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The Largest of the Greek Islands

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The largest island of Greece is the home of beaches with crystalline water, impressive mountainscapes and a rich gastronomic culture.
Cradled in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Crete is home to a land of myth and history. Visit the famed mountain cave where Zeus was believed to be born, travel to the Venetian castle at Rethymno or visit the archaeological sites of the Minoan civilization, Europe’s first civilization. Don’t forget to stop along the way and enjoy the various and rich cuisine that is native to Crete.

Crete hotels are open seasonally, April through October.

More About Central Crete

Overview

Central Crete is the largest and most inhabited island of the Greek Islands. The city of Heraklion is the capital and a good travel base when you visit Crete. Explore a palace in the ancient ruins of Knossos to learn about the Minoan civilization found to have made advances in science and industry. To appreciate Minoan art and Crete artifacts, the Heraklion Archeological Museum is a must-see. Come experience Chania Harbor, where you will see the influence of the buildings by Venetians. Experience natural wonders when you tour Sfendonis Cave, sometimes referred to as the Sanctuary of the Fairy. Come see the Cretaquarium: Thalassocosmos “sea world” that showcases the marine ecosystem of the Mediterranean Sea. Take in the scenery while you relax at the most beautiful Greek island beaches found on Central Crete.

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Top Experiences

  • Visit Knossos: An ancient palace of Minoan Crete. Originally built around 3,000 years ago, this palace features in Greek mythology. Even though it has been affected by multiple catastrophic events, you can still see the remnants of the throne room, royal apartments and a large courtyard.
  • Beaches: Crete is renowned for its beautiful beaches. Falasarna, Elafonisi and Balos Lagoon are just three of the Mediterranean delights with turquoise water just waiting for you to swim.
  • Samaria Gorge: A 16-kilometre hike, you may catch a sighting of a kri-kri, a feral goat that hops along the sheer cliff faces.
  • Chania Harbor: Originally built by Venetians in the 1300’s, you can still find traces of ancient dry docks and ship building.
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum: This houses the biggest collection of Minoan artifacts in Greece. Jewelry, vases, weapons, armor, frescoes, and the mysterious Phaistos Disc, which is still waiting to be deciphered.

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