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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.
 

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!

Understanding Tradition of Raki on Crete

I’ve been hearing a lot about raki in Crete, and a friend of mine recently warned me that it’s kind of a big deal there. She told me she made the mistake of treating it like regular shotsa nd ended up getting pretty sick.

What she noticed afterward was that the locals weren’t drinking it that way at all. It seemed much more relaxed and tied to the meal or conversation, not something you rush through.

Now I’m curious what the actual tradition or etiquette is around raki. Is it always offered after a meal? Do you sip it slowly? Are there certain situations where it’s expected to accept (or not)?

I’d love to understand the cultural side of it before I go, so I don’t accidentally overdo it or miss the point entirely like my friend did!

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.

Favorite Sunset Spot on Crete

I’m starting to seriously consider a trip to Crete this July, mostly because I’ve become really intrigued by the food culture there. If I go, I’ll probably spend a few weeks exploring different parts of the island rather than rushing around.

One thing I’d really love to experience while I’m there is a truly memorable sunset. I know Crete is large and has so many landscapes, so I’m curious where people have seen the most beautiful evening views. I’m open to anything, whether it’s a famous viewpoint, a quiet beach, a hilltop village, or even a restaurant terrace with an amazing atmosphere.

Do you have a favorite sunset spot on Crete that really stood out to you?

Tips for driving in Crete?

I might be going to Crete in July, and I’m seriously thinking about renting a car because the island seems much bigger than I originally realized. Part of me loves the idea of being able to explore smaller villages, beaches, and mountain areas on my own schedule, but I’ve also heard mixed things about driving there.

For people who have done it, how difficult is driving in Crete really? I’ve heard the roads can get narrow and winding, especially in the mountains. Is parking difficult in places like Chania or Rethymno during the summer?

Also curious if renting a car ended up being worth it compared to relying on buses or tours. I don’t mind driving, but I also don’t want to spend the trip stressed out behind the wheel. Any advice, tips, or things you wish you knew beforehand would really help!
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