The largest of all the Greek islands, covering more than 3,000 square miles, you’ll find plenty of picture-perfect beaches but also ancient sit
es, pretty old towns, wild canyons, Venetian architecture, and child-friendly attractions. This is also one of the best islands for food, with fertile plains and year-round sun providing the ideal conditions for local agriculture and horticulture, like the wild greens (horta) grown across mountainsides, oranges and lemons cultivated in the northwest’s lowlands, and olives and olive oil produced from tip to tip. Must-try Cretan speciality dishes include dakos, a rusk salad; kalitsounia, a sweet or savory pie; kleftiko, a slow-cooked lamb; and, like other Greek islands, fresh seafood. Walk into any local taverna to try them, or, for something more high-end, visit Elounda, where global restaurants are making their mark, including sushi at Sumosan, Tuscan dishes at Il Borro, and Greek flavors with a modern spin at Makris by Domes. While here, it’s worth a boat ride out towards the nearby Spinalonga island, a Venetian fortress-turned-leper-colony honored in Victoria Hislop’s 2005 novel, The Island.
Crete is also a fantastic island to see by foot. Start in Chania, where cobbled streets lead to a 700-year-old Venetian Harbour; then browse the local markets before taking the 15-or-so-minute walk out towards the lighthouse. Another walk out to sea awaits in the island’s capital, Heraklion, this time towards the two-floored Koules Fortress, another Venetian masterpiece. Beware the Meltemi winds as you stroll, they can whip up in seconds, and you may—like me—find yourself arriving soaked from head to toe thanks to a rogue wave. From here, it’s a 20-minute drive towards the Palace of Knossos, a remarkably well-preserved Minoan palace dating back almost 4,000 years. Once you’re done with sightseeing and it’s time to flop, head south—some of the best beaches in Crete are dotted along this coastline, including Sougia (southwest), Fotia (southeast), and Kommos (central-south).
Why we love it: “If you’re unsure which Greek island is best for you—perhaps you’re a group with varying needs—Crete is your best bet. It’s year-round sun makes it an ideal destination no matter the time of year.” —K.S.
Where to stay on Crete:
For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Crete.
