Crete, Greece Travel Community

What are your traveling tips for couples visiting Crete?

1 - 11 of 11 Posts
M

mastichas09

Active member
My girlfriend and I are thinking of taking a romantic trip around some Greek isalnds this summer after our trip to Italy. Do you have any ideas about what would be fun for couples?
 
Crete is beautiful, lots of historical charm, beautiful beaches, little villages and amazing food. My advise is don't go to this island if you only have a few days. It is really big and anything less than a week doesn't even put a dent in it! My favorite area is Chania and we usually stay near Falasarna.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Joni T. and blopez34
I’m a foodie, so I love finding the best restaurants to visit and enjoy some great wine with my girlfriend. Greece can be super romantic. Here’s a pic of this amazing restaurant in Rethymo that we went to. When I went back last year it has closed :( I was so pissed.

dinner.JPG
 
  • Love
  • Like
Reactions: acamp7 and seleanor
My cousin went on a honeymoon to Crete last year and she went horseback riding on the beach. It looked super romantic, and it sounds like such a fun activity.
 
The best advice I can give you is to rent a car and drive around to all of the beautiful different destinations. Crete is a such a beautiful island full of some of the best nature that Greece has to offer but it’s public transportation is terrible!! Take your time to explore and drive down the coast :)
 
  • Like
Reactions: Joni T.
If you like doing sporty things together, hike the Samaria Gorge! It's long, but mostly downhill (I think it might be 11 miles). Once you get down into the gorge, the views are stunning. Leave plenty of time to finish the hike, and drink plenty of water or electrolyte drink. There are water filling stations here and there on the hike, but honestly I would make sure you have enough water, just in case. Leave plenty of time to also explore the village. There is a nice, black sand beach at the end to lounge at, and you can also get a bite to eat. Don't miss the last ferry of the day or else you will be spending the night. Hiking in or taking a boat are the only ways in and out of the village.
 
  • Like
Reactions: acamp7
Crete is amazing. Something for everyone. We've spent several weeks there, all told. We've explored from the east coast to the west coast and north to south, meandering through the villages in the mountain range in central Crete. Chania was wonderful, but our stay in Heraklion was also amazing. We'd hire a local cab driver for the day to bring us here and there. Family owned tavernas had the best food I've ever tasted in my life. Oh my! I'd love to return some day, Lord willing.
 
  • Like
Reactions: acamp7
I am also a foodie ahaha. I like to eat my way through Greece, and everyone knows that the way to someones heart is through their stomach. Here's a pic of some amazing food I had in Crete.

CRETE FOOD.jpeg
 
  • Like
Reactions: Worldwide Greeks Editor
acamp7 said:
I am also a foodie ahaha. I like to eat my way through Greece, and everyone knows that the way to someones heart is through their stomach. Here's a pic of some amazing food I had in Crete.

View attachment 98
Click to expand...
My mouth is watering. Somehow their French fries are special too.
 
Hello,
I believe a "wine me, dine me" experience in Chania would be totally romantic. A private tour by a sommelier and wine expert at a local winery combined with amazing dinner under the stars would do it.

I would also recommend dinner at Tabakaria and Thalassino Ayeri for a cinematic scenery (it has been actually used as the setting for The Two Faces of January).

DSC3294.jpg
 
1 - 11 of 11 Posts
You must log in or register to reply here.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION AND READ OTHER GREEK INFO:

Which Crete Beach Do You Like Best? Elafonissi vs. Balos?

I’m still in the research phase for a future trip to Crete, and I keep going back and forth between Elafonissi and Balos, both look absolutely unreal. Elafonissi has that pink-tinted sand and turquoise shallows that seem straight out of a dream, but Balos looks wild and untouched, with those sweeping lagoon views and that little islet in the background.

For anyone who’s actually been, which one left a bigger impression on you in person? Is one easier to reach or less crowded during peak season? I’ve read the road to Balos can be rough, is it worth the drive? Would you base yourself in Chania for both, or stay closer to one? Curious what locals or repeat visitors think!

Information Balos Lagoon?

I’m thinking about visiting Crete this year, and Balos Lagoon keeps coming up as one of the top spots to see. The photos look incredible, but I’m trying to get a more realistic sense of what the experience is actually like.

For those of you who’ve been, is it as stunning in person as it looks online? I’ve also heard getting there can be a bit of a trek—either by boat or a rough drive plus a hike. How difficult is it really? Of all the times I have visited Crete, I've never been. It's truly amazing how much there is to see there.

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.

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!
Share and discuss your Crete photos, questions and experiences!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top