Crete- the island of possibilities
Welcome to Crete!
We understand that many of you are traveling from afar to join us for our wedding, and some may be planning to explore the island before or after the celebration. To help you make the most of your time here, we've prepared this comprehensive guide tailored to various interests, along with essential travel information.
Airports in Crete
Crete is served by three main airports:
Chania International Airport (CHQ) – Located approximately 14 km from our wedding venue.
Heraklion International Airport (HER) – Situated about 140 km from Chania (approximately a 2-hour drive).
Sitia Municipal Airport (JSH) – Located in the eastern part of Crete, approximately 274 km from Chania (about a 4-hour drive).
Travel Tip: While flying into Sitia may seem convenient for some, please note that the transfer to Chania can be quite lengthy. We recommend flying into Chania if possible to save time and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Recommended Cities to Visit in Crete
Crete is a land of diversity, with each city offering its own unique charm and attractions. Here are some must-visit cities during your stay:
Chania
Chania is a favorite for many, and it’s not hard to see why. With its picturesque Old Town, beautiful Venetian Harbour, and narrow, winding streets, Chania is perfect for those who want to experience history, culture, and the charm of a small coastal town. The harbor area offers plenty of great dining spots, cafes, and shops, while the surrounding nature offers opportunities for hiking, beach days, and exploring local wildlife.
Highlights: Venetian Harbour, Chania Old Town, Balos Lagoon, Samaria Gorge.
Rethymno
Rethymno is another city with a stunning old town and Venetian architecture. The blend of Renaissance influences and Venetian and Ottoman heritage makes this city a wonderful place to stroll, dine, and take in the sights. The city has a relaxed vibe, with quaint streets and a long beach.
Highlights: Fortezza Castle, Rethymno Old Town, Rimondi Fountain, Elafonissi Beach (nearby).
Elounda
Elounda is a quieter, luxurious destination that’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Fun fact: we’ve considered this location as our first option for the venue (and it’s Tena’s fav place on the island)! Located on the northeastern coast of Crete, Elounda is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and luxury resorts. It’s also a great base for exploring the nearby island of Spinalonga, which has an interesting history as a leper colony.
Highlights: Spinalonga Island, Elounda Beach, Plaka Village, luxury resorts.
Heraklion
While Heraklion is the largest city and the capital of Crete, we have to say it’s not our personal favorite. It’s a bit overbuilt, with a more industrial feel, and certain parts of the city can feel a bit dirty. While it does have historical attractions like the Knossos Palace, and offers some great shopping, we’d recommend you explore the more picturesque towns and villages for a more authentic Cretan experience.
Highlights (if you visit): Knossos Palace, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Venetian Walls.
Recommended Restaurants in Chania
Chania offers a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of dining options. Here are some top picks:
Salis
$$ · 4.5 (3314 reviews)
Akti Enoseos 3, Chania 731 32, Greece
An open-air restaurant on the quay of the Venetian Port, offering innovative Cretan cuisine and an extensive wine list.
The Well Of The Turk (Το πηγάδι του Τούρκου)
Mediterranean · $$ · 3.8 (95 reviews)
Καλλίνικου Σαρπάκη 1-3, 731 00 Χανιά, Χανιά
A charming eatery in the Old Town, serving Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes in a cozy setting.
TO XANI Restaurant
$$ · 4.5 (2544 reviews)
Parados Kondilaki Street Venetian Old Port, Chania 731 00, Greece
Located in the Jewish Quarter, this restaurant specializes in traditional Cretan dishes cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Neoria Fish Tavern- Xilouris
$$ · 4.4 (1613 reviews)
Akti Enoseos, Chania 731 00, Greece
A seafront tavern in the Old Venetian Port, known for its fresh seafood and sunset views.
Theodosi restaurant
$$ · 4.5 (1021 reviews)
Paparigopoulou, Chania 731 00, Greece
An upscale casual restaurant situated on Parigoria hilltop, serving creative Cretan cuisine with spectacular sunset views.
Activities
We love a good overview of activities and variety for everyone. We hope you find something for yourself! :)
For Families with Children
Crete offers a wealth of family-friendly activities:
Limnoupolis Water Park (Chania): A fun-filled day with slides, pools, and attractions for all ages. More info
Watercity (Heraklion): One of the biggest water parks in Crete, featuring a variety of slides and pools. More info
Cretaquarium: A fascinating underwater experience showcasing a vast array of marine life. More info
Botanical Park of Crete (Chania): Explore nature through fun, kid-friendly trails while learning about local flora. More info
For Couples
Crete provides the perfect backdrop for romance:
Sunset Spots: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets at locations like Balos Lagoon and Seitan Limania Beach.
Chania Old Town & Harbour: Stroll through narrow streets, dine at seafront restaurants, and end the day with a glass of wine as the sun sets.
Santorini Day Trip: Consider a day trip to Santorini for a romantic getaway. Ferries depart from Heraklion or Rethymno.
For Spa Lovers
Relax and rejuvenate at Crete's luxurious spas:
Anemos Spa (Chania): A serene space with a range of treatments for relaxation and wellness.
Almyra Spa (Rethymno): Indulge in spa treatments with an ocean view at this luxurious resort.
Creta Maris Resort & Spa (Heraklion): Treat yourself to an exclusive spa experience with traditional and modern wellness techniques.
For Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Crete's rugged landscapes offer numerous hiking opportunities:
Samaria Gorge: One of the longest gorges in Europe, offering an exhilarating hike through wild landscapes.
White Mountains (Lefka Ori): Explore the highest mountain range in Crete, perfect for more advanced hikers.
Seitan Limania Trail: A shorter but stunning trail leading to one of Crete’s most dramatic beaches.
The Biggest Camps & Family Activities
Crete is home to several organized camps and leisure activities for families and groups:
Must-See Attractions
Don't miss these iconic sites during your visit:
Knossos Palace (Heraklion): The most famous archaeological site on the island, known for its ancient Minoan ruins. More info
Rethymno Old Town: A charming Venetian-style town with narrow streets, picturesque shops, and cafes.
Elafonissi Beach: Known for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach is perfect for a day of relaxation.
The Arkadi Monastery: A historic site with a moving history and beautiful surroundings.
We hope this guide helps you make the most of your time on the beautiful island of Crete! Whether you're here for the wedding, an adventurous holiday, or just some relaxation, there's something for everyone. Feel free to reach out if you have any specific questions or need more recommendations!