The best travel deals for Crete: Hotels, rental cars, flights, day trips, ferries, travel articles and accessories for your vacation.
Overview of the best Crete offers
Crete travel offers
Table of Contents
Tours and Day Trips
Current offers for day trips and tours in Crete:
Hotels
To the hotel offers on Booking.com
Flights
Cheap flights here at Booking.com !
Ferries
Ferry connections to Greece and Crete.
Besides the ferry connections from Italy to Greece and on to Crete, there are all current ferry connections worldwide with dates and prices:
Relevant to Greece and Crete:
- Ancona (Italy) to Patras (Greece),
- Bari (Italy) to Patras (Greece),
- Venice (Italy) to Patras (Greece),
- Piraeus (Athens) to Chania (Crete),
- Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete).
The Best Travel Deals for Crete: Uncover Top Holiday Savings
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, offers a tapestry of splendid beaches, ancient treasures, vibrant cities, and dreamy villages. Locals share their traditions, wonderful cuisine, and generous spirit. This diverse island promises memorable holidays, with a myriad of experiences to suit all tastes and budgets.
Whether one seeks a tranquil retreat in a seaside resort or an adventure exploring Minoan ruins, Crete’s rich historical canvas and stunning landscapes offer the perfect backdrop.
Finding great travel deals for Crete requires savvy planning and an eye for value.
From the charming streets of Chania to the mythical Palace of Knossos, securing a holiday package that encapsulates the essence of Crete can enhance the overall experience.
With a range of options available, including family-friendly holidays, romantic getaways, and all-inclusive resort packages, travellers can delight in the rich Cretan culture without overstretching their budget.
Travel deals might incorporate accommodation, flights, and unique experiences, allowing the traveller to immerse themselves fully in all Crete has to offer.
Discover Crete’s Top Destinations
Crete offers a tapestry of splendid beaches, ancient treasures, and landscapes encompassing vibrant cities and dreamy villages, where locals share their traditions, wonderful cuisine, and generous spirit.
Heraklion: Gateway to the Past
Heraklion, the island’s capital, invites travellers to explore Crete’s rich history.
The city is home to the world-renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which offers a comprehensive glimpse into Minoan civilisation.
Moreover, the ancient site of Knossos lies just a short distance from the city centre. It showcases the sophisticated palatial complex that was once the thriving heart of Minoan culture.
Rethymnon and Chania: A Blend of History and Beaches
Rethymnon and Chania are two cities that artfully merge preserved historical sites with stunning beaches.
Rethymnon is celebrated for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and Venetian fortifications. In contrast, Chania is famous for its charming Old Town and Venetian Harbour, offering exquisite sea views and a bustling atmosphere.
Both destinations cater to those who appreciate the continuity of history meeting the leisure of beach life.
Elounda and Aghios Nikolaos: Luxury and Serenity
For a taste of luxury with serene sea views, Elounda and Aghios Nikolaos are unrivalled.
Elounda boasts high-end resorts offering secluded beaches and world-class services. Nearby, the coastal town of Aghios Nikolaos, with its mythical lake and chic marina, exudes a laid-back elegance.
These locales are perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst sophisticated surroundings.
Hersonissos and Malia: Nightlife and Family Fun
The vibrant towns of Hersonissos and Malia are known for their dynamic nightlife and family-friendly resorts.
Hersonissos has a wide promenade with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for young travellers. Meanwhile, families favour Malia for its sandy beaches and plethora of activities designed to delight visitors of all ages.
Choosing Your Perfect Stay
Finding the right accommodation in Crete can deeply affect the enjoyment of your holiday.
Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive package at an all-inclusive resort, the flexibility of self-catering villas, an adults-only retreat offering peace and privacy, or a family-friendly hotel brimming with activities, Crete has it all.
All-Inclusive Resorts: Hassle-Free Holidays
All-Inclusive resorts in Crete cater to those seeking a hassle-free holiday experience.
With meals, drinks, and often various activities included, these resorts allow guests to indulge without concern for additional costs. Notable for their swimming pools and proximity to the sea, options such as the Esperides Resort Crete provide the ultimate package for those looking for comfort and convenience.
Self-Catering Villas: Home Away from Home
For travellers who crave a more personal and flexible holiday, self-catering villas are the perfect fit.
These properties empower guests with the freedom to explore local markets and cook their own meals, offering a home away from home experience. Villas often come with private amenities such as pools, granting a slice of tranquillity amid the island’s vibrant culture.
Adults-Only Accommodation: Peace and Privacy
Adults-only accommodation is ideal for those seeking peace and privacy.
These retreats promise relaxation away from the bustle, often featuring serene settings and adult-oriented amenities. They provide an environment where adults can unwind in comfort, whether by the poolside or within the stunning Cretan landscape.
Family-Friendly Hotels: Fun for All Ages
Family-friendly hotels are the go-to option for holidaymakers travelling with children.
They cater to all ages, often boasting kids’ clubs, family-sized rooms, and activities to keep everyone entertained. Hotels like this excel in balancing adult relaxation with family fun, ensuring a stay that’ll be cherished by every family member.
A great example are Corali Studios&Portobello Apartments in Elounda.
Unforgettable Island Experiences
Crete offers a tapestry of exhilarating experiences, combining the richness of gastronomy, the thrill of outdoor activities, and the depth of cultural heritage.
From sampling the island’s traditional cuisine to exploring the rugged terrain of Samaria Gorge or diving into the Aegean Sea, Crete holidays cater to all tastes and preferences.
Cretan Gastronomy: Feast Like a Local
In Crete, culinary exploration is essential.
The island’s diet is a treasure trove of hearty flavours and nutritious ingredients. Visitors can savour the iconic moussaka, an eggplant or potato-based dish layered with spiced meat and a creamy béchamel sauce, or a variety of other local dishes that make up the heart of Cretan gastronomy.
For an authentic experience, one can opt for meals at all-inclusive resorts or local tavernas that provide a taste of traditional Cretan hospitality.
Outdoor Adventures: From Sea to Summit
Crete is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities.
Adventurers can navigate the winding trails of the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest canyons, providing breathtaking views and a remarkable experience.
The island’s coastline invites thrill-seekers to try scuba diving in the clear waters of the Aegean Sea, while beach resorts like Daios Cove offer a more relaxed atmosphere for those looking to unwind by the sea.
Cultural Delights: Music, Dance, and Archaeology
Crete’s vibrant local culture is manifested in its music, dance, and extensive archaeological sites.
Historical tours illuminate the island’s rich past, with well-preserved Minoan palaces and Byzantine churches. Festivals and local events present an opportunity for travellers to witness Cretan music and dance, reflecting the soul of the island, while explorations of ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the distant historical worlds that once flourished here.
Planning Your Trip
When planning a trip to Crete, it’s important for travellers to consider the ideal time to visit, budget wisely for the best travel deals, and understand the logistics of getting there, including flights and transfers.
Best Time to Visit: Weather and Crowds
Weather: The optimal time to travel to Crete for warm weather is between late April and early November.
July and August can be particularly hot, with temperatures soaring above 30°C.
Crowds: To avoid the peak tourist season while still enjoying comfortable weather, consider travelling in the shoulder months of May, June, or September.
During these months, there are fewer tourists, and the beaches and resorts are less crowded.
Budgeting: Cost-Effective Travel Deals
Travel Deals: Keep an eye out for deals and off-peak periods to stay within your budget.
Accommodation: Crete offers a range of options, from budget-friendly family resorts to luxury beach hotels.
For a cost-effective stay, consider all-inclusive packages or resorts with additional amenities.
Getting There: Flights and Transfers
Flights: Crete is well-serviced by two international airports in Heraklion and Chania, with direct flights from major UK cities.
To find competitive prices, book in advance or search for last-minute deals.
Transfers: Upon arrival, there are various options for transfers to your rest aside.
Taxis, buses, and car rentals are available, and some resorts may offer shuttle services. It’s advisable to pre-book to ensure a smooth start to your holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to Crete often involves a fair bit of research. These frequently asked questions aim to provide clarity and assist travellers in making informed decisions for an enjoyable Cretan getaway.
What is the ideal time of year to visit Crete for good weather and affordable pricing?
The best time to visit Crete for favourable weather and value for money is during the shoulder months of May, June, and September.
During these months, travellers can enjoy warm, pleasant climates and fewer crowds.
Which areas in Crete offer the best experiences for travellers seeking all-inclusive luxury holidays?
For all-inclusive luxury holidays, areas like Elounda or Chania are renowned for providing upscale accommodation and services.
The Esperides Resort in Crete is an example of a destination offering such premium experiences.
Can you suggest strategies for finding the best value deals when travelling to Crete from the UK?
To secure the most cost-effective deals when travelling from the UK to Crete, consider booking well in advance or look for last-minute offers.
Setting alerts on travel comparison sites and being flexible with travel dates can also lead to significant savings.
What are the top considerations when selecting an adults-only holiday package in Crete?
When choosing an adults-only holiday package in Crete, consider the location’s proximity to sites of interest, the quality of amenities, and the style of accommodation offered.
Adults-only resorts typically cater to a more tranquil and refined atmosphere.
Are there destinations in Crete that are recommended to avoid, and if so, why?
While Crete is a relatively safe destination, travellers should be cautious in overly crowded tourist spots, particularly in peak seasons, to avoid congestion and inflated prices.
Personal safety and travel updates should be checked before travelling.
How does the cost of holidaying in Crete compare to other popular Mediterranean destinations?
Holiday expenses in Crete are generally comparable to other Mediterranean destinations.
However, Crete can offer better value due to its wide range of accommodation options and local dining. These are often less expensive than in more hyper-commercialised locales.