Stretching some 300kms from tip to toe, the megalo nisi, as it’s known to Greeks, (meaning the ‘big island’) is a bite-sized dose of everything this fabulous country does best;
here are the five best places to stay in Crete.
1. Chania：Best forculture and nightlife
Chania, the island’s most atmospheric city, features a picturesque Venetian harbor surrounded by historic mansions now repurposed as chic boutique hotels, such as the elegant Casa Delfino. Wander through the charming maze of shopping lanes behind the harbor, where you can find everything from handcrafted jewelry to traditional stivani boots. Explore the maritime museum or marvel at Minoan artifacts i
When hunger strikes, enjoy street food at the bustling city market or savor local delicacies at Mezedopoleio Halepa or Salis. Cap off your evening with a syrupy mastixa cocktail at the historic bar Synagogi or dance the night away at the trendy beach club Cabana.
2. Matala: Best for Fun in the Sun
Matala, famed for its free hippie music festival in July, attracts a laid-back crowd that appreciates its golden sand beaches and cave dwellings. These caves, dating back to Roman times, were once frequented by folk legends like Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell. Visitors can explore the caves, shop for handcrafted jewelry and tie-dye sarongs at the local market, and swim in the warm Libyan Sea.
As the sun sets, follow the bohemian vibe to quirky bars like Hippies Cave Bar or enjoy a meal of rabbit stew stifado at the toes-in-the-sand taverna Eleni.
3. Rethymnon: Best for a Laid-back Lifestyle
Nestled between the Psiloriti mountains and golden sandy beaches, Rethymnon offers a charming mini-version of Chania. With its Venetian harbor, Egyptian lighthouse, and labyrinth of shopping streets, it’s a delightful place to unwind. Stay at the stylish Nautilux or the adults-only The Syntopi, which features unique amenities like an open-air cinema and a lagoon pool.
Explore Rethymnon’s old town, shop for antiques and traditional instruments, and hike up to Fortezza, the city’s hilltop Venetian castle, for stunning sunset views. End your day with meze snacks and potent raki at 50/50, the city’s top rakadiko.
4. Heraklion: Best for Shopping and Sights
Heraklion, the island’s bustling capital, offers a vibrant blend of shopping and historical attractions. Base yourself at the Legacy Gastro Suites, a boutique hotel overlooking the main square. Start with a visit to the vast archaeology museum, home to Minoan artifacts, before exploring the nearby Knossos Palace, famously associated with the Minotaur legend.
Savor a slice of custard-filled bougatsa pie at the historic Kafeneio Kirkor on Lion’s Square, then head to 1866 street for unique finds like sarikia (headscarves) and engraved knives. Dine on farm-to-table fare at Peskesi and enjoy a raki-based cocktail at the stylish Stone Project café.
5. Sitia: Best for Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploring
Located on Crete’s less-touristed eastern tip, Sitia boasts pristine, often deserted beaches and olive groves that produce some of Greece’s finest extra virgin olive oil. This area is home to Greece’s newest UNESCO Geopark, stretching from Cape Sidero’s 19th-century lighthouse to the Minoan palace of Zakros—ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Stay in boutique accommodations like Palazzo di Sitia or the beachfront Bay View apartments, and explore the town’s steep, whitewashed streets. As sunset approaches, dine at one of the value-for-money family tavernas near the harbor, where you can taste local specialties such as stuffed snails (xochliou boubouristi) that you won’t find elsewhere.
