Crete, Greece Guide
Know Before You Go...®
Crete is a stunning island located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of the Greek mainland. It is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. From its charming coastal towns and breathtaking beaches to its rugged mountains and ancient ruins, Crete offers something for every traveler. With a warm and sunny climate, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that Crete is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventure in nature, or a dive into Greek history, Crete has it all.
Why Crete, Greece?
- Crete is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
- The island of Crete is home to the oldest city in Europe, Knossos.
- Crete is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean Sea.
- The island of Crete is the birthplace of the famous Greek mythological figures Zeus and Europa.
- Crete is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as dakos, moussaka, and kaltsounia.
Crete, Greece Weather/Climate
Average Temperatures
| January |
57° F
|
° F
|
| February |
57° F
|
° F
|
| March |
61° F
|
° F
|
| April |
66° F
|
° F
|
| May |
73° F
|
° F
|
| June |
81° F
|
° F
|
| July |
84° F
|
° F
|
| August |
84° F
|
° F
|
| September |
81° F
|
° F
|
| October |
72° F
|
° F
|
| November |
66° F
|
° F
|
| December |
61° F
|
° F
|
Average Rainfall
| January |
5.7 inches
|
| February |
4.1 inches
|
| March |
3.3 inches
|
| April |
1.4 inches
|
| May |
0.6 inches
|
| June |
0.2 inches
|
| July |
0.1 inches
|
| August |
0.1 inches
|
| September |
0.7 inches
|
| October |
3.2 inches
|
| November |
3.1 inches
|
| December |
4.5 inches
|
History
Crete, the largest island in Greece, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back over thousands of years. In ancient times, Crete was the center of the Minoan civilization, one of the earliest advanced societies in Europe. The Minoans, known for their impressive palaces, such as the one at Knossos, developed a sophisticated culture with advances in art, architecture, and trade. The island’s strategic location in the Mediterranean made it a vital hub for trade and cultural exchange. The Minoan civilization flourished until it declined around 1450 BC, possibly due to natural disasters or invasion.
Following the fall of the Minoans, Crete was ruled by various powers, including the Mycenaeans, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians. Under Roman and later Byzantine control, the island became an important center for Christianity, with many early churches and monasteries built. The Venetians, who controlled Crete for several centuries, left a lasting impact on its architecture, including fortresses and Venetian-style buildings in cities like Heraklion and Chania. After the fall of the Byzantine Empire, Crete was taken by the Ottomans in the 17th century, marking another period of foreign rule.
Crete played a crucial role in the Greek War of Independence in the 19th century, though it wasn’t fully integrated into Greece until 1913. Today, Crete is known for its stunning landscapes, ranging from rugged mountains to beautiful beaches, and its rich cultural heritage. The island is famous for its ancient ruins, including the Palace of Knossos, as well as its unique traditions, cuisine, and music. A popular tourist destination, Crete continues to celebrate its blend of ancient history and modern Greek culture, attracting visitors from around the world.
Transportation on Crete, Greece
Getting to Crete, Greece and getting around. Our transportation tips will
help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
- Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
- Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.
Departure Tax
A departure tax of €12 applies for flights leaving Greece. This is usually included in airfare but confirm with your carrier.
Driving
- Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Driving Side: Right-hand side.
- Road Conditions: Roads are generally well-maintained, though some rural and mountain roads can be narrow and winding.
- Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.
- Traffic Rules: Be cautious of sharp bends in mountainous areas and pedestrians in small villages. Parking can be limited in cities like Heraklion and Chania during peak seasons.
Local Transportation
Crete offers a variety of transportation options to explore its stunning beaches, historic sites, and charming villages. Rental cars are the most popular choice, providing the flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from mountain villages to seaside resorts. Public buses are an affordable way to reach major towns and attractions, though they can be slower. For more scenic routes, taxis and private transfers are readily available, offering convenience for shorter trips. In cities like Heraklion and Chania, walking or cycling is a great way to explore the local sights.
Know Before You Go...® - Crete, Greece Travel Tips
Before making their way to Crete, Greece , vacationers like
to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a
look at our travel tips to make your time in villas
in Crete, Greece even more relaxing.
| Capital: |
Heraklion |
| Population: |
630,000 (estimated) |
| Size: |
3,219 square miles (estimated) |
| Electric Current: |
230 |
| Official Language: |
The official language spoken in Crete is Greek, specifically the Cretan dialect. However, many locals also speak English as a secondary language, especially in tourist areas. Other languages spoken in Crete include Italian and German. |
| Currency: |
- Crete uses the Euro as its official currency (€).
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas in Crete. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Diners Club. However, some smaller businesses and local shops may only accept cash, so it is always a good idea to have some Euros on hand.
- ATMs are widely available throughout the island, making it easy to withdraw cash using your debit or credit card. However, be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for foreign cards, so it is best to check with your bank beforehand to avoid any surprises.
- Traveler's checks are not commonly used in Crete, and it may be challenging to find a place that accepts them. It is better to use credit or debit cards or withdraw cash from an ATM instead.
|
| Tipping and Taxes: |
- Tipping in Crete is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. It is customary to leave a small tip for good service.
- The standard tip in restaurants is 5-10% of the total bill.
- Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
- Tipping tour guides and drivers on organized tours is also not expected, but a small tip is appreciated for exceptional service.
- The standard Value Added Tax (VAT) in Greece is 24%, which is included in the price of goods and services.
- Visitors from non-EU countries can claim back the VAT on certain purchases by filling out a tax-free form and presenting it at the airport at departure.
|
| Dress Code: |
The dress code in Crete is typically casual and relaxed, with lightweight and comfortable clothing being the most common choice. |
| Topography: |
Crete is a rugged island with a varied landscape, including mountains, valleys, plateaus, and a long coastline, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and scenic exploration. |
| Telephone: |
* Telephone: Country Code: +30
* Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the island, including rural and mountainous areas.
* Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests. |
Crete, Greece Weddings and Honeymoons
In Crete, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.
Apply for a marriage license at the local Dimarchio (Town Hall) in the chosen municipality. Applications should be made at least 10 days before the wedding date.
Documents Needed:
- Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
- Birth certificates (translated into Greek and certified with an Apostille).
- Certificate of no impediment to marriage or single status certificate (translated into Greek).
- Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
- Application form provided by the Town Hall.
Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Greek by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Greek.
Costs: Marriage fees vary by municipality but typically range from €100 to €300. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.
Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Crete offers a variety of scenic venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including picturesque beaches, historic monasteries, and luxury resorts. Popular locations include Elafonissi Beach, Rethymno’s Venetian Harbor, and mountain chapels in Lassithi. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.
