Why to visit Crete
If there was one word to describe the Greek island of Crete, it would be "diverse." Crete, the country's largest island and one of the most pleasant places to visit in Greece, offers a unique combination of sun, water, and sand. Ancient ruins, lively cities, captivating beaches, modest coastal cafes, world-class museums, and majestic mountains make up this diverse region. Apart from a fantastic vacation experience, Crete provides a wealth of things to do and see, from the top hiking areas in Europe to historical structures.
Crete's natural beauty is only rivalled by its historical significance. Evocative relics can be found all throughout, most notably at the Palace of Knossos. Hania and Rethymno are steeped in history, with serpentine pathways ruled by massive fortresses and wonderfully restored Renaissance villas rubbing shoulders with mosques and Turkish bathhouses. In exquisite frescoed chapels, cathedrals, and monasteries, the Byzantine influence can be seen.
If you're a foodie, Crete is the place to be, where 'locavore' is more than a craze; it's a way of life. Tavernas in rural areas frequently produce their own meat, cheese, olive oil, raki, and wine, as well as catch their own seafood. The Cretan diet is one of the world's healthiest. Pair your meal with a glass of superb local wine and finish with a shot of raki.