Best 10 Crete Beaches from Rethymno to Chania
Crete offers plenty of tourist attractions, including its beautiful beaches that are accessible to their tourists. Both Rethymno and Chania are known to have amazing beaches with mesmerizing views. Rethymno is a fine-looking and relaxing place to visit. The beaches in Rethymno have golden sand and deep, clean water that is well maintained and conveniently located near the city’s facilities. While, in Chania, it also has a lot of beaches with turquoise crystal-clear water to dive in and white sands. Relaxing waters and heavenly sunset views can be experienced on their beaches that will make anyone fall in love with its beauty.
Car Rental Insurance Coverage in Crete: Things You Should Know Before You Get There
Insurance for a rented vehicle safeguards against financial loss in case of an accident or theft. Car rental companies usually offer a number of insurance alternatives from which to choose in the event that a renter is involved in a mishap, their leased vehicle is stolen, or it sustains damage. Personal accident insurance, collision damage waiver (CDW), full damage waiver, third-party insurance (TPI), theft waiver, fire protection (FPI), and tyre insurance are just some of the many insurance options that are made available to anyone who rents a car on the island of Crete. It is possible for coverage specifics and restrictions to shift over time due to the fact that every rental company and insurance policy is unique.
Venetian Fortezza Castle: History, Tour and Car Rental Guide
The Venetian Fortezza Castle is one of the wonderful tourist destinations in Greece. It is a Venetian stronghold, known as “Castrum Rethemi'' which means “old castle”, located on the hill of Paleokastro in the town of Rethymnon in Crete. The popular tourist destination, the Venetian Fortezza Castle, has undergone partial restoration and preservation as a cultural heritage monument. The walls, bastions, and structures of the castle are capable of being explored by guests. The castle holds cultural events including musical performances and theatrical productions along with exhibitions and art fairs. The Fortezza Castle is a remarkable historical artefact and a tribute to the Venetians' military prowess and architectural prowess.
Top 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Crete
Crete, the largest island in Greece, is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase the island's rich history and cultural heritage. Palace of Knossos, Palace of Phaistos, Palace of Malia, Palace of Kydonia, and Palace of Zakros are all Bronze Age Minoan palace complexes that offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and cultures of the ancient Minoan civilization. These palaces feature stunning architectural design, intricate frescoes, and other artefacts that attest to the advanced nature of the Minoans. The gorge of Samaria, and the Spinalonga Fortress are included in the list of sites in Crete that are full of history. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Crete provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore one of the world's earliest civilizations and to appreciate the contributions that such a remarkable culture made to human history. These top Unesco sites in Crete are witnesses to the impressive Minoan civilizations that left a tremendous impact on the life and culture of Crete.
Mount IDA (Psiloritis) Crete: History, Hiking, Tour and Car Rental Guide
Mount Ida, also known by many as Psiloritis, is the tallest mountain in Crete. It has a height of 2,456 meters or 8,058 feet in elevation. The mountain is situated in Greece’s Rethymno region. The mountains were considered divine in the early days of Minoans and Greek mythology. It was the home of the Goddess, where she hid her son from his monstrous husband. Nymphs and good demons were also situated in the mountain. They were entrusted by the Goddess to protect and care for her son. Moreover, in the modern-day, Mount Ida has become the most hiking place in Crete. Tourists love to conquer the height of the mountain and to see places with mythical stories. Also, the best vehicle to ride around the attractions of Mount Ida, while listening to the mythical stories and legends, is a car. It allows tourists to reach and explore all the attractions in Mount Ida.
18 Authentic Crete Souvenirs to bring back from Crete
Going on a trip to Crete and wanting to bring back memorable souvenirs to each of those moments into your heart and mind? Looking for the best souvenirs on any visit to Crete can be a tough nut to crack. From traditional jewelry and mouth-watering Cretan food to other Cretan products, you will have a variety of souvenirs to choose from while touring here. Crete has a rich history and is famous for its customs and traditions. You will definitely want to cherish your days in Crete with the 'right' type of souvenir, something that speaks to your heart.
15 Ways to Choose the Right Car to Rent in Crete
As a tourist making preparations for a vacation to Crete in Greece, deciding on the right Crete car rental has a significant impact on the quality of their time there. It is necessary to choose a car that is not only comfortable but fuel efficient given the multitude of twisting roads and steep hills on Crete. Consider the requirements, the number of people who are travelling with, the amount of money available, and the terrain that one is going to be driving on when selecting the vehicle to hire on Crete. SUVs such as the Hyundai Tucson and Nissan Qashqai are good for travelling on more difficult terrain, whilst compact vehicles such as the Fiat Panda and the Hyundai i10 are perfect for driving in the city and on roads that are narrower. Consider renting a minivan if someone is going on a trip with a large group of people or if they have a lot of luggage. Therefore, it is crucial to rent a car that is durable, meets one’s needs, and does not surpass their budgetary limits.
Samaria Gorge: History, Tour and Car Rental Guide
Samaria Gorge is located in Southwest Crete in the regional unit of Chania. It was created by a tiny river running between the White Mountains and Mt. Volakias. The name Samaria was derived from the small church of Ossia Maria, built in 1379. The name “Samaria” is a contraction of Ossia and Maria. The village of Samaria was a centre of Cretan resistance during the Turkish Occupation and during the German Occupation. Samaria Gorge is the most famous gorge in Crete and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Samaria Gorge is home to over 450 species of plants and animals, thus making it a World Biosphere Reserve. It is 16 km long and its width is 150 m. Samaria National Park has been a Greek National Park since 1962. It has become a major tourist attraction since then. The 16 km walk along Samaria Gorge provides a majestic scenery which is claimed to be incomparable anywhere else on the island of Crete. The Samaria Gorge usually operates from the 1st of May until the 15th of October, depending on the weather. One can visit the Samaria Gorge on an organised tour or by public transportation. Hiking is also one popular activity in Samaria gorge. It is one of the interesting things to do while visiting the beautiful gorge.
Kotsifou Gorge: History, Trekking, Tour, and Car Rental guide
Kotsifou Gorge is a gorge on the southern side of the western part of the island of Crete. It is noted for the high number of Cretan endemic plant species that grow in the area. The road in Kotsifou Gorge runs through a narrow slit in the mountains. It is located west of the mountain of Kouroupa, north of the town of Plakias. It is on the road between Sellia and Angouseliana.
A Guide to Topolia Gorge: Hiking, Tour and Car Rental Guide
Topolia Gorge is located at the westernmost point of the Chania prefecture in the inland region of Kissamos. Topolia Gorge starts in the town of Topolia and ends up adjacent to the village of Koutsomatados, in a lush valley, after travelling around 1.5 metres. It takes roughly an hour to stroll the relatively easy distance down the gorge. Topolia Gorge is stunning and has a natural landscape, despite its short length. The canyon, which can be visited on the way to other nearby sights like the monastery of Panagia Chrysoskalitissa and the Elafonisi lagoon, is a great place for a quick adventure and is 45 kilometres from Chania city. Many visitors to western Crete remember the Topolia canyon not from hiking it, but rather from driving along the winding road that cuts through it. It is a lovely surprise to walk or drive through (and part of a mountain where a tunnel was dug to allow the road to continue). The Topolia Gorge has two points of entry. The first was in front of the bakery in the centre of the community. The second one is located just after the settlement at the main road’s bend. For a complete Crete experience, there are also adjacent tourist destinations to Topolia Gorge that are worth visiting.
A Guide to Sarakina Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
The Sarakina Gorge has a length of 1.5 kilometres, and its width ranges from 3 to 10 metres. The borders of Sarakina Gorge reach a height of 150 kilometres. The narrow wall of the gorge makes the visit impressive. Krypotamis river flows all year in the gorge. The name Sarakina comes from the locals' faith. The locals believed that Saracenes used to hide there. The locals named the gorge Saranyapihos. Sarakina Meskla is a gorge in the village of Meskla, in Chania. The majestic rock formations are highly impressive and worth the time to visit. Tourists and visitors love the landscape that changes after the first 10-minute hike to boulders of limestones. It is an incredible sight and a true miracle of nature. The beautiful scenery of the gorge receives high ratings from tourists. The tourists enjoy its well-maintained trail with a perfect viewpoint at the top. The Sarakina Gorge is popular with its amazing rock formations and tranquil silence. It takes an average of 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete the trail with a moderate level of difficulty.
A Guide to Patsos Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
In the region of Sivritos, the Patsos Gorge, which is commonly referred to as the St. Antonios Gorge, is found to the north of the settlement of Patsos. Patsos Gorge is located in the Rethymno region of Crete, about 37 kilometres southwest of the city of Rethymno. The gorge is located in the foothills of the White Mountains, and is part of the Patsos Natural Park. There are several trails that run through the gorge, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. The length of the gorge is around 5 kilometres, and it takes approximately two and a half hours to travel through it. It becomes a little challenging at some points in the process. Patsos gorge has a very lush and shaded ravine, and there is a tiny river that flows through it continually throughout the year. There are some breathtaking rocks, and right at the beginning is where visitors get to see the cave church of St. Antonio. Hiking is one of the main activities in Patsos Gorge, and there are several trails to choose from. The most popular trail is the one that leads to the Cave of Agios Antonios, which is located at the top of the gorge. The trail is about 3 kilometres long and takes about an hour to hike. Hikers are able to see stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and lush vegetation along the way. Patsos Gorge is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Crete. One way to reach the gorgeous gorge is by renting a private car through several car rental companies in Crete. The drive from Rethymno to Patsos Gorge takes about 45 minutes, and the roads are well-maintained.
A Guide to Kritsa Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
Krista is a narrow gorge found on the route to Tapes or to Lato near the village of Kritsa. The gorge of Krista begins at the northeastern exit of the historical community of Krista and ends up at a flat area 2.5 km to the north. Kritsa gorge begins a little north of the village and ends after 13 km at the village of Tapes. Kritsa is clinging to the wild mountain range of Dikti and the upper village is a maze of narrow, car-free alleys and an ambience of peace. It is easily accessible with a few points that need attentiveness, where hikers have to climb over some big rocks. Kritsa gorge is 6.5 km in length. The average walking time in Kritsa gorge is between 2.5 to 3 hours of hiking. The first section of the gorge is ideal for trekking. It is 2.5 kilometres long and requires approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to pass through and return to Kritsa. The elevation difference between the entrance and the outlet of the gorge is approximately 200 metres. From Agios Nikolaos, the village of Krista is less than 10 km in distance. The scenery inside the gorge is surpassing. The watercourse is thick with plane trees, oak trees, oleanders, and many kinds of plants that are endemic to Crete.
A Guide to Karteros Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
The Karteros Gorge is considered to be an enchanting area. The Karteros Gorge is well-known for having a nature-centred ambiance, amazing myths, and rich culture. Karteros Gorge is described to be filled with green views, springs, and small lakes. On the other hand, the rock formations in the surroundings leave visitors with an astonishing impression. The Karteros Gorge is an area that lies 1.5 kilometres east of the city of Heraklion. The gorge does not stand on its own, since it is a component of a much larger group of gorges and gorges. It is a part of a wider geological complex together with Astrakiano Gorge and Kounaviano Gorge. The Karteros Gorge has five primary entrances that tourists are allowed to take. These five entrances include Karteros village, Aitania village, Ag. Paraskies, Kato Astrakoi, and the flatland of Peza. There are tons of things found in the Karteros Gorge that represent its past civilisations very well, such as the watermill system, ruins of Basilica, and the church of Panagia, among others.
A Guide to Pefki Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
The Pefki Gorge is a scenic gorge in Crete, Greece, known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. The Pefki Gorge is a deep and narrow gorge in Crete, Greece, characterised by its rugged and varied landscapes, unique geology, and rich plant and animal life. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Here is a brief guide to Pefki Gorge: The best way to explore the Pefki Gorge and its surroundings is by car. A recommended car rental company in Crete is "Rental Center Crete - Car hire", which provides reliable, affordable, and well-maintained vehicles. The gorge has been a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts for many years, attracting visitors from all over the world with its stunning views, vibrant flora, and fauna. There are several maps available online that highlight the different hiking trails in the Pefki Gorge, along with their levels of difficulty, distance, and scenic beauty. The most popular activity in the Pefki Gorge is hiking, with many visitors coming to explore the various trails, enjoy the natural beauty, and experience the unique geology and vegetation of the area.
Gorges of Theriso: Hiking, Tour and Car Rental Guide
The Gorges of Theriso is located near the city of Chania. Theriso is a tiny Cretan village and has a remarkable history with the freedom and independence of the people of Crete. Visitors can go there by car. There are also bus services on the island and car rentals. The main gorge is 6 kilometres long. The beautiful Gorges of Theriso has dramatic mountain scenery and gorges. It is a wonderful place to go for a walk and is popular with hikers, and rock climbers. The Gorges of Theriso is known for its many traditional tavernas in the small village, where they serve famous Cretan lamb and abundant local fresh produce. The tourists' reviews of Gorges of Theriso are relatively nice due to its relaxed and quiet ambience. There are good reviews about the peaceful and historical village of Theriso. The food also receives good reviews, mainly because of the fresh ingredients used. The majestic landscape of Gorges of Theriso makes it a popular tourist destination. The best time to visit the trail is March through November. Like any tourist spot in Crete, wearing a mask is still required in indoor areas in Gorges of Theriso. Most visitors enjoy driving through the lovely gorge for about 20 minutes. Then it will lead to the small village where visitors can do a 3 hr hike into the high mountains. The Gorges of Theriso is a must-visit place with an easy level of difficulty.
Gorge of the Dead: Hiking, Tour and Car Rental Guide
The Gorge of the Dead or Zakros Gorge is located near the village of Ano Zakros, where the trail starts. The Gorge of the Dead ends in the small town of Kato Zakros. The gorge derived its name from the burial grounds found in its caves. During the Minoan period, the gorge was used by the Minoans as a resting place for the dead, hence the name “Gorge o the Dead”. Despite its name, the Gorge of the Dead remained a beautiful place frequented by visitors. Hiking is prominent in the area. The Gorge of the Dead is easily accessible. Anyone is welcome to explore the historical gorge. The Gorge of the Dead is considered an easy hike for many. One doesn’t have to be an experienced hiker to be able to hike through the gorge.
A Guide to Aposelemis Gorge: History, Map, Hiking, and Car Rental
Aposelemis Gorge is situated in Analipsi and exits at the settlements of Agriana close to Hersonissos in Crete, Greece. Aposelemis Gorge is the most extensive and significant geological Gorge in the northern part of Heraklion and eastern Crete. It is known as “Vulture Gorge”. The Gorge starts at an altitude of 120 metres near Xerokamares Village and directs west of the Agrianá Village to the coast. The small and tight valley is the primary part of the Gorge, while the slopes in the centre are high, with 200 metres and the part close to the Agrianá Village are low hills. The Gorge was made years ago by the shepherds and, today, is still used every day. The elevation gain of Aposelemis is 315 feet (96.01 metres), while the elevation loss is 59 feet (17.98 metres). The maximum elevation of Aposelemis Gorge is 349 feet (106.38 m), while the minimum height is 89 feet (27.13 metres). Aposelemis is possible to hike. The hike is about 8 kilometres to 10 kilometres. The trek difficulty level of Aposelemis Gorge is easy to moderate. Aposelemis Gorge is traversed by the Aposelemis River; However, the water in the Gorge appears after heavy rain. In addition, throughout the rainy season, the river at higher altitudes has water, and the reason behind that is the phyllite rocks. The Gorge has a wall of up to 200 metres and various rock shelters. The purpose of the shepherds on why they built Aposelemis Gorge was to easily navigate their sheep and goats from the mountains back to the valley. The name of the Aposelemis or Abou Selim is an Arabic word that Crete still preserves. Perhaps, it was derived from the name of an Arab who functioned in the region during the Arab occupation. One of the things that makes the Aposelemis exceptional is the abundant flora and fauna. Some trees and plants that grow in Aposelemis are sycamore and walnut trees, while some of the animals that live here are rabbits, pigeons, hedgehogs, and martens.
Crete: History, Mythology, Civilization, Economy and Tourism
Crete is the most populated and largest among the islands of Greece. It has an area of 8,336 sq mi. It is located about 160 km south of the Greek mainland. And about 100 km southwest of Anatolia. Crete’s capital and largest city are Heraklion. During the Palaeolithic age, humans have inhabited the island since at least 130,000 years ago. Crete was the cradle of Europe’s first civilisation. The Minoan Civilisation was the first sophisticated society on the map of the continent. The Minoan civilisations were advanced during those times. They were able to build roads, palaces, and other structures used for social gatherings and religious activities. The economy of Crete during the Minoan civilisations focuses more on agriculture and maritime trading. After the devastation of Minoan Civilisation by the Thera eruption, Crete developed Ancient Greece, then successively became part of several empires. These empires include the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Venetian empire, the Ottoman Empire, an autonomous state, and the modern state of Greece. The climate of Crete varies between temperate and subtropical. It has hot dry summers, and winter temperatures are mild.
Aptera Archaeological Site: Origin, History, Tour Guide and Car Rental
Aptera is one of the most important archaeological sites located in western Crete. The Aptera Archaeological Site is located 13 kilometres east of Chania, near Rethymno, surrounded by the Souda Bay to the north and the breathtaking view of the White Mountains to the south. The ports of Minoas and Kissamos contributed to the city’s business industry. The extensive size of the location is an indication of the power the city once held. The naturally strengthened location of the city has contributed to its commercial development. Aptera was once a thriving city during most of the Hellenistic and Roman times and is now considered an immaculate historical site. Over time, the area was transformed into a well-respected ancient heritage that comprises the ruins, olden structures and buildings that locals and tourists commend. Aptera was known for its skilled archers, who served as mercenaries in many places outside of Crete and brought wealth back to their home country. The mercenaries’ return provided the city with valuable silver that allowed it to start perfecting its currency. The intricate coins typically featured the goddess Artemis on the other side and the city’s founding monarch, King Apteras on the other. Other variants featured Hera or Apollo with a light, a bee, or a bow.
