Crete is a tapestry of splendid beaches, ancient treasures and landscapes, weaving in vibrant cities and dreamy villages, where locals share their traditions, wonderful cuisine and generous spirit. Lonely Planet is your passport to Crete, with amazing travel experiences and the best planning advice.
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Rub shoulders with the ghosts of the Minoans at the Palace of Knossos, explore the labyrinthine lanes of Rethymno’s Old Quarter, and relax in the lakeside cafes of Agios Nikolaos; all with your trusted travel companion.
Lonely Planet writer Andrea Schulte-Peevers describes why she loves Crete. "With its mysteries tales of Zeus, the Minoans and rebellious monks, Crete first captured my imagination when I was just a wee kid. When I finally set foot on the island, it instantly captured my heart. I fell in love with its kind and generous people, the spellbinding scenery, from pink beaches to snow-smothered peaks, and the incredible food that's so closely tied to the soil and the seasons. Crete feels big and intimate at once, letting me slow down while energising me anew every single day. It's a love story that continuous to evolve with each visit."
Crete Top 10
1. Palace of Knossos
2. Rethymno's Old Quarter
3. Agios Nikolas
4. Spinalonga Island
5. Iraklio Wine Country
6. Heraklion Archaeological Museum
7. Moni Preveli & Preveli Beach
8. Elafonisi Beach
9. Lasithi Plateau & Dikteon Cave
10. Hania's Old Town
Inside Lonely Planet’s Crete Travel Guide:
- Full-colour maps and images throughout
- Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests
- Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots
- Honest review for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sight-seeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss
- Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - History, The Cretan Way of Life, Minoan Art & Culture, The Arts, Nature & Wildlife
Coverage includes: Hania, Rethymno Province, Iraklio Province, Lasithi Province and more
Writers: Andrea Schulte-Peevers, Trent Holden, Kate Morgan, Kevin Raub
Get to the heart of Crete and begin your journey now!