Things to do in Crete
Boat trips, hikes, jeep safaris, food tours and ideas for families.
Where in Crete?
At sea
Some of the best spots in Crete are easiest to reach by boat, and a few you can only reach by boat. You can join a big day cruise to Balos or Spinalonga, rent your own boat for a quiet day, go diving in clear water or just watch the sunset from the deck.
On land
Inland Crete is made for exploring. Hike a gorge, bounce along mountain tracks on a jeep safari, ride a horse through the olive groves, or let a local guide show you the villages most visitors never see.
Day trips
With a day trip you can see a big sight without driving. Organised trips include transport and tickets, often a guide too. Popular ones are Santorini by fast ferry, Spinalonga with Elounda, Knossos with Heraklion, and the islands of Chrissi and Gramvousa.
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Food & wine
Food is one of the best reasons to come to Crete: olive oil with everything, wild greens, slow cooked lamb, fresh cheese, dakos and a glass of raki at the end. Cooking classes, tastings and farm visits are an easy way to get to know it. Our guides to Cretan dishes, local products (graviera, pichtogalo, thyme honey, dittany, raki) and native wine grapes explain what to look for before you book.
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With kids
Crete is great with children: shallow sandy beaches, short walks, boat trips, water parks and the aquarium. Plan outings for the morning and late afternoon and keep the hot middle of the day for shade and a nap.
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