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kosta_karapinotis

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Cretan cuisine is some of the best that I’ve ever tried. I don’t visit the island too often, but I do visit mainland Greece. I have two young kids, and the trip to Athens is already enough for them. I am wondering if anyone has any recommendations on Cretan cuisine in Athens or Attiki specifically, but anywhere else on the mainland would do (Corinth for example). I would love to try out some spots. ?
 
I'd be interested in knowing this, too - I love Cretan cuisine! Getting to Crete isn't always possible.
 
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There're many Cretan restaurants in Athens. Some I've been to and I liked them: Katsourbos in Pagrati, Romanakia in Agia Paraskevi, Kaplani and Veri Meze in Kaisariani and Raeti in Ampelokipi.
 
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There're many Cretan restaurants in Athens. Some I've been to and I liked them: Katsourbos in Pagrati, Romanakia in Agia Paraskevi, Kaplani and Veri Meze in Kaisariani and Raeti in Ampelokipi.
Thank you! I will keep these in mind, I appreciate yu stopping to answer.
 
Cretan cuisine is some of the best that I’ve ever tried. I don’t visit the island too often, but I do visit mainland Greece. I have two young kids, and the trip to Athens is already enough for them. I am wondering if anyone has any recommendations on Cretan cuisine in Athens or Attiki specifically, but anywhere else on the mainland would do (Corinth for example). I would love to try out some spots. ?
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If you take the hydrofoil (40 minutes from Athens) to the island of Aegina for a day trip, the restaurant shown above is authentic Cretan cuisine. It’s located one street back from the waterfront. Your children would love Aegina. There are some nice beaches, horse buggy rides, and pastries/ice cream made with Aegina’s famous pistachios.
 

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!

Is Crete a good destination for a winter getaway?

I’m starting to plan a winter getaway and keep coming back to the idea of Crete. I’ve visited Greece in summer, but I’ve never experienced it in winter — and I’m wondering if Crete is actually a good choice for that time of year, maybe even for Christmas.

I know it’s the southernmost island, so the weather should be milder, but I’m curious what it feels like day to day. Are cafés and tavernas still open? Do locals gather in the squares, or does everything quiet down? I’ve heard Chania and Heraklion stay lively year-round, but I’m not sure about the smaller towns, possibly to even stay through Christmas. What do you think?

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?

How much can you realistically see in Heraklion during a six-hour cruise stop?

I'm looking at a cruise that I might take next year, and one of the stops is Heraklion, Crete. I've never been there before, so I'm starting to research what there is to see and do. It looks like there are quite a few interesting options, but I'm wondering how much is realistic with only about six hours in port.

I'd love to visit the Palace of Knossos, but I'm also interested in exploring Heraklion itself, especially the Venetian Harbor, local shops, and maybe stopping somewhere for a traditional Cretan meal.

For anyone who has visited Heraklion on a cruise, how much were you able to fit into your day? Is it possible to see Knossos and still have time to explore the city, or would that feel too rushed?

I'm also wondering how much time to allow for transportation and getting back to the ship. Any advice would be appreciated!

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

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