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Crete

With a combination of mythological history and modern conveniences, the stunning island of Crete contains the perfect blend for an unforgettable Greek island holiday. Stretching out across 260km, Crete is blessed with breathtaking scenery, gorgeous azure waters and dozens of undiscovered villages to explore. Chania’s Venetian harbour is packed with cosy eateries from which to enjoy locally caught seafood, whilst the eastern city of Heraklion houses a world famous Archaeological Museum containing remains from the Minoan era. The ancient settlement of Knossos and the spectacular Samaria Gorge are also essential stops on any Cretan itinerary. By night, Crete shows a different side to its personality with nightclubs in Hersonissos and chic bars in Rethymnon providing the perfect opportunity to unwind after a day of absorbing Crete’s natural charms.

 

What you’ll love most about Crete

  • Visit the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, one of the island’s most significant archaeological sites
  • Explore the charming old town of Chania, with its Venetian harbor, narrow streets, and colourful buildings
  • Take a boat trip to the stunning Balos Lagoon and enjoy the turquoise waters, pink sand, and dramatic cliffs
  • Hike the Samaria Gorge, a spectacular natural wonder with stunning views and rich flora and fauna
  • Enjoy the island’s delicious cuisine, including Cretan dakos, dolmades, and grilled meats
  • Explore the island’s natural wonders, such as the Lassithi Plateau, the Richtis Gorge, and the Imbros Gorge

Where to Book

  • Balos Lagoon, Crete

  • Cobbled street of old town Rethymno in Crete

  • Beach of Triopetra, Crete

  • Loutro village, Crete

  • Colourful street in Chania, Crete

  • Kalyves village, Crete

  • Narrow street of Old Town Chania, Crete

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 16℃
  • 16℃
  • 17℃
  • 20℃
  • 24℃
  • 28℃
  • 29℃
  • 29℃
  • 27℃
  • 24℃
  • 21℃
  • 17℃
  • 14
  • 11
  • 8
  • 6
  • 3
  • 1
  • 1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 6
  • 8
  • 9

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Due to the low temperatures and the majority of bars, restaurants and hotels closed, we do not recommend a beach holiday during this month.

February

Due to the low temperatures and the majority of bars, restaurants and hotels closed, we do not recommend a beach holiday during this month.

March

Due to the low temperatures and the majority of bars, restaurants and hotels closed, we do not recommend a beach holiday during this month.

April

Due to the low temperatures and the majority of bars, restaurants and hotels closed, we do not recommend a beach holiday during this month.

May

May marks the start of the holiday season. Bars, restaurants and hotels open their doors, temperatures rise above 20 degrees and fewer tourists means this is a fantastic month for a spring time beach holiday. What’s more, there are usually great value offers to be had from tour operators and hotels.

June

As temperatures start to rise, the holiday season is well underway. This is the perfect month for those wanting a Summer break before the schools break up for holidays.

July

As schools break up and the destination experiences some of the best weather. This is a fantastic time to travel so special offers are becoming limited - book early if you have specific holiday needs.

August

Schools out for the Summer and the weather is perfect for beach holidays. There are little or no deals available during this period and popular hotels are likely to become booked out.

September

As schools return, the crowds reduce making September a great time to sit back and relax on the beach. Special offers return as familes are unable to travel during this period.

October

The temperatures start to drop but it's the perfect time to grab a beach holiday away from the crowds and to take advantage of any special offers.

November

Due to the low temperatures and the majority of bars, restaurants and hotels closed, we do not recommend a beach holiday during this month.

December

Due to the low temperatures and the majority of bars, restaurants and hotels closed, we do not recommend a beach holiday during this month.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


Here to help you find your ideal holiday at the best possible price – with a huge variety of breaks to suit all tastes & budgets. Experienced travel consultants available 7 days a week to help you book an ATOL & ABTA bonded holiday – book with confidence.

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Trust Classic Collection for ATOL & ABTA protected Worldwide luxury holidays. Travel expertise and personal service combine to create the perfect holiday. UK airport lounge passes, up to 23kg of hold luggage, private resort transfers and 24-hour concierge included as standard.

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CV Villas has scoured the most attractive locations worldwide to curate a fleet of carefully handpicked properties, all with one thing in common – the wow factor. Whether a stunning view, luxurious infinity pool, or a building with an unexpected history – or perhaps all three – they have it covered.

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For over 30 years Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the globe, creating positive change through the joy of travel. That’s over 30 years of adventures, of changing the way people see the world, on small group tours with like-minded Intrepid people.

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For over 30 years Pure Crete has been offering traditional Cretan villas and houses with breath-taking rural and coastal views. They also organise a range of walking holidays with professional guides so you can discover the real Crete.

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SPL Villas has curated a collection of beautiful villas within the most sought-after destinations across the Mediterranean. Family run, SPL Villas aim to truly look after their customers, by offering a full Covid-19 refund policy, independent financial protection, low deposits, and an unrivalled personal service.

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Tropical Sky offers luxury tailor-made tours and holidays specialising in providing expert travel advice and exceptional unhurried customer service. With a wealth of experience we will find the perfect trip for you.

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When it comes to booking a holiday, TUI know everyone likes something different – so they’ve designed getaways with you in mind. TUI Sensatori resorts are all about luxury, while TUI BLUE For All hotels cater for everyone, and the TUI BLUE For Two collection is just for adults.

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Value Added Travel is a specialist tour operator based in Croydon, UK. Having operated for over 22 years as a family business, they are specialists in the Middle East, Far East and the Indian Ocean.

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Hotels

  • Best of the Best
  • Life of Luxury
  • Unique & Fabulous
  • Creature Comforts
  • Basics covered

5* Creta Maris Resort

Creta Maris Resort is a unique combination of Aegean architecture, Cretan hospitality, green oriented environment, and high quality all-inclusive services. A blend of tradition and luxury together on a beautiful beach with crystal clear waters for guests to experience. Located right on the beach and just 500m from Hersonissos, the hotel features stylish guest rooms, bungalows and suites. Family rooms are ideal for those travelling with children, while suites are especially recommended for their spectacular sea views.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

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5* Daios Cove

When you arrive at the hotel you will be immediately impressed by the breath taking views enjoyed from the attractive reception areas with their huge floor to ceiling windows. All luxurious Daios Coves villas and suites enjoy views of the sea and the pretty cove below. Every room type has been cleverly designed incorporating glass with local stone to compliment the surrounding natural environment of sea, rock and space.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

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5* Domes of Elounda

Contemporary and luxurious, Domes of Elounda is a breath-taking, award-winning hotel close by the Crete’s small historic fishing village Elounda. Boasting incredible views of Spinalonga and its Venetian castle, the hotel is located right by the sea and focuses on embodying the natural beauty of Greece.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

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5* Elounda Mare Hotel

e love how timeless and elegant Elounda Mare Hotel feels. A member of the Relais & Châteaux’s prestigious international hotel association since 1988, this stunning property overlooks Mirabello Bay on the north coast of Crete, rewarding guests with phenomenal ocean views from every corner. Elounda Mare Hotel certainly makes the most of its superb location. Every restaurant is open-air, most nestled right by the water’s edge and all offering divine cuisine and first-class wine lists.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

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5* Grecotel Creta Palace

With plenty to please families and couples alike, the Grecotel Creta Palace is a versatile holiday choice. Set on a stretch of sand and pebble beach in the picturesque town of Missiria it’s also conveniently located for visiting the livelier Rethymnon, which is just four kilometres away.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

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5* Minos Beach Art Hotel

We love the minimalist boho-style at this boutique hotel. Located near Crete’s vibrant coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, Minos Beach Art Hotel boasts panoramic vistas of the ocean and delightful Mirabello Bay, the perfect backdrop to its authentic Mediterranean architectural style. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Minos Beach Art Hotel is a very popular retreat, and for good reason. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted with warm Greek hospitality, trendy interiors and gorgeous al fresco areas to relax and soak up the sunshine.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

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5* St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas

A small boutique offering the services of a large luxury resort, St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas is a beautiful and intimate retreat near Crete’s popular town Aghios Nikolaos. We love how the resort has added a contemporary twist, and yet doesn’t lose the charm of authentic Greek hospitality. A well-deserved member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the accommodation at St Nicolas Bay is luxurious. Minimalist Greek décor complements the incredible garden or sea views beautifully.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

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5* Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa

The adults-only Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa effortlessly impresses with its chic, modern interiors and laidback luxury atmosphere. You’ll find the resort on Crete’s northern coast in Analipsi. Wander through the grounds and you’ll see that the lagoon-like pool winds its way through the complex, and it comes with wooden sunbathing platforms. On one side, there’s a huddle of swanky swim-up rooms, and elsewhere you’ll find overwater bungalow rooms – you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d pitched up in the Maldives.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

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Top Offers

We’ve hand-picked a range of enticing offers to incredible destinations. If you want value for money on your next trip, start by reviewing our dedicated Top Offers page.

Top Offers