---
title: Our exclusive guide to Crete - top addresses and activities
description: Discover the best of Crete with our guide to the finest beaches, restaurants, and local experiences on Greece's largest and most historical island.
---
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# Crete A Le Collectionist Guide
Crete, a **jewel of the Aegean Sea**, is brimming with ancient history. Follow our guide to explore the **fascinating** **culture** and **breathtaking** **landscapes** on this **iconic** island.
[Our top 5](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-crete#top-5)
[Where to stay](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-crete#ou-loger)
[Beaches](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-crete#beaches)
[Restaurants](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-crete#meilleurs-bars-restaurants)
[Families](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-crete#family)
[Experiences](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-crete#experiences)
[When to go](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/le-collectionist-guide-to-crete#quand-partir)
[](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/search?destinationId=30)
## The magic of Crete
For **unforgettable** **holidays** in [Greece](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/greece), in one of [our luxury villas in Crete](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-villas-rentals/crete), browse through our guide and discover the **hidden** **treasures** in this **extraordinary** **destination**.
## **Le Collectionist conciergerie's top 5**
### **1 - Explore the region’s sea caves**
The Cretean coastline is studded with **sea** **caves**, only accessible by the sea. **Peristeras’ cave**, for example, is a dazzling sight with its **wave-sculpted rock formations** and **crystal-clear waters**. Get out your **mask** and **snorkel** to admire the **colourful** **fish** and **flamboyant** **coral** in one of Crete’s many **unspoilt caves**.
**In a nutshell**
Boat/ Snorkelling
### **2 - Sample the best wines in Crete **
**Crete’s** **vineyards**, scattered across the island, benefit from a Mediterranean climate that’s ideal for cultivating **high-quality grapes**. Much more than a mere enological experience, **wine tasting in Crete** is a true **journey** through **complex** **notes** and **winegrowing traditions** that have endured for **millennia**.
Let our [luxury concierge](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/our-luxury-concierge-service) organise a **tailor-made wine-tasting** at one of these enchanting **vineyards**. Discover a variety of **delicious grape varieties** such as **Vilana**, **Assyrtiko**, **Kotsifali** and **Mandilari**.
**In a nutshell**
Wine tasting/ Vineyard
### **3 - Head on an adventure with a gustative safari **
Discover the **delicious Cretan cuisine** on this **unique experience** organised by our [luxury concierge](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/our-luxury-concierge-service).
During your **gustative safari**, we will guide you through the **best** **restaurants** of the old **historic** **town** of **Chania** for an exclusive sampling of **local** **dishes**. Then, head towards the region’s **picturesque** **villages** for another **culinary** **adventure** in the **White Mountains**, a mountain range in the west of Crete.
**In a nutshell**
Gastronomy/ Guided visit
### **4 - Discover Cretan nature with a personal guide **
With its **craggy mountains** and **spectacular** **gorges**, Crete is an **exceptional** **playground** for hikers in search of adventure. One of our **expert** **guides** will accompany you up **Mount** **Ida**, the highest point of the island, where **panoramic** **views** are the reward for all your effort!
**In a nutshell**
Hiking/ Nature
### **5 - Learn about the history of Crete**
Let yourself be transported by the **tales** and **legends** which have shaped Crete over centuries with one of our **story-teller historians** who will bring you to the region of **Lassithi**.
Once there, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of **Agios Nikolaos** and the traditional fishing village of **Plaka**. Visit the famous small island of **Spinalonga**, without forgetting the key **archeological** **sites** like the **Palace of Knossos**, icon of the legendary Minoan civilisation.
**In a nutshell**
Historical site/ Archeology
[](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/experience-greece-as-a-novel)
[](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/experience-greece-as-a-novel)
[](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/experience-greece-as-a-novel)
[Experience Greece as a novel](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/experience-greece-as-a-novel)
## **Where to stay in Crete**
### **Heraklion **
Situated on the **northern side of the island**, **Heraklion** is a city with many faces, where the **past meets modern life**.
Fall under the **authentic** **charm** of the **Cretan** **capital** and take the time to explore the **heart of the town**, famous for its **Venetian** **fort**, **churches** and **countless** **boutiques**. For lunch, stop at a **traditional** **tavern** to enjoy **fresh** **seafood** and **local** **specialties**.
**In a nutshell**
Picturesque/ Historic
[](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-althea-crete)
## Villa Althéa
[Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-althea-crete)
### **Chania**
On the **north-western coast of Crete**, **Chania** is a charming Mediaeval town which is home to some of **the most beautiful beaches in Greece**.
The region of Chania contains fascinating historical sites, notably the **Venetian and Ottoman fortifications** which are testament to its rich past. Don’t forget to visit the city’s iconic **lighthouse** and admire the spectacular views over the port and city.
**In a nutshell**
Culture/ Beach
[](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-medusa-crete)
## Villa Medusa
[Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-medusa-crete)
### **Rethymno **
On the **northern coast of Crete**, between Heraklion and Chania, **Rethymno** is famed for its fascinating heritage, preserved **Venetian** **architecture**, **magnificent** **beaches** and its isolated coves.
Wander through the **cobbled** **streets** in the centre to admire the colourful buildings, elegant arcades and **charming** **squares** lined with cafés and tavernas. With one of our **private** **guides**, immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Rethymno with a visit to its **Byzantine** **churches**.
**In a nutshell**
Culture/ Beach
[](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/search?destinationId=30)
## **The best beaches in Crete**
### **Balos beach **
On the **Gramvousa** **peninsula** in the west of Crete, **Balos** **beach** is famous for its **crystalline** **waters**, fine sands and preserved natural landscapes.
For an adventure, **stroll** around the **lagoon** to make the most of the **spectacular** **views** of the Aegean Sea and surrounding mountains. As this **beach** is **relatively** **secluded**, consider bringing a picnic to refuel during your day of absolute relaxation.
**In a nutshell**
Unmissable/ Nature
### **Elafonissi beach**
On the **south-west coast of the island**, near to Elafonissi village, you will find this heavenly beach, in the heart of a **protected** **nature** **reserve**. Created by a unique mix of shells and corals, **Elafonissi** **beach** is known for its pink sands which form a striking contrast against the **turquoise** **sea**. At low tide, you can walk to the pretty small **village of Elafonissi**, perched on a **small rocky island** covered in lush greenery.
**In a nutshell**
Pink sands/ Must see
### **Preveli beach**
**Preveli** **beach** is one of the most famous in Crete. On the **south coast of the island**, it is like a tropical paradise with its **golden** **sands**, **turquoise** **waters** and **exotic** **palm** **trees**. Fans of snorkelling can explore the **coral** **reefs** and watch the **coloured** **fish** through the **clear** **waters**.
It is accessible by foot from the **Kourtaliotiko** **gorges**, offering spectacular views of the **limestone** **cliffs** and surrounding **verdant** **valleys**.
**In a nutshell**
Tropical/ Snorkelling
### **Matala beach**
Close to **Heraklion**, **Malta** **beach** is nestled at the foot of **impressive** **cliffs**, renowned for their **man-made caves** carved out of the rock.
Plunge into the **clear, calm waters**, perfect for **bathing** and **free** **diving**. Make the most of the **bohemian** and **relaxed** **atmosphere** in one of the many **bars**, **restaurants** and **cafés** along the shore. The more adventurous can even rent **kayaks** or **paddle** **boards** to explore the coastline.
**In a nutshell**
Activities/ Animated
## The best restaurants in Crete
### **Merastri **
Just on the periphery of **Heraklion** town centre, [Merastri](https://www.facebook.com/MERASTRI/) restaurant dutifully respects **Greek** **tradition**, cooking in a **wood-fired oven**. An explosion of authentic flavours!
Savour their **handmade** **pasta**, following an ancient recipe and served with **dried** **anthotyro**, a **local** **cheese**. Also try the famous **chortopites** (herb pastries) or the **delicious lamb** served with **potatoes**, not forgetting the **Cretan** **wine** to accompany your feast.
[Merasti](https://www.facebook.com/MERASTRI/)
Chrisostomou 17, Heraklion 713 06
### **Peskesi **
In the heart of **Heraklion**, this **farm-to-table** restaurant celebrates **local** **produce** from **small** **producers** in the region. It’s a sincere and **authentic** **culinary** **experience**, honouring the **riches of Crete** in an enchanting setting.
Don’t miss out on tasting one of the hundred snail recipes on the menu. Equally, try out the **kreokakkavos**, a typical **Minoan** **dish**, or the pork, garnished with the delicious combination of honey and thyme, all served with a **pea** **purée**.
[Peskesi](https://peskesicrete.gr/en/restaurant-heraklion-crete)
Kapetan Charalampi 6-8, 71202 Héraklion
### **Kouzeineri**
This resolutely **New York**-style establishment is known to be the **best meat restaurant in Crete.**
Carnivores can savour **tender** and **juicy** **steaks** or **farmhouse** **pork**, **slow-cooked** in a **wood-fired oven**. But that’s not all : **vegetarians** are also in for a treat with a selection of meatless dishes that are just as well-executed and delicious.
[Kouzeineri](https://kouzeineri.com/en/)
Agiou Titou, 71202 Héraklion
### **AlmyVita**
Dive into an exceptional culinary universe with the **chef Ettore Botrini**, owner of this **luxurious restaurant in Chania**. In close partnership with **local** **producers**, he selects the best **ingredients** **of** **the** **terroir** to create completely unique plates.
Savour the famous **muscles** **risotto** with chorizo, lime and confit cherry tomatoes, or opt for the **slow-cooked lamb**, served with frumenty and succulent aubergines.
[AlmyVita](https://almyvita.gr/)
Akti Tompazi 19, Chania 731 00
### **Chrisostomos **
**Just outside of the touristy terraces** in Chania’s port, [Chrisostomos](https://chrisostomos.gr/en/) is a **local** **institution**. Take a seat in this restaurant, winner of the **Greek Cuisine Awards** since 2014, to savour **traditional** and **familial** **cuisine** where Cretian cheeses and meats take centre stage.
Be tempted by the traditional **Boureki**, layers of potato and courgette with fresh mizithra, a traditional Greek cheese, and garnished by aromatic mint. Equally, try the **lamb curry**, slow cooked with feta and garlic.
[Chrisostomos](https://chrisostomos.gr/en/)
Defkalionos Ikarou, Chania, 731 32
### **Vento **
[Vento](https://venetorestaurant.gr/) is situated in the heart of a **former 15-century Dominican monastery**, now converted into a prestigious hotel-restaurant. Perfect for a **romantic** **dinner**, this restaurant is one of the rare few in Crete to follow authentic **Italian** **cuisine**, from the Veneto region.
Enjoy **linguine** with **clams**, **tortellini** with **prosciutto** or excellent **veal** **carpaccio**. And as for drinks, you will equally have an array of choices with an **exceptional selection of Italian wines**.
[Veneto](https://venetorestaurant.gr/)
8-10, Zampeliou Str., Vieux Port, Chania 73100
## Crete with family
### **A guided visit around the old town of Chania **
Follow one of **our private guides** and start your day **strolling** through the narrow streets of the **old** **town** where you will discover ancient **Venetian** **buildings**, **Byzantine** **churches** and **Ottoman** **mosques**.
Be dazzled by the **historic** **architecture** and the many **local artisanal boutiques**, then invite your little ones to fill their basket in **Agora’s covered market**. You will find a plethora of **local** **products**, from **fresh** **fruits** to **exotic** **spices**.
**In a nutshell**
Culture/ Town centre
### **Learn the secrets of Cretan cuisine **
Spend time bonding with your troupe, preparing **traditional** **Cretan** **recipes** during a cooking class organised by our luxury concierge.
From the famous **dakos**, a salad made of slightly stale bread, tomatoes and goats cheese doused in **olive** **oil**, to the delicious **dolmadakia**, **vine leaves** stuffed with rice and herbs, or even the delicate **seafood** **risotto**, each plate tells a story and evokes the unique flavours of the island.
**In a nutshell**
Gastronomy/ Cooking class
### **Wander through the Cretan village **
Immerse yourself in the **welcoming** **atmosphere** in Cretan villages such as **Anchanes**, **Anogeia** or **Margarites**, where you will be welcomed with open arms by the locals.
Admire the **traditional** **architecture** of the stone houses, discover the **Byzantine** **churches** adorned with ancient frescos and with **breathtaking views** of the **mountains** and **sea**.
**In a nutshell**
Villages/ Heritage
### **Explore the Psychro cave **
**Equally known as Diktaean Cave,** it is situated on the northern side of Mount Dikti, in the region of Lassithi.
According to legend, it’s in this cave that **Zeus**, **king of the Olympian Gods**, was born and raised by nymphs. Head on an adventure with your little ones in this **large underground cavity**, where stalactites and stalagmites have formed over millennia.
**In a nutshell**
Cave/ Mythology
## **Le Collectionist’s exclusive experiences**
### **Organise a Greek feast**
Our [luxury concierge](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/our-luxury-concierge-service) will call upon the **best chefs in Crete** to prepare an **unforgettable** **dinner** with the best local delicacies.
**Welcome your family** with fanfare, with the guests of honour being the **local** **produce**, from the world-famous olive oil to even the **graviera** and **mizithra**, traditional cheeses appreciated for their delicate taste and unique texture.
**In a nutshell**
Private chef/ Evening at home
### Navigate on the Aegean Sea
Let us find a **superb boat with skipper** and head for discovery on the open sea, discovering secret beaches, hidden coves and neighbouring islands.
With our **exclusive** **fleet**, you will be spoiled for choice from **luxury** **yachts** to **vintage** **sailing** **boats**. Whatever your choice, your **tailor-made cruise** will be utterly unforgettable!
**In a nutshell**
Boat/ Cruise
### **Take a moment to yourself at home**
Take the opportunity during your stay in Crete to **completely unwind** and recharge. Let us imagine your complete **well-being experience**, with a **massage**, **facial** and **manicure**, all in the comfort of your **home**.
Unless you would prefer a **yoga** class on the terrace facing out to the sea or a workout with a **private** **coach** in your home gym?
**In a nutshell**
Relaxation/ At home
## Crete in the eyes of...
"Of these, the Belgian couple Jacques and Katia Wittmann were particularly drawn to Crete. The island, which they discovered by chance, soon became a favourite destination of theirs until they ultimately made it their home."
Come along with us as we discover the stunning
Villa Medusa through its owners’ eyes.
[](https://magazine.lecollectionist.com/interview-with-jaques-and-katia-wittmann-at-villa-medusa-crete)
## When to visit Crete
### **Spring**
**In spring**, the temperatures in Crete generally range between **15°C and 25°C,** a climate made for **outdoor** **activities** and for exploring the island without the uncomfortable summer heat.
During this season, **historical sites** like the palace of Knossos or the Byzantine churches are **not as busy**. As warm weather returns, the cafés by the sea invite you to pause in the **spring** **sun**.
### Summer
**Summer** is undoubtedly the **peak season for Crete**. Summer visitors flock here, **temperatures are mild**, the sun shines, and **it's always time for a swim**. During these beautiful days, **restaurants and shops all open their doors** and **nightlife is in full swing**.
### **Autumn **
After the effervescence of the high season, **autumn in Crete is a quiet interlude**, far from the summer crowds. Vineyards and olive groves take on shimmer hues of gold and red, painting the most **breathtaking vision of nature.**
### **Winter **
**Winter** is a great opportunity to **discover Crete from a new perspective**. The temperatures are still mild, only dropping to around **15°C** making it ideal for hiking in the gorges or visiting the **archaeological sites** in the fresh air.
## A sneak peak of our Crete collection
[](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-hallaies-crete)
**Villa Hallaies**
[Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-hallaies-crete)
[](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-galenite-crete)
**Villa Galénite**
[Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-galenite-crete)
[](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-palaria-crete)
Villa Palaria
[Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-palaria-crete)
[](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-isadora-crete)
Villa Isadora
[Explore](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/luxury-rental/villa-isadora-crete)
[Explore all our homes](https://www.lecollectionist.com/en/search?destinationId=30)
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