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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?

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!

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!

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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