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34 Best Stops Between Matala and Agios Nikolaos
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Matala to Agios Nikolaos?
The direct drive from Matala to Agios Nikolaos is 75.8 mi (122 km), and should have a drive time of 1 hr 50 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Matala to Agios Nikolaos, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Heraklion, Elounda, Hersonissos, and Ierapetra, as well as top places to visit like Lion Fountain and Baja Restaurant Beach Club -Crete, or the ever-popular Chromonastirion Military Museum.
Visiting Matala or Agios Nikolaos? See our Matala Trip Planner and our Agios Nikolaos Trip Planner.
75.8 mi
Total Distance
1 hr 50 mins
Drive Time
34 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Matala and Agios Nikolaos
The top cities between Matala and Agios Nikolaos are Heraklion, Elounda, Hersonissos, and Ierapetra. Heraklion is the most popular city on the route. It's 1 hour from Matala and less than an hour from Agios Nikolaos.
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Heraklion
Heraklion, also known as Iraklio, is the capital of Crete and a popular port city. It's famous for the ancient Palace of Knossos, an extensive archaeological site from the Minoan civilization. The city features the 16th-century Koules fortress at its Venetian port and the impressive Heraklion Archaeological Museum with a vast collection of Minoan art.
Most popular city on this route
4 minutes off the main route, 52% of way to Agios Nikolaos
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Hersonissos
Hersonissos, also known as Chersonissos and Hersónisos, is a popular town located in the northern part of Crete, bordering the Mediterranean / Aegean Sea. Situated approximately 25 kilometers east of Heraklion and west of Agios Nikolaos, Hersonissos is often associated with its peninsula and harbor. Despite being different from traditional Crete, it is considered one of the best areas for families to stay on the island.
54% as popular as Heraklion
3 minutes off the main route, 66% of way to Agios Nikolaos
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Ierapetra
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Ierapetra, a Greek city and municipality situated on the southeast coast of Crete, is often overlooked by mainstream tourists but is a hidden gem for more adventurous travelers. This small coastal town thrives on its agricultural resources and welcomes visitors to experience its authentic Cretan charm. The surrounding region is known as Crete's fruit and vegetable basket, making it an essential part of the local economy.
16% as popular as Heraklion
19 minutes off the main route, 78% of way to Agios Nikolaos
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Schisma Eloundas
Schisma Eloundas, also known as Elounta or Elouda, is a charming small town located on the northern coast of Crete, Greece. Despite its compact size and former fishing village status, it has become a popular destination for Greek politicians, actors, music stars, and wealthy foreigners. The town offers sprawling hotel complexes along the coast that cater to comfortable all-inclusive holidays. While these accommodations can be pricey during peak seasons, visiting during shoulder seasons may yield some good deals.
57% as popular as Heraklion
11 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Agios Nikolaos
Best stops along Matala to Agios Nikolaos drive
The top stops along the way from Matala to Agios Nikolaos (with short detours) are Knossos Palace, Kalydon, and Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Other popular stops include Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, Chrysi, and Matala beach.
1Leonardo C — Google reviewMagnus P — Google reviewAl H — Google reviewFiona H — Google reviewSerena S — Google reviewMartin T — Google reviewRoger — Google review
Chromonastirion Military Museum
Army museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
The Military Museum of Chromonastiri offers a meticulously curated collection featuring original uniforms and weapons from various factions involved in the conflicts surrounding Greece and Crete during World War II. The museum provides bilingual descriptions in Greek and English, detailing the battle over Crete, war crimes committed by the German army, and the resistance of Crete's population. Visitors can explore a second room with Greek-only descriptions, while Google Translate is recommended for detailed understanding.
Amazing experience there as there were many artifacts and information for the many wars Greece (with an emphasis on Crete) participated in.
The building it is located in gas a deep history including Venetian and Ottoman owners which made it that much more interesting. The price of 3€ is well worth it!!
Greg G — Google review
Visiting the Military Museum in Crete was an absolutely fantastic experience, greatly enriched by the knowledge and friendliness of the museum staff. Even though I arrived just before closing, the young man at the entrance never rushed me; on the contrary, he patiently and carefully explained the highlights of the exhibition and the fascinating history of the building itself.
Inside, I found a remarkable collection of weaponry and photographs that shed light on a lesser-known but undeniably captivating period of history. I was particularly struck by learning how the Germans brutally suppressed the local Cretan population during World War II. While I was already aware of Crete’s turbulent past with Turkey, seeing so many images and artifacts that tell the story of this era was truly eye-opening.
Thank you again to the museum staff for making the visit so memorable. Highly recommended!
Nice little museum, Crete has an interesting modern history as well as the awesome ancient. The cabinets are well layed out with interesting arms and other things. Not a big museum, €3 per person is a good price. The drive up to the museum was cool as well. If you're a history nerd this is a place to visit. Time spent less than an hour.
Very nice museum. We were greeted by a friendly young man who was more than happy to tell us a little about the history of the place and how it came to be. Not a big place but worth the low price. We enjoyed it.
This has to be a gem amongst stones. Rarely do we find a well presented looked after piece of history so will laid out. Being married to a WW2 enthusiast I've been to dozens of museums all over the world and for a small one this really is great. It doesn't have a gift shop with disneyfied commercialism it is a petite honest reflection of what happened in Crete over the centuries,including the second world war. It does have toilet facilities and it was quiet on the day we went so easy to park right outside. The drive from Rethimno was winding up a very big hill, but also only 15mins! Totally worth the 3 euros each.
A small but fascinating museum, detailing all the wars that have happened here on Crete from 18th-19th centuries. 4 rooms available of Cretan warfare history in English language to explore. Plenty of interesting military uniforms, weapons used - both big & small, war artefacts, vehicles & a helicopter are on display.
The WW2 display was for us, the most moving as we read how brave & sacrificial the Cretan people were in the face of Nazi tyrany, which we should not forget.
The museum staff & cats(!) were very friendly & shows the famed Cretan hospitality.
A well organised and laid out museum. The part about the battle of Crete in WWII was very informative and moving. Very worthwhile to visit.
The road to there was very drivable and the entrance fee of 3 euros per adult visitor is criminally low. ☺️
2Henry S — Google reviewKount F — Google reviewJeanne R — Google reviewMarek D — Google reviewVana M — Google reviewDiane B — Google reviewRachel N — Google review•
Lion Fountain
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Fountains
Found in the outside of the corner in the center of Spili you find the Lion Fountain.
The most refreshing water, coming filtered out of the mountain cold.
Drink as much as you can/want, and fill up bottles for later. It's SO GOOD!
Vincent S — Google review
Nice to make a swift stop when you are on the road. You can park the car freely down the road, about 130 meters from the Lion mountain. There are about 20 little shops and restaurants near the fountain.
Beautiful and relaxed village, a welcome addition to our tour of Crete. Nestled in the mountains it provides refuge and refreshments.
Lovely mountain village worth stopping for lunch and browsing the shops. The lion fountain is lovely and the water is drinkable!
A lovely spot to pause along the way. There are a few charming gift shops and cozy restaurants nearby. A picturesque village near the mount — definitely worth a visit!
A cute little square. That's it. It's also central with a lot of trees and many cafes. I ate the best galaktoboureko there.
A very nice village, nice places to eat & drink, you can drink from the lion fountains
A public fountain in a public square. There is a sign here stating the water is used to brew beer locally! There is a small green area to sit and a number of cafes and shops around the square. If you're around the Spili area it's worth a look!
4.6
(4487)
4.0
(201)
Epar.Od. Rethimou-Agias Galinis 26, Spili 740 53, Greece
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3Emilia N — Google reviewJustine B — Google reviewMaria K — Google reviewNemanja P — Google reviewStacey I — Google reviewHanna K — Google reviewJoanne J — Google review
Baja Restaurant Beach Club -Crete
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Beach club
Outdoor Activities
Baja Beach Club in Rethymno, Crete offers a vast privately organized beach area with various amenities and activities. The club features a large swimming pool, including a separate one for kids. Visitors can enjoy parasailing, beach volleyball, jet skiing, and other recreational options. Nafpigio, an electro house bar located nearby, is known for its lively parties and guest star DJs.
I have visited beaches and beach clubs in almost every region of Crete, and I can honestly say that this is one of the best! It looks that the owner has invested a lot of money, because there is a quality and cozy place. My only criticism is that the toilets don't suit such a high quality place, if they fix that, I think everything will be great. It was a nice experience, thanks to everyone.
Mehmet S — Google review
It was a nice experience. The service and the food was great. The prices were higher than average, as expected, but it was worth it for one day.
2 normal sunbeds were 20 euros, with no towels and self service.
One sunbed by the pool was 35 euros per person including service, water and two towels.
The beef in the picture was €45 and the fries were €8.
In conclusion, it was nice but way expensive.
Christian was amazing and was really immersed with our table, we had 11 people and we were all served too for all our needs. His customer service was amazing and would 100% come back if I was here again.
We spent the whole day at the Grande Gazebo which included our own private jacuzzi and honestly it was worth every penny!! The food was excellent and the service went over beyond for us . Warm welcome, great quality, food and drinks we would definitely recommend booking a private are a for you and your loved ones . We’ll definitely come back again!!
I spent the day there because of the wind and the red flag. The place is nice and the pool is big, but the prices are too high. €25 for a set of sunbeds with nothing included, not even in the first row, and placed horizontally to the sea, which really takes away from the experience.
The best evening for our girls pre wedding! Staff couldn’t do enough for us, thank you so much, we had the best night! Amazing food and cocktails in a beautiful setting ❤️
Very random beach club. Sun-beds are organised super randomly, no minimum spend, two sunbeds are 35€. Also no table service. Prices are crazy expensive and the food looks below average.We been to a lot of beach clubs and this one is the definitely the worst. I would understand higher prices for quality, but sadly there’s no quality here.
Fantastic beach club and very reasonably priced, we came for my daughter’s 21st Birthday and Christian looked after us so well. Food at the Baja restaurant was fabulous and the surprise birthday cake was a lovely touch. Thank you Christian.
4Duy H — Google reviewDavid H — Google reviewGreg S — Google reviewDani W — Google reviewRobert W — Google reviewSergiusz A — Google reviewEszter K — Google review•
Red beach
Mentioned on
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Red Beach, also known as Ammoudi, is a stunning shoreline with reddish-brown sand and towering rocks. It's accessible via a hiking trail that offers breathtaking views and a bit of adventure. The 30-minute trek from Matala requires sturdy shoes and plenty of water but rewards visitors with crystal-clear waters and unique red sand. This secluded beach provides a quieter alternative to the bustling Matala area, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
I don't like to climb peaks, but I would return to this beach again for the atmosphere, clear water and beauty on land and under water. We stayed all day and enjoyed a sunset. It wasn't hard to get back after him.
Irena S — Google review
The walk there took some effort but still better than that of Balos in my opinion. The beach is just fine by itself but it’s wavy (which I like) and not so cold and the fact that you can be nude there made it 100x better.
If you’re into the whole nudistic beach thing, this is the place to be.. the climb there is amazing but be sure to bring water to refresh yourself. The beach and the water however are mediocre at best
A beautiful beach.However, getting there requires effort and caution. On the beach itself, there are 2 bars, some sunbeds, and umbrellas.
In the water there are large rocks and stones. Be carefully when swimming 🏊♂️
There's a designated area for naturists.
And goats that are not afraid to steal your food🙂
Definitely worth to visit.
The “owner” on the beach thinks he owns the place. Hard trail, cash only, and a lot of interesting characters - it’s hippy alright, but not the loving everyone kind: you need to be a young tattooed “cool” hippy to be included: not for the normal people - is the vibe you get here. But hey: cool beach and yes there is sand….
If you’re looking for a beach adventure that mixes stunning views with a bit of a workout, Red Beach in Matala is your spot. The hike to this beach is like a scene from an action movie—complete with rocky terrain and the occasional carved figure to keep you company. It's about a 30-minute trek from Matala, so pack your sturdy shoes and plenty of water.
Once you get there, the reddish sand and crystal-clear water make the effort worth it. Don’t miss out on the infamous mojito from Gianni’s bar. Trust me, that strong drink will make the hike back feel like a breeze. Just be ready for some nudist sunbathing action, especially on the southern side of the beach. This place is the perfect blend of natural beauty, a touch of quirkiness, and a whole lot of relaxation.
May 2025: The southern part (from Jannis' bar to the left) is covered with large stones; there is not much space there, as only a few people can fit in (mostly it is an FKK zone). On this side there are also new stones in the water, so be careful.
Most of the guests are naturists in the northern part (from Jannis' bar to the right), as in previous years. The textile part is in front of the tavern.
___
May 2024: The southern part of the beach (after going down to the beach from the tavern to the left) is definitely more mixed: while in previous years the FKK culture prevailed here, now there are more and more people in swimsuits.
May, 2023: There are some changes and changes to the best. The waterline receded a few meters, revealing stretches of beach that earlier were under the water. The stones that covered most of the left (southern) part of the beach in 2022 have been cleaned up, so once again, coming to the beach along the path next to the Giannis tavern and turning left, you can find a lot of space to lie down on the sand at the FKK part. On the other hand, from the tavern going to the right there is still a zone with the FKK sign.
The water is still crystalline (sometimes there are waves and wind), with fine sand, and the entrance to the sea is gentle.
From the parking lot it’s a 15 min walk to the beach, i did it in my sandals, so it was pretty easy, there are some challenging parts, but don’t worry, it’s still manageable. The sunbed sets cost 10 euros, with 2 beds. It’s better to arrive early if you want to have a spot there but there are plenty of space for your own parasol 🏖️ as well. It’s a very nice beach, with 2 bars and one food stand.
4.5
(1722)
4.3
(1064)
702 00, Greece, USA
5Tondula ( — Google reviewZoe D — Google reviewJim P — Google reviewMr B — Google reviewJason D — Google reviewAnna W — Google reviewClare W — Google review•
Matala beach
Mentioned on
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Matala beach, located on the southern coast of Heraklion in Crete, is a bustling former hippie hangout that now attracts families and visitors of all kinds. The limestone caves along the fine-pebble beach were once homes to hippies during the free love movement. While now fully organized and family-friendly, Matala still retains its charm. Nearby Kokkini Ammos beach offers equally stunning views and even caters to nudists at its northern end.
Beautiful beach worth visiting! Though make sure you arrive before 11am as it filled up quite quickly with tourists and it was very busy. Parking looked full everywhere as well. We arrived at 10am on a weekday and it was already quite busy.
Elpida D — Google review
Beautiful beach, but very crowded. If you want to see the caves, it’s at your own risk and there’s a €5 entrance fee. It’s better to wear water shoes because of the stones, and be careful with the waves and rocks.
Unfortunately the day we visited it was too windy and wavy and didn't have the chance to swim.
A nice place with very touristy places and a lot of tourists even in early October!
The best beach to watch the sunset with local bars selling amazing food and drinks too. Ample parking and other shops available for a meander around when you've had enough sun! ☀️
This is a very nice sandy beach with plenty of room in the shade or the sun. Nice snorkeling to the right near to the caves, the entrance to which is via a wooden walkway across the top of the beach.
The shops and restaurants looked nice and not too busy in October. Worth a walk to the lefthand side of the bay for views of the caves.
Town is really hippy, lots of bob barley and bob Dylan music. Caves were dangerous but stunning views. We stopped at 365 cafe Huge portions and really enjoyable lunch
Lovely beach nestled in amongst spectacular, cave riddled cliffs and with a beautiful small town above it.
The water is crystal clear, the sand a fine type of small pebbles. We took our own snorkelling gear and had a great time exploring the underwater world off the beach, near the rocks, cliffs and caves. We spotted many types of fish, sea urchins and sponges.
Came off-season and glorious afternoons on the beach overshadowed by the caves in the rock face. Not too crowded and weather still in high 20s in November, and crystal clear sea still warm enough to swim in.
4.5
(7794)
4.3
(2404)
702 00, Greece, USA
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6MARIA T — Google reviewMateusz W — Google reviewCelia V — Google reviewAnaël R — Google reviewAndrás V — Google reviewStafford C — Google reviewLukas J — Google review
Caves Matala
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Matala Caves, a series of ancient caves carved into the sea cliffs, have a rich history as a hippy hangout in the 1960s and are now protected. The caves offer separate rooms, windows, and stairways, indicating their use as living quarters. Visitors can stay at Matala Caves Seafront Apartment for stunning sea views and easy access to nearby restaurants and shops. The area also boasts clear waters for swimming and various craft shops to explore.
I visited in May when I stayed in Matala. The caves were impressive and fun to climb. It was 5 euros to enter. Keep in mind the trail is rocky and not wheelchair accessible. Some caves require more climbing.
Julietta — Google review
Very clean and cool waters ,nice caves but you have to pay entrance fees to see from close. Organised beach with sunbeds and umbrellas (but of course you have to pay). Still there is enough space to sit at the beach without paying. Nice restaurants and cafés by the coast. Too crowded parking spaces most of the days meaning you may have to park your car 7-8 minutes far from the beach.
From the beach, the caves look picturesque, and the climb itself is quite an interesting activity.
However, inside the caves, there is a predominant smell of urine, which is quite strange considering the €5 entrance fee for adults. There is also a lack of any information about the site (like an information board), or if there was one, it wasn't prominently displayed. In some places, the railings on the rocks were not secure or had been torn out.
Very impressive caves and high viewpoints of the beach!!! We explored their inside and you could see beds and pillows carved in stone! There were also paintings in some of them and we even spotted a ying-yang from when hippies lived there in the 60s. Disclaimer: You need to be very careful during the climbing to get to the upper caves!!! (athletic shoes required)
The view from the Matala caves is truly stunning and absolutely worth seeing, but visitors should be aware that safety is completely nonexistent. You climb directly on the rock, with no marked paths or proper facilities to secure the ascent. The barriers that are still in place are damaged and unstable, offering no real protection at all. Slipping is a real risk, especially in the heat or if you don’t have proper footwear. I strongly recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes, and I would not suggest this visit for people who are not confident on uneven terrain, especially families with children.
Another downside: the price advertised online is €4, but once you arrive, the entrance fee is actually €5, which feels misleading.
In summary, the view is absolutely beautiful, but the visit requires caution, preparation, and awareness of the risks. This is not a casual or easy outing.
Amazing neolithic caves mixed with modern day's hippy culture. It's a fantastic mixture of life feeling. Maximum recommendation!
Really nice beautiful spot. I really enjoyed my visit here. Beach is nice and clean, 12 euros for 2 chairs and umbria. Amazing food ,cave walk is very interesting. I definitely recommend
The rocks are very shallow, only 3–5 meters deep, and can be walked around in about 10 minutes. The entrance fee is €5. The price is €3 only for seniors over 65 years old. Some of the posts are broken, so it’s better not to lean on them, as they are not very stable.
7Becky T — Google reviewHabbachi S — Google reviewSahoffm1 — Google reviewJörg K — Google reviewRenata G — Google reviewMary C — Google reviewUffe V — Google review
Melidoni Cave
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Melidoni Cave, also known as "Gerontospilios," is a captivating network of subterranean chambers located about 1,800 meters northwest of the village of Melidoni in Crete. This mysterious cave holds great archaeological significance and houses various artifacts that have been unearthed over time. It was once a significant worship site during the Minoan period, associated with the mythological giant Talos of Crete.
Not loads of parking available, especially when coaches arrive.
Amazing caves. It wasn't all open though in the caves but it was all pretty amazing. On our way down the steps everyone coming up was huffing and puffing so I took from that to stop to view down a few times on my way back up. It worked for me.
A chillingly sad story if the history of the cave.
Had a lovely coffee in the café on the way out. It was very reasonably priced and staff were very nice to. Very relaxing.
The views would have been good if it was clearer.
Helena K — Google review
Well done cave but small. Beautiful cave able to be seen in under 15 minutes. (We spent 5-10 inside plus the small walk from the entrance.) It’s essentially one room that you enter via a two-way staircase then do a small loop within one main room once inside. The path is decently lit (for a cave) but it is still relatively dark. It’s a comfortable cool inside (~15-16C/60F) but didn’t require a sweater.
They provide a brochure/guide plus have a few small signs in multiple languages within the cave.
It did get a little busy when we were entering via the stairs but not uncomfortably so.
Cafe had decent outdoor seating, though on our way out all tables were taken so we skipped it.
Toilets in the car park were nicer than expected.
Car park can get quite busy though there is a bit of turnover with people leaving. They indicate to be careful when parking 11-1 certain days as used as a bus turnaround spot.
If this is your first time visiting a cave, it will be an amazing experience for you. I wasn't lucky enough to visit the whole cave as most of the area was closed, but I was still amazed by what I saw. The photos and video only represent 1% of the incredible things you can see with your own eyes. It's worth renting a car as the bus isn't the best solution.
Loved this! The cave is large with intricate rock patterns. My neck hurt from looking up so much.
Be sure to read about the memorial to the people who died in the cave.
Recommend checking this out!
An absolutely stunning cave featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites! The pathways are well maintained and easily accessible, even for families with children. The view at the exit is breathtaking – a true highlight of the visit. Ticket prices are very reasonable. Highly recommended! 🪨✨👨👩👧👦
It is a rather small cave, and one will only take 15 -20 minutes to go around. It has a historical significance to the people of Crete. The road to the cave os spectacular. There is a cafe at the premises.
Beautiful monument in a Cave setting to a town who chose not to surrender their life and town. They still serve fresh squeezed orange juice with other local treats for a refreshing morning stop with clean restrooms before and after your visit.
Interesting cave to walk in , beautifully shaped stalagtites and stalagmites all over , to be noted that you need to have to be a little in shape as it's up and down and so for the walking you need to do.
8Jordy M — Google reviewGabriela M — Google reviewThat P — Google reviewVictor P — Google reviewEric B — Google reviewMiglė M — Google reviewEthan P — Google review•
Reptisland
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Temporarily Closed
Theme park
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Reptisland offers a unique and unforgettable experience with reptiles. Visitors are greeted with the opportunity to hold snakes and lizards upon entry, while the passionate owner shares extensive knowledge about each creature. The owner's genuine care for the animals is evident as he generously allows visitors to interact with them, some of which he has cared for over two decades. This hands-on experience provides an opportunity to overcome any fears or misconceptions about reptiles.
I was at Reptisland with my girlfriend and we loved it! The owner is super nice and explains a lot about the different animals present. And yes the pictures dont lie, you get the opportunity to hold a LOT of them :)
Definitely recommend, awesome place!
Eric D — Google review
A wonderful place. The owner is a very nice guy and passionate reptile owner who really cares about the welfare and rescue of these beautiful animals. He owns a huge variety of reptile species which he can tell you all about and he even let's you hold some of them. Very educational for children and adults! Help his good cause by visiting this place. Definitely recommended!
The 2 hours we spent there went like a minute. I had the joy to play with 3 chameleons climbing on my arms and neck all in the same time. An amazing interaction with their tiny claws pinching gently, such a joy! We also got to gently hold some of the snakes. The place is filled with interesting creatures, some you can hold, some not, but you can see them at least. The experience all in all is definitely worth the drive.
Small and friendly setting but has loads to show. The staff are brilliant and the animals on show were made so accessible to hold.
I didnt expect so much for the 5 euro entrance, glad I came.
This is one of the few places where I was genuenly impressed - by its simple, yet beautiful reptile exhibitions. They are owned by a guy which is extremely passionate about this. When we entered the building, he greeted us and showed us each animal present, explaining in detail everything. During his speech, he talked to us about how he got his first snake at 12, which shows how big his passion is! Overall, amazing place and I strongly recommend visiting!
Remote but well worth a visit. Owner is very personable, explains details about all the reptiles and allows visitors to hold some of the snakes, chameleons and there is a friendly large tortoise wandering around the premises. Interesting place to spend 30 to 45 minutes, and for all ages and great fun for children. Just a few kilometers from Meloni Cave, also fascinating to visit.
Reptisland is an absolute must-visit in Crete! ❤️🥰
The park is home to a fascinating variety of reptiles and snakes, and the experience was truly unforgettable. The staff are incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and passionate — we learned so much about reptile life and behavior. I completely fell in love with this place! Definitely one of the best experiences of my trip. 🫶🏽✨
The owner is very friendly and knowledgeable, and has many snakes that you can handle. Some of the children were somewhat rough with the animals, and it would be nice if there were more clear instructions on how to handle the animals so they feel safe and comfortable. However, the animals generally seemed relaxed, especially the tortoise that wanders around the shop.
4.9
(2619)
4.9
(727)
Melidoni, Rethimni, Greece 740 52, Greece
9S G — Google reviewJeff — Google reviewBarbara S — Google reviewRob S — Google reviewMaja Z — Google reviewJoão D — Google reviewTomas G — Google review
Minoan Palace of Phaistos
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
The Minoan Palace of Phaistos is a captivating archaeological site that offers a window into the ancient Minoan civilization on Crete. As the second most important palace of the Minoans, it holds great historical and cultural significance. Situated with breathtaking views of the Messara Plain and Mt Psiloritis, this site was built around a central court and features fewer frescoes compared to Knossos.
If you're in the south side of Crete definitely stop here to see the site. It's well maintained and has a self-service Cafe where you can cool off from the heat. Most of the site is in direct sun but there are nice shaded areas along the edges of the site with benches to cool off. The food at the Cafe was good and at a fair price
Mr. B — Google review
The palace was very important for the control of southern Crete and the trade with Egypt. It’s not as impressive as the one at Knossos because there are minor reconstructions but it is really worth the visit. Many of the most important artifacts from the Minoan era have been found here.
This is a great archeological site to visit.
Unlike Knossos, which has been reconstructed in places, Phaistos is in the natural untouched state as it was discovered.
There is still enough of the remains to get a good idea of how the palace was in its day.
The scenery around the site is stunning.
Yet another archeological site in Greece that is nothing to write home about. On the plus side - it is a site of a former Minoan palace and you only have to share it with a few other visitors! Sadly, the site is only very small compared to other ancient sites, and even worse, some parts are fenced off. Even if you look behind every stone, you have seen everything in 45 minutes max. And I don’t even want to mention the ridiculous entry fee of 15 Euros!
Interesting site.
Much less busy to the Palace of Knossos. It is further away for most tourists and it has much less to view. The entrance fee was 15 euros the day I was there and considering the balance between the "Ooo, Aaah!" factors for both places, this is Interesting if you drive by. There is controversial restorations at Knossos and here it is basically just a stone platform so there is less to see and marvel at but it is interesting, historically.
4 star rating if you are interested in history but if not....maybe 3 star.
I understand this is a very important piece of history and civilization, and I was happy to come here, but it felt underwhelming. Because it's so old and not much of the palace has survived, it's difficult to imagine how it actually looked like.
There are quite a few informative boards on the site in greek and English and some pictures - maybe more illustrations would make it more accessible for a regular person.
It's still a nice walk, with beautiful views - but 15 euro for entrance seemed pricey for me.
It's ok but I don't think I would recommend it to any of my friends.
Technicalities - the site is sunny so it can get very hot - remember to bring water and cover your head. Some benches in the shadow will help you cool down.
There are lots of cute cats near the palace.
There is also a toilet, a souvenir shop and cafe - I was sad to see that the souvenir shop offers really the cheapest kind of bullshit from china :( there is also a 'museum shop' with some books and postcards but also not a great selection.
I will make the same comment as to other archeological sites in Crete: for the entry fee, the site should be more visitor-centered, including additional notes, maps or labels tourists could read and enjoy along the way.
Phaistos remains one of the must-see sites to understand and explore the Minoan era in Crete. The site is immense and extremely well preserved, placed atop of a hill that shows the wonderful plains of Mesara and the multiple olive trees. The site is divided in well identified part but still felt that most of it was not accessible to visit. A must-see for ruin lovers in Crete, but beware of the shoes or bringing small children with you.
Beautifull archeological site, not as reconstructed as a Knossos palace, but beautifull either way. If you have a great imagination, you can pretty much reconstruct it in your head and feel like a part of the ancient Minoan community walking the same streets and corridors as them some 3500 years ago... If you stay in Crete I believe Knossos and Phaistos are a must visit.
10Paul D — Google reviewТатьяна — Google reviewFrank R — Google reviewΣτελιος Δ — Google reviewOmar F — Google reviewRoby C — Google reviewNicu N — Google reviewNikos F — Google review•
Limani Beach
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Calm, serene area. Lovely to sit. It gives a feeling of peace. A few shops nice renovated, restaurants have good food option. Clean and peaceful
Claudia R — Google review
Fantastic beach. Calm water, little wind. Great for young children. Lots of taverna and cafe close by. Deck chairs are 6-8euro for day (include a couple bottles of water)
(Translated by Google) The wands are located very tightly and this brought discomfort for me
The beach is clean and well-kept
(Original)
Жезлонги розташовані дуже щільно і це для мене приносило дискомфорт
Пляж чистий, доглянутий
(Translated by Google) Nice little beach, free parking not far away.
Loungers (2 with umbrellas) for €30 including 2 shallow water beds
(Original)
Schöner kleiner Strand, kostenlose Parkplätze nicht weit weg.
Liegen (2 mit Schirm) für 30€ inclusive 2 flachen Wasser
Omorfo ala mikro meros.
(Translated by Google) Characteristic beach surrounded by shops and bars/restaurants! The old port is located next to it with about ten boats, it is possible to rent jet skis and small boats.
I only give 4 stars because the density of umbrellas is high and there isn't the peace you deserve once you get to the beach... too bad!
If it was useful to you, leave a like! 👍🏼☺
(Original)
Spiaggetta caratteristica contornata da negozietti e bar/ristoranti! Si trova in fianco il porto vecchio con una decina di imbarcazioni, è possibile noleggiare moto d'acqua e piccole imbarcazioni.
Do solo 4 stelle perché la densità di ombrelloni è elevata e non c'è la pace che ti meriti una volta arrivati in spiaggia... peccato!
Se vi è stato utile lasciate un like! 👍🏼☺
(Translated by Google) A gem hidden among the houses and alleys towards the end of the town. Surrounded by very nice places and shops.
Beautiful to look at, to take a walk, but it doesn't make you experience it as a beach as it is mixed with the marina and therefore you have a coming and going of boats which are not pleasant if you are living a beach/sea life.
(Original)
Una chicca nascosta tra le case e i vicoli verso la fine del paese. Contornata da locali molto carini e negozietti.
Bella da vedere, da farci la passeggiata, ma non fa viverla come spiaggia in quanto è amalgamata con il porticciolo e quindi hai un andirivieni di barche e barchette che non sono piacevoli se stai facendo vita da spiaggia/mare.
(Translated by Google) The beach is suffocating!
The sunbeds are stuck to each other...
(Original)
Plaja sufocantaaaa!
Sezlongurile sunt lipite unul de celalalt...
(Translated by Google) The waters were amazing. Nice beach. Sandy and relatively shallow. The only downside is that the sunbeds in the shops are very close to each other and you can't move comfortably. You can, however, sit on the rock a little further to the right where there is shade after noon.
(Original)
Τα νερά ήταν καταπληκτικά. Ωραία η παραλία. Αμμώδης και σχετικά ρηχη. Το μοναδικό μειονέκτημα είναι ότι οι ξαπλώστρες των μαγαζιών είναι πολύ κοντά η μία στην άλλη και δεν μπορείς να κινηθείς άνετα. Μπορείς να κάτσεις όμως στο βράχο λίγο πιο δεξιά όπου μετά το μεσημέρι έχει ίσκιο.
4.1
(15)
4.2
(298)
Unnamed Road, Mylopotamos, Greece
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11John P — Google reviewNicolas C — Google reviewAna M — Google reviewАнна Т — Google reviewAdela T — Google reviewKate B — Google reviewLois P — Google review•
Karavostasi Beach
Mentioned on
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Karavostasi Beach is a tranquil pebbly beach located near the town of Aghios Nikolaos in Crete. Surrounded by olive groves, it offers a quiet escape and is mainly frequented by locals. The area boasts clean and cold waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Despite its small size, the beach can get crowded during summer, so arriving early is recommended to secure a sunbed.
Best beach in Bali if you like calmer beaches with clear water for snorkeling. Popular among families with kids but if you lay in grass area there is quite calm vibe. You can hike nearby rocks or swim to cave beaches if you are a good swimmer. Clean toilets and good showers and very helpful guy in charge of the sunbeds that cost 10 dollars a set. :) honestly my favourite beach in Crete
Markéta V — Google review
A wonderful little bay with incredible views and amazing waters. Especially in the afternoon they are unique.
It is worth visiting and do not miss a mask for snorkeling, if you like exploring the seabed.
In the afternoon you meet octopuses that move fearlessly on the rocks of the seabed as well as squids that take their walks, starfish and all kinds of fish!!
Do not forget to visit the picturesque taverns that are there. Excellent people with kindness and respect. and everything we tried was unexpectedly delicious and fresh!
Our best beach in central Crete. Protected from the northern wind/waves. Good water clarity (excepted on the very shore) and amazing underwater variety. Fishes, turtles, rocks, cliffs, caves, it has it all. Daily sunbeds set at 10€ (July) / 15€ (August), unfortunately in the range for Cretan beaches. The beach itself gets quite crowded in high season (very limited place for extra private umbrellas/towels). More for sea-lovers than beach-lovers, maybe. Various boats/pedal boats/kayaks to rent.
Just beautiful! Sunbeds and umbrella are 15€, here is a beautiful tavern to eat lunch. And the water is clean, clear and with a lot of fish to see when snorkeling
Beautiful beach. Clean sea, clear water. Beautiful rocks nearby.
Set of two sunbeds and umbrella 10 euros.
A small, wild beach with amazing views! Peaceful, beautiful, and perfect for escaping the crowds.
Beautiful place but it would not be comfortable for you if you didn’t want to rent sun lounger- it’s almost on the all territory. Not big area for children to play with sand. In water a lot of renting stuff- boats and catamarans. Parking is a little up from the beach.
Really nice place but one thing I would say is that there are so many people and especially near the shore it is very crowded. It is okay to find a sun bed in the morning but in the afternoon it gets VERY crowded. When you get further out to sea it is lovely with clear waters and LOADS of fish. Highly recommend but visit in the morning in order to get a sun bed and avoid big crowds. There are 2 cafes one is a taverna where it would be ideal to get lunch or dinner. One is a cafe that does milkshakes and plenty of ice lolly’s. There isn’t much litter in the sea either with is refreshing to see. Come here mainly if you want to snorkel since it is very good! There is very limited parking especially in the afternoon so arrive before 10:30. We have been to many beaches around the Cretan coast but homely this was the bed one!!
4.5
(1248)
4.5
(467)
Greece, Mpali, Greece, USA
12Kerstin L — Google reviewTatjana S — Google reviewJason D — Google reviewOn S — Google reviewFloris T — Google reviewMirosław B — Google reviewBrian H — Google review•
Cave Ideon Antron
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Cave Ideon Antron, a large limestone cavern system, is believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the mythical king of the gods. Despite its seemingly unremarkable appearance, it holds great sacred significance in mythology as the place where Zeus was raised by his mother. Visitors can combine a trip to Sfendoni caves at Zoniana for a full day of exploration.
This is a beautiful archaeological site to visit. There are a lot of pigeons when you first approach which sounds like Zeus himself throwing out thunder. There was snow when we visited in March so the stairs were covered in the beginning but we were still able to make our way down the stairs to the cave. We couldn’t drive in as the gate was closed, but the gate to walk in was open. It’s quite remote but we are happy we did the drive. Pairing this cave visit with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see the artifacts found in the cave is a must!
Vanessa C — Google review
Last 3 minutes of drive up are unpaved and like others I got a flat tire.
Otherwise the drive up is beautiful but also quite dramatic and treacherous. Not for the faint of heart!
The cave is an amazing part of history and myth so I couldn't skip it it. One plaque at the entrance of the site gives a brief detail of its significance. Best if you read up yourself. According to Google the site is open til 8pm. Sign at entrance says 4pm. Was officially closed when I arrived but thankfully the gate door was open.
I would have given it 5 stars if not the unnecessary rails - in my opinion they could have been removed after the exploration of the cave. It is a really nice cave in terms of its shape and place, but the smell - it was hard for me to stay there longer, very strong smell of rotten wood and pigeon poop.
It was very nice just to stay a bit longer next to the cave, it was very calms, only the birds and the echoes of their wing flaps bouncing off the cave. Beautiful little flowers. Our 9y/o son says spent all the time playing with the remaining snow just next to the cave. I would suggest to grab some snacks with you as it is a very nice place to sit with the view of plateau and have some snacks.
Found the car park there is a dirt track wglhich goes to another car park. The walk up was 430m and was really pretty.
The caves had a guide but was full of bird poo. Personally found it a bit off putting but was free
The cave is noteworthy for its religious and mythical significance. Not an especially interesting-looking cave though still worth a visit. The highlight for us were actually the views of the mountains and the plain on the way to the cave. Spectacular scenery! Note that the last 1.5km of road to the cave is unsealed, single lane, rocky and has no Armco barriers. Daunting… if there are two cars passing each other..luckily there is very little traffic… we didn’t pass any other cars on the way up or down. Do-able.
I’ve seen many people turn back due to (presumed?) road conditions, It’s possible to drive up with a 2WD as long as you’re careful! Get to the site from Angoni in the north if you have a 2WD, other roads require a 4WD
Quite a number of people in these reviews confuse this cave with the diktaen cave or psychrocave and claim this one is not worth it.
The cave itself is not the typical fairytale cave- unlike the other contender - but rather the cave where you would expect Zeus to be hidden from Kronos. This has been a major site in the Minoan and Hellenic religions, evidenced by the finds made here, and just that fact makes it worth going. There is also a very interesting and imposing altar from antiquity at the entrance that is quite unique.
Great views, and interesting place. Worth to see.
PS: in case 1km climbing is not for you, there's a road till the very end. It looks gravel, but in fact only beginning and the middle part are gravel. The rest is solid. With slow driving regular car can make it.
The drive up alone to this cave is worth it for the truly stunning scenery and interesting views, the plateau is incredible and looks like an African savannah, truly dripping in natural beauty. We arrived at the end of the tarmac road and carried on up the gravel road to a parking area just below the entrance, we walked up to the entrance to be greeted by a young lady and her son, she gave us a book on the area and informed us the entrance was free, she then proceeded to give us a guided tour, not a great deal to see but worth it none the less, over all a great visit and definitely worth the effort.
4.1
(913)
3.9
(1355)
Idaean Cave, Nida Ψυχρό, Greece
13Christopher K — Google reviewMark C — Google reviewJeff T — Google reviewMartin B — Google reviewNikolas T — Google reviewLee S — Google reviewS G — Google review
Morosini Fountain
Mentioned on
Fountain
Sights & Landmarks
Historical landmark
Morosini Fountain, also known as Liondaria in Greek, is a 1600s Venetian fountain located at the heart of Heraklion. The fountain features eight cisterns adorned with stone reliefs depicting figures from Greek mythology, Nymphs, Tritons, sea monsters and dolphins.
Lion fountain ( looks like monkeys to me though)is located in the center of the square.
It decorated with Venetian coats of arms, as well as with relief sculptures inspired by mythology and the sea world, including tritons, dolphins and nymphs. Though lions are uncommon in fountains, as they are not linked with water, they were used by the Venetians in this case as a symbol of their power.
A B — Google review
The main square is a lively place with lots of restaurants and shops around—perfect for a casual stroll or a meal. However, during our visit, the fountain wasn’t working, which was a bit disappointing. Still, the atmosphere and variety of places nearby made it worth the stop.
The wonderful Morosini Fountain, in the heart of Heraklion old town.
I couldn't help but think the effect this fountain had on the city when it was unveiled in 1629.
Incredibly ornate marble font with carved frescos depicting local life and well being.
Meanwhile just metres away locals share al fresco dining, could be a mirror image from the fountain.
The fountain is nice. Beautiful carved frescoes all over.
However, the fountain was never "on" in the 2.5 days I was there.
At night, cockroaches come out of the cracks by the base.
The fountain area is packed with tourists that give off a positive vibe and energy. Surrounded by restaurants all over the place and street shops hawking various wares.
The fountain is at least 350 years old.
Great central location in Heraklion, Cretes capital city. Lots going on here, squares to sit and people watch, cafes,bars and restaurants plus shopping. If you're after historical- lots to see too. If you're looking for smaller and more picturesque, go to Agios Niklaus.
The vibrant social spot where, even if you don't speak the Greek [never late to try it], you can melt right into the local life. Coffee shops in Greece are a true social institution, the kind Starbucks can only envy. Take your "frapé", sit back, and soak up the lively animated conversation and joy of the locals while tracing the ever lasting attempts of foreign powers to leave their marks in Hiraklion.
Lovely fountain, we stopped here on our guided tour of Herakleion. Was here during the very end of the season and it was still incredibly busy so dread to think how packed this would be in the summer.
Fountain wasn't actually on when we visited so not as majestic as hoped. Still wonderful architecture.
Nice meeting place at the historical center of the city. The fountain dates from the seventeenth century. Beautiful cafes and shops nearby.
14Rahl22 — Google reviewPriya C — Google reviewForrest T — Google reviewA. R — Google reviewPhilip K — Google reviewAndy Z — Google reviewJeff — Google review•
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Mentioned on
Archaeological museum
Museums
History Museums
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by ancient civilizations. Located in the heart of Crete's capital city, it houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Minoan age and showcases Cretan art, sculptures, and archaeological finds. Families with children can enjoy educational exhibits and interactive displays. To gain deeper insights into the exhibits, visitors can take advantage of guided tours or audio guides offered by the museum.
What an incredible museum! After visiting the museums in major Classical Greece sites, I thought I'd seen everything.
This one truly amazed me. The level of artistry and beauty in Minoan artifacts here is astounding!
Even if you'd already visited the Knossos Palace site, make sure to come here for eye -popping colors and details. A feast for the eyes!
Jonathan B — Google review
Some photos of Heraklion archaeological museum.
Was really fun and interesting.
But I feel I wanted more time then I had to explore it all.
After the guide was done we had only 20 min to explore the rest or buy some suverni.
Would be great if it would have been 1-1,5 hours after extra.
But overall it was a great enjoyment.
This museum is phenomenal! Informative, clearly laid out, fabulous collection of artefacts. Super helpful for understanding and appreciating the history and culture of the Minoan people (especially alongside a visit to Knossos Palace). I would recommend spending at least two hours here—I did 1.5 hours and wished I had more time. Entry was free on the day I visited.
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is an absolute must visit in order to gain an understanding and appreciation of the astonishing Minoan civilization. Suggest visiting the Archaeological site of Knossos first and then visit the archaeological museum. Focus especially on the Phaistos Disc, the priestesses with the upraised arms, and the amazingly beautiful frescoes. Suggest you allow two to three hours to get a good tour of the museum. Also, keep in mind that after 1450 BC, Crete had a blended Mycenaean-Minoan culture.
Totally a MUST-visit after Knossos palace. The collections are absolutely incredible - so detailed, beautifully displayed, and full of context that really ties everything together. You finally get the full picture of Minoan history, myths, and daily life (and honestly, it makes Knossos make so much more sense 😅).
I loved how well-organized everything is - from tiny gold jewelry to fresco fragments. Ypu could easily spend hours here if you’re into ancient culture. Unfortunately I came 1.5h before closing so I still have a feeling that there was so much more to see.
Tip: go after Knossos, not before - it’s like getting the answers after the adventure 😉
Had the option of coming here as part of a Knossos tour. It is a complete no brainer to choose to visit as the museum amplifies and expands your appreciation of the history of Crete particularly after visiting Knossos. I was unable to book tickets online beforehand, but the queue was worth standing in for 15-20 minutes, i'm unsure how long it is normally but there was on a Wednesday a later opening time of 1-8, so it was just a one of those things.
However it was a superb building and rooms to view and look at the archaeological finds. Everything was densely packed in but was thoughtfully laid out and I could have spent much longer than the 1.5-2 hours I had available, and this was just prioritising the first floor with the Minoan finds.
Amazing place full of items mainly from Knossos Palace. I would recommend visiting this place prior to seeing Knossos Palace. There is a cafe with a great view over the part of Heraklion and sea port. To avoid the crowds i believe it is better to come in an afternoon.
What can I say, the archaeology in this museum is amazing.
The amount and quality of the finds on display at stunning.
It covers all throughout the ages.
We visited Knossos before visiting the museum, everything just slots into place and you get to understand the history and relevance of the finds.
4.7
(34337)
4.6
(7769)
Ξανθουδίδη και, Chatzidaki 1, Iraklio 712 02, Greece
15Liubov G — Google reviewRusnac N — Google reviewZoltan K — Google reviewRalph E — Google reviewDamian P — Google reviewMarianna M — Google reviewJeeashelle V — Google review
Venetian Fortress Rocca a Mare
Mentioned on
Fortress
Sights & Landmarks
Rocca a Mare Fortress, originally built by the Venetians in the 16th century, has been meticulously restored and now offers visitors dramatic views and a glimpse into history with its displayed artifacts. The fortress, situated on an island, provides cinematic views of the Gulf of Heraklion during the day and is also an intriguing spot for evening exploration.
Worth the trip and one of the best places to learn about the Battle of Crete. There is an entry fee that seems reasonable, and the place does actually take a while to explore. On the ground floor there is the main exhibition and on the top you see the walled structure with views towards the city and the sea. There is a nice coffee area there as well for a break.
João D — Google review
Nice place to visit, great views from the top. For EU citizens born 2000 or later free entrance.
In case you order something in the cafeteria on top, ask and check your receipts! We took two slush drinks (colored ice, see the picture), and were told it cost 10€, no receipt provided. When I checked my card transactions next day, they actually charged 13€ instead of 10! For that reason 4 stars only.
Here we have spent the most interesting part of our day! It is a very beautiful and extravagant fortress. For me this is a place where I would definitely come one more time in the future as it is very beautiful. For EU people that has no more than 25 years the entrance is free as for all the museums in Greece as I understood it!
A very nicely renovated and maintained fortress. Built during the Venetian Republic, the construction was completed in 1540, and then in 1669 it came under Ottoman control. The terrace offers a fantastic view of the sea and the city of Heraklion. It can be reached by walking for about 10 minutes from the city center. The entrance fee is 10 Euro/person, free for those under 25. I recommend it to everyone!
Worth the entrance fee of €10 to explore the incredible fortress. Great views from the top across the port of Heraklion. Lots of history inside with some great displays.
The Venetian fortress Rocca a Mare is definitely interesting, even though you can get through it rather quickly. A big plus: EU citizens under 25 get free entry. From the walls you also have a nice view of the harbor and the city. Overall, worth a visit, 4 stars.
Koules Fortress (Greek: Κουλές), also known as the Heraklion Fortress, the Venetian Fortress, or Rocca al Mare, is a medieval seaside fortress in Heraklion, Crete. Built by the Venetians between 1523 and 1540, it impresses with its architecture and offers beautiful panoramic views of the harbor, the sea, and the city. We only walked around the outside and didn’t go inside. There were quite a few tourists, but it didn’t feel crowded.
During our visit, we noticed quite a bit of litter and cigarette butts near the entrance, which was a bit disappointing, so it’s important to help keep such historical sites clean.
I recommend taking a walk there, especially in the evening when it’s cooler and more pleasant!
Beautiful fortress with a panoramic view of the sea, port and the city. Inside is a small museums exhibits with the history related to the building of the fortress and its surroundings. Was hard to find the entrance (walked all the way at the outside pier), but we finally made it.
Would have been great if the cafe inside stayed opened (the information said they close at 20h but they closed at 18h).
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16Andy Z — Google reviewPoppy J — Google reviewForrest T — Google reviewRahl22 — Google reviewThe C — Google reviewPaul D — Google reviewJade B — Google review•
Knossos Palace
Mentioned on
Archaeological site
Sights & Landmarks
The Knossos Palace, a reconstructed royal palace dating back to around 1600 BCE, is located in the heart of Heraklion Town. This archaeological site is linked to the myth of the Minotaur and offers a glimpse into the advanced Minoan civilization on Crete. The labyrinthine layout and historical significance make it one of Greece's most important sites.
It is a historical site worth visiting for sure!
It is not a museum per se, so do not expect to see a lot of artifacts or monuments/art. The palace and its archeology are very interesting to learn more about via the explanatory stands and QR codes for more details. We were lucky the weather was perfect so we truly enjoyed our walk without being bothered by too much heat or rain.
Good to know:
-Try to buy tickets online as you can guarantee to go in at the day/hour of your choice. You can buy your tickets directly on the site on an automated screen (card payment), but you might need to wait for your turn to go in (we had to wait for 45 mins for our turn to start the visit).
-There are toilets, snacks and drinks space, as well as a souvenir shop on premises.
-Wear comfortable shoes and clothes because you will have to walk, and sometimes you have to go up or down stairs. Be aware that the palace is entirely outdoor.
-Make sure you pass by the Throne Room, even if you have to wait a dozen of minutes in line to see it, it is worth it 😉
-Arrive as early as the opening hours if you are going by car because the parking space can be full very quickly. We had to circle round many times until we eventually parked at the restaurant a couple of steps before the parking lot. They were very kind and sweet, they didn’t accept to take money and asked us to take coffee/smoothie or have lunch at the restaurant in return which we gladly did 🥹
Happy visit! ☀️
Elia N — Google review
This place is amazing. Overwhelmed. One can ask a simple question- how would they build without having today’s technology and tools?
You can explore it on your own, taking a local bus from downtown Heraklion for over 2 euros- 2nd zone. Early afternoon there are less people. If you like you can hire a local guide or use your phone to download valuable information. I recommend 2-3 hours of your time. There is a toilet before the gate - nothing inside. There are few benches you can sit while walking around. There is a cafe and souvenir shop with not expensive basic guidebooks in different languages. There is a huge parking lot, I believe for free. We did not need it, since we used a bus.
I really like how certain areas are restored next to the unrestored sections so you can really see the passage of time. Nice open site with plenty of shady spots to sit. Small cafe area at the front is fairly busy, but once you’re inside the grounds it feels very spacious and open.
The Minoan palace of Knossos is the second most visited site in all of Greece. Of course, the most visited site is the Acropolis of Athens. Suggest that you buy a couple good guide books on Knossos, and fully read and absorb them prior to your visit. This enable you to fully appreciate and understand the heroic achievements of the Minoans in creating this beautiful palace. Suggest paying homage to Sir Arthur Evans for excavating and preserving this magnificent archaeological site. Suggest to eat the crowds that you arrive by 0900.
Some photos of the Knossos palace and archaeological site.
Was really fun and interesting.
But I feel I wanted more time then I had to explore it all.
Guide was amazing. But 1 hour extra would been great to walk around by one Self
Awesome historical monument. The reconstructed areas are tastefully done and the excavation has been done so you can really get a feeling for the importance of the site. The Knossos app (if you have a guide they can show you a QR code for the website) let's you see what many areas would have looked like before being ruined, so you can stand in a spot and see what it would have looked like. Well worth a visit.
The site is of course awe inspiring. Simply walking on the same grounds as the amazing ancient Minoans and trying to imagine how the palace looked like with the help of some of the restorative work done is amazing. Still, at times you feel quite lost. Can't truly understand what has been restored(except for the clear ones), what was original and most of the signs don't really help that much either. For such a historical site, there should be an improvement on all aspects.
A must for any history buffs. It’s so interesting and not difficult to walk around. Enjoy your tour with a guide. They will explain everything and help you skip the queue. There is toilets, cafeteria and a gift shop. Plus the resident peacocks and cats. Buses and Taxis easy to get to and from the site.
4.3
(56330)
3.9
(13954)
Knosos 714 09, Greece
17Andy Z — Google reviewPoppy J — Google reviewForrest T — Google reviewRahl22 — Google reviewThe C — Google reviewPaul D — Google reviewJade B — Google review•
Knossos Palace
Mentioned on
Archaeological site
Sights & Landmarks
The Knossos Palace, a reconstructed royal palace dating back to around 1600 BCE, is located in the heart of Heraklion Town. This archaeological site is linked to the myth of the Minotaur and offers a glimpse into the advanced Minoan civilization on Crete. The labyrinthine layout and historical significance make it one of Greece's most important sites.
It is a historical site worth visiting for sure!
It is not a museum per se, so do not expect to see a lot of artifacts or monuments/art. The palace and its archeology are very interesting to learn more about via the explanatory stands and QR codes for more details. We were lucky the weather was perfect so we truly enjoyed our walk without being bothered by too much heat or rain.
Good to know:
-Try to buy tickets online as you can guarantee to go in at the day/hour of your choice. You can buy your tickets directly on the site on an automated screen (card payment), but you might need to wait for your turn to go in (we had to wait for 45 mins for our turn to start the visit).
-There are toilets, snacks and drinks space, as well as a souvenir shop on premises.
-Wear comfortable shoes and clothes because you will have to walk, and sometimes you have to go up or down stairs. Be aware that the palace is entirely outdoor.
-Make sure you pass by the Throne Room, even if you have to wait a dozen of minutes in line to see it, it is worth it 😉
-Arrive as early as the opening hours if you are going by car because the parking space can be full very quickly. We had to circle round many times until we eventually parked at the restaurant a couple of steps before the parking lot. They were very kind and sweet, they didn’t accept to take money and asked us to take coffee/smoothie or have lunch at the restaurant in return which we gladly did 🥹
Happy visit! ☀️
Elia N — Google review
This place is amazing. Overwhelmed. One can ask a simple question- how would they build without having today’s technology and tools?
You can explore it on your own, taking a local bus from downtown Heraklion for over 2 euros- 2nd zone. Early afternoon there are less people. If you like you can hire a local guide or use your phone to download valuable information. I recommend 2-3 hours of your time. There is a toilet before the gate - nothing inside. There are few benches you can sit while walking around. There is a cafe and souvenir shop with not expensive basic guidebooks in different languages. There is a huge parking lot, I believe for free. We did not need it, since we used a bus.
I really like how certain areas are restored next to the unrestored sections so you can really see the passage of time. Nice open site with plenty of shady spots to sit. Small cafe area at the front is fairly busy, but once you’re inside the grounds it feels very spacious and open.
The Minoan palace of Knossos is the second most visited site in all of Greece. Of course, the most visited site is the Acropolis of Athens. Suggest that you buy a couple good guide books on Knossos, and fully read and absorb them prior to your visit. This enable you to fully appreciate and understand the heroic achievements of the Minoans in creating this beautiful palace. Suggest paying homage to Sir Arthur Evans for excavating and preserving this magnificent archaeological site. Suggest to eat the crowds that you arrive by 0900.
Some photos of the Knossos palace and archaeological site.
Was really fun and interesting.
But I feel I wanted more time then I had to explore it all.
Guide was amazing. But 1 hour extra would been great to walk around by one Self
Awesome historical monument. The reconstructed areas are tastefully done and the excavation has been done so you can really get a feeling for the importance of the site. The Knossos app (if you have a guide they can show you a QR code for the website) let's you see what many areas would have looked like before being ruined, so you can stand in a spot and see what it would have looked like. Well worth a visit.
The site is of course awe inspiring. Simply walking on the same grounds as the amazing ancient Minoans and trying to imagine how the palace looked like with the help of some of the restorative work done is amazing. Still, at times you feel quite lost. Can't truly understand what has been restored(except for the clear ones), what was original and most of the signs don't really help that much either. For such a historical site, there should be an improvement on all aspects.
A must for any history buffs. It’s so interesting and not difficult to walk around. Enjoy your tour with a guide. They will explain everything and help you skip the queue. There is toilets, cafeteria and a gift shop. Plus the resident peacocks and cats. Buses and Taxis easy to get to and from the site.
4.3
(56330)
3.9
(13954)
Knosos 714 09, Greece
18Bogdan D — Google reviewAmy C — Google reviewMartin A — Google reviewJay B — Google reviewLouise — Google reviewNaveh L — Google reviewJemD H — Google review•
Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre is a unique and intimate attraction located in Hersonissos, Crete. It stands out as one of only three aquariums in Greece and offers a change of pace from the island's historic ruins and breathtaking landscapes. The facility is home to a variety of sea creatures and reptiles, many of which have been rescued and rehabilitated or are unwanted pets.
Small but very interesting place with a lot of interesting animals, including a beautiful sea turtle (a blind rescue) and axolotls :) Several animals were free to wonder around and we could pat them. The staff were pleasant and full of knowledge. Great way to support rescue efforts. :)
Lenka R — Google review
We visited the aquarium and rescue center during our trip to Crete. The aquarium is very well organized, with a great variety of marine life, from colorful fish, turtles to reptiles. It's both fun and educational – perfect for families, but also interesting for adults.
The rescue center part was especially touching. It’s inspiring to see how much effort goes into rescuing and rehabilitating injured turtles. The staff is passionate and knowledgeable, and they were happy to answer all our questions. It's heartwarming to see these beautiful creatures being cared for so well.
Highly recommend visiting – it's a great way to learn, support a good cause, and enjoy the beauty of marine life!
Lovely little place run by people who enjoy their job and are good at their job. Very interactive with being able to touch and hold some of the animals.
Is a small place, only took around 30 minutes to look around and interact with animals. Did not cost much to enter 10 euros which we payed for at the door, was no waiting time to enter. Although I understand this is a rescue centre they do have some long term wildlife in the facility that will not be reintroduced into nature I feel the vivariums/ tanks could be bigger and more engaging for the animals. In particular a few lizard tanks looked over crowded and some animals in small tanks. Including a very large fish which only had minimal movement.
Well worth a visit. Got to see the sea turtle and octopus being fed as well as listening to detailed history of all the amazing creatures on show.
You can hold various reptiles if you are brave enough. The best thing about this place is the fact it is supporting the local ecology, is not owned by a bif corporate entity and is a labour of love. Any money you spend here directly goes to the looking after of the animals and funds future expansion.
What a wonderful little place! Please visit and keep this place in business, they are worth it. The conservation work they do is great.. the aquarium part is really good, but the best part really, is the reptile section. I will not spoil anything for you as the surprise is much better witnessed in person with no warning (its not scary, don't worry). If I can, I will be back for another visit.
Wow wow and wow, we absolutely loved it here. You can tell as soon as you walk in that they love what they do all the animals are well looked after and there fact you get to get up and close to the reptiles. Definitely worth the visit you will not be disappointed. It's a great place to visit.
Very small aquarium/terrarium in a flat and yard. To avoid the place getting too crowded they let visitors in slowly and when previous visitors exit. This means a line forms. We waited over 30 minutes in line for what is essentially a 30 minutes visit. It is a nice little place if you don’t mind most fish and reptiles being held in small aquariums with little to no shelter. There are lots of general info posters about ocean life scattered around but not a lot of specific info on the animals in each aquarium beyond their names. The yard with the free-roaming tortoises and lizards is the highlight of course, but is rather crowded. Looks like the animals are used to nudging their way between the visitors. The staff in the yard are friendly and jovial. If you are here and can find a time without a line in the entrance then the place is worth a visit.
What to say about this amazing place. We first visited back on our first trip to crete possibly 2012! And we come every year since. The place is just great. They take care of the animals. They are so clean and so well looked after. The gent who owns it is just well a gent and his staff are so knowledgeable and friendly. We look forward to it every trip and is the first thing we book, we now bring our child who has also found a love for this amazing place. Thankyou as always
4.6
(6055)
4.7
(3789)
Filikis Etirias 7, Chersonisos 700 14, Greece
19Eada S — Google reviewLukáš K — Google reviewJason T — Google reviewJan J — Google reviewSuzana J — Google reviewHollie C — Google reviewAna I — Google review•
Star Beach Village & Water Park
Mentioned on
Hotel
Water & Amusement Parks
Water Parks
Star Beach Village & Water Park is a laid-back resort located in Chersonissos, offering easy access to the beach and the town. The property features a spacious pool complex with water slides and modern design. It's a great choice for families with young children as it offers unlimited entry to the neighboring Star Beach water park, which includes a pirate ship water playground and various slides and fountains.
The hotel itself is fine, the rooms is good and gets cleaned each day.
I also find the staff to be helpful and kind, and the food is not terrible. Also the aqua park is cool.
But as I'm laying here at 21:05, and my hotel room is literally shaking from the sound of their ''entertainment'' which tonight is bingo night, they are screaming numbers and repeating them in German & French.
Before that it was mini disco, which blasts baby shark at you, with full force. Which I am all for, but right next to your hotel room?
I booked the stay with 3 small kids, all of whom are not able to sleep (and neither are we) due to placing us directly next to their nightly entertainment area. Which also seems to be where all the other ''family'' rooms are located.
I get the entertainment part but I really don't get that the resort is pretty big, but they put us / families right next to this incredibly loud show, that runs each evening until past 22? As a family with small children, we get very little rest as it is, but even less at this resort.
I dream myself back home to a quiet normal night, where the only loud noise is my kids screaming and crying, but in all honesty its more pleasurable than this.
EDIT: After asking to change rooms, they gladly helped and we switched rooms, which we are super happy for. They also mentioned that nobody else in the same area complains about the noise, so it's not something they are aware off. I've changed my review from 2 stars to 5 as we are overall happy with the place.
Søren D — Google review
Not a Relaxing Stay – Needs Serious Improvement
We stayed at the hotel with our extended family – adults and kids – during the summer. From the moment we arrived, the service was lacking. No welcome, no guidance to rooms, and the lobby was extremely hot with no drinks offered.
Rooms were spacious but had weak air conditioning and ant problems in several of them. Beds were very basic and uncomfortable. Despite being told we’d get bottled water daily, we didn’t receive any unless we asked.
The dining room was overcrowded and hot, with no air conditioning. Food was okay – better for kids than adults. The evening shows were unimpressive, and the Greek restaurant had a nice view but isn’t suitable for families with small children.
Although the water slides were fun, there's no shade on the way up, making the ground too hot to walk on without shoes. The music around the pool was extremely loud all day, even in the rooms – not ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
Service overall was poor, and I even witnessed a staff member yelling at a guest over a simple food request.
Wouldn’t recommend for anyone looking for a calm or high-quality all-inclusive experience.
The food is excellent and the selection is amazing! The area can be a bit windy since it’s up north, but there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy – lots of pools, fun water slides, kids’ corners, playgrounds, and more. The whole resort is quite spacious and access to everything is included in the price, even the sunbeds on the beach. It’s truly a paradise for children.
Snacks outside of breakfast, lunch, and dinner are fantastic as well. You can choose from fresh vegetables, fruit salads, or classics like pizza and toasties – even vegetarians will be happy. The alcohol is not cheap quality either; they serve well-known brands like Havana Club and Beefeater. And at the bar, they’ll make you a real coffee, not just one from a machine.
We are On our last day at this hotel. Last 13 days have been great.
Rooms are excellent, and cleaned every day.
Lots of choice of food and drink. Places to eat all over the complex.
Pools are a little cold, but everyone loved the new water slides.
The entertainment team Jayden etc are a great laugh well worth getting involved with some of the activities.
Overall fantastic holiday.
Great hotel for family vacation.
Plenty of offers for children (pools, kids club, playgrounds). Mini Disxo for children on 6 of 7 days.
3 different restaurants (2 with breakfast and lunch) with all inclusive. Also 3 different pool bars included with drinks and some snacks.
The Water Park is right next door and has multiple pools for all ages. Some slides for and access to sunbeds in the park and on the beach are also included.
The staff is very friendly, especially towards children. The hotel is a great destination for vacation with kids!
! Take your time reading this😁
I just camed back from my holiday with my family and i want to tell you my honest review. To be honest i had the lowest expectations because i knew that on booking the rating wasn't very good.Me and my family usualy go to hotels that are +8.5 rating,but at that time it weren't many hotels available.
So when we arrived i saw verry old walls and an old reception and my first thing that i said was:I don't think this is an hotel beacause it was so old and it creeped me out😅,but hear me out after we walked in the mini streets of the hotel i fell in love.Everything is close to eachother😍From the food zone-Beach side-activities-pools-rooms it is amazing.
The sea is clear as the water,the views are amazing,and the waves are the best feeling🥰
Okay,THE FOOD WAS ABSOLUTLY THE BEST FOOD FROM ALL HOTELS,guys if u like eating meat,sea food,pasta,pizza,tacos,whatever u want litreally,go HERE!😋
HEAR ME OUT,my parents are very picky when it comes to food,we went to egypt,turkey but nowhere the food was so tasty like hear,the plates where finished😁Don't get me wrong,egypt and turkey have bigger ospitality and a larger amount of food and diversification,but we prefered to be very delicious and it was!I want to thank to all the members of Star Beach Village and we will totally come back!♥️
PS: in front of the hotel there is a whole street of the city center🥰
We come here just for a few hours to let our daughter play nice and clean not to busy, the water is fairly cold for young children to play in! The play park is excellent for all ages water park area is clean and amazing for children to run free for a few hours.
Amazing place to take children to burn off some energy!
Bouns its next to beach.
I stayed at Star Beach in Crete and had an amazing experience. The resort is fantastic, with delicious and varied food options. The staff were always kind, friendly, and very helpful. Everything was well taken care of, and I truly enjoyed my time here. I will definitely return in the future!
4.4
(5226)
4.3
(2039)
Themistokleous 5, Chersonisos 700 14, Greece
20Becky T — Google reviewMike S — Google reviewCarole G — Google reviewCristiana B — Google reviewNaveh L — Google reviewDebbie M — Google reviewSam S — Google review•
Lychnostatis Open Air Museum
Mentioned on
Museum
Heritage museum
Lychnostatis Open Air Museum is a family-operated museum located on the eastern edge of Hersonissos, Crete. It offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan village life with authentic dwellings and workshops, including a windmill, farmer's house, weaving workshops, ceramics demonstrations, orchards, herb gardens, and a theater for music and dance performances. Founded by Dr.
This museum is amazing. So interesting to learn about Cretan culture, heritage and old way of life. Lucky to have a tour with the founder's granddaughter who was informative and interesting. We went on a Wednesday so we experienced the grape feast and the fabulous dancing and food and drinks. All of the staff were great and the dancers were awesome. We would recommend this to all visitors to Crete and would return again.
Beccy E — Google review
Lovely small museum with small buildings and plants showing Cretan life. We went without a audio guide or tour, so used the map to identify buildings and occasionally a translation app to understand writing inside buildings. There are really no signs around so this wasn't the best plan but still spent about 45-50 minutes, including the eight minute introduction video.
It wasn't very busy when there (July Sunday around 10:30) though other visitors were scattered about.
Toilets and small cafe available - cafe seemed to have a few drink options, maybe a few mains snacks, and seats.
Parking in a dirt shoulder/layby just outside the entrance was fine, held around a dozen cars and a few spots were free when we arrived.
Note: photos generally in map order
We found this place beautiful, quiet and charming. It backs onto its own (paying) beach which can be entered from the museum - or vice versa. The little cafe in the museum serves both.
The museum is one of village methods and life. Most of the stone is old, from ruined local buildings, rebuilt as representative of the usage. A child will like peeking at odd things, by the way - but not for too long!
Beautiful site, quite large, free to wander around, gates open out onto a beach and the sea. Drinks available, (licensed for spirits too) and small gift shop within cafe. Staff are lovely and friendly, honestly well worth a visit. Inexpensive too.
A very interesting museum. It also has a beautiful beach,great for snorkeling, very relaxing spot, not very crowded, with decent space between sunbeds, 7 euros a set (2 sunbeds+umbrela). They also have a restaurant and very nice staff. Ps: if you are a coffee lover get the frappe with ice-cream,it's to die for and the food is good (with decent prices; a greek salat is less than 7 euros). I will come back to this location for sure.
A small museum of traditional Cretan life and historical agriculture and artisanal occupations. Overall a nice folk museum. Mostly outdoors but with plenty of shade.
A lovely museum and a perfect way to while away a morning. We took our kids (6 and 3) and they loved running around and exploring, there was plenty to keep all ages interested. Friendly staff and beautiful exhibits (and delightfully friendly cats!), it’s a wholehearted recommendation from me.
Found this place by using Google maps to see what was in the area. It took us 30 mins to walk to here from where we stayed, and it was well worth the walk. Interesting to see how it was all made and from what materials. Finished off with a lovely cold cinnamon water.
4.7
(2831)
4.7
(1479)
Μουσείο "ΛΥΧΝΟΣΤΑΤΗΣ" - θέση Πλάκα, Chersonisos 700 14, Greece
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21Debbielouise M — Google reviewRosanne M — Google reviewCryst4l — Google reviewMike E — Google reviewMartijn — Google reviewJonathan N — Google reviewNitepreyx # — Google review
Relax Beach bar in Stalis
Mentioned on
affordable
Cocktail bar
Relax Beach bar in Stalis is a versatile spot that caters to both day and night crowds. The owner, George, and the staff are known for their friendliness and creating a fabulous atmosphere. The comfortable sunbeds come in different sizes to accommodate various needs, making it an ideal place for relaxation. Guests can enjoy delicious food and drinks, including bubble tea to beat the Crete heatwave.
Lovely relaxing bar in the centre of town. Delicious Nutella and strawberry crepes. Great cocktails and friendly staff. A place to enjoy a cocktail and watch the sea.
Christopher S — Google review
Absolutely beautiful bar and beach
All staff are amazing and go above and beyond to make you feel welcome
Food and drinks are just perfect
I couldn't recommend this place more it's just brilliant
Didn't eat there but had the most amazing mohito on 3 occasions. Extremely refreshing and large filled with loads of ice.
Stunning location. Staff are lovely especially Hari.
Until next year....
Comfy Sunbeds directly by the sea, really nice and helpful staff and the food is very good. U can eat in the sunbeds or the bar either way very relaxed
Great, relaxed dinner with bubble tea to help chill in the Crete heatwave. Friendly staff, great service - they even have us a box to take the food away we couldn't eat. Value for money with a smile!
Lovely place with relaxing atmosphere. The cocktails are marvelous. Good experience when you are in Stalida. Jorgos ( Sjon) is a fantastic host.
Good place for a drink. Kids enjoyed the bubble tea.
Great place the staff are the best only place i would go, way better food than my 4 star all inclusive
22
Lasithi Plateau
Mentioned on
Outdoor Activities
Geologic Formations
Scenic Drives
Nestled in the rugged landscape of Crete, Lasithi Plateau is a captivating destination offering panoramic mountain vistas and ancient wonders. The plateau is adorned with iconic stone windmills and is home to the historic Minoan Cave of Psychro. Moreover, it's part of the Sitia UNESCO Global Geopark, which safeguards its natural beauty and cultural significance.
4.5
(889)
Greece, USA
23João D — Google reviewForrest T — Google reviewRichard W — Google reviewROBERT H — Google reviewBrenda H — Google reviewJulie L — Google reviewCate S — Google review•
Malia Palace Archaeological Site
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Ancient Ruins
Malia Palace Archaeological Site, located 3km east of Malia, is the remains of a Minoan palace dating back to around 1650 BCE. The site was initially built in 1900 BC and later reconstructed after an earthquake in 1700 BC, only to be destroyed again by another quake around 1450 BC.
Very interesting.
Unfortunately some areas were closed due to maintenance. Plus we had to rush a little bit as we arrived shortly before they close.
However the staff was very friendly and reopened so we could have a quick tour.
Tobias H — Google review
I will make the same comment as to other archeological sites in Crete: for the entry fee, the site should be more visitor-centered, including additional notes, maps or labels tourists could read and enjoy along the way.
Malia is quite a remarkable site to visit, very well preserved and with a lot of surface to cover. However, the entry shows a very well organized center that quickly becomed a bit disorganized: the ruin areas are limited by ropes which are difficult to find and a lot of the site is actually closed for cover renovations (or that's what it looked like). Anyhow, one of the key Minoan sites to visit in Crete.
The Minoan Palace of Malia should be on your agenda when visiting Crete. Along with Knossos and Phaistos, it was one of the three largest Minoan palaces. It was connected by road with Knossos. It was a considerable sea port. Many important archaeological artifacts were discovered here. The most famous is the “bee earrings.” Malia has had little reconstruction, which is a huge contrast with Knossos. Suggest doing some research about the site beforehand.
All most interesting parts are roped off and we were followed around our entire time there. We were the only two visitors on the site and so no idea why we were under close observation. We left early having not seen half the site.
Well worth a visit found it very interesting and more excavations are currently taking place this place is a must if you love history
Even though a section is currently closed off for maintenance, this is still a great site to visit. A well laid out information hut with maps and models of the different minoan buildings with lots of information, history and photos to bring the ruins to life. It is a large site with a mixture of covered sections with guided walkways, and open areas where you can roam more freely. There were even a couple of friendly archaeologists working on site today who were happy to take a breather from renovating paving stones to answer some questions.
Full amenities: loos, cafe, shop
Beautiful site, no doubt about that! Unfortunately, the full site isn’t accessible until the 18/10. We weren’t told when buying the tickets and got charged the full price. When we shared our disappointment at the end of the tour, a man explained quite aggressively that there was a board at the entrance and that we could have decided to not buy our tickets. True: there is a note, but you need to be an expert to know what it means and, the site being far away from the city centre, you wouldn’t go back after a 40min walk. All we wanted to say is: it’s ok to pay for the entrance, but not for the full price when 1/3 of the site is closed.
Interesting site well laid out with good informative indoor space with photos nd explanations in 3 languages including English. You can download information on your smartphone about the sire which gives all the info needed to make sense of the site as you walk about, good parking nearby. Cafe was shut so can't comment on it though it looked fine.
4.3
(4092)
3.9
(1226)
Αρχαιολογικός χώρος Μαλίων, Malia 700 07, Greece
24Mira T — Google reviewAnny O — Google reviewDave B — Google reviewGigi J — Google reviewJérôme M — Google reviewAlvise M — Google reviewBen B — Google review
Παραλιακό Καφενείο
affordable
Restaurant
If you're looking for a delightful dining experience in Myrtos, look no further than Παραλιακό Καφενείο. This charming beachside café offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels just like home. Guests rave about the friendly service, with staff members who greet you with genuine smiles and make every visit memorable. The menu features an array of fresh, traditional Cretan dishes that change weekly, ensuring there's always something new to try.
Genuine traditional Cretan food by the sea, with friendly staff - specially the owner- that serves at the end of the meal free watermelon!
We ordered small fish (gavros) and kalamarakia coupled with greek salad, tzatziki and fries.. delicious!!
Vas V — Google review
Nice, calm place with very good food quality. We have visited this place many times.
Dear friends, I thank you for the wonderful relaxing moments in your restaurant. Your restaurant doesn't have Michelin stars, but your food is even tastier and the service nicer. You give your guests the comfort of home that I was blown away by. Your smiles are very sweet and make me come back to you every day of my stay in Mirtos.
Your boss is a very nice person full of energy and you can see that he manages his team to the satisfaction of the customers. I'll never forget you, big boss. God willing, I will return to Crete and wave to you again from the balcony.
Anna from Czech Republik
The Beach cafe has been one of my favorite restaurant bars. The service is good and friendly and the food excellent. The menu usually changes a little over the week and sometimes you are given a traditional Cretan dish that you didn't know existed.
Quite unfriendly. We asked about the price of the sunbeds, they told us its free as we ate there the evening before and we had ordered iced coffee that day already. A few days later, when we arrived for a second time, they immediately came to us and told us we didn’t pay the last time we used the sunbeds, even though the other day we spend all day there and nobody told us anything. And even if they would have told us, you would imagine 40 euros for a meal is more than enough for two sunbeds. We didn’t want to discuss it, so we just paid another 15 euros, left and never went there again. Anyways, there are much better beaches about 20 minutes to the east, where you don’t have to pay for the beds and the food is delicious there as well.
This restaurant seems to repose only on there location. Horrible tourist salad. I took a salad it was 10€, polite service but not friendly, the salad was horrible tuna from conserves, with horrible anchovies, and a commercial ketchup mayo dressing. I hope that there are better at cooking fish.
Best cafe in Myrtos.
We had Salad, octopus, beer and raki. Everything was great and the staff super friendly. Sunbeds included in the lunch bill wich wasn't high.
Good job!
Some of the nicest staff in all of Myrtos. Great, fresh and tasty food for a reasonable price. The dining area has a great atmosphere with enough room at any time while the beach area provides a comfortable and relaxing experience morning or afternoon.
25Missy 2 — Google reviewStefan H — Google reviewDARREN B — Google reviewMarius G — Google reviewMr B — Google reviewMagdalena Ż — Google reviewSebastian W — Google review•
Chrysi
Mentioned on
Island
Nature & Parks
The Isle of Gold, also known as Chrysi Island, is a small and uninhabited island located near Ierapetra in Crete. The island is accessible by boat and boasts beautiful white sand beaches with crystal clear aquamarine waters that resemble those of the Caribbean. The island's name stems from the golden color of its sands.
A memorable stay, Greece is always a good idea.
I traveled in November and I can't tell you how pleasant the weather was.
Also, it's much less crowded than in summer.
The people are friendly, the food is good, and the water temperature is just right even in November.
And there's no shortage of escursions.
Chérie A — Google review
Absolutely stunning beach but couldn’t go into the water as there are quite big stones to get over, saw quite a few people fall, the walk to actually get to the beach is quite a way for someone with mobility issues and in that heat it’s not great tbh ….. glad I saw it but had I known all this before I went I would have avoided it
Beautiful place to visit for the gradient colors of the water and for the interesting shell beach. Many baby shells there but unfortunately you cannot take them as souvenirs because it’s a protected zone.
Nice strip of beach, 15 euros with very you two loungers and an umbrella (there is also a euro tourist tax per person). There is a bar on the beach. Sea is lovely and warm, with no sea life to read on apart from some very small fish here and there. Loses a star for the state of the toilets, not quite festival bad, but not good. It's suggest going on the ferry, toilets there are very good.
Nice place to visit. The golden beach is beautiful, but you have to take with you something to eat and drink.
Also here you can find a local who sell cold drinks. Have some ice chest where he keep the drinks. For 1 small beer and one coke i paid 7 euro.
You don't need necessary the umbrela because there are a lot of threes under you can seat.
The color of the water is one of the best around crete.
The trip from Ierapretra is around 1 hour.
If you don't get food and drink with you, it's possible to buy from the boat at good prices.
Beautiful beach
Rock and shell formation is very unique and can be sore on feet.
On golden sands turn right, walk past everyone a couple hundred metres and I found a secluded little area.
I enjoy Chrisi. I keep coming back since 7 years now. I particularly enjoy the hotness. And nothing gives me moar pleasure than lying somewhere on Chrisi, enjoying the view.
Amazing place. It is like paradise on earth. Pure sand, turquoise water. Interestingly, you can sleep in your tent. A place that must be seen. There are sun loungers, umbrellas and toilets on the spot, bar with drinks and some food. Descent into the water is a bit rocky, you have to be careful.
4.5
(682)
4.1
(2626)
Ierapetra, Greece, USA
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26Steven D — Google reviewSloth F — Google reviewDr G — Google reviewMaureen F — Google reviewMonica G — Google reviewKeith B — Google reviewFeng W — Google review•
Spiridi Olive Oil Farm
Mentioned on
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
The Cretan Olive Oil Farm is a charming destination just north of the town center, offering a blend of tranquil farm experience, living museum, and hands-on traditional skills activities. Visitors can explore the small farm at their own pace, gaining insights into olive oil production processes and strolling through the beautiful olive orchard and herb garden. The farm also offers tours of its groves and production facilities, complete with tastings, as well as classes in cheese-making and Cretan cooking.
Everything was great!
Maybe only the self paced tablet guide was a not so great, the machine voice reading the text was a bit dull.
We had a small live presentation at the press, thats was awesome.
The staff is very friendly, the produce is very tasty.
Dans V — Google review
amazing place we booked our tickets for three hour session to milk a goat and make a cheese learn about olives and do a cooking session. It seemed quite expensive when you look at it on the face of the ticket €65 however it was worth every penny we got to eat the food. It was amazing what we learn about the goats and the cheese and all about olives. Highly highly recommend it worth a lot more than €65 people unbelievably friendly lots of other things to see and to do. there’s a shop there with products in it lots of them made by them there and there’s free tasting is of honey and olive oil and other products.
We had booked the olive oil production workshop and had a very insightful and lovely time! We learned about olive trees, the history of the trade and the harvest until we got our hands dirty to actually grind some olives and press them in their press! Feel very honoured they let us touch this piece of history - was certainly an experience! We also got to take a look at some local plants like dittany, carub and aloe, we tasted some olives and raki, all while learning about the meaningful role of olive oil on the island. After the official part of our workshop we got to taste all kinds olive oil, olives, vinegards, carub products, etc in their shop and could even get more info. They are a family farm and offer all kinds of other experiences as well, like cooking or pottery and honestly I love how they made such a business out of the place about their familiy's culture and heritage. Everyone was very friendly and caring to share their knowledge. You could also wander the grounds after and it's a really lovely place. Of course the workshop wasn't super cheap but totally worth the experience and I would also recommend just to visit and take the little tour.
Absolutely brilliant! We came to learn more about olive oil production but we got so much more? From history to tasting, learning about quality of oil and leaving with incredible products such as olive paste and raki! I wish I could be there every day, it's incredible
Such lovely people who gave us a very warm welcome and explained about their family farms history. We had tablets with an English commentary to explain the different parts of the site.
There are so many lovely things available to buy you at reasonable prices.
We thoroughly enjoyed the visit and learnt alot too.
Amazing experience! We did the e-tour for €7 each which was well worth the money - able to tour the farm at your own pace and learn lots of interesting information about olives, cheese and wine! Staff are very friendly and helpful, and the shop has lots of great organic produce from the farm to taste and buy! Would highly recommend visiting!
A wonderful little place and a 'must do' if you're in the area. You can go in for free but please support them by at least paying the €7 (per group) to borrow a tablet for a self guided tour. The staff are lovely and do talks in bits of the farm, where you'll also get to meet the chickens and goats. You can also book extras such as cooking lessons. And best of all, there's loads to taste and try for free in the gift shop - olive oil, honey, carob, balsamic vinegar, raki (the honeyed raki is amazing!), and health and beauty products. We ended up buying quite a few things and were tempted by even more (prices are very reasonable but if you take cash there's a discount). Honestly can't rate them highly enough 😊
This is something you would call short and sweet. Around one hour, learn about Greek/crete culture around long lasting traditional food, herb, olive wine, honey, etc people are very nice, price very reasonable, kids are actually free to enter.
4.5
(2718)
4.5
(842)
Cretan Olive Oil Farm, Ag. Nikolaos 721 00, Greece
27Monika T — Google reviewCatalin H — Google reviewYanni H — Google reviewTine R — Google reviewMarcel E — Google reviewJohn R — Google reviewתומר א — Google review•
Lake Voulismeni
Mentioned on
Lake
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos, Crete is a popular tourist destination with a picturesque setting. According to legend, it is believed that the goddess Athena bathed in its waters. The lake is surrounded by charming tavernas where visitors can savor Cretan specialty dishes such as slow-cooked goat stew.
Very nice lake, especially during the night you can take some great pictures there. On one spot the rock and the water is illuminated with a purple light. This makes it look very cool during the night. There is also a small chapel next to the lake.
Ivan A — Google review
Lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos is a charming and peaceful spot right in the heart of the town. Surrounded by cafes and restaurants, it offers a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful views.
Wow. Simply amazing.
Lake Voulismeni is the heart of the tourist town of Agios Nikolaos.
If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of crowds, you can come here either for shopping or to eat at one of the lakeside terraces.
If you prefer peace and quiet, the rocks around the lake are the perfect place to admire the light show from a distance. And if you’d like to dine somewhere calm, away from the noise of the streets between the lake and the sea, you’ll find a few secluded restaurants at the top of the rocks — where you can enjoy both the tranquility and the view. As a general rule, these restaurants tend to be a bit more expensive than the tavernas below.
As a curiosity, the lake is no longer really a lake. In the mid-19th century, a powerful earthquake caused several surrounding rocks to collapse, one of which blocked the spring that fed it. Without fresh water, the beautiful lake became known as the “stinking lake,” so the Turkish governor of the island ordered a canal to be dug to the sea to renew the water.
And, despite local legends, it's not bottomless either: the maximum depth is almost 50 meters (which is impressive anyway).
A small, supposedly formerly a freshwater lakw thas has been later connected to the sea. At the centre of the town of Agios Nicolaos, Crete.
Very special place and a must see when you are in Heraklion or Lassithi area. We walked around the lake and went up the hill to have a drink and ice cream.
We have seen the place I n July .Is too hot but is beautiful .Many oleanders in bloom scentet the air ,near the lake we found a bunch of lazy ducks and geese.We took the stairs and saw the lake ,the city and the see .Wiew is amazing .
Everywhere nice tavernas of small shops who sale frozen goat yoghurt .
Love it!
Beautiful and relaxing and I loved watching the local children play safely by the waters edge. Plenty of shopping to be had nearby with a vast array of bars and restaurants.
A very beautiful place with a nice small lake but very special, because it's twisting and connecting to the sea and beside the lake, there are very nice, romantic and authentic buildings.
Also, it is very recommended to climb up the stairs and watch from above the lake.
4.7
(848)
4.4
(2075)
721 00, Greece, USA
28Alexandru S — Google reviewDamian P — Google reviewMr B — Google reviewD D — Google reviewStephen G — Google reviewCatalin H — Google reviewNada S — Google review•
Voulisma beach
Mentioned on
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Voulisma Beach, also known as Istro Beach, is a popular destination with its white sandy shores and stunning turquoise waters. This organized beach attracts families and water sports enthusiasts alike. Located near the bustling city of Agios Nikolaos, it's easily accessible by bus. The semi-circular cove offers swimming, umbrella rentals, and boating opportunities. Visitors can combine their beach trip with a visit to the charming capital of the Lassithi region.
Absolutely fabulous! I loved it. I went to Elafonisi too, but this gives me way more of that perfect beach vibe. There are three or four small beaches that, in my opinion, are better than the big one that’s on the right. A MUST!
Meloquence 7 — Google review
Beautiful turquoise beach, but very narrow with almost no space for towels. Sunbeds & umbrella cost €30. Stunning from above, but the water was full of plastic — the dirtiest I’ve seen in Greece.
Amazing beach! I’d recommend it to everyone. It’s even great for snorkeling. The beach strip is a bit narrow, but still large enough to enjoy. I wouldn’t suggest renting a sun lounger; it’s much nicer to just relax on your towel. Prices for jet skis and the banana boat are far too high, but apart from that this is truly an AMAZING beach, one of the best I’ve ever been to.
A beautiful beach that we visited twice in a week. The first day was sunny but windy, the second day was calm but a bit cloudy.
The sea is clear and quite shallow for a good way out so suitable for kids. It was the end of tge season so very quiet. We parked right down next to the sea on the left hand side, but not many spaces.
Great location, but definitely not worth paying €30 for sunbeds. We didn’t try the service because the price felt like outright exploitation. The beach is completely covered with sunbeds and no free space is left for free swimmers.
One of my favourite beaches on Crete, super clear clean water. Lovely restaurant above too, a must if your staying in area.
One of the most beautiful beaches in Crete — and, at the same time, a sad example of how quickly people can destroy nature.
Positive points:
Fantastic view... and that's about it.
Negative points:
The main beach is just a very narrow strip of sand, almost entirely covered with sunbeds. Not only are the prices quite high, but if you don't arrive early, you risk not finding a free spot.
The beach is littered with small pieces of plastic.
On windy days (like the one when we visited), the waves are very strong, making swimming almost impossible.
Additional suggestion:
If you're looking for a quieter area, go to the left side of the beach, where the shoreline forms some natural booth. There, you'll find a private beach with sun loungers (although the prices are pretty high) as well as enough space to lay your towel.
Voulisma Beach has white sand and fantastic crystal clear turquoise and blue waters. It’s no less beautiful than famous Balos beach in the west.
You can enjoy water sports like water skiing. Prices are affordable.
2 sun-beads and umbrella are 15 euros.
4.3
(8007)
4.0
(1675)
Agios Nikolaos 721 00, Greece, USA
29C L — Google reviewSaint S — Google reviewBrian M — Google reviewNicolas B — Google reviewCatherine N — Google reviewAlexandra G — Google reviewSue C — Google review
Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas
Mentioned on
Hotel
Outdoor Activities
Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas is a luxurious retreat in Crete, Greece. This posh seafront resort offers stylish accommodations with stunning sea views, ranging from classic rooms to waterfront bungalows and villas. Guests can indulge in multiple dining options, including Greek and Japanese/Peruvian fusion cuisine. The hotel boasts two private sandy beaches, as well as waterfront villas and bungalows with private heated pools and spacious terraces.
We stayed at the hotel a couple of weeks ago, and it was a truly blissful and relaxing experience. The hotel checked us in 4 hours early and upgraded our bungalow to a room to one which included a steam room and jacuzzi.
If one is looking for the most modern of hotels this is not it. There were some features of the room that were a little dated, CD player and safe, and could have done with a few USB charging ports, but these details are relatively minor for a leisure traveller. The gym is clearly an old dance studio with decent equipment and lovely staff (fine for a down week) but could do with updating and new equipment that is more appropriate (e.g. pull up bars and a bench) and more of a multi gym.
The setting is beautiful along the beach with different pools and stretches of beach to explore. They assign you your loungers to prevent travellers from stealing them first thing in the morning. The food was of an extremely high standard throughout, and the town is only a short walk away (15 mins) if one wants local cuisine. The breakfast is varied and consistently good. Do get up earlier for tables with a perfect view in the shade (they are in demand!).
The staff make your stay pretty effortless, and is customary for a five star hotel but it was seamless, friendly and gentle throughout. We want to pay a special thanks to Alexandra the gym instructor who ran excellent classes.
There are minor details that could do with refinement to make it ideal for a gym bunny determined to do work on holiday, but if you just want to relax and enjoy the view and food and have a great view at a reasonable price you will get great value here. We would recommend to others.
Alex B — Google review
We did not enjoy our stay at Elounda Beach. While the view from the hotel is undeniably beautiful, the hotel itself is old and in serious need of renovation.
Our first bungalow (no. 82) had a cockroach infestation. The hotel’s initial reaction was simply to send someone to spray the room. Only after we insisted did they move us to another bungalow (no. 80), which, while free of cockroaches, had a serious ant problem in the bathroom and was equally decrepit.
For a supposed 5-star property, the facilities and service were far below expectations. There was no compensation offered—just a brief apology—and staff didn’t seem surprised by the cockroach issue, which was worrying.
On top of that, the facilities are just old everywhere. The double bed consists in 2 single beds next to each other. The AC unit must be from the 1980s and circulated mold everywhere in the room. Breakfast was just OK with slow service.
Unfortunately, we cannot recommend this hotel. It does not live up to the standards one would expect from a luxury property, especially given the price they billed.
My stay at Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas was truly unforgettable. I spent two months here, and what made this experience so special were the incredible people who became like family to me - Nikolina, Erini, Marios, Valeria, kirilos and dimitris.
I have never met people more genuine, kind, and hardworking. Their warmth, professionalism, and constant smiles made every single day better. They went above and beyond in every way possible, and I can honestly say that my stay was ten times better because of them.
Elounda Beach is a beautiful place, but it's the people who make it truly exceptional. I'm beyond grateful for the memories and the friendships I've made here. Thank you for making me feel at home from day one - I can't wait to come back.
- Saint Tala
2 Stars – Disappointing Stay Despite Great Staff and Views
Hard to believe this is part of the Leading Hotels of the World. While the staff was genuinely pleasant and professional, the experience fell far short of expectations.
I moved here from their sister property, the Elounda Bay Palace, due to a foul odor in the room there. At first, my room in the spa building seemed like an improvement—dated but with some charm and a beautiful view. The pool and facilities were better than at the other hotel, and again, the staff was kind and welcoming.
Unfortunately, the same odor issue persisted. After a windy day, the entire spa building—including the spa itself—filled with a strong sewer smell. It was awful at night, and the stench made it nearly impossible to sleep. I complained three times, but nothing was done during my stay. Days after I left, the manager emailed to say they couldn’t detect any smell, which only added to the frustration.
To make matters worse, the bathroom’s steam shower wouldn’t stay closed due to a broken seal. I asked for it to be repaired, and the maintenance team not only failed to fix it but somehow made it worse, leaving dirty footprints all over the bathroom floor.
Between the sewer odors, the subpar breakfast, and careless maintenance, it’s hard to believe this property carries the "Leading Hotels of the World" label. The friendly staff and nice view just weren’t enough to save the experience.
Unique hotel. The grounds are breath taking and beautifully designed. Staff are warm and caring. Watersports team are the best in the world. Some reviews complain about unrefurbished rooms. This is a taste issue. The "older" rooms are built in incredible quality marble and wood. Not very sustainable to destroy that just to change with the times. This is a legendary resort. As a testament to this, many guests have been coming for decades and many staff members too.
We stayed in a villa and from the moment we arrived we felt at home. Though an older establishment love and attention has been put into the villas and they are clean and comfortable. Our entire family agreed we were treated so well by the incredible staff. From being checking in on during our stay, to the general manager coming to introduce himself at dinner, to the cleaning and in room dining staff taking the time to talk with our family we felt so appreciated! The people of this hotel take pride in their jobs and in their island and are so happy to have you there. The private patio pool was an excellent way to cool down on a hot afternoon and we were just steps from our private beach. The grounds are beautiful and perfect for evening strolls. We will most definitely be back!
We had the most incredible experience at this beach resort in Crete. The property is breathtaking—lush, beautifully maintained grounds and pristine waters that invite you to unwind and explore.
But what truly stood out was the exceptional hospitality. Every staff member was warm and welcoming, making us feel instantly at home.
Special shoutouts to Maria at concierge, who went above and beyond to make our stay smooth and memorable, and Mariana in the restaurant, whose kindness and attention to detail made every meal a joy.
Highly recommend this resort to anyone looking for a luxurious, heartwarming escape. Five stars all the way!
Fabulous hotel. Our room was amazing with a view to the sea spacious well huge actually and spotless. The staff were brilliant couldnt do enough for you. The private beach was sandy and the sea crystal clear. The beach boys allocated you a sun bed bed and it was yours for the week no matter when you wanted to sunbathe. The grounds are beautifully kept in fact we had not one thing negative to say. Its a 20 minute walk into Elounda and if you take the turning yo the right past Thea resturant it takes you along the sea front past all the resturants.
30
Kalydon
Nature & Parks
Historic Sites
Islands
4.4
(10051)
Greece, USA
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