This charming Greek island is a world all of its own, combining easy-going beach luxury with dramatic interior landscapes and a history that dates back over 4,000 years.
It is the most southerly Greek Isle, which essentially, caters for every taste. Luxury Crete holidays can offer quietly relaxed experiences or a busy lively break. Explore the rocky landscape, unwind on golden shores lapped by azure waters or linger over a bottle of fine wine in a number of chic cafés.
Fabulous beaches and spectacular mountain scenery are good enough reasons to head to Crete, not forgetting the incredible history preserved at several sites around the island. While it may be tempting to spend all your time soaking up the rays on one of Crete's many glorious beaches, you must visit the 3,500-year-old remains of the Minoan palace of Knossos.
From its beautiful golden beaches, crystal clear waters, rugged snow-capped mountains and breathtaking scenery Crete is an ideal destination to relax.
But if you are looking for action you will also find countless things to do and see. Walks, climbs, drives and rides take you across striking plateaux, dramatic mountains and stunning seascapes.
And finally, shopping on Crete is an experience not to be missed. A range of small village shops and markets sell local produce and beautifully crafted leather, copper, bronze, terracotta and wooden items.
In the larger towns, you will find the streets are lined with chic boutiques, offering the latest in clothing, shoes and beauty items.
Jackie
Travel Specialist
Prev
- 1
Next
Where to go in Greece
Greece travel information
When to visit Greece
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best time
Good time
Ok time












- Time zone: +2 GMT
- Flight time: 4 - 5 hours depending on island
- Currency: Euro
- Tipping guideline: 5-10%
- Health considerations: No
- Capital: Athens
- Population: 10.3 million (January 2023)
- National languages: Greek
- Electricity and plugs: Type C/F - 230V, 50Hz
- Mobile phone coverage: Good
- UK passport visa requirements: No (for holidays up to 90 days)
Looking for inspiration?
You'll find expert travel guides, holiday ideas and insider tips now on Other Shores
Would you like to speak to a Crete expert?
Contact our Travel Specialists for a bespoke quote or some first-hand knowledge.
Monday - Friday: 9am - 7:30pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
Why Inspiring Travel?
Premium & Exclusive
- Only the best private travel experiences
- Hand-picked collection of world-class luxury resorts
- Diverse portfolio of bespoke & tailored itineraries
Personal & tailored
- Every holiday created to be entirely bespoke
- Exclusive experiences arranged on your behalf
- Personal contact to tailor every aspect of your holiday
Exceptional service
- 24/7 support while you're travelling
- Every detail handled by our concierge team
- Lounge passes, airport meet & greet and private transfers included
First-hand expertise
- The experts in tailor-made travel for 50 years
- Team of well-travelled specialists offering first-hand knowledge
- Network of trusted luxury travel partners
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware