Crete Travel Guide: Your Minoan Journey to Greece's Largest Island
The most populous and largest of the Greek Islands, Crete is also the fifth largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. Glorious beaches, impressive mountainscapes, fertile valleys and steep gorges are what makes up the island of Crete. It is filled with historic forts and it offers delicious food. The island of Crete has a beautiful landscape which is undeniably artistic.
Crete has splendid beaches, ancient treasures, and landscapes, vibrant cities and dreamy villages. The main attractions of the island include Samaria Gorge, The Palace of Knossos, Heraklion, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Chania, Rethymnon, Áyios Nikólaos and Palm beach. Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of this diverse landscape and create unforgettable experiences on your journey through Greece with our Greece tour packages.
IDEAL DURATION: 4 nights
BEST TIME TO GO: Apr-Oct (Summer, Warm)
BEST AVOIDED: Dec-Mar (Winter, Too Cold)
IMPORTANT EVENTS: May - The Τour of Crete, May-June - B.I.G. Party Ierapetra Experience, May-Aug - The Cretan Wine Festival
Getting In Crete
You can fly to Heraklion International Airport, Crete. However another option is to fly to Santorini and take a ferry to Crete. The most common Airline providers for this line are Quatar Airways, Gulf Air, Emirates, Jet Airways, Air India.
| DEPARTURE | DURATION | LOWEST ROUND TRIP DEALS |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 13h, 1 stop | Rs 20,461 |
| Mumbai | 13h, 2 stops | Rs 33,771 |
| Kolkata | 29h, 2 stops | Rs 29,990 |
| Bangalore | 20h, 2 stops | Rs 29,784 |
| Chennai | 24h, 1 stop | Rs 31,666 |
| Trichy | 26h, 1 stop | Rs 45,861 |
| Kochi | 19h, 2 stops | Rs 30,269 |
| Hyderabad | 15h, 2 stops | Rs 37,584 |
Getting Out from Crete
You can fly to Turkey, Netherlands, Italy, France and other neighbouring European Countries, from Crete in both easier and cost effective way.
| POPULAR DESTINATIONS | IDEAL STAY | MODE OF TRANSPORT |
|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | 4 nights | 6 hrs |
| Rome | 4 nights | 5 hrs |
| Paris | 4 nights | 6 hrs |
| Amsterdam | 4 nights | 6 hrs |
How to Move Around Crete
Public Transport
Buses are the only form of public transport in Crete. It is the best way to explore the town.
Taxi & Airport transfer
The Airport is 57 Km from the Crete centre region. You can prebook taxi at cheaper rates. However, public transport is the best way to save money.
Transport & city passes
There is no need of city pass. You can opt for direct tickets in the public buses.
Driving & Car rental
Anyone who likes small, slow rides across the town with nature around, would love to explore Crete on their own wheels. P.S: Hope you have your IDP with you.
Crete Survival Guide
Good to Know
The Crete island has a rich history and it is also rich in natural beauty. The warm and sunny climate attracts tourists to the island. Crete is a heaven for foodies. If you are foodie, then you will find yourself a very happy time during your stay in the island. The people of Crete make their own meat, cheese, olive oil, raki and wine, and catch their own seafood. Their culture and custom is very unique.
Essentials
The standard voltage in Greece is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. The power sockets are type F and C. So you should carry a power plug adapter on your trip to Greece. However, you need not carry a transformer since the voltage is the same.
Expenses
Average cost of living for a couple in Crete is INR 3266 per day.
Food & drink
| Meal for two | Rs. 2000 |
| Meal for two (Fine Dining) | Rs. 3500 |
| Water | Rs. 63 |
| Coffee/Tea | Rs. 204 |
| Beer | Rs. 319 |
| Bottle of Wine | Rs. 255 |
Essentials
| Tourist Visa | Rs. 4805 |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff per km) | Rs. 95.76 |
| International SIM (Calling & Data) | Rs. 33.3 |
Emergency contacts
Indian Embassy
3, Kleanthous Str., Athens 10674
Contact No.: 00 30 210 7216227 & 30 210 7216481
Email address: ambassador@indianembassy.gr
Lost children
1, Agiou Artemiou Street Heraklio Police Building 71601 NEA ALIKARNASSOS , HERAKLIO , GREECE
Contact No.: +30 2810 274140
Police
1, Agiou Artemiou Street Heraklio Police Building 71601 NEA ALIKARNASSOS , HERAKLIO , GREECE
Contact No.: +30 2810 274140
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