Reasons to Visit Crete

6 Reasons Why Crete is the Best Island in Greece

Crete is the most wonderful island in Greece. Sorry, Mykonos.

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If you are having a hard time picking which islands in Greece to visit, we’ll make this an easy call for you: Crete should be at the very top of your list!

These 6 characteristics of Crete make the largest and most southern of the major Greek islands the best place to add to your Greek getaway.

Read on to find out what makes it the BEST island in Greece.

1. Lively

Upon arriving in Crete, you’ll quickly notice that it is not like others. The vibe here is totally distinguishable from other islands and Greece.

The first thing you’ll quickly learn is that Crete is a very lively island with two major cities to visit. Heraklion and Chania are both great places to explore! Heraklion’s fast-paced city center stands in contrast to the calmer surrounding beaches, but will harken back to days spent in hustle and bustle of of other major cities.

The port town of Chania has a Venetian influence, making you feel like you are in Italy. It is a very charming and beautiful city. While quieter, Chania remains exciting and filled with unique eye-opening experiences. Heraklion is a little grittier but just as wonderful — with tons of shops and restaurants to choose from! Check out the Old Towns in both Heraklion and Chania for a look into lively Crete.

2. Diverse Culture

Crete is so unique with its blend of cultures. Venetian influence as well as Greek culture pairs so wonderfully together. We were able to learn so much about the history of Crete and why there are so many cultures at play. We enjoyed some of the best Italian and Greek food. The food is Cretes’ calling card so come hungry. It all feels very Greek and there are many allies you will walk down and feel like you are in Florence. It is so unique and lovely in every way.

3. Less Touristy

Awww, take a breath of relief while in Crete where you will not feel suffocated with the mass amount of people all around you. You will be able to walk around and have space to explore while still having all the perks of the wonders of Greece, the beauty, friendly people, delicious food, breathtaking beaches, history, classical architecture, old fortresses, and all the other wonderfulness that is Greece.

4. More Affordable

Finally! The affordable Greece you have heard about! You will be able to get a beer or coffee for just around 3 dollars USD as well as affordable food and shopping to boot! It is just a wonderful place where my wallet could take a break after Santorini or Mykonos.

5. Beautiful Beaches without the crowds

You will be able to enjoy the beauty of being on a Greek Island and the teal waters without having to battle the crowds for a good spot. You will truly feel like you are in paradise. Our favorite beach in Heraklion was Karteros beach, where you’ll find a couple of great beach bars and restaurants and free umbrella and beach chairs with bar and food service.

6. Friendly Locals

I found Crete to be the most friendly island in Greece. This is of course based on my experience but we found the people to be so very warm, welcoming and friendly. It is the people that were the best part of visiting Crete.

When creating your Greece Itinerary I would highly recommend Crete as my number one recommendation for where to go in Greece! You can easily make your entire Greece Trip in just Crete.

Heraklion and Chania are great home bases and you can take so many wonderful day trips from both of these cities!

Traveling more in Greece? Check out our Ultimate Crete Travel Guide, Ultimate 2-3 Week Greece Guide, Athens Guide, Oia or Fira Guide, Oia Things to Do Guide, Naxos Guide, Santorini Guide, Crete Guide, and Halki Village- The Best Day Trip in Naxos.