The 10 Best Things to Do in Crete

First on our list of the best things to do in Crete is to take a leisurely swim at Balos Beach. Situated on the northwest coast of the island, this breathtaking shoreline is known best for its otherworldly bright blue waters and its pink sands. If you ask locals on the island where the best beach lies, chances are Balos Beach will be mentioned in their top three. In fact, it’s often ranked as the most beautiful beach on the island, making it a must to venture to for all who are visiting Crete.

The beach has a unique geographical formation and borders Balos Lagoon, which is situated between the headland of Cape Tigani and the Gramvousa Peninsula. It has shallow and warm waters that are perfect for snorkeling, paddling, and swimming without travelers having to venture out of comfortable depths. 

During any trip to Crete, it’s without question that you should be visiting the island’s capital of Heraklion. It is the largest city on the island and has been influenced by an array of cultures over many centuries, including the Ottomans, Byzantines, and Venetians. Nowadays, visitors can admire the many historical artifacts and antiquities that they left behind, and one of the very best places to do this is the Archeological Museum of Heraklion. 

The museum is like Crete’s very own time capsule, housing a collection of spectacular artifacts and artworks from over 5,000 years. Many of its most iconic pieces include frescoes from the Palace of Knossos, one of Crete’s most notable historic sights, beautiful snake Goddess figurines, and even the Phaistos Disc.

As the most historic monastery in Crete, the Sacred Monastery of Arkadi is undoubtedly one of the things to see in Crete during your next vacation to the island. It is an Eastern Orthodox monastery situated to the southeast of Rethymnon, with much of its structure being heavily influenced by the Rennaisance, including its central dome and intricate archways. 

The monastery played a significant role in the Cretan struggle for independence from Ottoman rule, which is largely what the monastery is now known for. It became a safe haven for Cretan rebels and their families whilst the country was revolting against the Ottomans. Thanks to its defenders, who decided to sacrifice themselves to defeat the Ottomans, it represents the loyalty Crete’s inhabitants had to their faith and freedom.

Also making the list of our top 10 things to do in Crete is taking a stroll through the town of Rethymnon. This coastal town in the northern part of the island is oozing with charm and character, blending natural beauty with Cretan culture and history effortlessly. Much like many other Crete settlements on the island, you’ll find many well-preserved examples of Ottoman and Venetian architecture, and a vibrant old town center that will transport you back in time to a bygone era. 

Here, follow the maze of narrow streets lined with wooden chairs and tables where locals perch with a morning beverage, and venture through arched doorways into boutique shopfronts and tavernas. Get a feel for the town’s relaxed atmosphere in its old center, but venture outwards to its harbor to experience its lively side, where you can sample fresh seafood and watch the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. For a complete Crete sightseeing experience, be sure to also head to the town’s historic sights, including the Venetian Fortezza which overlooks Rethymnon, and the opulent Rimondi Fountain.

Nicknamed ‘Pink Beach’, Elafonisi is a jaw-dropping coastal location found on the southwestern coast of Crete. It is known for its gentle pink-colored sands and the bright turquoise waters that lap against its shoreline in contrast. It draws visitors from far and wide to its shores, and is undoubtedly one of the most photographed beaches on the island, making it an Insta-worthy destination on your next trip to Crete.

Its color is a result of many crushed coral and shell pieces that wash up on its shoreline. It is now a designated protected area under Natura 2000’s protection program, and so is much appreciated by nature lovers looking to experience the rare flora and fauna and breathtaking natural beauty of Crete.

Whether you’re hoping to sunbathe, snorkel, paddle in shallow lagoons, or simply stroll along its pink-hued sands, whilst you’re traveling in Crete you need to stop by this magical setting.