Crete is known for its sun-drenched beaches, ancient ruins and bold, flavorful cuisine. As Greece’s largest island, Crete delivers dramatic mountains, storied mythological sites and a culture that feels distinct — even within Greece’s diverse landscape. It’s a place where you can swim in turquoise lagoons one day and wander through Minoan palaces the next.
Whether you’re visiting for a cruise stop or planning a full island getaway, here are 10 unforgettable experiences that highlight exactly what Crete is known for.
1. Beaches
Crete is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the Mediterranean. From the pink-tinted sands of Elafonissi to the shallow, Caribbean-like waters of Balos Lagoon, the island offers variety for every beach lover. Secluded coves, dramatic cliffs and family-friendly stretches all await — each one with its own character.
Some beaches, like Falassarna and Vai, are great for swimming and sunbathing, while others like Seitan Limania offer rugged beauty and adventurous vibes. Whether you travel by car, boat or hiking trail, beach-hopping is one of the most iconic things to do in Crete.
2. Knossos Palace
Just outside Heraklion lies the archaeological site of Knossos, one of the most significant historical landmarks in Greece. This sprawling Minoan palace complex dates back over 3,000 years, and is often considered Europe’s oldest city. It’s closely tied to the legend of King Minos and the Labyrinth that housed the mythical Minotaur.
Wandering through Knossos is like stepping into mythology. You’ll find colorful frescoes, grand staircases and courtyards that hint at the sophistication of the ancient Minoan civilization. Combine your visit with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see artifacts recovered from the site, including intricately painted pottery and jewelry.
3. Samaria Gorge
Crete is known not just for its coastline, but for its rugged, mountainous interior. The Samaria Gorge, located in the White Mountains of western Crete, is one of Europe’s longest and most dramatic hiking routes. The trail stretches over 10 miles from the Omalos Plateau to the seaside village of Agia Roumeli.
As you descend through towering cliffs and pine forests, you’ll pass freshwater springs, Byzantine ruins and perhaps a few kri-kri (wild Cretan goats). It’s a challenging hike, but the sense of accomplishment — and the cold drink waiting at the sea — is well worth it.
4. Chania Old Town
On Crete’s northwestern coast, Chania blends Venetian elegance with a bohemian, coastal vibe. The old town is a colorful maze of narrow streets lined with bougainvillea-covered balconies, artisan shops and seaside tavernas. The city’s Venetian harbor is one of its most photographed spots, complete with a lighthouse, old shipyards and waterside cafés.
Chania is a great base for exploring the western part of the island, but it’s also a destination in its own right. Spend a full afternoon here browsing boutiques, sipping coffee under the sun and catching sunset over the harbor walls.
5. Cretan Food
Crete is known for its bold, healthy and deeply satisfying cuisine. Meals are built around fresh, local ingredients — olive oil, wild herbs, mountain greens, honey and cheeses, like graviera and mizithra. Dining here often feels more like a ritual than a meal, where food is shared generously and slowly.
Signature dishes include dakos (barley rusks with tomato and cheese), lamb with stamnagathi (a wild green) and kalitsounia (sweet or savory cheese pastries). Meals often end with a complimentary shot of raki — a traditional grape-based spirit — and sometimes a homemade dessert. Eating well is simply part of life here.
6. Rethymno
With its Venetian port, Ottoman-era architecture and sandy beaches, Rethymno is one of Crete’s most atmospheric towns. The old town is a blend of cultures and centuries — where minarets rise near medieval fortresses and vibrant alleyways invite exploration.
Visit the Fortezza fortress for sweeping views of the city and coastline, then meander through artisan shops selling everything from leather sandals to handwoven linens. Rethymno is also home to several summer festivals, including Renaissance music performances and food celebrations that bring the community together.
7. Local Villages
Step beyond the cities and beach resorts, and you’ll discover the soul of Crete in its villages. Places like Archanes, Anogeia and Zaros offer a slower pace, where locals still gather in kafeneia (traditional cafés) and shepherds roam the hillsides.
These villages are where Cretan traditions — music, dance and hospitality — are strongest. You might stumble upon a festival in the town square or be invited to taste homemade wine or cheese. Visiting the island’s interior gives you a deeper sense of what Crete is truly known for: its warm, welcoming people.
8. Caves & Mythology
Crete’s dramatic geography includes over 3,000 caves — many of which have mythological or historical significance. The most famous is the Dikteon Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, hidden among the Lasithi Plateau’s fertile hills.
Inside, you’ll find eerie stalactites, underground pools and chambers that have inspired legends for millennia. Other notable caves include the Idaean Cave, also linked to Zeus and Melidoni Cave, which served as a resistance hideout during Ottoman rule. These underground sites offer a mysterious and cool escape from the Cretan sun.
9. Cretan Wine
Crete has a winemaking tradition that dates back more than 4,000 years. Today, the island is home to dozens of vineyards producing exceptional wines, using both international and indigenous grape varieties. The white Vidiano and red Liatiko grapes are particularly beloved.
Wineries near Heraklion and Chania offer tastings in sun-drenched courtyards surrounded by olive trees and grapevines. Many also serve local mezze alongside the wine, creating a full sensory experience. Wine tasting in Crete isn’t just about flavor — it’s about culture, history and connection to the land.
10. Heraklion
Crete’s capital is a bustling port city that mixes old and new with surprising ease. While it’s often seen as a gateway to other destinations, Heraklion has plenty to offer on its own — from the impressive Koules Fortress overlooking the harbor to vibrant shopping streets and modern cafés.
The city is also home to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of Minoan artifacts. If you’re curious about the mythology, art and daily life of ancient Crete, this museum is a must-visit. It ties together the island’s past and present in one dynamic hub.
What is the Crete Known For?
Crete is known for its diverse landscapes, ancient Minoan sites and flavorful island cuisine. From hiking through gorges and wandering sunlit harbors to tasting wine in mountain villages or standing in the ruins of a palace older than the Parthenon, the best things to do in Crete offer a rich mix of beauty, history and authenticity.
Whether you’re swimming in a pink-sand lagoon, savoring lamb slow-cooked in olive oil or exploring a myth-filled cave, Crete invites you to go deeper. Make sure to see not just its sights, but its soul.
Keep Exploring Crete
Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Crete, Greece Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Crete with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What to Eat in Crete - Savor the flavors as you taste your way through your latest adventure.
- What to Buy in Crete, Greece - Discover the best souvenirs, from olive oil and thyme honey to handmade leather goods.
