Around Crete

Northern Coast

1. Elafonissi Beach: Famous for its pink-hued sand and shallow turquoise waters, Elafonissi is a stunning beach on the southwestern coast.

2. Balos Beach: Located on the northwest coast, Balos is known for its surreal beauty, featuring white sand, clear waters, and a lagoon.

3. Falassarna Beach: With its long stretch of golden sand and impressive sunset views, Falassarna is a popular beach in the northwest.

4. Georgioupolis Beach: Situated east of Chania, this beach offers a mix of golden sand and shallow waters, perfect for families.

Western Coast

1. Preveli Beach: Nestled at the mouth of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, Preveli is known for its palm-lined river delta and clear waters.

2. Triopetra Beach: A series of small sandy coves and dunes characterize Triopetra, providing a more secluded beach experience.

Southern Coast:

1. Plakias Beach: A long sandy organized beach surrounded by cliffs, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.

2. Matala Beach: Famous for its caves and hippie history, Matala has a unique charm and a laid-back vibe.

Eastern Coast:

1. Vai Beach: Known for its palm forest, Vai is a tropical-like beach on the easternmost tip of Crete.

2. Xerokampos Beach: A remote and pristine beach with crystal-clear waters, Xerokampos is a hidden gem in the southeast.

Central Crete:

1. Episkopi Beach: This long sandy beach, located around 1km west of Rethymno, is known for its wide coastline and clear waters. The beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, offering a relaxed setting for beachgoers.

2. Bali Beaches: A collection of small beaches with clear waters, great for swimming and snorkeling.

Minoan Sites:

1. Knossos Palace: Located near Heraklion, Knossos is the largest and most significant Minoan archaeological site on Crete. The palace complex features intricate frescoes, royal chambers, and a labyrinthine structure.

2. Phaistos (Festos) Palace: Situated on the Messara Plain, Phaistos Palace is another significant Minoan site, known for its architectural complexity and the Phaistos Disc, an ancient script.

3. Malia Palace: Along the northern coast, Malia Palace is a Minoan archaeological site with well-preserved structures, including a central courtyard and impressive storage rooms.

Venetian and Ottoman Period:

1. Rethymno Fortress (Fortezza): Dominating the skyline of Rethymno, the Fortezza is a massive Venetian fortress with bastions, churches, and a mosque, offering panoramic views of the town and sea.

2. Chania Venetian Harbour: The picturesque harbour in Chania features Venetian and Ottoman architecture, including the Venetian lighthouse, the Firka Fortress, and the grand Kucuk Hasan Pasha Mosque.

3. Heraklion Venetian Walls: The Venetian walls surrounding Heraklion were built to protect the city. The Martinengo Bastion, Rocca al Mare, and the gates are notable features.

4. Arkadi Monastery: Famous for its role in the Cretan resistance against the Ottoman rule, Arkadi Monastery has historical significance and remarkable architecture.

Byzantine and Early Christian:

1. Agia Triada Monastery: Dating back to the 17th century, this Venetian-era monastery near Chania features intricate frescoes and a peaceful courtyard.

2. Panagia Kera Church: Situated near Kritsa village, this Byzantine church is renowned for its well-preserved frescoes, showcasing Byzantine artistry.

3. Agios Nikolaos Church (Venetian Church): Located in Sitia, this Venetian church is a fine example of Cretan Renaissance architecture, with a beautiful bell tower.

Classical and Hellenistic Periods:

1. Gortyn (Gortys): An ancient city in southern Crete, Gortyn boasts historical remains, including the Odeon, Temple of Apollo, and the Gortyn Law Code inscriptions.

2. Lato: An ancient city-state in eastern Crete, Lato features well-preserved ruins, including a theater, agora, and houses with panoramic views of Mirabello Bay.