What to see, what to do Crete?
The 10 good reasons to go Crete
The Cretan way of life
A nonchalant, convivial and festive rhythm of life to make the most of the present time.
Appreciable hospitality
There's still so much authenticity in Cretan conviviality!
The Big Blue as far as the eye can see
Fierce or serene, the immense Cretan sea captivates the eye.
A multitude of sporting activities
The diversity of Cretan nature means that everyone can enjoy an active vacation.
Varied and dazzling nature
An impressive array of Cretan landscapes of rare beauty seduce the visitor.
Land of authentic flavors
The Mediterranean diet is the source of inspiration for the specialties of Cretan cuisine.
A rich history
Cradle of the opulent Minoan civilization, the island has withstood the test of time.
An ideal climate
Mediterranean, with very hot, sunny summers, cooled by the meltem.
Craftsmanship, a taste for know-how
With their taste for beauty and creativity, the Cretans are inspired craftsmen.
Traditions and local color
Music, song and dance shape and give rhythm to the authentic Cretan character.
What to visit Crete?
Interview: My Crete
with Kalliopi Morfi, the author of the guide book
Kalliopi Morfi is a historian and art historian specializing in ancient tragedy and literature. She is a native of Patras and lives in Athens, where she teaches and works as a translator. Crete holds a special place in her personal history, having traveled there many times. For the Petit Futé, she has written the Athens and City Trip Athens guides, as well as three editions on Crete.
See the video of the interviewGood to know to visit Crete
Timetable
Museum schedules change at least once a year in Greece! It is therefore advisable to check the websites of museums and archaeological sites before visiting them. In tourist areas, such as Crete, schedules during the high season are usually kept to the minute. This does not apply to the folk art and traditional museums in remote villages: very often the keys to these museums can be found in the homes of local people or in the homes of the town hall!
To be booked
In high season, it is advisable to make reservations before going to a show or before visiting a museum or an archaeological site (especially Knossos): this will avoid long and unpleasant waits, especially during the very hot days of the season. For your online reservations, visit the website: https://etickets.tap.gr/
Budget & Tips
Don't forget: museum and site ticket prices, valid for one year, are fixed towards the end of April, beginning of May, when the guidebook is already in your hands!
Main events
Many cultural events of an excellent artistic level take place during the summer in Crete, in all the major cities. In this guide, we offer you the most popular and frequented festivals and events that take place every year. In addition, the town halls of Crete's major cities, and more specifically the tourist departments, are very knowledgeable about the cultural life of the island and will be able to provide you with information. In the high season, do not miss the opportunity to attend a performance of ancient Greek tragedy or comedy that takes place in open-air theaters or archaeological sites.
Smokers
Smoking is strictly prohibited in museums and archaeological sites.
Tourist traps
On private beaches, ask about the cost of deckchairs before lying back in comfort!
What's very local
Whether you are on a guided tour or on your own, be sure to follow the instructions: it is forbidden to take pictures of certain objects on display in the museums; stay strictly in the areas designated for visitors; try not to make noise in a church and dress appropriately.
