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kcixcy

Active member
I am planning a trip to Crete this year and I am wondering where some of the best places to take photos might be. Someone recommended that I should hike the Samaria gorge and take photos along the way because the scenery is amazing, but I am not sure I am up for that. I also know that I could take a ferry to the end and then hike into the gorge someone and take photos from that perspective. Besides that spot, where else can I go? I am looking for a combination of nature and city type shots. I see a lot of photos of Chania that I love so I will put that on my list.
 
Everywhere in the Chania Prefecture is photogenic. You could spend a lifetime photographing Chania; believe me, I have!

The Old Port of Chania is one of the most picturesque areas in Greece. Sunday morning is a great time to photograph the narrow streets before it gets crowded.

The entire Southern Coast (including the “Iron Gates” at end of the Samaria Gorge at Agia Roumeli that you mentioned) is absolutely stunning. You can take a boat from Sfakia that goes along the coast. From Sfakia you can also drive up to the Village of Anopoli to get a different, pastoral view of the White Mountains.

The Botanical Gardens and continuing along the Omalos Road to the head of the Samaria Gorge, offer many photo ops.

The monasteries on the Akrotiri and Kolymvari Peninsulas offer wonderful historic and architectural shots.

Last but not least, the world famous beaches (ie. Elafonisi, Balos, Falassarna and many more) offer great photo ops.


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Everywhere in the Chania Prefecture is photogenic. You could spend a lifetime photographing Chania; believe me, I have!

The Old Port of Chania is one of the most picturesque areas in Greece. Sunday morning is a great time to photograph the narrow streets before it gets crowded.

The entire Southern Coast (including the “Iron Gates” at end of the Samaria Gorge at Agia Roumeli that you mentioned) is absolutely stunning. You can take a boat from Sfakia that goes along the coast. From Sfakia you can also drive up to the Village of Anopoli to get a different, pastoral view of the White Mountains.

The Botanical Gardens and continuing along the Omalos Road to the head of the Samaria Gorge, offer many photo ops.

The monasteries on the Akrotiri and Kolymvari Peninsulas offer wonderful historic and architectural shots.

Last but not least, the world famous beaches (ie. Elafonisi, Balos, Falassarna and many more) offer great photo ops.


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This is some great advice! I agree about Chania because I have seen some amazing pics of the Venetian Harbor area and the city seems so beautiful. Good advice about getting there early. Also, great advice about the Gorge, Gardens, Monasteries, Beaches etc. Seems like a lovely island with plenty of opportunities.
 
You can see some of my photos as I describe Crete in and out on my website:
www.lovingcrete.com
There is an entire world of wonder under what is pointed to touristically.

Ray
 
I would totally visit the Venetian Harbor area in Chania, as well as some of the scenic places by the coast. I would also hike into the Samaria gorge if you're able to take photos f that. There are some great spots all over though, you can't go wrong driving around.
 
Great suggestions! I’ve found that smaller cars are often more practical for navigating narrow roads and city parking while chasing photo spots. Cretarent has a wide fleet with manual and automatic options, which helps match different travel styles.
 

Information About Balos Lagoon?

I'm hoping to visit Crete again in the near future, and one place that keeps coming up in my research is Balos Lagoon. I've never been. The photos look absolutely incredible, but I'd love to hear from people who have actually been there rather than just reading travel guides.

Is Balos Lagoon really as beautiful as everyone says? What's the best way to get there—by boat or by driving and hiking down? If you drove, was the road difficult or manageable with a rental car? I'm also wondering what time of day is best to visit to avoid the biggest crowds.

Any tips on what to bring, how much time to plan for, or things you wish you had known before your visit would be greatly appreciated. I'd love to hear your experiences before I finalize my itinerary!

Best Swimming Beach Near Chania?

I’ll be spending some time in Chania soon and would love recommendations for the best swimming beaches nearby. I’ve read about Elafonissi and Balos, but they both seem like day trips rather than places you can just wander to for a morning swim. I’m curious if there are any great beaches closer to town, something with clear water, easy access, and maybe a little taverna or café nearby for lunch afterward.

Some people mention Agii Apostoli or Chrissi Akti as local favorites, but I’d love to hear real experiences. Are they calm enough for relaxed swimming, or are there better spots just outside the city? I’m not looking for nightlife, just a beautiful, clean place to swim and unwind for a few hours. Bonus points if there’s shade or fewer crowds. What’s your go-to beach around Chania for a perfect swim?

Best beaches in Crete for families?

I’m starting to plan a possible family trip to Crete next summer, and I’d love some advice from people who know the island well. What are the best beaches in Crete for families? I’m looking for places with calm water, easy access, and not too much walking from the car, basically somewhere kid-friendly without sacrificing the beauty Crete is known for.

I’ve heard mixed things: some people say the north coast has gentler seas, while others insist the south coast is more peaceful and less crowded. Elafonissi looks stunning, but I’m not sure how practical it is with children. Same with Balos, gorgeous, but is the hike or boat ride too much for younger kids?

If anyone has specific beach recommendations, safe swimming spots, or even family-friendly towns to base ourselves in, I’d really appreciate it. Any firsthand experiences or tips are welcome!

What to Do in Heraklion During a Cruise Stop

I’m looking for ideas on what to do in Heraklion during a cruise stop. I’ve already been once and did Knossos Palace, which was fascinating, but I don’t feel the need to repeat it.

This time, I’m hoping for something a bit more relaxed and experiential. I’m wondering if heading to a nearby beach makes sense time-wise on a cruise day, or if it’s better to stay closer to the city. I’ve also seen food tours mentioned, those really appeal to me, especially if they focus on local places rather than tourist traps.

For those who’ve done Heraklion without Knossos, what did you enjoy most? Beach clubs, wandering the old town, museums, markets, or food-focused activities? I’d love suggestions that feel unhurried but still doable within a cruise schedule.

Best "Home Base" on Crete?

I’m in the early planning stages for a trip to Crete and could really use some perspective from people who know the island well. I’m thinking of spending about two weeks there and trying to decide whether it makes sense to choose one central “home base” or to divide my time between a few different locations.

Crete seems so large and varied that part of me wonders if staying in one place would mean a lot of long drives, while another part likes the idea of settling in, getting to know one area well, and not constantly packing up. I’m especially curious about places that work well as a base for day trips—somewhere with good food, easy access to beaches or hikes, and a town atmosphere rather than just resorts.

If you’ve done a longer stay on Crete, how did you structure it? Did you stay put or move around, and would you do the same again?
Share and discuss your Crete photos, questions and experiences!

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