Crete: Spend a Week Exploring Greece's Largest Island

Welcome to Crete! After arriving on the island, check into your resort and spend the afternoon unwinding after your journey. A perfect time to book massages or enjoy reading by the pool.

Enjoy dinner at one of the resort's restaurants and ease into the slower pace of island life.

Spend a leisurely day enjoying the pools, beach, and amenities at your resort.

If you'd like to venture out, drive to the charming Venetian town of Rethymno to wander the Old Town, relax along Rethymno Beach, and watch the sunset from the historic Fortezza before enjoying dinner in town.

Head inland to discover a different side of Crete, where mountain villages, monasteries, and olive groves showcase the island's rich history and culture.

First stop: Arkadi Monastery

One of Crete's most important historic monasteries, Arkadi played a significant role during the Cretan resistance against the Ottoman Empire in 1866. Today, it's known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful setting.

Continue through the Amari Valley. Drive through one of Crete's most scenic rural regions, filled with traditional villages, vineyards, olive groves, and mountain landscapes.

Suggested villages to explore

• Thronos

• Meronas

• Fourfouras

• Spili (great lunch stop)

Optional stop: Ideon Cave

If time allows, continue to Ideon Cave, the legendary cave where, according to Greek mythology, Zeus was raised. The cave requires a short uphill walk from the parking area, so plan to arrive earlier in the day if possible.

Final stop: Phaistos Palace

End the day at the Palace of Phaistos, one of Crete's most significant Minoan archaeological sites. Set on a hill overlooking the Messara Plain, the ruins offer sweeping views and a quieter alternative to Knossos.

Spend the morning on a pre-booked Knossos and Lasithi Plateau tour, which includes visits to Knossos Palace, the Lasithi Plateau, traditional villages, Zeus Cave, and local olive oil producers. Enjoy dinner in Chania's picturesque Old Town.

Spend the day on your pre-booked sailing excursion exploring the beautiful coastline surrounding Chania. After returning to shore, enjoy a relaxed evening wandering the Venetian Harbor before dinner.

Spend the morning exploring one of western Crete's scenic hiking trails, such as the famous Samaria Gorge for an unforgettable full-day adventure, or a shorter local trail if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

In the afternoon, consider visiting one of the region's excellent wineries, including Manousakis Winery or Dourakis Winery, to sample Crete's distinctive indigenous grape varieties. If you're craving more beach time, Elafonissi Beach is a worthwhile excursion, known for its crystal-clear turquoise water and famous pink-tinged sand.

Finish the evening with dinner in Chania's picturesque Old Town.