Europe

Crete

Welcome to Crete, where ancient Minoan civilization meets stunning natural landscapes and authentic Greek island culture. From the historic Palace of Knossos to dramatic gorges and pristine beaches, from traditional villages to modern cities, this diverse island offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and Mediterranean charm. Let our AI-powered planner help you discover the best experiences this magnificent destination has to offer.

Crete

Why Visit Crete?

Ancient Palace of Knossos and Minoan civilization

Dramatic Samaria Gorge and natural landscapes

Diverse beaches and crystal-clear waters

Authentic Cretan cuisine and culture

Traditional villages and mountain scenery

Perfect blend of history and nature

Getting Around

Rental cars for island exploration, buses for main routes, and ferries for coastal access. Walking is perfect for exploring cities and villages.

Prefer renting a car? See options here.

Must-See Attractions

  • Palace of Knossos - Ancient Minoan palace
  • Samaria Gorge - Europe's longest gorge
  • Heraklion - Island capital and port
  • Chania - Charming Venetian harbor
  • Elafonisi Beach - Pink sand beach
  • Traditional Villages - Authentic island culture

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Crete enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers are warm (75-90°F/24-32°C), winters are mild (45-65°F/7-18°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

April to June and September to October offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for outdoor activities.

Peak Season

July to August brings peak tourist season with hot weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

November to March offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cooler weather and occasional rain.

Popular Crete Tours & Activities

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Top Restaurants in Crete

Reserve a table at our hand-picked local favorites and plan dinner around your tours in Crete.

Sir Papafigos

Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere at this highly-rated Crete restaurant. With a 4.9/5 rating, enjoy delicious food and friendly staff. Book your table!

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Taverna Giannousakis

Restaurant · Food

Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated ($) taverna. With a 4.9/5 rating, enjoy delicious food, fair prices, and a warm welcome. Discover your new favorite spot.

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Aloni - Traditional Cretan Restaurant

Restaurant · Food

Savor authentic Cretan flavors at this charming restaurant, boasting a 4.9/5 rating. Experience warm hospitality and traditional dishes in a beautiful village setting. Book your table.

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the Dolphin

Restaurant · Food

Discover a highly-rated (4.9/5) Greek taverna in Crete. Experience authentic, fresh flavors in a welcoming atmosphere. Reservable, outdoor seating.

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Bellot

Greek Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional Greek cuisine in Iraklio, Crete. This highly-rated (4.9/5) restaurant offers a warm atmosphere and delicious dishes. Book your table today!

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Neratzoula

Restaurant · Food

Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated ($$) taverna in Crete. Enjoy delicious, home-style cooking with a 4.9-star rating. Book your table today.

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More Restaurants in Crete

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Discover 14 more curated dining experiences

Lola

Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional modern Greek cuisine in Crete, with a 4.8/5 rating. Enjoy a warm atmosphere, delicious dishes, and attentive service. Reservations recommended.

678 reviewsKidonias 21

Merastri

Greek Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience authentic Cretan dining in Iraklio with a 4.8-star rating. Savor delicious Greek cuisine and warm hospitality. Visit Merastri for a memorable meal.

2,517 reviewsChrisostomou 17

Mythos Restaurant

Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional Greek cuisine at Mythos Restaurant in Crete. With a 4.8-star rating, enjoy fresh, delicious food in a warm, seaside atmosphere.

1,091 reviewsAgias Pelagias

Peskesi

Greek Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Discover Crete's authentic flavors at this highly-rated Greek restaurant (4.8/5). Experience traditional dishes and a unique atmosphere. Book your table!

13,778 reviewsKapetan Charalampi 6-8

Hiona Taverna

Restaurant · Food

Experience authentic Cretan dining at a highly-rated beachfront taverna (4.7/5). Enjoy fresh seafood and a welcoming atmosphere. Reserve your table today!

1,819 reviewsChiona 723 00

Mambo Beach Restaurant

Restaurant · Food

Discover a highly-rated (4.7/5) beachfront gem in Crete. Enjoy delicious food, cocktails, and attentive service. Perfect for a memorable meal.

936 reviewsBali 740 52

Taverna Spilios

Restaurant · Food

Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated taverna (4.7 stars) in Crete. Enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes in a charming atmosphere. Book your table.

4,380 reviewsΚαβούσι

Apiri greek_eatery

Mediterranean Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Experience authentic Greek cuisine in Crete at this 4.7-star rated eatery. Discover delicious Mediterranean dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. Book your table today.

3,147 reviewsΑγίων Δέκα 5 &

Thigaterra - The Art of Slow Food

Greek Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Discover authentic Cretan cuisine with a 4.7-star rating. Experience artistic Greek dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. Book your table.

3,137 reviewsLeof. Andrea Papandreou 109

Arismari & Varsamo

Greek Restaurant · Restaurant · Food

Discover a highly-rated Greek restaurant in Crete. Experience authentic flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Sample delicious dishes with a 4.6/5 rating.

1,329 reviewsΛυσιμάχου Καλοκαιρινού 10

KOUZEINERI

Restaurant · Food

Experience exceptional Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated (4.5/5) Iraklio restaurant. Savor delicious dishes, fine wines, and warm service. Book your table!

2,383 reviewsAgiou Titou

TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA

Restaurant · Food

Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at this highly-rated Chania restaurant (4.5/5). Enjoy fresh flavors, friendly service, and a charming atmosphere.

5,519 reviews49 Zampeliou str Old Harbour

A Little Wine A Little Sea

Mediterranean Restaurant · Seafood Restaurant · Greek Restaurant

Experience exceptional Mediterranean and seafood dining in Crete with a 4.4-star rating. Savor fresh dishes and a lively atmosphere. Discover this local gem.

5,910 reviewsΛοχαγού Μαρινελη και Μητσοτακη

Plan Your Crete Trip

Transportation Tips

Rental cars for island exploration, buses for main routes, and ferries for coastal access. Walking is perfect for exploring cities and villages.

Car Rental Deals in Crete

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Crete adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Crete

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Expedia USA.

Ready to Explore Crete?

Discover the best tours and activities in Crete with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.