Guides
Welcome to Crete Insider’s Guides
Explore Crete with all my guides and resources, which I have prepared especially for you after more than seven years of living on the island and exploring it from coast to coast.
Over here, there are guides for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers who love to come back to Crete every year. My guides are honest and comprehensive, offering insider tips and expert recommendations to help you make the most of your Crete adventure!
Guides to Visit Crete ~ All My Articles
PRACTICAL GUIDES
TIPS: From the best times to visit to essential packing advice, these practical tips will ensure you’re well-prepared for your trip.
TRANSPORTATION: Navigate the island with ease using my comprehensive guides on public transport, driving in Crete, car rentals, and more.
LOCAL TRADITIONS: Get to know the island’s customs and festivals that make Cretan culture unique.
Things to Do in Crete in January: Explore the Island’s Quiet, Wild Side
January in Crete is a month of contrasts: quiet towns, windy coasts, green hills, dramatic light, and fewer crowds. Many summer services are paused, but that’s to your advantage: museums…
What to Do in Crete in December: Explore the Island’s Winter Magic
Visiting Crete in December is like stepping into another world. The island slows down, the hills soften under winter skies, and the air feels fresher, quieter, more intimate. While you…
Gluten-Free Travel in Crete: A Guide for Celiacs (+ English-Greek Printable Card)
Visiting Crete is a dream for many travelers: amazing beaches, ancient ruins, mountain villages, and of course—delicious food. But for those living with celiac disease, planning a trip often comes…
Best Captions and Quotes about Crete
Are you a fan of Instagram and want all your pictures to have a meaningful quote or caption? And are you also coming to Crete? Then you’re just in the…
Crete for People with Disabilities
Greece and Crete can be an ideal destination if you are looking for wheelchair-accessible holidays. Although historically, the island has not been friendly to the needs of people with limited…
Entrance Fee Hikes: What What You Need to Know About Visiting Crete’s Archaeological and Natural Sites
As of April 1, 2025, you will notice a significant rise in entrance fees for many archaeological sites and natural attractions. This follows a revised ticketing policy implemented by the…
Everything About Gay Travel in Crete
🌈Planning a trip to Crete? I’ve just put together a fresh gay travel guide to help you make the most of your time on this beautiful island. Wondering what Crete…
What Areas & Places to Avoid in Crete: A Local’s Guide
While Crete is a wonderful destination for most travelers, there are a few areas that might be best to avoid for various reasons, ranging from safety concerns to over-tourism or…
Easter in Crete: Traditions, Celebrations, and Local Experiences
What to do in Crete in Easter. Where to spend Easter in Crete, what to eat, and what celebrations and festivities you should not miss. Easter in Crete is a…
About Crete: A Comprehensive Guide to Greece’s Largest Island
Explore Crete’s diversity and learn basic information about Crete Island, a place where nature, history, and culture converge to create a destination like no other. Crete, Greece’s largest island, is…
Guide to Prices in Crete: How Much Does It Cost to Spend Your Vacation in Crete?
Planning a trip to Crete and don’t know how much it will cost? Read on to get the best suggestions from a local! Interested in visiting Crete but not sure…
Christmas in Crete: Things to Do and Traditions You Will Love
Everything you want to know about Christmas in Crete, local traditions, things that the locals do during the holidays, and other interesting things to know. When thinking about Crete, what…
Instagrammable Places and Photo Spots in Crete that You Will Love!
Picturesque photo spots in Crete. Where to take the best pictures in Crete, stunning beaches, instagrammable landmarks, and quaint villages to capture the best photos in Crete.These are some of…
Guide to Solo Female Travel in Crete: Tips & Insights by a Local!
Female solo travel in Crete: Is it safe? Learn everything about traveling solo for women in Crete. General information, safety concerns, tips and tricks for solo female travelers visiting Crete….
Why You Will Love Heraklion in Winter: Tips for the Visit and Things to DoÂ
This post takes you to explore Heraklion in winter. Discover what the city offers and enjoy the region beating the summer crowds! Exploring Heraklion in winter can be a unique…
Why You Should Visit Crete in Winter and Why You Will Love It!
In this post, you can discover the best reasons to visit Crete in winter and why visiting Crete in winter can be a great way to discover the island. Does…
Souvenirs from Crete That You Will Love Bringing Back Home!
Traveling to Crete and no idea what to bring back home with you? Here are the best souvenirs from Crete to remember your time on the island! Crete is an…
Guide to Driving in Crete + Tips for Car Rental
Driving in Crete and renting a car in Crete: Everything you need to know to explore the island at your pace, without relying on bus schedules and reaching every corner…
Why You Will Love Crete in Autumn (+ Things to Do and Tips to Visit Off Season)
Crete in Autumn: Things to do in Crete in the Fall, including activities, day trips, and festivals you will want to attend! Visiting Crete in autumn is a wonderful experience…
Tipping in Crete: An Insider’s Guide on When and How Much to Tip for Services on the Island
Tipping in Come: When you should or shouldn’t tip, how much to tip—an insider’s guide about tipping rules and etiquette in Crete. Tipping in Crete can be different from what…
Solo Travel in Crete: Why You Should Do It!
Do you plan to visit Crete alone? Or want to learn how it is to travel the island solo? This article talks about everything you need to know if you are a solo traveler and not sure whether traveling Crete on your own is worth it.
Communicating in Crete + Useful Greek Words to Travel to Crete
Will Cretans Understand me? Communicating in Crete: How difficult can it be? Which basic words you need to know before traveling to Greece?
20 Secret Travel Tips for Crete by a Local Blogger!
No matter how often you visit Crete, its beauty and charm will keep surprising you. The more time you spend on the island, the more you fall in love with…
Engaging Books about Crete That You Will Love Reading!
If you’re getting ready for your trip to Crete or dream about visiting soon, then this list of books about the island will keep you in good company as you…
Frequently Asked Questions About Crete
If you’re getting ready to visit Crete for the first time, there are probably many things you’re wondering about the island. Some of you sent me many of these questions…
Fun Facts about Crete
Although Crete remains one of the most popular European holiday destinations, many visitors are unaware of some interesting facts about the island. If you’re looking for reasons to travel to…
Practical Travel Guide to Visit Crete (Written by a Local)
Learn everything you need to know to visit Crete like a pro with this Crete Travel Guide written by a local! Crete guide with practical tips for your holidays in…
The Best Movies About Crete
One of the best ways to get a closer look at our next destination is to read books or watch movies. Whether you’re actively planning your trip to Crete or…
When is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Crete
Are you planning to visit Crete but need help determining the best time to explore the island? Then you’re in the right place to find out. This post discusses every…
Chania Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
Are you Visiting Chania this season? Then you’ve landed on the right spot! Bookmark this essential handbook for navigating the city’s transportation, accommodations, and practical tips for a smooth stay….
How to Use the iPark Chania App
This post explains all you need to know about the new parking app that makes parking in Chania easier. In a previous article, I explained the most convenient places to…
How Many Days in Crete + Itinerary Ideas and Places Not to Miss!
This post tells you how long you should stay in Crete to make the most of your time on the island and have enough time to see the places you…
The 20 Most Common Mistakes in Crete and How to Avoid Them
Enough with all the shoulds and musts for Crete. It is time to focus on a few common mistakes you want to avoid for your trip to the island. They…
FOOD AND WINE GUIDES
CRETAN DIET: Delicious guides to find the best restaurants, pubs, bars, and tavernas, as well as which culinary delights and even traditional recipes you can find on the island.
WINES OF CRETE: I’ve researched extensively to bring you articles about Crete’s native grape varieties, the best wineries to visit, and top wine events happening in Crete year round.
Klados Winery, Rethymnon: A Relaxed Wine Experience in the Cretan Countryside
Discover Klados, a boutique winery in Crete. Go wine tasting in the region of Rethymnon and discover the unique tastes of the island.
Fragospito Winery in Heraklion: A Wine Experience Rooted in Family and Tradition
Tips to visit Fragospito (ex Gavalas) Winery in Heraklion, in the heart of Crete’s most important wine country.
16 Fantastic Restaurants Serving Foreign Cuisine in Crete That You Will Love
Foreign cuisine in Crete may be under the shadow of the renowned Cretan dishes, but its variety and sophistication can still surprise you. If you want to take a break…
Vegetarian Food in Crete That You Must Try!
Are you fed up with meat-based dishes while on holiday? Worry not! Especially if you are in Crete. Vegetarian food in Crete will impress you with its variety and deep…
A True Taste of Crete: Cooking with Koula in Vamos Village
There are travel experiences that stay with you long after your suitcase is unpacked—ones that feed your soul and leave a lingering scent of herbs in your memory. My day…
Restaurants in Ierapetra, Lasithi That You’ll Love!
Are you staying on the southern coast in East Crete, then you will want to know where to have lunch and dinner in Ierapetra. Here, you will find some of…
Restaurants in Elounda, Lasithi that You’ll Love!
In this post, you can find some of the best places to eat in Elounda, the picturesque seaside village opposite Spinalonga, and just a few minutes from Agios Nikolaos, the…
Restaurants in Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi That You’ll Love!
Traveling around Lasithi in Crete?The you should not miss this list with the best restaurants in Agios Nikolaos and the rest of the region.
Easter Food: What Locals Eat in Crete During Easter, A Celebration of Tradition and Flavor
Are you visiting Crete in Easter? Then, make your stay even better eating the same dishes locals eat! Discover the most delicious Easter flavors you can try in Crete. Cretan…
Where to Find the Best Pizza in Agios Nikolaos, Crete
This post brings you a thorough list with the best pizza places in Agios Nikolaos (Lasithi). Bookmark this post if you want to savor a delicious slice of authentic Italian…
Everything You Should Know about Cretan Raki (Tsikoudia)
Raki – tsikoudia – is Crete’s favorite spirit that you will certainly have the chance to taste after any dinner at a local restaurant tavern. Cretan Raki, or Tsikoudia, is…
Wineries in Heraklion That You Will Love to Visit
Heraklion is the most important wine region in Crete, in this article you will learn what wineries you should visit! Check out the best wineries in Heraklion, one of the…
Everything You Will Want to Know About the Healthy (& Delicious) Cretan Diet
The Cretan Diet: ingredients, dishes, seasonality. What to eat in Crete and more info about the famous local cuisine -ingredients, cooking methods, unique flavors, and genuine traits! There are many…
Why You Will Enjoy a Visit to Dourakis Winery in Chania
Dourakis Winery is one of the most prestigious wineries in Crete. Here is an in-depth review to help you decide whether a visit is worth it. Dourakis Winery is one…
Where to Find the Best Pizza in Rethymnon, Crete
This post lists the best (and most popular) pizza places in Rethymnon, Crete. Keep it handy when looking to a good place to eat authentic Italian pizza in Rethymnon. If…
Why You Will Love Eating at Avli Restaurant in Rethymno
Avli Restaurant in Rethymno is a great fine dining experience in one of Crete’s nicest settlements, Rethymnon Old Town. Regarding fine dining, Crete offers an ever-increasing choice of restaurants that…
Coffee Shops in Rethymnon That You Will Love to Try!
Best kafenia, cafeterias, and coffee shops in Rethymnon Old Town. Discover the best places for a guud cuppa in Rethymnon, Crete. Are you as addicted to coffee as the Greeks?…
Where to Find the Best Pizza in Chania, Crete
Best pizza places in Chania, West Crete. Read on to discover where to eat authentic Italian pizza in Chania during your visit. Are you heading to Chania (Crete) this summer…
Where to Find the Best Pizza in Heraklion, Crete
Best pizza places in Heraklion the capital of Crete, where to eat authentic Italian pizza in Heraklion this season. Are you visiting the capital of Crete this summer and already…
Restaurants in Heraklion That You Will Love!
Best places to eat in Heraklion: Here, you will find a selection featuring some of the top Heraklion restaurants to enjoy in Crete. Feast your eyes on the best Heraklion…
Why You Will Love The Five Restaurant, Chania
An insider’s review of The Five Restaurant in the Nea Chora District, one of Chania’s most amazing culinary proposals! Situated in a gorgeous location facing the Sea of Crete and…
Places to Have Breakfast in Chania That You Will Love!
Discover the best places for breakfast in Chania, Crete as well as some of the most important local traditions when it comes to the first meal of the day…
Beach Restaurants in Crete That You Will Love
We all love a splendid view. And we appreciate it more if the scene includes the crystal clear waters of the Cretan sea. We also love good food. That is why we always enjoy a visit to a seaside restaurant. There, we can have both the view and the dishes. Thankfully, Crete is full of such places and in this post you will find some of the best seaside restaurants on the island for a stunning dinner with a view!
Cretan Wines That You Will Love According to a Local Sommelier!
Over the years, I’ve written a few guides to help you visit the island’s wineries and encourage your journey through the flavors of Crete and the local wine industry. This…
Why You Will Love Spilios Taverna Falasarna, Chania
Having dinner at Spilios Taverna Falasarna is an incredible experience because they cook superb Cretan food. If you’re in Crete and spending a few days in the stunning Falasarna, on…
What to Eat in Crete + 20 Authentic Local Dishes You Will Love!
Greek food is one thing that conquers tourists when they visit the country. It is a Mediterranean diet at its best, with genuine and fresh ingredients and tons of flavor….
37 Amazing Coffee Shops in Chania, Crete
Coffee is a cornerstone of local life. In Greece, drinking coffee is more than just a habit or a morning pick-me-up; it’s a beloved ritual deeply ingrained in the local…
Restaurants in Rethymnon That You Will Love!
Rethymnon is famous not only for its stunning beaches but also for some of the finest restaurants on the island. And some of them are famous all across Crete! Therefore,…
Restaurants in Chania, Crete That You Will Love
Chania, in Crete, has one of the most vibrant gastronomic environments on the island. The city hosts dozens of unique places to eat, where you can discover more than traditional…
The Trendiest Beach Bars in Crete: Beach Clubs That You Will Love!
Crete, home to the most stunning beaches in Greece, could not have a shortage of cool beach bars to spend your afternoons by the sea… and your nights, too! Read…
Delicious Restaurants in Agia Pelagia, Heraklion That You Don’t Want to Miss!
This article is about the best Agia Pelagia restaurants in Crete. Here, you will find the top-rated restaurants in the small village, suggested dishes, and general traits to consider when…
Where to Eat the Best Gyro in Crete
Gyro, gyro wraps, gyros, souvlaki—call it the way you want, but we know what we’re talking about. Gyros are one of the tastiest treats you can have when visiting Greece….
Lithos Restaurant, Chania Old Town
Review of Lithos Restaurant and Cafe, Chania Old Town. Discover the magic of Lithos Restaurant, nestled in Chania’s romantic Venetian Harbor, one of the most delicious places to eat in…
Rethymnon Pubs & Bars to Have Fun in Crete
There are so many great places for a night out in Rethymnon that you’d never know where to start without a little help from a local friend…! This list brings…
I create my guides out of a deep love and knowledge of Crete. My aim is to give you authentic, up-to-date information that enhances your time there, whether you’re on a short getaway or an extended stay. I hope you find this section helpful for exploring Crete as an insider!
