 3 – Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

Located in the heart of Heraklion, the Archaeological Museum is the pride of the city, being one of the most important museums in Greece and the richest in the world regarding the Minoan civilization. However, Minoan culture is only part of the exhibition, which covers a period of history of 5000 years - from the Neolithic to the Greco-Roman period. The highlight of the museum is the fact that new exhibits are delivered here directly from the excavations. The main exhibits of the museum include the artifacts of the Goddess with Snakes, the Theta Disc, the Ax from Arkalochori, as well as the frescoes of the Game with the Bull and the Prince with Lilies. Since 2006, the museum has been closed for reconstruction, but there is a temporary exhibition that includes all the main exhibits.

No. 2 – Samaria Gorge

Located in the southwest of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is the longest in Europe and attracts about 500,000 tourists annually, being the second most visited attraction in Crete. 17 km of walking against the backdrop of enchanting landscapes - this, of course, sounds quite extreme, but in fact, most of the way you have to descend, so even not very athletic tourists can do such a rush.
The starting point of the route is the village of Omalos, where it is recommended to spend the night in order to get into the gorge with its opening and thus avoid crowds. In addition to all the delights of the first part of the path, in the second you will find the “feature” of the route - the so-called Iron Gates of Sidiroportes - a passage in which the width of the gorge is up to 3 meters, and the slopes rise up to 300.
The walk ends with access to the village of Ayia Roumeli and finally to the sea. Hence the regular by sea you can get to Chora Sfakion or Sougia, which in turn are connected by regular buses to Chania. By the way, the village of Omalos, where our route began, is also easily accessible from Chania by regular bus from the local bus station.
When visiting the Samaria Gorge, you are guaranteed a very challenging day, as well as an indelible impression. Oh, and don't forget to take stronger shoes and water flasks.

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 erected 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 a small piece of 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. Featuring an impressive collection archaeological finds from all over 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. From a variety of marine organisms such as fish, sharks, jellyfish and even tiny Sea Horses, the aquarium shows rich diversity sea ​​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 Rethymno, 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, the 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.

Situated on the seafront in Heraklion, the Natural History Museum of Crete introduces visitors to the unique natural environment of Crete and the Mediterranean. Explore the ecosystems of Crete, mainland Greece and 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 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.

The island of Crete is the largest in Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. Its natural landscapes, magnificent landscapes and beautiful beaches have always attracted many tourists from all over the world. But the main feature is its greatest historical and cultural value.

Crete is glorified in a huge number of myths and legends ancient Greece. Many events and heroes described in ancient legends are closely connected with him.

Features of the island of Crete

The history of Crete goes back many millennia and dates back to seven thousand years BC, when the first people and settlements appeared there. Thanks to its long and rich history, there are a huge number of architectural monuments of the past created here. different peoples and cultures.

The incredible attractiveness in the eyes of foreign visitors has become an excellent foundation for infrastructure development. Therefore, the streets of Crete are not only a large collection of the heritage of ancient civilizations, but also a tourist area with a highly developed infrastructure.

The nature here is rich and varied. The close proximity and harmonious combination of the atmosphere of antiquity with the comfort of modernity makes the resort one of the most popular, and the interest of tourists only increases every year. In 2017, Crete will be no less interesting for visitors.

When visiting the island, you should keep in mind that some tourist areas are not open all year round, while others limit visiting times or days during some seasons. It is also worth considering that not all local attractions can be reached by public transport and consider the possibility of traveling by taxi, rented car or with a tour group.

If an inspection is planned natural areas, it is worth considering that many of these places are difficult to access, excursions to them are often organized in the format of long hikes, and in order to get to some attractions you will need a sufficient amount of time and effort.

When going on a hike that involves long distances or takes a long time, you should definitely take into account the level of difficulty if you are traveling with a child. In this case, it is better to choose an easier travel option or attend special excursions designed for children.

Before your trip, you can also look at photos of attractions with descriptions of the main popular places in order to better navigate the variety of tourist routes and know in advance what to see in Crete.

A short list of the most interesting places

Among the huge abundance of interesting places in Crete, several of the most famous and popular ones can be especially highlighted. As is typical for most tourist areas in Greece, the attractions here are varied and combine in equal proportions architectural masterpieces of antiquity, miraculous natural wonders and entertainment areas.

The following twelve places are mandatory for inspection:

• Knossos palace;
• Spinalonga;
• Archaeological Museum;
• Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa;
• Ancient cities of Crete;
• Sunken City of Olus;
• Samaria Gorge;
• Cave of Zeus;
• Lake Vulismeni;
• Lake Kourna;
• Cretan beaches;
• Water parks.

The map has enough attractions located in each region of the island. Both central, western and eastern Crete have their own highlights, which are definitely worth a visit for the traveler.

The capital region has concentrated a huge number of architectural masterpieces of the past and monuments, including the most revered by the townspeople monument to Eleftherios Venizelos, a famous Greek politician.

East of the center you can find the most beautiful landscapes and sandy beaches, and the peculiarity of the Chania region is that it is near its coast that three seas connect.

The Lasithi region is the most developed tourist area, there are many hotels and interesting places, mountains and caves, including the famous Cave of Zeus.

Architecture

The ruins of ancient castles are one of the most interesting options for what to see in Crete. A visit to them is very educational. This walk will be incredibly exciting for both adults and children.

You can visit the ruins on your own, without guides. In this case, it is worth considering visiting hours and ways to get there. Some places have buses, while others will have to take a taxi or rent a car.

The most popular architectural monuments are listed below.

Knossos palace

The Palace of Knossos is considered perhaps the most famous architectural landmark of Crete.

The palace is interesting both for its antiquity (despite repeated destruction by earthquakes and repeated restorations, the craftsmen preserved its main features and conveyed in detail all the nuances of ancient architecture), and for its scale and history.

The architecture of the castle is very interesting and unusual. Its complexity often serves as a reason to associate this particular building with the labyrinth of the Minotaur from the famous legend.

The sights of Crete can be divided into three groups: historical, natural and modern.

There are a lot of historical attractions on the island; they can be divided into ancient and medieval (monasteries, churches, fortresses). The most important and popular place to visit is. In general, there are plenty of ancient palaces on the island: Phaistos, Kato Zakros,. Also included in this group. A large number of artifacts and ancient objects found during excavations are stored in archaeological museums, the most important of which is located in. There are more than 20 monasteries and churches on the island, of the most important: ,. Also a large number of fortresses, fortress walls, protective gates, which are also interesting to get acquainted with.

Natural attractions in Crete are very diverse: forests and groves, rivers and lakes, mountains and plains, plateaus and gorges. Moreover, some of them are interesting from both natural and historical points of view. These, of course, include, where, in addition to amazing flora and fauna, there are remains of traditional settlements. Interesting too. Lovers of the sea and beaches should appreciate and.

Modern attractions include museums and windmills built using ancient technologies.

Top 5 must-see attractions in Crete

If you have little time for excursions, we recommend limiting yourself to the five most interesting places islands. So that you have general idea about the culture, history and nature of these places. We recommend the following.

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 islands. 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 just off 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 a 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.