Crete Greece where is the best place to relax. Family holidays with children on the Greek island of Crete. Heraklion route from Grekoblog

Crete is the most populous, comfortable and most popular tourist island in Greece. Long swimming season, variety of excursion programs, excellent local hotels, entertainment venues - what else is needed for a good rest?

Climate

The peak of the tourist season occurs in the summer months, during this period temperatures range from +28C to +30C, and in the southern regions up to +40C.

From January to March there are an order of magnitude fewer vacationers, and they come mainly for excursions. The thermometer rises to +17, sudden warming and cooling are possible.

Swimming in Crete begins in mid-April, but it warms up to a comfortable +21C only at the end of May. During the hot day, the sun is very dangerous, so it is recommended to visit the beach in the morning and late afternoon. It is most comfortable in September, when the heat subsides, but the sea remains warm.

Beaches of Crete

All the beaches on the island are good in their own way. Many of them are equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay, and therefore there are always a lot of tourists there, others are quiet and deserted, and therefore are good for their pristine beauty and tranquility. Sandy beaches predominate in the north of the island, and pebble beaches in the south.

Rethymno

Most big beach The islands are 13 km long. There is golden sand and clear shallow water. The beach is equipped with paid umbrellas and sun loungers, showers, toilets, and changing cabins. Stretched along Rethymnon tourist area with shops, restaurants, hotels.

Frangokastello

Located in a secluded village of the same name. The shore of the beach is original - a golden stripe is replaced by a gray stripe with black splashes of volcanic origin. Stands right next to the water Venetian fortress, built several centuries ago. The entrance to the water is shallow, so you can swim here with children.

Agios Pavlos

It is windless and quiet here, as the beach is located in a bay. Due to the absence of settlements, the area is wild and can only be reached on foot. The beach is almost not equipped; there are only a bar and a tavern and a few hotels nearby. Transparent sea water allows for comfortable scuba diving. But most often people come here for the stairs to Amolofi Agios Pavlos, which is separated from civilization by sand dunes.

Elafonisi

One of the most beautiful islands Greece. The sand here is pinkish in color, the entrance to the sea is gentle, and the water is sky-blue. Cedar trees grow nearby, creating a special pine aroma on the beach. There are almost no waves here, and the sea is quiet and calm.

Vai

This is the only beach in Europe located near a palm forest. It is considered a protected area. The sandy beach is equipped with everything you need, and if you come here early, you can hear the birds singing.

Where to stay in Crete

Crete is often chosen for youth parties, but there are hotels here for family vacation. The most low prices- at the beginning of the season, you can also save by booking rooms in advance via the Internet.

Hotels here include three-, four- and five-star hotels. The most luxurious hotels:

Amirandes. A fashionable hotel with a natural stone terrace, arches and columns. On the territory there is a huge swimming pool, its own sandy beach, center aquatic species sports, business center, children's club with playgrounds and entertainment. Here you will be offered to visit hydromassage showers, a sauna, and a beauty salon. Visitors can choose from 212 rooms equipped with everything necessary.
Annabelle Beach. The snow-white beach of this hotel in the village of Hersonissos is marked Blue flag, which means clean and safe for tourists. You can stay in a comfortable room or bungalow. The hotel has two outdoor swimming pools, a center for diving, windsurfing, water skiing and other sports. For the entertainment of guests, themed evenings with musical accompaniment, wine and beer festivals are held.
Blue Palace. It looks like an antique palace with vaulted galleries, arches, and luxurious pools. SPA-center, GYM's, a children's club, and a private sand and pebble beach will provide a comfortable stay for both young people and visitors with children.
Capsis - Crystal. A modern hotel with excellent infrastructure, there is a huge swimming pool, virtual bowling, and centers water sports. The spa center will offer full complex procedures for face and body care.
Creta Palace. The hotel consists of three bungalow complexes and a main building. Visitors will find swimming pools with fresh and sea water, tennis courts, entertainment programs for children and adults. There is a spa center with a wide range of services. Private beach The hotel is awarded the Blue Flag. Guests of VIP rooms are offered individual service.

Island attractions

Except picturesque nature The island is rich in architectural and historical attractions, which are unlikely to be explored in one vacation. The list of most visited places in Crete includes:

Knossos palace . The myths about the Minotaur, Theseus and Ariadne are associated with him. The palace is already more than four thousand years old, during which time it was destroyed more than once during earthquakes and rebuilt again. It is recommended to visit the palace accompanied by a guide, but for those who come on their own, there are signs throughout the complex to help you navigate.
Kules Fortress. It once belonged to the Turks, thanks to whom it received this name. Warriors lived on the lower floors and there was even a prison. Tourists will be interested in walks both around the territory and inside the fortress.
Diktean cave. Its second name is the cave of Zeus; according to legend, the goddess Rhea hid from her husband in it, and in this cave she gave birth to Zeus, and here he grew up. The cave is decorated with fancy stalactites and stalagmites. Located in the depths Mountain Lake. It's damp and cool inside, so it's worth taking a warm jacket.
Ancient city of Gortyn. It was once the main city of the island. Many of its buildings survived the times of Byzantine and Roman rule. Total excavation area on site ancient city it is very large, and even a day is not enough to walk around it entirely.
Phaistos Palace. Not as popular as Knossos, but no less interesting. Found on the territory ancient city The Festa ruins have been preserved in their original form. The main find of these places is the Phaistos Disc - a coin with hieroglyphs.

How to get there

There are several airports on the island, so the most convenient way to get to Crete is by direct flight from Moscow, St. Petersburg or other major Russian city. Connecting flights with cheaper tickets are also popular.

For those traveling by ferry in Crete there are two major ports- the port of Heraklion and the port of Souda, as well as two small ones.

Tours to Crete - what to choose?

Every tourist will be able to find a suitable tour for themselves. Lovers active rest choose tours for jeep safaris through the beautiful valleys of the island, horse riding, fishing and boat trips.

Families with children will be able to relax in water parks, and young people will have fun at traditional Cretan evenings with enchanting shows.

The most popular tours to the island - to hotels with three and four stars and all-inclusive meals.

Crete is the most large island Greece. There are many different stories, myths and legends associated with it. Fiction and reality are so closely intertwined here that it is impossible to separate them. Crete is considered the birthplace of the father of all gods - Zeus. It was here that King Minos created his empire, and the bloody monster Minotaur was killed by Theseus. Exactly this unforgettable place on Earth, where tourists flock from all over the world. Here they are waiting - the bright sun, the gentle alluring sea, the unique natural landscapes and hospitable residents.

General information

Crete (Κρήτη) is the fifth largest island by area Mediterranean Sea. Located 111 km from European coastline. Asia is located 176 km from it, and Africa is 310 km away. Its unique shores are washed by the waters of three seas: from the north – the Cretan, from the south – the Libyan and from the west – the Ionian. The city of Heraklion is the territorial center of the island.

Features of holidays in Crete

The island of Crete attracts tourists with its unusual landscapes and mild and healthy climate. There is no suffocating heat here, even in the hottest months. The air is heady and clean. There are practically no cloudy days. The sun pleases vacationers throughout the year - 345 days.
For a complete holiday, you should choose a place that matches the nature of the planned. Picturesque beaches are available in all areas of Crete - pebble and sandy, deep and shallow, noisy and quiet. There are beaches that can only be reached by swimming. The entire island is divided into four nomes (administrative centers):

Chania - west coast;
Rethymnon - northwestern part;
Heraklion - northeast;
Lasithi - east coast.

All zones are different. Each has its own characteristics. It should be noted that on southern shores Crete weather do not contribute to the development of tourism. The climate there is harsher, and storms often occur.

Holidays in Chania

Despite the small size of the region, there is a lot to see. Tourism in Chania is somewhat less developed than in other parts of Crete. Therefore, you can relax in the lap of untouched nature, feeling the authentic Greek flavor. The area is considered the greenest on the island. Sycamore forests occupy a significant part of the space, and a stunning smell of pine needles emanates from the cypress thickets.
In the region, in addition to huge, well-maintained beaches, you can find deep caves, picturesque bays and mysterious gorges. The city is surrounded by limestone mountains. Chania has many ancient churches, palaces, fortresses, museums, which creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

Holidays in Rethymno

The region attracts tourists with sun-drenched meadows and hills, winding paths and endless beaches with developed infrastructure. The longest of them stretches from Georgioupoli to Rethymnon 15.5 km. The view reveals toy villages located on the slopes; ruins of buildings and crystal sea. And tired of beach holiday and travel, you can relax in the local tavern, which serves excellent Greek dishes and local wines.
Tourists who prefer cultural recreation. There are many museums, archaeological sites, galleries, as well as the Monastery of Arcadia, the Rimondi Fountain and buildings from the time of the Venetians.

Holidays in Heraklion

Heraklion region is the most visited resort area. It houses the capital of Crete with the same name. Nearby is the airport where all guests of the island arrive. There are a variety of resorts, a lot of entertainment facilities, and water parks. Many of Heraklion's beaches are "blue flag", which increases their attractiveness. In addition to well-kept beaches and impeccable service, Heraklion is the largest entertainment center on the entire island, with a mass shopping centers and shops.
In the center of the region are the palaces of Gortyna and Knossos, the museum of archeology and other cultural institutions. The entire region is literally permeated with ancient myths and fascinating ancient epics.

Holidays in Lasithi

The region is located on a kind of plateau with the same name. A variety of vegetation grows in amazingly beautiful landscapes. And also here is the most charming bay of Mirabello on the entire island. It is on the shores of the bay that the center of the region, the city of Agois Nikolaos, was built. Mountain ranges, located around, are covered with coniferous trees and gardens. Everywhere you can see Greek villages and windmills surrounded by flowers. And the coast is indented with many coves and bays. Early fruits and vegetables appear first in this part of the island.

Russians with children love to vacation in Crete. And this is no coincidence. The island's resorts have a number of undeniable advantages over other island and mainland holiday destinations in Greece.

Firstly, it’s easy and quick to fly to Crete from almost anywhere. The airport in Heraklion (the capital of the island) is the leader in receiving charter flights in Greece. And besides this there are two more airports, two sea ports(in Souda Bay and Heraklion), connecting the island to the mainland. And this is a very significant circumstance, especially if it is a vacation with a small child.

Secondly, there are many hotels of different star ratings in Crete, aimed at family vacations. According to statistics, most often vacationers with children, especially small ones, choose 4* and 5* hotels All inclusive. This allows you not to spend money on food on vacation (it is already included in the room price) and gives you the opportunity to try the dishes national cuisine without giving up your usual food.

The third reason - on this largest island of Greece, and in the Mediterranean Sea - the fifth largest, separating the Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea, vacationers will enjoy delightful beaches stretching for thousands of kilometers, cozy resorts, fertile valleys with gardens and vineyards, steep gorges and various caves, impressive mountains, rocky shores, indented by many bays and gulfs, a rich gastronomic culture, traces of the greatest civilizations (by the way, the first European civilization arose in Crete). In addition, they are ideal for children who do not get tired of swimming and playing on the shore all day long.

Crete is a place where legendary gods, titans, various monsters, mythological demons once lived, and beautiful myths and legends were born. It is on this greek island they once hid Europa, stolen by Zeus. The sons of Zeus were born here. Among them, Minos, who later became the great king of Crete. On Crete, Daedalus built the famous labyrinth for the Minotaur.

This fairy island with an area of 8260 square kilometers, it stretches 260 kilometers in length, and its widest point is 56 kilometers. It is inhabited by 600,000 people, the language is mainly Greek. The local population professes Christianity (Greek Orthodox Church). The capital of Crete is Heraklion.

There are several islands close to Crete. The largest of them (Santorini and Gavdos) have air and sea connections, which allows excursions and day cruises from Crete.

The island of Crete receives its main income from tourism (although olives and vineyards are also a large part of the budget local residents). The main centers of the developed tourism industry and the most big cities are located on the northern coast. The south of Crete is no less beautiful and picturesque, but these places are for those who prefer privacy and sharp, vivid impressions.

Climate of Crete

The climate in Crete is Mediterranean, comfortable and mild, with warm and dry summers (considered the healthiest in Europe). The sun is almost shining all year round. Even in ancient times, Hippocrates recommended local air for the treatment of many diseases. All together, this has the most favorable effect on the health of vacationers, especially young tourists.

When is the best time to go to Crete with a child?

The longest in Crete summer season in Greece: from mid-April to mid-November. Best months– May, June and September (no extreme heat). In addition, in the spring the island turns into a blooming garden and is unusually beautiful. And in June you can already swim and at the same time travel around the island. And there are fewer vacationers at this time. This means that your vacation won’t be so expensive.

Best prices for tours to Crete

July and August are the hottest. But, thanks to the refreshing sea breeze and dry air, even high temperatures very easy to carry. But if you are planning a holiday in Crete with a small child, you should not go there during the hottest months.

In September and October, the “velvet season” begins on the island. The sun does not burn with scorching rays, the water is very comfortable and warm. average temperature water by month: May +20°C, June +23°C, July +25°C, August +26°C, September +25°C, October +23°C.

Given the island's location and abundance of sun, the island may not be as green as other Greek islands. But the sea here is incredible with many small lagoons of a turquoise hue and the most unusual colors, as well as excellent well-equipped beaches.

Holidays in Crete with children – which resort to choose?

The island consists of four prefectures, located from west to east:

Heraklion with the cities of Stalida, Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, Gouves, Agia Pelagia, Kokkini Hani, Ammoudara is the most populous region of Crete. These are picturesque villages, coastal towns, vineyards and valleys with olive groves, a combination of natural landscapes with urban landscapes, and a carefully thought-out infrastructure for tourists vacationing with children in Crete.
Rethymnon is the smallest region of the island with the cities of Bali, Rethymnon, Panormo, Adele, Kavros with a magical coastline, majestic mountains and legendary caves, historical monuments and monasteries, traditional mountain villages and luxury resorts.
Chania (western side of the island) with the cities of Georgioupolis, Platanias, Maleme, Chania, with the White Mountains and the National Park.
Lasithi is the easternmost lowland part of Crete with the cities of Elounda, Sitia, Agios Nikolaos and Ierapetra. This is a region of beaches with clear waters of Mirabello Bay, forests of palm trees and luxury resorts.

Each of them can offer tourists a holiday to choose from - the way they want. Noisy young people, newlyweds, and families with children can easily find something to do here.

When vacationing on the island of Crete with children, Russians traditionally choose hotels and the best resort towns: Agios Nikolaos, Hersonissos, Elounda, Chania and Rethymnon. From these places it is easy to get by pleasure boat to other nearby islands, such as the once terrible leper island of Spinalonga or toy Santorini.

City of Hersonissos ( north coast) – main center tourism on the island. Its additional advantages are that it is close to the airport, and at this resort (especially in the hotel area) you can often hear Russian spoken.

From Hersonissos it is convenient to go on excursions to the Palace of Knossos, where, as legend says, the Minotaur lived, and to the water parks located nearby.

The resort of Hersonissos can rather be classified as noisy with nightlife. But in its vicinity you can find quiet places for holidays with children. In this case, it is better to focus on hotels with a large territory.

Agios Nikolaos is another wonderful resort (one of the best on the north coast), located in the cozy Mirabello Bay with clean well-groomed sandy beaches, turquoise water, a magnificent promenade, delicious and hearty food in local taverns and the famous landmark - the Spinalonga fortress. This is where they are concentrated best hotels Krita. This resort is calm, designed for a relaxing holiday with long walks in the fresh air in the picturesque hilly surroundings.

The small resort of Elounda, which appeared on the site of a modest fishing village, is today a luxurious holiday destination with a beautiful promenade, expensive hotels, traditional taverns, a variety of restaurants and cafes, sandy beaches.

Rethymno - another one famous resort with Venetian style architecture and big amount good sandy beaches. Around it they settled along the coast in quiet bay Bali a few more small resorts: Platanyas, Adele, Panormo, Bali. The most suitable of them for a relaxed family holiday with children are small, quiet Bali and Panormo.

Bali (25 kilometers from Rethymno) has cozy bays protected from the wind by rocks, lush greenery, and a lot of pleasure boats and fishing boats.

Panormo (22 kilometers from Rethymnon) is a number of hotels along the coast. There is no local population, villages, fishing boats. Only the sea, the beach and the hotel area, outside of which you don’t have to go.

The city of Chania is beautiful Old city. Built by the Venetians many hundreds of years ago, it was once sea fortress. The embankment with ancient houses and the lighthouse have been preserved to this day. Turkish motifs can also be traced in the architecture and decor of houses.

The resort of Chania with a huge beach is the calmest (there are fewer tourists here) and the greenest town in Crete with the cleanest sandy beaches and picturesque surroundings. An example of this is Balos Bay - a huge sandbank with soft white quartz sand. This is an extremely clean paddling pool with a thin layer of clear water. In addition, there is a place where you can have fun with your child - the Limnoupolis water park.

The resort of Malia is located next to Hersonissos. There is good sand here, enough wide beach with convenient entrance to the sea. But there are often strong waves (there are no bays on this section of the coast and it is not protected from the wind). It is considered not very suitable for a family holiday with children.

The southern part of the island is favored by lovers of “wild” tourism, tired of the hustle and bustle of cities. There are almost no hotels here and no mass tourist. But on deserted beaches south coast The islands, washed by the waters of the Libyan Sea, are extremely beautiful and quiet. The water in these places is always a little warmer than in the north of the island.

Where to stay with a child on the island of Crete?

Find a tour to Crete

When choosing a hotel, pay attention to the distance from the airport (relevant with small children on vacation), conditions for children, and prices.

Where to go and what to see with a child on the island of Crete?

No matter how wonderful the sea water and the beach are, finding yourself in new and beautiful places, I want to get acquainted with their sights, history and culture. And take a little break from the beach holiday.

For example, it is very interesting to do sea cruise on neighboring islands– the charming volcano island of Santorini with white houses above the cliff or the deserted rocky Spinalonga. Or go to Heraklion with its unique attractions, get to know the Palace of Knossos, the famous labyrinth in which the Minotaur lived, or the cave on the Lassithi mountain plateau, in which, according to legend, Zeus was born.

There are many Orthodox monasteries in these same places. Particularly famous among them is the Vidyani monastery, where two monks and abbot Timothy live. Here believers can leave a request to God, leaving it on the main icon of the temple, and purchase amulets in the form of a bracelet, which local monks weave while reading Orthodox prayers. And in the high-mountain village of Argiropouli, where only 900 people live, 48 churches were built.

You can take your children to one of the water parks nearby. There are several of them in Crete: in Hersonissos there is a real cool water city called Acquaplus and one of the largest on the island is the Star Beach Water Park, located right on the shore of the lake. In the resort of Chania - the most beautiful luxurious water park in Crete, Limnoupolis with giant water slides and attractions.

If getting to know the marine life on the island seems insufficient, you can visit the Cretan Marine aquarium in Heraklion. Or expand your knowledge of history ancient Greece at the Archaeological Museum.

How to get to the island of Crete?

More than two million tourists come here on holiday every year. And a significant part of them are families with children. IN holiday season three airports in Crete receive more than a hundred aircraft: two international – Heraklion airport and Chania airport and one local – Sitia airport.

Most often, tourists from Russia use Heraklion Airport (6 km from the city), located on the seashore (which makes it feel like planes are landing directly into the sea when landing) and close to the resorts that Russians like to visit. In addition, it serves significantly more flights from Russian cities than Chania Airport. And you can only fly to Chania with transfers.

- this is one of the most unusual places on the ground. This is where Europe, Asia and Africa meet. It keeps the secrets of ancient worlds, traces of great people and significant events.

All of Greece is famous for its amazing sights. And the island of Crete is no exception. Connoisseurs of ancient, medieval and natural wonders flock here.

Youth holidays in Crete just as well developed. Party-goers will be delighted to find plenty of entertainment venues. And newlyweds can easily find a romantic and secluded place.

Where to live in Crete

The choice of accommodation options on the island is very large.

There are fashionable ones here tourist complexes, for those who like to relax in style. There are middle class hotels and inns. A variety of villas and apartments located in the mountains or on the coast. Cozy private boarding houses and modest hostels for the relaxation of budget tourists.

You can rent housing in Crete using standard methods. Order a tour from a tour operator, book online or rent directly on the spot.

Beaches of the island of Crete. Greece

Holidays in Crete are inextricably linked with the beaches of the island. Among them there are world-famous and very secluded corners that amaze with their untouched beauty.

Many of the island's beaches have been awarded the European Blue Flag for cleanliness and environmental friendliness. And some are included in the top 20 in the world.

Fans of surfing the waves, windsurfing and other water sports will find the island's magnificent windswept coastlines. Little tourists will enjoy relaxing in the sandy and shallow bays of Crete. And diving enthusiasts dive on fantastic rocky beaches.

Here you will relax on the pink sand of Elafonisi and in the emerald bay of Ballos. On the red beach of Matala and on the island of Chrissi, which looks like it came out of tropical photographs. Cheerful beaches of popular resort centers and “wild” coastlines with unique pristine nature await you.

Read about the island's most stunning beaches in the article: the best beaches of Crete (description, photos, maps)...

And also about all the beaches by region of the island: Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, Lassithi

Food in Crete. Greece

Gastronomic tourism is one of the most developed holiday destinations in Crete. The traditions of Cretan cuisine are so strong that it is perhaps the only place, where you can taste exactly the same dishes that delighted our distant ancestors.

Cuisine of Crete famous for its environmental cleanliness and excellent taste. At all resorts on the island, many cozy bars and colorful taverns are always open to vacationers.

Crete is famous for its magnificent localwines and this is by no means an accident, because according to one of the legends, Dionysus, the god of winemaking, was born here. Subtle aromas and shades of taste will complement wonderful holiday on a paradise Greek island.

The best olive oil in the world is produced here. And it is Cretan greenhouses and plantations that supply almost all European countries with vegetables and fruits.

Entertainment in Crete

The island of Crete has everything for entertainment: bars, restaurants, taverns, numerous clubs and discos. Various festivals held here attract a lot of tourists. The most popular wine festival takes place in July.

And, of course, fur coats! Many people cannot imagine their holiday in Greece without buying a new fur coat. Here you will find a lot of retail outlets offering a wide variety of fur products. However, you should know some nuances...

What to see in Crete. Greece

Holidays in Crete immerse you in an atmosphere of amazing secrets and mysteries. All the islands of Greece are covered in ancient legends and myths. And the most beautiful of them belong to Crete.

This is where the greatest Minoan civilization. Its achievements in science and technology far surpassed those of ancient Egypt.

Medieval history of the island- these are winding cobbled streets of cities, magnificent Venetian ports, churches and fortresses. And the stunning monasteries of Crete still preserve the atmosphere of those extraordinary times.

While vacationing on the island of Crete in Greece, you will hear many amazing stories. Legends about ancient gods and great people, about mysterious places and significant events.

Natural attractions- one of the most popular among vacationers on the island. The island's waterfalls and lakes always attract the admiration of nature lovers. And the lovers hiking enjoy traveling around mysterious caves and gorges of Crete.

Where to relax in Crete. Greece

The resorts on this Greek island are numerous and varied. Big cities and tiny villages, bustling centers and secluded corners.

Holidays at each of the resorts in Crete have their own characteristics, pros and cons. Before your trip, it’s better to be armed as much as possible detailed information to find the perfect location for you.

Crete is divided into four main regions: Chania, Rethymnon, Araklion and Lassithi. Each of these areas contains a number of different resort towns and villages.

Descriptions of resorts, photographs, maps, features, as well as recommendations for choosing a vacation spot,

How to get around Crete

A big plus of a holiday in Crete is the ease of movement around the island. The road network here is very extensive, and their quality is excellent.

You can get around Crete:

on public transport. He goes quite often and to almost all corners of the island.
by taxi. It's not cheap, but many people prefer this method of transportation, especially those on vacation with small children.
by sea taxi. In those populated areas Where there is a port or at least a small pier, travel by water is very popular.
in a rented car. This is the most popular way of travel among holidaymakers in Crete. Great amount amazing places attracts lovers independent travel. Organized excursions in Crete do not cover all interesting sights. Meanwhile, a personal car provides an excellent opportunity to create your own route and plan your time. Read more about the intricacies of movement

Crete is the largest island of the Greek archipelago. It occupies its southern part, while being surrounded by 3 seas at the same time. After Cyprus this is the most sunny island, which attracts tourists with its exquisite coastline, picturesque mountain landscapes, fully equipped beaches, and, in addition, the brightest echoes of the architecture of the Minoan civilization (the oldest in the world). In this article we will find out why holidays in Crete are so popular among tourists.

Climate

Crete is big Island with mountainous terrain. IN different parts The climate on the islands is completely different. So, in the north, separated by the central mountain range from the south, it is Mediterranean temperate, in fact, like in other resorts in Europe. The south is much hotter, sunnier and drier as it falls under the North African climate zone. It is colder in mountainous regions, and there is even snowfall in winter. On the island as a whole, winter is mild and rainy, which, in fact, the whole of Greece can boast of. Crete, where holidays are so popular among tourists, seems to freeze at this time. The level of air humidity here is determined by the proximity of the sea. For example, for coastal resorts, due to high humidity, it is typical that the heat will be more difficult to bear, and in winter the temperatures in the coastal zone will be lower.

Tourist season

Crete reminds small country with a huge number of possibilities. It is an expanse of spectacular valleys, fertile plateaus, golden sands, pleasant smells and stunning views. Holidays in Crete are captivating because they approach everyone with special care: for lovers of silence there are secluded resorts, for party lovers - lively beaches, for active and sporty individuals - diversity water activities. People begin to come here in April, while the mass tourist season ends in mid-autumn.

"High season

Here it lasts all summer, when the air temperature is 28-30°C. The thermometer in the hottest parts of the island often jumps to 40°C. There is one little secret for fans of the height of summer: in Crete, not all beaches are crowded at this time. Yes, they are quite remote from the Cretan cities and do not offer many amenities, while some are willing to give a lot for the opportunity to relax in solitude. At the height of summer, a holiday in Crete is usually worth going to northern part islands, on the shores of the Aegean Sea, although the number of tourists here is huge.

"Low" season

During all 3 winter months, as well as in March, there is a decline in the tourist season in Crete. Then those who are not particularly interested in relaxing on the beach go to the island, but prefer to be in solitude and tranquility. The weather here is changeable, the expected temperature is 16-17°C. It may suddenly become warmer or colder. At the same time, to explore the numerous attractions better weather and prices can't be found.

Swimming season

The holiday season here begins in mid-April. Then the island's beaches open. In the Mediterranean Sea, the water becomes comfortable for swimming only at the end of May. In mid-summer, when the weather is hot, the water temperature in this place reaches 25°C. During the daytime, the sun is very dangerous, therefore, try to go to the beach early in the morning or in the evening. In September, holidays in Crete become the most comfortable, as the intense heat subsides. Due to this, the sea becomes a little cooler.

The Velvet season

Holidays in Crete in September can be called ideal. The very end of the month and October are the velvet season here. Now it’s not as busy here as in the summer, but it’s just as sunny, and the weather conditions are conducive to swimming and spending a long time on the beach. Think for yourself: in September the temperature sea water is 24°C, in October - 23°C. The only discomfort can be that a holiday in Crete in October is not suitable for everyone: it is already cold at night (16°C), so you can only swim in the middle of the day. Huge advantage velvet season here are low prices for food, housing and all kinds of services.

Best beaches

There is no need to even say that holidays on the island of Crete primarily attract those who like to lie on the beaches, which here are actually at the highest level. But there are special beaches that deserve close attention.

Youth recreation

Holidays on the island of Crete are often chosen by young people. Companies mainly stay at certain resorts: noisy, with a huge range of entertainment. Among them is Hersonissos, characterized by the largest number of clubs and a rich nightlife. The sandy beaches are no worse than those in secluded, modest resorts. There is a water park nearby called Water City.

Another tourist centre The island where young people like to relax is Malia. This place offers a variety of entertainment, not only club life, but also active daytime recreation, such as horseback riding.

You can also choose Rethymnon with rapid modern life. You won’t be bored in this place either, thanks to the various architectural attractions that are located right on the territory of this city.

Vacation with children

For a family holiday, you need to choose resorts with sandy beach and a gentle, convenient entrance to the sea. Elafonisi, mentioned above, is a good choice, although they have a list suitable places for recreation is not limited.

Makriyalos also has shallow water, therefore, it is safe to swim here even with very young children. This place is located far from noisy resorts, including Heraklion, and is perfect for a quiet family holiday.

Some hotels in Crete will help make your holiday with children as comfortable as possible. Thus, Club Marine Palace offers excellent service. Especially for infants, this place provides free cribs and high chairs. Even the smallest nuances are also taken into account: there is a device for heating milk, an audio baby monitor. If adults need to spend time separately, it is possible to resort to the services of a professional nanny. There is a club for children. Nearby in picturesque bay There is a cozy sandy beach.

It's time for festivals

There is a high probability that when you get to the island of Crete, you will combine your vacation with some kind of celebration taking place here. In Crete, Maslenitsa is celebrated in winter, followed by Holy Week and Easter in March. Next, March 25 is the Independence Day of Greece, April 23 is the day of the island's patron saint (St. George). Residents of Rethymnon celebrate the Wine Festival in mid-July, followed by the birth of the Virgin Mary on September 8th.

Attractions

Cradle Minoan civilization, bathed in sunshine, oozing with history. The resort thrives on being a completely contradictory island: the rowdy parties of Malia and the solitude of the wild mountain regions, dramatic ravines and sugar-coated beaches. A real beach paradise with a rich culture is offered to you by a holiday in Crete, the reviews of which can be found so admiring that you willy-nilly want to be there.

Minoan Palace

The ancient grounds of the castle and the Minoan palace itself are located just south of Heraklion. It got its name from its owner - the famous ancient king Minos, who was the son of Europa and the god Zeus.

In this palace, according to legend, there was a labyrinth where a half-bull and half-man Minotaur was imprisoned at one time. Local residents sacrificed young girls and boys to him for 9 years until Theseus killed him. Since that time, the word “labyrinth” has come into use.

For 6 euros (entrance fee) you have the opportunity to touch the footprints ancient civilization, walk along the paths of gods and kings: great amount halls, galleries decorated with exquisite frescoes, pink stately colonnades tapering downwards in defiance of architectural laws, as well as the Small Palace, the Temple of the Tombs and the Royal Villa.

Samaria Gorge

This gorge is one of the largest in Europe, it is located in the southwestern region of the island, in the prefecture of Chania. This place is a National Park. The gorge extends 16 km in length. Here you can observe the rarest magnificent fauna and flora. For example, kri-kri are mountain wild goats with spiral-shaped horns.

The width of the Iron Gate of Sidiroportes, the narrowest section, is 3.5 m, and the widest is 300 m. All tourists who arrive here will have to overcome this on foot. Although the feeling that the path is grueling is deceptive. In fact, it consists of continuous descents. In this gorge there is a whole village where the Church of Mary of Egypt functions.

In general, the walk takes 5-6 hours. It begins at the steps made of wood (behind the Omalos plateau), ending at the shore of the Libyan Sea, where the village of Agia Roumeli is located. The cost of entry to the gorge is 6 euros.

Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

This is one of the largest museums in Greece, it is located in the very center of Heraklion on the street. Xanthoudidou. The exhibition presented here covers 5000 years (from the Neolithic period to the Greco-Roman era). It includes the world's largest and best collection of works by the Minoan people.

The museum is currently under renovation, but there is a temporary exhibition at the back of the main building. It contains the most striking exhibits from the collection of artifacts, including the Goddess with snakes, the Phaistos disc, golden bees, and a leaping bull. The museum has a total of twenty thematic rooms, each of which is dedicated to its own period and area.

Best vacation: Crete, hotels

Those who want to go here on vacation need to know that the hotels here do not have stars, they are replaced by categories: A, B, C and Delux. The resort has completely different establishments: from modest small rooms to completely luxurious apartments.

Since the island is one of the most popular among tourists choosing a holiday in Greece, Crete hotels offer accommodation in various formats. The hotel business here is very well developed. Tourists want to relax without worrying about where to eat. For these vacationers there are hotels with all-inclusive service.

Traditional cuisine

Cretan food is not just food, but a way of life. It involves healthy eating and a great excuse for family and friends to get together. Today everything becomes more popular vacation in Greece. The island of Crete, in addition to all kinds of entertainment, also offers tourists to get acquainted with its unique cuisine.

Cretan traditional cuisine uses products such as all kinds of cheese, lemons, wild herbs, oranges, lentils, beans, various vegetables, olive oil, barley, seafood and fish, meat, and wine in small quantities. By the way, most organic products are grown here in the country.

Breakfast in Crete

A classic Greek breakfast includes cigarettes and coffee. Of course, this is a joke, although not without some truth. Greeks smoke a lot. And here breakfast is not breakfast as such; it includes a cup of aromatic coffee, a couple of olives and a piece of toast with jam or honey. Sometimes it is complemented by all kinds of pastries, for example, “Tiropita”, pies with spinach or cheese. They can also act as snacks throughout the day.

Coffee

Coffee in Greece used to be called “Turkish”. But after relations between these countries deteriorated, it began to be called Greek, which must be remembered when ordering it. There are several types of it:

“sketo” - without sugar;
"varigliko" - sweet and strong;
"metrio" - semi-sweet.

Cretan cheese

In the mountainous regions of the country, you can accidentally meet shepherds making cheese from the milk they produce themselves. But there are not many of them left anymore.

In Crete, Feta cheese is not as popular as in the rest of the country. The most commonly used varieties here are:

"Mizithru" is a classic whey cheese that has been around in Greece for about 1000 years. There is unsalted fresh “Mizithra”, slightly salted or salted and dried, used for further grating. This cheese is made from whey that has been fermented from goat, cow or sheep milk.
Gravieru is a hard cheese with a slightly sweet taste, created in several ways. It is made from sheep's milk, which is sometimes mixed with goat's milk. The ripening period for the cheese is at least five months.
"Antotyrus" is a light soft cheese made from sheep or goat milk. It can be fresh, dried or salted. The first is added to various cheese cookies or simply served.

Holidays on Crete: traveler reviews

Today many tourists have already visited this resort. Accordingly, you can find a lot of information about holidays in Crete. Reviews about it are mostly positive. Many here find the resort that suits them: family, youth, secluded. Travelers admire its architecture, national color, openness and activity of local residents, and incomparable cuisine. But there are still those who speak negatively about Crete. In most cases, they visited here out of season, finding themselves either in sweltering heat or on the shores of an already cool sea. Although there are those who prefer more luxury resorts, against the background of which Crete pales.

If you would like to get to know unique history and the culture of the island of Crete, you can choose almost any resort, since almost everywhere offers excursion program with viewing the sights of both the island and other territories, including mainland Greece.