Crete is one of the strongest regions in Greece, and it does not live from tourism alone.
Tourism
Tourism is the biggest earner, especially along the north coast and in places like Chania, Hersonissos and Elounda. Millions of visitors come every year, most of them between May and October.
Olive oil
Drive anywhere and you will see olive trees, many of them centuries old. Crete produces a large share of Greece’s olive oil, much of it extra virgin, and in many families the harvest in late autumn is still a group effort.
Fruit and vegetables
Around Ierapetra in the south east you will see huge areas of greenhouses growing tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers for Greece and the rest of Europe. Sitia is known for sultanas, the Messara plain for olives and vegetables.
Wine, cheese and honey
Crete has its own grape varieties, many family wineries and a big tradition of cheese like graviera and mizithra. Thyme honey from the mountains is famous too.
Shepherding
In the mountains, sheep and goat farming is still an important way of life, and the reason you find such good lamb and cheese in the villages.
When you buy local products, eat in family tavernas and book with local businesses, more of your money stays on the island.
Updated: 2026-10-29
