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.