Trips around Crete
Last update: 13.01.2025
"Run, jump, fly, swim, dance, and relax in motion" is a line from the song "Academy of Mr. Kleks" by Piotr Fronczewski. Everyone understands relaxation differently. Some people feel relaxed on the beach with a book, while others feel relaxed when exploring new places. Crete, the largest Greek island, has many different attractions, so everyone will find something they like.
When planning a trip to Crete in 2025, there are a few basic rules to keep in mind. First, the weather can make or break your trip. If it's hot, visiting monuments can be exhausting, so it's best to avoid the months with the highest temperatures. Second, the right shoes are essential. If you're planning to go hiking or visit places that are a bit more difficult to reach, make sure you have comfortable shoes — preferably sports or trekking shoes.
Below, you will find detailed information about travel options in Crete and practical tips that will help you organize an unforgettable holiday in 2025.
Road in Crete (own photo)
How to travel in Crete
Travel Agencies in Crete
If you're looking for convenience and want to fully enjoy the attractions without having to organize every detail, then look no further! Consider visiting with a local travel agency or a resident. Crete is an island perfectly prepared for the needs of tourists, and travel agencies offer a variety of tour packages.
With this amazing option, you'll have a professional guide lead you through the most important sites, sharing fascinating facts and historical context. The tours often start with pick-ups from hotels or nearby locations, making it super easy to get around. Before booking, just make sure the language of the tour is a good fit for you.
Tips for choosing a travel agency:
- Look at what is included in the trip price. Sometimes, you have to pay extra for things like entrance tickets, ferry crossings, and meals. Other companies already offer packages that include everything, including lunch at a local tavern.
- Ask about discounts. Many travel agencies have special deals for groups, families with children, or people who book early.
- Read reviews. Before choosing a company, it's a good idea to read reviews from other tourists.
Here are some useful local travel agency websites:
I'd also say it's worth asking about discounts and making sure the price is all there. Usually, you have to add the cost of entry, ferry fees, and so on. But some companies might sweet-talk you with a free lunch at some cute spot along the way, already included in the trip's price.
Boat at sea (own photo)
Public transport in Crete
We could visit in a group, but we'd still travel separately. We can decide on a bus for our travel and sightseeing. Below is the page with the most important information. The KTEL company operates many connections between Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion. When looking through the timetable, we can see that KTEL operates many popular destinations and may help us plan our trip. Here is a link to the page with the schedules.
Timetables
Below, I also provide a link to a page with maps that illustrate KTEL connections in Crete.
Connection maps
There's just one problem with traveling by bus: you have to remember when the last bus leaves.
To learn more about traveling in Crete by bus, check out Public transport in Crete.
Car rental in Crete - sample photo (AI)
Car rental in Crete
You could go on a trip by car. This is a good option, especially if you are going to the island with a few other people.
There's a motorway along the northern coast of Crete between Chania and Heraklion. You'll see rocks, sea, flowers, and olive groves. It's a beautiful route. You should definitely try it. From Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, the road goes through various towns. You can see how Greeks live. There is no continuous road along the southern coast of Crete. It's worth familiarizing yourself with a map before leaving to avoid surprises.
Why rent a car in Crete?
- You are free to travel. A car lets you plan your own route and choose less-traveled roads. This lets you see an authentic side of Crete that is not crowded with tourists.
- Convenience. We don't have to worry about bus schedules or departure times. We can stop at any time we want to! We can admire the views, take pictures, or relax at a local tavern.
- Flexibility. Crete is an island full of diversity – from sandy beaches to mountain trails to historical sites. A car is the perfect way to see all of these attractions in one day.
Main routes and attractions
- Northern Motorway (VOAK, National Road 90). Just so you know, along the northern coast of beautiful Crete, there's this gorgeous motorway that connects the lovely cities of Chania, Rethymnon, and Heraklion. As you drive along this scenic route, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the sparkling Cretan Sea, lush olive groves, and charming seaside towns.
- Road from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos. As you make your way through the beautiful towns of Hersonissos and Malia, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of both the mountains and the coast. This is a wonderful chance to experience the daily life of the Cretans.
- South Coast. The south of the island lacks a continuous motorway, and the roads are more twisty and narrow. However, the views are worth every effort – from hidden coves to spectacular cliffs and small fishing villages. Before you go, it is worth checking out a map and planning your route to avoid surprises.
Alternative travel
And if you're feeling extra adventurous, there's always the option of hopping on a scooter or bike. Crete is a gorgeous island with lots of mountains, so on a hot July or August day, sightseeing by bike can be a bit of a challenge. But trust me, the views of the small towns from such close proximity, the stunning landscapes, and the authentic Crete sound are totally worth it.And if you're more of a scooter person, that's absolutely an option too! Just remember that Cretans like to ride in the "Italian style", so you might want to get used to that. They might suddenly stop to chat with someone or take a forgotten breakfast to work.The asphalt is very slippery because marble is added to its production to increase its hardness, which makes it great in the heat.The advantage is that you won't encounter ruts there.
Practical tips
- Choosing a rental company. Before choosing a rental company, it's good to compare offers from different companies. Be sure to pay attention to extra fees, such as insurance or mileage limits.
- Type of car. When choosing a car, make sure it's the right fit for the roads you plan to drive on. A compact car is great for motorways and long trips, while a 4x4 vehicle is better for mountain roads.
- Safety. Obey local traffic regulations and be prepared for Cretans' unique driving style.
- Fuel. There are plenty of gas stations around the island, but they can be harder to find in more remote areas. So, it's always a good idea to fill up your tank before a long trip.
Renting a car is the best way to see all that Crete has to offer. You can plan your own adventure and enjoy everything that makes this island so special. No matter which route you take, Crete will delight you at every turn..