Kamilari Crete: Things to Do, Facts, Tourist and Car Rental Guide

Kamilari is a village in the southern part of the island of Crete, Greece. It is a traditional settlement built atop three hills – Ovgora, Goulas and Alevrota – offering panoramic views of the surrounding olive groves, the Messara valley, the Libyan Sea and the Psiloritis and Asterousia mountain ranges. Kamilari has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The village gets its name from the Byzantine era, derived from the word “Kamilaris”, meaning “the one who rides a camel”. This suggests that camel caravans have passed through the area during that period. The area around Kamilari has been inhabited since the Early Minoan times, as evidenced by the discovery of a vaulted Minoan tholos tomb just outside the village, dating back to the beginning of the Neopalatial period (1700 BC). This tomb, known as the “Kamilari tomb”, contained significant archaeological findings that are now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

The best vehicle for visiting Kamilari is a medium-sized rental car. A medium-sized rental car is best for navigating the narrow streets of Kamilari while providing enough space for luggage and comfortable seating. Renting from a reputable car rental in Crete offers the flexibility and convenience of exploring Kamilari and other inland villages at the traveller’s pace, away from the more crowded coastal areas. The roads connecting Kamilari to major towns and attractions like the Minoan Palace of Phaistos are well-paved and easily accessible by a standard rental car.

What to know before going to Kamilari?

There are some key things to know before going to Kamilari. The temperature in Kamilari is generally pleasant, with a temperate Mediterranean climate. The summers are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching the 32°C (90°F) mark in July and August. Pack light, breathable clothing for the summer and some warmer layers for the cooler evenings in winter. Kamilari offers visitors plenty of things to see and do. The village features traditional stone houses, winding alleys and beautiful gardens. Nearby attractions include the ancient Minoan archaeological sites of Phaistos and Agia Triada, the Kamilari Tholos Tomb and the famous beaches of Matala, Kommos and Kalamaki. Hiking trails in the surrounding areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities. Kamilari has a range of tavernas and cafes serving traditional Cretan cuisine. Expect dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients like olive oil, vegetables, cheese and seafood. Travellers must try local specialities such as Dakos (a Cretan bruschetta), Kalitsounia (cheese or herb pastries) and Ofto kleftiko (oven-baked lamb). Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as Kamilari is a village with narrow, winding streets. Sandals or closed-toe shoes with good grip will allow travellers to explore the village and nearby archaeological sites with ease. Hiking boots may also come in handy if the travellers plan to go on any of the hiking trails in the area.

What are the best things to do in Kamilari?

Find below the best things to do in Kamilmary.

Palace of Phaistos: The Palace of Phaistos is a Minoan palace complex located in the Messara Plain of southern Crete. It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island, dating back to the Bronze Age. The palace is known for its well-preserved ruins and significance in Minoan history. It is 58.4 kilometers (36.3 miles) southwest of Heraklion and 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) east of Matala. Visitors can explore the palace grounds for a fee of €8 ($8.72, £6.96), with reduced prices for children and seniors. The target audience for visiting the Palace of Phaistos includes history lovers, archaeologists, and those interested in ancient civilizations.
Minoan site of Agia Triada: The Minoan site of Agia Triada is an archaeological site dating back to the Bronze Age, located in the Messara Plain of southern Crete. The site is known for its well-preserved Minoan villa and its association with the nearby Minoan palace of Phaistos. It is 59.5 kilometers (36.97 miles) southwest of Heraklion and 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) east of Matala. Visitors can explore the site for a fee of €4 ($4.36, £3.48), with reduced prices for children and seniors. The target audience for visiting the Minoan site of Agia Triada includes history buffs, archaeologists, and those interested in ancient Minoan civilization.
Kommos Archaeological Site. Kommos Archaeological Site offers visitors the opportunity to see the remains of a Minoan town and harbour, 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) south of Kamilari. This site features houses, tombs and even a Minoan shipwreck, providing a comprehensive look into the daily lives and maritime activities of this ancient civilisation. Visitors to Kommos Archaeological Site can explore the ruins and a small museum, engaging in the rich history and culture of the Minoans while paying an entry fee that supports the preservation of this archaeological site.
Kamilari Minoan Tholos Tomb. Kamilari Minoan Tholos Tomb, outside the village of Kamilari, lies a vaulted tomb dating back to 1700 BC. This ancient structure once housed important archaeological findings that are now exhibited in the Heraklion Museum, allowing visitors to appreciate the rich history and cultural heritage of the Minoans. The Kamilari Minoan Tholos Tomb is considered one of the top attractions and things to do in Kamilari for local and international travellers.
Mana Elia: Ancient Olive Tree. Mana Elia, also known as the Mother of Olive Trees, Mana Elia is considered important because of its age and how close it is to the archaeological sites in the area. The Cultural Association of Kamilari transported large stones to place around the tree to protect and highlight it. The tree’s annual rings and radial growth indicate that it is as old as 2800 years – it has played witness to hundreds of historic moments in the region, from the fall of Sparta to the rise of the Roman Empire.
Matala Beach: Matala Beach in the Heraklion region is famous for its cliffside caves, which were once inhabited by hippies in the 1960s and 1970s. Snorkelers can explore the remains of an ancient Roman port submerged in the crystal-clear waters along the rocky coastline. Matala Beach is 66 kilometers (41.02 miles) from Heraklion International Airport and can be reached by car or public transportation.
Kommos Beach. Kommos Beach is a popular destination for both tourists and locals in the Heraklion region in Crete. It stretches along the southernmost part of Messara Bay’s shoreline, approximately 66 kilometres (41 miles) southwest of Heraklion and just 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) north of Matala, near the village of Pitsidia. Kommos Beach features stunning rock formations and natural wonders, providing a unique backdrop for beachgoers.
Preveli Monastery: Preveli Monastery is a Greek Orthodox monastery in southern Crete’s Rethymno regional unit. The monastery is known for its role in the Cretan Resistance during World War II and its location overlooking the Libyan Sea. It is 32.6 kilometers (20.3 miles) south of Rethymno and 8.6 kilometers (5.3 miles) east of Plakias. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds for free, but there is a suggested donation of €2 ($2.18, £1.74) to €5 ($5.45, £4.35). The target audience for visiting Preveli Monastery includes religious pilgrims, history lovers, and those interested in World War II history.
Frangokastello Venetian Castle: Frangokastello Venetian Castle is a 14th-century fortress on Frangokastello 730 11, Greece, on the southern coast of Crete. The Venetians built the castle to protect the area from pirate raids and Ottoman invasions. It is located 37.4 kilometers (23.24 miles) southeast of Chania and 110 kilometers (68.35 miles) east of Chora Sfakion. Visitors can explore the castle grounds for free, but there is a fee of €2 ($2.18, £1.74) for parking. The nearest town is Chora Sfakion, 12 kilometers (7.46 miles) away. The target audience for visiting Frangokastello includes history buffs, photographers, and those interested in medieval architecture.

What are the facts about Kamilari?

Listed below are facts about Kamilari:

Location: Kamilari is a village in the southern part of the island of Crete, Greece, offering a unique blend of historical significance and coastal beauty. The village is built atop three hills – Ovgora, Goulas and Alevrota – providing a scenic and elevated vantage point over the surrounding landscapes.
Weather: Kamilari enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate that is characterised by abundant sunshine for nine months of the year. The warm and dry summers are perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the village’s charming streets and alleys. Even during the milder winter months, the village basks in a comfortable climate, making it an attractive destination year-round.
Accessibility: Kamilari is easily accessible, with regular public bus services connecting the village to the nearby resort town of Kalamaki and the city of Heraklion. The road leading to Kamilari winds through the fertile Messara valley, offering travellers a view of the region’s agricultural bounty and natural beauty. This ease of access makes Kamilari an ideal base for exploring the southern part of Crete and its many attractions.

What are the Hiking Routes for Kamilari?

There are several top hiking routes in Kamilari, Crete. The easiest route is the Nida Plateau. It takes 300 meters (0.18 miles) to reach the Cave of Zeus, known as the Ideon Cave. Hikers will reach the small Church of Analipsi halfway to the cave. This route is easy and well-marked, with posts guiding hikers. One of the harder routes is from the Continental Divide trail to Mount Ida (Psiloritis). This route is described as a strenuous hike with a total elevation gain of 3,060 feet (932 meters). Hikers can expect windy and cold temperatures, even during the hot season, due to the high elevation. The longest route to Mount Ida is from the E4 walking path, Southern Trail. The E4 southern trail leading to Mount Ida is described as very complicated and challenging, especially for beginners. Some trail markers are not well-made or visible, making it easy to get lost. This route involves 2000 meters (6,562 feet) of climbing and can take 16 hours to complete the round trip from Mount Ida.T here are several other hiking trails mentioned, such as the Rouvas Gorge, Platania Gorge (Gorge of Vultures) and the trail to the Kamares Cave. These routes offer varying levels of difficulty and scenic views, passing through gorges, forests and archaeological sites.

What is the best period for visiting Kamilari?

The best period to visit Kamilari is late spring to early fall, from May through October. The weather in Kamilari is pleasantly warm and sunny, with average high temperatures ranging from the low 23°C (70°F) in May to 30°C (80 °F) in July and August. The long summer days offer ample sunshine, with 12 hours of daylight in July. Rainfall is minimal from May through September, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing in the village and nearby archaeological sites. The sea temperatures peak in August at a comfortable 25°C (77°F), perfect for beach visits. The dry, sunny weather from late spring through early fall provides optimal conditions for enjoying Kamilari’s traditional Cretan atmosphere, landscapes and cultural attractions.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Kamilari?

Yes, travellers need to book accommodations in Kamilari in advance. Kamilari is a small village with limited lodging options and availability can be an issue. Booking in adviance ensures travellers can secure their preferred dates and accommodation type in this Cretan village with few hotels and high demand during peak seasons. Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment and have a smooth, stress-free stay in Kamilari.

What is the best vehicle for visiting Kamilari?

The best vehicle for visiting Kamilari is a medium-sized rental car. Renting a car offers the flexibility and convenience of exploring Kamilari and other inland villages at the travellers’ pace, away from the more crowded coastal areas. The roads connecting Kamilari to major towns and attractions like the Minoan Palace of Phaistos are well-paved and easily accessible by a standard rental car. Crete car rental allows travellers to drive their vehicles throughout the island without any additional fees or cross-border charges, as long as they stay within Greece. A medium-sized rental car is best for navigating the narrow streets of Kamilari while providing enough space for luggage and comfortable seating. Major car rental services like Avis, Hertz, Budget, Europcar and Rental Center Crete have numerous locations across Crete, making it convenient to rent a car upon arrival on the island.

Can you rent a car going to Kamilari?

Yes, travellers can rent a car to go to Kamilari, a village in the Messara region of southern Crete. Rental car companies in Greece typically allow travellers to drive their vehicles throughout the island and mainland without any additional fees or cross-border charges as long as they stay within the country’s borders. Kamilari is an inland village, so there should be no issues with renting a standard car from any major rental company’s location in Crete and driving it there. The roads connecting Kamilari to major towns and tourist hubs like Phaistos, Matala and Agia Galini are well-paved and easily accessible by rental car. Renting a car offers the flexibility to explore Kamilari and other villages in the region at your own pace, away from the more crowded coastal areas.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors on how to choose the right rental car in Crete:

Insurance: Car rental insurance is important, as it protects renters against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rentals include insurance for Collision Damage Waiver and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee. Additional insurance options like full coverage with no deductible are available for an extra cost.
Driver’s age: Most rental companies require the driver to be at least 21 years old and have held their license for at least 12 months. Some categories of cars may require the driver to be 23 or older. Young drivers under 25 have additional surcharges.
Car type: Traveling with groups or family members in Crete requires a much bigger car. The car type is an important factor in renting, as smaller cars are best for city/town driving, while SUVs/4x4s are recommended for rougher terrain and highland areas.
Documents needed for renting a car: Renters will need a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit if their license is not in Greek or English, a credit/debit card in the main driver’s name for the deposit, their passport or ID and the rental voucher if they pre-booked online.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

The cost of Crete Car Hire can vary depending on several factors, including the rental duration, the type of car, the rental company and the season. Renting an economy car from a major rental company like Avis or Hertz can cost between €150 ($162.30, £130.35) to €250 ($270.50, £217.25) for a week-long trip during the peak summer season and between €100 ($108.20, £86.90) to €180 ($194.76, £156.42) during the off-peak season. Compact and midsize cars are more expensive, ranging from €180 ($194.76, £156.42) to €300 ($324.60, £260.70) in summer and €120 ($129.84, £104.28) to €220 ($238.04, £191.18) in winter. Larger vehicles like SUVs or minivans can cost between €300 ($324.60, £260.70) to €500 ($541.00, £434.50) per week in high season and between €200 ($216.40, £173.80) to €350 ($378.70, £304.15) in low season. Economy cars cost between €30 ($32.46, £26.07) to €50 ($54.10, £43.45) for a day trip, compacts cost between €40 ($43.28, £34.76) to €60 ($64.92, £52.14) and larger cars like SUVs or minivans cost between €60 ($64.92, £52.14) to €100 ($108.20, £86.90), depending on the season and rental company. Night rates for a single-day rental are usually lower, with economy cars costing between €20 ($21.64, £17.38) to €40 ($43.28, £34.76) per night and larger vehicles between €40 ($43.28, £34.76) to €80 ($86.56, £69.52) per night.

Where is Kamilari located?

Kamilari is a village in the southern part of the island of Crete, Greece, with coordinates of 35°02′N 24°51′E. The village is built atop three hills – Ovgora, Goulas and Alevrota – at an altitude of 110 meters (360 feet) above sea level. Kamilari lies 2.5 kilometres (1.5 miles) west of the famous Minoan archaeological site of Phaistos and 2.5 kilometres (1.5 miles) from the sea, where the resort town of Kalamaki is located. It is in the fertile Messara valley, surrounded by olive groves, orchards and agricultural lands. The village enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate with abundant sunshine for most of the year, making it an attractive destination for visitors seeking a blend of historical significance, natural beauty and traditional Cretan life.

How to Get to Kamilari?

Kamilari can be reached by rental car, by bus and by taxi. Find below more details.

Getting to Kamilari by Rental Car

The best way to reach Kamilari is to book a rental car from Heraklion airport once you land in Crete. Choosing to rent a car means skipping long bus queues and crowded shuttles. You will get to move between locations comfortably or with a driver if you choose to have one. If you’re in Chania (or landing at Chania airport) or Rethymno, you can travel to Kamilari by taking the National Road. That should help you get there faster once you pass Tymbaki. Taking a car can get you to Kamilari within an hour or a little more.

Getting to Kamilari by Bus

While choosing to go with a rental car from Chania, Rethymno or Heraklion is a hassle-free alternative, taking the bus is a pocket-friendly option. Some buses make several trips to Kamilari. It can be time-consuming and taxing to board a bus (peak season) or wait for one to arrive (if you miss a ride). Depending on how many stops the bus has to take or the chosen route and also the number of seated people the bus can accommodate, a trip can take anywhere between 2.5 to 3.5 hours to reach Kamilari.

Getting to Kamilari by Taxi

Finding a taxi at Chania or Heraklion airports to take you to Kamilari is a good option for those who want to plan things on the ground. When you arrive at the airport you will find people standing in a queue waiting for the taxi. If you’re already on Crete island, taxi drivers in other areas such as Tymbaki, Mires and Matala will be willing to take you to Kamilari. One downside of taking a taxi is that you will have to rely on fluctuating rates and uncertain availability once you reach Kamilari.

What are the best places to eat in Kamilari?

Find below the top places to eat in Kamilari.

Pizzeria Ariadni. Pizzeria Ariadni is known for its wood-fired pizzas, which offer a cosy and romantic ambience with candle-lit tables. It is an ideal spot for an intimate dinner in Kamilari. The pizzeria specialises in creating wood-fired pizzas, showcasing their expertise in this traditional cooking method for an affordable price. Ariadni provides an excellent value-for-money dining experience.
Taverna Milonas. Taverna Milonas, established in 1985, is a traditional family-run taverna that takes pride in serving homemade dishes crafted with fresh produce from their farm. Their specialities include rabbit and chicken dishes, accompanied by their homemade raki, a traditional Greek alcoholic beverage, with prices averaging between €10 ($10.82, £8.69) to €15 ($16.23, £13.04) for main courses. Milonas offers an authentic and affordable taste of Cretan cuisine. The Taverna Milonas is one of the recommended restaurants to eat and drink in Kamilari.
To Kentrikon. To Kentrikon is a local taverna with authentic Greek cuisine in a warm and hospitable vibe. It is known for its budget-friendly prices, which are a hallmark of kafenios. To Kentrikon offers a menu featuring Greek staples like moussaka, souvlaki and Greek salads, allowing diners to indulge in the flavours of the country without breaking the bank.

What are the best beaches to visit near Kamilari?

Listed below are the best beaches to visit near Kamilari.

Kommos Beach. Kommos Beach is a long sandy beach 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) south of Kamilari village, near the archaeological site of Kommos. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and enjoy swimming in the clear waters, with tavernas and cafes nearby for refreshments. The beach offers a unique blend of historical and natural attractions.
Kalamaki Beach. Kalamaki Beach, 2.5 kilometres (1.5 miles) east of Kamilari, is a popular beach resort area with a long sandy beach and shallow waters, making it an ideal destination for families with children. The beach is well-equipped with amenities such as restaurants, bars and water sports facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Katalyki Beach. Katalyki Beach, 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) west of Kamilari, offers a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere with its sand and pebbles. This smaller beach is perfect for those seeking a quieter escape, as it lacks facilities, requiring visitors to bring their supplies for a day at the beach.
Afrathias Beach. Afrathias Beach, 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) west of Kamilari, is known for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and diving lovers. The beach offers a more natural and rugged experience with limited facilities.

What are the best places to stay in Kamilari?

Listed below are the best places to stay in Kamilari.

Korali House. Korali House is a highly-rated accommodation that provides a comfortable and relaxing stay in Kamilari. This traditional Cretan house features a private pool, a well-equipped kitchen and a beautiful garden area. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a barbecue facility. The cost for a night’s stay at Korali House ranges from €100 ($108.20, £86.90) to €200 ($216.40, £173.80), depending on the season and the number of guests.
Theathina. Theathina is a luxurious villa that offers an indulgent experience in Kamilari. This property has a private pool, a hot tub and views of the surrounding olive groves and mountains. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as a fully-equipped kitchen, a home cinema system and a fitness room. The cost for a night’s stay at Theathina can range from €300 ($324.60, £260.70) to €500 ($540.90, £434.50), making it a more upscale option.
Olive Villas & Suites. Olive Villas & Suites is a popular choice among travellers seeking a combination of traditional Cretan architecture and modern amenities in Kamilari. This complex offers a range of villas and suites, each with its private pool or shared pool access. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a well-equipped kitchenette. The cost for a night’s stay at Olive Villas & Suites can vary from €100 ($108.20, £86.90) to €300 ($324.60, £260.70) depending on the type of accommodation and the season and is considered one of the best hotels in Kamilari.

How is the nightlife in Kamilari?

Kamilari has a low-key nightlife scene compared to larger tourist destinations but offers a few lively bars and tavernas where visitors can enjoy drinks, music and a lively atmosphere. The village features bars like Mia Olia – Cocktails & Brunch, a chilled-out cocktail bar with a friendly vibe and great people-watching opportunities. The Blues Bar is another popular spot that attracts locals and visitors with its lively atmosphere and likely offers live blues music performances. Kamilari’s nightlife revolves around cosy bars, traditional tavernas serving drinks alongside local cuisine and the opportunity to mingle with locals over drinks while soaking in the village’s authentic Cretan ambience.

What are the best bars in Kamilari?

Listed below are the best bars in Kamilari:

Mia Olia – Cocktails & Brunch: Mia Olia is a chilled-out cocktail bar with a friendly vibe that offers drinks in Kamilari Village. It opens at 6 pm for cocktails and serves brunch from 8:30 am to 12 pm with egg dishes, pancakes, fresh juices and coffee. The bar has an outdoor seating area with dimmed lighting and background music, perfect for people-watching at the Crossroads location. Visitors can enjoy speciality cocktails like the “Mia Olia” with mastic, vanilla & gin, as well as classic cocktails. It is a great spot to start the evening with an aperitif before heading to one of the village tavernas for dinner.
The Blues Bar: The Blues Bar is popular in Kamilari. It attracts a mix of locals and visitors with its lively atmosphere and likely offers live music nights featuring blues performances. The bar allows guests to soak in the traditional Cretan ambience while sipping on drinks. Visitors can expect a warm welcome and the opportunity to experience the nightlife of Kamilari at this blues bar. It is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the area’s beaches, archaeological sites and tavernas.

Is Kamilari safe to visit?

Yes, Kamilari is considered a safe place to visit. Kamilari is a small, traditional village in the southern part of Crete, Greece. Visitors can feel secure exploring the streets and alleys of the village, which is a quiet and peaceful area with a low crime rate. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and respect towards tourists. Kamilari has a strong police presence, especially during the peak tourist season, ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors. It is advisable to take basic precautions such as being aware of the surroundings, securing valuables and avoiding isolated areas at night.

What is the contribution of Kamilari to Crete Tourism?

Kamilari is a traditional village in the Messara region of southern Crete that contributes significantly to the island’s tourism appeal. Kamilari offers visitors a view glimpse into Cretan village life. The village’s proximity to major archaeological sites like the Minoan Palace of Phaistos and the ancient city of Gortyna and its natural surroundings with olive groves and views of the Libyan Sea, make it an attractive destination for cultural and nature tourism. Kamilari has a rich culinary tradition, with several excellent tavernas serving local specialities, enhancing its appeal as a gastronomic destination. The village hosts lively festivals and fairs during religious celebrations, allowing visitors to experience Cretan customs and hospitality firsthand. Kamilari’s small size, outdoor attractions and traditional way of life make it a relatively safe option for travellers seeking an authentic yet uncrowded experience in the post-pandemic era.

Is Kamilari considered an archaeological site?

No, Kamilari is not considered an archaeological site. Kamilari provides valuable insights into the burial practices and material culture of the Minoan civilisation that flourished on the island of Crete during the Bronze Age. The Minoan tholos tomb is a distinctive type of burial structure characterised by a circular, beehive-shaped chamber constructed with finely cut stones, but it is not enought to considere the whole area as an archaeological site.

Is Kamilari in UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

No, Kamilari is not listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kamilari is a village in the Phaistos municipality on the Greek island of Crete. Kamilari is built atop three hills – Ovgora, Goulas and Alevrota – offering panoramic views of the surrounding olive groves, the Messara valley, the Libyan Sea and the Psiloritis and Asterousia mountain ranges. It retains its traditional character with stone houses, winding streets and colourful gardens adorned with flowers. The name “Kamilari” is derived from the Byzantine word “Kamilaris”, meaning “camel rider” or “camel driver”. The earliest records of the village date back to 1370 during the Venetian rule. Kamilari has an archaeological site nearby with an ancient Minoan tholos tomb and cemetery dating back to the Middle Minoan period. Significant artefacts like clay models of dancers, people and banquets have been discovered here and are displayed at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Last updated on October 31st, 2024