The Best Guide On How to Spend 4 Days In Crete
If you’re “wondering” how to spend 4 days visiting Crete, the largest of the Greek islands in the south of the Mediterranean, check this post out and use it as a guide for an epic 4-day trip exploring this beautiful and history-rich island.
Visiting Crete is exciting; seeing history line the streets with distinct architecture from Minoans, the Venetians, the Ottomans, and the contemporary Greek eras, along with the mix of countryside and coastline, makes this the perfect Greek island.
It is a do-it-all destination, and because it is such a large island, research is critical when visiting Crete, even more so with just 4-days but it is totally doable. Lucky for you, I have all the details, tips, tricks, and other info you will need to start planning. I even have a post about my own personal “fails, just for you from my most recent trip to Greece, where I visited Santorini and Crete.
While in Crete, it reminded me of being in southern parts of Europe. “Wondering” the cobblestone streets, getting lost down the countless side streets and alleys, and driving around the countryside. However, when going through the countryside in Crete, it was usually on the way to find a fabulous beach with rows of lounge chairs and umbrellas lined up waiting for me. However, we did stop at a few Churches and Monasteries too. to the other islands. If you are in the mood for an urban setting with plenty of delicious tavernas, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, staying along the northern coast in Chania or Heraklion would be best for you. Or, if you prefer a little more adventure and the great outdoors, head to Rethymnon or Agios Nikolaos for the countless beautiful beaches.
On my trip, we visited Santorini and Crete, which left me in love with Greece and wanting to visit other Greek Islands as soon as possible. Now, I plan to return to other parts of Greece in 2024. It made such an impact on me.
Why Crete
Fall in love with sugar-white beaches, archaeological sites, ruins, delicious wines, and distinct and traditional Cretan food. Very few islands in the world compare to what this highly underrated island known as Crete offers.
I always say there is vacationing, and then there is traveling. However, in Crete, you can have both. Start with figuring out the vibe you’re going for, and let the planning begin.
Choosing what part of Crete you want to stay in ahead of time is essential for the sake of time. If you are in the mood for an urban setting with plenty of delicious tavernas, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, staying along the northern coast in Chania or Heraklion would be best for you. But, if you prefer a little more adventure and the great outdoors, head to Rethymnon or Agios Nikolaos for the countless beautiful beaches. The possibilities are endless, and there is no wrong choice.
How to Get There
From Santorini
Using the fast ferry from Santorini was actually straightforward and calm. I had never taken a fast ferry or been on one that carries cars, too, but it was another adventure, and I was racking them up on this trip. I used Ferry Hopper, a fast ferry company, to reserve tickets. It was easy to navigate what time and where to go when arriving and departing.
The ferry ride is under 2 hours, and we arrived at the Heraklion port in Crete as we were headed to stay in the Old Venetian Harbour.
From Athens
If you have time, taking a ferry from Athens is another authentic Greek island-hopping experience. The gorgeous scenic views and calm ambiance come with a cost, though, and I am not just talking about money. The time at sea ranges between 6.5 hours and 11 hours. However, there is an option for an overnight crossing, which sounds like a fun experience and the ultimate vibe for comfort.
Another option from Athens is in the air. Direct flights are around an hour, much better than 6+ hours. Domestic flights are usually inexpensive, too, and the total travel time is about 3 hours when all is said and done.
Overall, ferry prices vary by low, shoulder, or high season, the speed of the ferry, and the ticket class you decide on. Prices can be as low as 30 euros to 160 euros. Make sure to check real-time prices on websites like FerryHopper.com or DirectFerries.com
Renting A Car
Because Crete is so much larger than the other Greek islands, you can save time traveling from site to site and see and do so much more by having your own transportation. Plus, it adds another layer of adventure.
Warning: Most European cars are manual, so be prepared to drive a stick or thoroughly inquire about an automatic car before making your reservation.
We used a local company called Rental Car Crete. It was super easy, quick, and straightforward. I would definitely recommend using them if you’re in Greece. Everything was seamless from pick up to drop off. Having our own transportation was a game changer. Our car was on sight at the ferry port waiting for us, and we were on the road in no time!
Having a car paid off almost immediately. Mediterranean Sunsets are my favorite because they just hit differently. I’ve never met a sunset I didn’t like, especially these ones. Shortly after we were on the road, we decided to pull over and do just that: enjoy the sunset.
*Many roads outside the big cities, especially rural areas, are less developed or poorly marked, and the cell service is spotty, so be careful with navigating! I have first-hand knowledge of when I took a wrong turn and ended up on a slight detour and extended adventure. Read more about the mistakes I made in Santorini and Crete.
The Best Time to Visit
Typically, the best time of year to visit Crete or any part of the Med, for that matter, is from mid-May to June or from September to October. The heat from the high season starts cooling down, and along with lower room rates and tourists, this can be the best time to visit.
I visited Greece in mid-June, around my birthday, and it was perfect! The weather was warm but not scorching, and the water was ideal for a refreshing dip.
Where To Stay
Chania
Known for its 14th-century Venetian Harbour and 16th-century lighthouse, this is the highlight of Chania. The Old Venetian Harbour has a small-town vibe. You’ll find many delicious restaurants and lounges along the waterfront and plenty of shopping options. It is the perfect blend of tradition and convenience. After much research, I knew Chania’s Old Venetian Harbour was where we would stay, and it did not disappoint. You can feel the history and lively energy when you arrive. It’s gorgeous, especially at night, as the lights glisten off the water in the Harbour along the infamous light tower.
Rethymno
Smack in the middle of both Heraklion and Chania is Rethymno. It is another historical and coastal area much like in Chania, however much smaller. There is a cute harbor lined with fishing boats near the easy-to-navigate Old Town, filled with plenty of shops and restaurants. You will also come across ancient artifacts, such as the Rimondi Venetian Fountain, in the center of the Old Town. Rethymno also has beautiful beaches with water sports options, rocky coves, and endless sun loungers not far away either.
Heraklion
The capital of Crete, Heraklion, felt more modern and fast-paced. It misses the Mediterranean charm you look forward to when considering a Greek island. The airport is bigger, and the port is busier. Things, in general, are moving faster, but being centrally located makes it a great base. Also, excellent museums and archaeological sites nearby can make it worthwhile. The Minoan Palace of Knossos is not just a highlight. It is a must if you’re in Heraklion and have allotted time to explore.
Fun Fact: Knossos is the second most visited site in the entire country after the famous Acropolis in Athens.
Hotels in Chania
After a lot of research and deciding to spend the majority of time and exploration near and in Chania, we decided to stay there. Staying in the Old Venetian Harbour as we did, there are few 5-star hotels. But there is the ancient history all around, and the liveliness you can imagine that took place along the Harbour thousands of years ago adds even more to the charm.
The Amphora Hotel is where we called home for the next few days. It was perfect for us. The room was huge and literally right above all the action, and our private balcony had a view of it all, including the famous light tower.
Casa Delfino Hotel and Spa is another excellent option that is more upscale, a retreat-like oasis, and a bit away from the Harbour. This was a Venetian Mansion transformed into a hotel and is about a 20-minute walk to the lighthouse. It is definitely worth checking out if you enjoy a quieter, snazzy ambiance in the middle of ancient beauty.
Day 1.
The Seitan Limania Beach
I saw Seitan Beach on Instagram and was in awe. I was determined to check it out. I am so happy we made time for it. It was intense but worthwhile, and the story to tell is amazing! Keep reading before adding this one to your list.
Located just under an hour from the Old Venetian Harbour is a secluded, out-of-a-movie-kind-of-kind beach! It’s unreal, so you’ll want to get there early for a good spot because the beach is small.
First-hand Tip: Before adding this to your itinerary, I wish I had known so much more, so I want to tell you that you must be ready for hiking, heat, and goats. Also, the drive can be intimidating as you approach the “parking lot.” You are on an ultra-winding and super-small road. It feels like you could fall off the cliff any second when coming around these crazy tight turns. But it was so much fun at the same time.
If that wasn’t insanity, insanity was getting down to the beach. I joke about the beach now, referring to it as Billy Goat Beach! But really, there were only two goats that we actually saw. That wasn’t the reason for dubbing it the name. WE were the billy goats!!!… Climbing up and down the side of this mountain!!
Speaking of goats, when you’re cooling off in the water, you will want to secure your belongings from the ever-curious Billy goats that lurk out when they see you’re taking a dip. They also like snacks, and we are on their turf.
Now, back to the beach. My research should have emphasized this intensity. The whole time, you’re thinking, what did I get myself into? And there is only one way back up to my car after finally reaching the bottom.
Had I known and been more prepared, I would have stayed longer and packed more water, adult beverages, snacks, and towels instead of sarongs to lay on. Most beaches in Greece are rocky, not sandy, so laying out can be tricky without a lounger. Water shoes are also where it’s at. You’ll want to bring those!
When we finally reached the water and looked up at our accomplishment, I was dying to jump off the rocks into the beautiful blue water! Unfortunately, my fear of heights got the best of me, but I still jumped off a baby rock and felt like a champ. Other daring beachgoers were having the time of their lives jumping from the highest point. It looked like so much fun.
Another thing you’ll want to prepare for is no shade at all while you’re hiking or when you get there. The sun is fierce, so sunblock it up!! (ocean-safe sunblock, of course) It sounds like a lot, but we did have the best time. I’ve never experienced anything like its beauty before. I recommend visiting this beach if some adventure doesn’t scare you. Had I been better prepared, the experience would have been much better. It is so worth it, and I would do it again given the chance.
After a long day of activity, adventure, and fun in the sun, it was time to refresh and rally for a night out. Wondering the harbor and stopping for a glass or bottle of wine and vine leaves, just people-watching was absolute heaven. Some of the most tasty food I had was in Crete while listening to soft traditional Greek music.
I rarely make restaurant recommendations for other countries because coming across somewhere inviting and of choice should be a treat, not because it is the rage. However, I highly recommend Tamam for dinner! Make reservations if you plan on it, or try to be understanding if there is a wait. It is so worth it to eat here! It’s also walkable from the harbor and easily found if you put it in the GPS on your phone. Try the lamb kabobs, and thank me later!
Sinagogi Bar and Club DNA
We checked out a bar I discovered while researching called Sinagogi Open Air Bar.
Literally, it was in an old synagogue and was so cool. It had a hipster vibe and a slower pace than expected, so we only stayed for a few drinks. Later that night, we found ourselves at DNA nightclub, sneakily tucked away above other restaurants in the Harbour. We had to follow the music to find it. Talk about fun! We met great people and danced the night away, making memories to last a lifetime. I’d be lying if I said the next day wasn’t rough, and we had to get a very early start.
Day 2.
Elafonisi Beach
On our second day in Crete, we visited Elafonisi Beach and met our new friends there. All of my research and the blogs I came across recommended arriving early. It can get crowded, which I thought was crazy because it is enormous. Now I understand and know it’s not actually crowded, but it runs out of loungers with umbrellas quick! Why there are not more, I’ll never know.
We got there around 10am. It was as early as we could manage, given the night before, and we were out of luck. No lounge chair, no shade, no umbrella, and in a severe wind tunnel, the hot air was also blowing sand into my already sunburnt skin. However, the beach was gorgeous, and the pink sand was breathtaking, so it was a shame we couldn’t stay longer. The heat was too intense and unbearable to be in it directly for too long that day. If you add this to your itinerary, arriving there extremely early will be the ticket!
We finished the day by wondering around the harbor, exploring our area, eating delicious food, and being in the moment.
Day 3.
Samaria Gorge
The Samaria Gorge will be an excellent choice if the great outdoors and being one with Mother Nature is your jam. It is the largest Gorge in Europe and one of Crete’s most famous places to visit. Almost 16 km long, the natural beauty you come across is worth the long trek. The gorgeous flowers & delicious smelling herbs encircling you, along with crystal clear spring water flowing from the mountains, are incredible. The average time for this adventure is 4-6 hours; however, this can vary if you are exploring solo or on a guided tour. The journey is mostly downhill on a footpath with rocks along the riverbed. The path winds down the mountain & into the the narrowest part of the gorge, which is 2m wide! Don’t worry; there will be rest stops & toilets en route & places where the fresh spring water runs to refill your water.
Food Tour
After so much activity, it was time to eat and DRINK! What better way to spend the evening than watching the sunset on a food and drink tour in the Old Venetian Harbour. Cretan food, unlike other Greek food, has a distinct flair. The local raki is a traditional drink you can’t miss out on either. Having wine with dinner is a must; shots of raki before dessert are the only way to do dinner right. Opting for a tour with a local gets you the inside scoop not only for the tour you’re on, but most guides usually give you their secrets on how to get the best out of your trip to Crete. I highly recommend booking one.
Day 4.
Road Trip to Heraklion
On the fourth and final day in Crete, we drove through the countryside from Chania to Heraklion, where we would fly back home. It was everything and more. The drive back alone reminded us how lucky we were to have our own transportation. The scenery was amazing!
We stopped at as many churches as possible, several beaches, olive groves, and more. We also made our way through Rethymno. While in Rethymno, I met a local who recommended we stop at Lake Kournas. Of course, we had to take his recommendation, so we ventured about an hour out of our way to take his word for it with no official directions and were luckily able to find it. It was magnificent and worth every minute. I rarely pass up a local’s recommendations.
Lake Kournas
It was like nothing we could have ever imagined when we finally arrived. Hungry as always, we ate at a family-owned restaurant on the lake, where we could enjoy the magnificent beauty of mountains reflecting off the water. I could almost cry now, thinking back to it. It is somewhere that locals visit and is such a unique piece of heaven. During the high season, the sun dries up a bit of the lake and creates a beach along the taverns lining the lake, where sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented for a lazy day of fun in the sun. There are even water activities like kayaking or foot peddle boats. It was wonderful.
We got back on the road and couldn’t miss our last Mediterranean Sunset, so our final stop was at a random beautiful beach we just happened to be passing and pulled over. Good call. The beach was full of umbrella loungers, music, and beachside food and drink service… It was perfect!
Back in Heraklion, we checked into our hotel for the night before heading to the airport in the morning. Since we had been in Heraklion twice, we felt it fitting to walk around and have dinner in the port for a last round of vine leaves and wine. It didn’t disappoint.
The End.
In the morning, we loaded the car and drove to the airport. It was the day of our departure and I had made prior arrangements to drop off the rental car at the airport, even though we picked it up at the ferry port, and it couldn’t have been easier.
Heraklion is again a big city, and instantly, I was sure we had made the right decision about where to spend our time in Crete. Though the harbor area is lovely, and the hotel we stayed at was modern and fabulous, it definitely lacked Chania’s charm and character.
