Crete Heraklion beaches reviews. The best beaches in Crete

Why do many families, when choosing a resort for a holiday with children, prefer the Greek island of Crete? If you carefully read numerous reviews on forums and travel websites, it will become clear what exactly influences the choice of Russians.

Undoubtedly it is:

• the location of the island of Crete, most convenient for fast flights;
• an amazing climate that makes holidays with children extremely healthy;
• magnificent beaches and clear sea;
• rich cultural heritage, safety and hospitality;
• small villages and towns scattered along the coast surrounded by mountains and valleys with vineyards and olive groves;
• good .

Resorts and beaches are scattered throughout the island, and in each of its four regions (Heraklion, Lassithi, Chania, Rethymno) you can always find something suitable for families with children. Although most of them are traditionally located on the eastern and northern coast of Crete. The tourist infrastructure is better developed here, there is more entertainment, and many facilities for comfortable and varied accommodation.

However, as for holidays in Crete, all these divisions of resorts into categories (for young people, family vacation etc.) are very conditional. Wherever we go, we can find a resort where we would like to return again and again.

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Without diminishing the importance of cognitive and excursion holiday, after all, most often, we go to Crete with our children for a beach recreational holiday. All conditions have been created for this. Partly, nature itself took care of this, covering kilometers of coastal areas with small lagoons, warm water and hot sun with soft sand and comfortable small pebbles.

Even the sand here comes in very unusual colors: in addition to the usual golden and white, there are beaches with pink and even black sand. However, such a natural phenomenon and the abundance of various beaches are easily explained. After all, the island of Crete is located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea.

Beaches and resorts of Heraklion - the central region of Crete

In this largest area of ​​the island there are several wonderful resorts that position themselves as family-friendly and provide all the necessary services for a comfortable children's holiday.

Beaches small resort Gouvesa (18 km from Heraklion - the capital of the island) - pebbly and sandy, long and well equipped. They are regularly awarded Blue Flags for cleanliness and ecology. The sea is warm, shallow near the shore, and the entrance to the water is gentle. But in windy weather due to the open coastline There are strong waves here.

The beaches of Kokkini Hani (15 km from Heraklion) are varied: spacious sandy and pebble, well equipped. But the main thing that attracts families with children here is the nearby Water City water park.

Amoudara (8 km from Heraklion) has spacious sandy beaches stretching 5 kilometers in length. Excellent infrastructure and proximity to attractions and the capital have made this place extremely popular among holidaymakers.

Beaches of Agia Pelagia – luxury resort, located in a small bay (25 km from Heraklion). The sea, protected from the winds by rocky cliffs, is always calm. The beach is sandy. But there is a serious inconvenience for children - the entrance to the water is not gentle, but rather sharp.

The resort village of Stalida with excellent infrastructure and a favorable location (from here it is convenient to get acquainted with all the attractions in eastern Crete), with wide sandy beaches. Here all the buildings are one or two floors, which organically fit into the mountain landscape. And the hotels in the village offer comfortable and inexpensive accommodation. All this makes this resort convenient for a family, relaxing holiday.

The resort of Malia (next to the resort of Stalida) is famous for its good sandy beach. There is no embankment as such. And the entertainment area is present in a larger volume than in Stalida.

The beach of Hersonissos is quite narrow, with a good entry into the sea and a coastline with coarse sand. The resort is very noisy, crowded, party-oriented, recommended mainly for youth recreation. Vacationers with children will most likely not like such a fun atmosphere. But if these circumstances do not bother you, here you can find good hotels with their own sandy beaches, convenient for family holidays.

Resorts and beaches of Lassithi - the most picturesque region of Crete

This is perhaps the sunniest, but also the most expensive region of the island in its eastern part, which is home to the stunning Mirabello Bay. It is washed from the northern part by the Cretan Sea, and from the southern part by the Libyan Sea.

Its main resorts are: Agios Nikolaos - the most beautiful picturesque coastal city of Crete (and the capital of the region), which is sometimes called the “Cretan Saint-Tropez”, luxurious and expensive Elounda and Ierapetra - considered the southernmost city in Europe.

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The beaches of Agios Nikolaos are very different: sandy and sand and pebbles. But they are all calm, quiet and very clean. Most of them are surrounded by hotels.

Celebrities and the rich often prefer to relax at the Elounda resort. Everything is provided here for an ideal comfortable holiday, including for children: an endless sea, varied landscapes, magnificent hotels with equally luxurious beaches for family holidays, located in a small beautiful bay in an almost closed bay, well protected from the winds.

Voulisma Beach - a charming small lagoon with soft fine golden sand, azure clear water, surrounded by bizarre rocks - is located 12 kilometers from Agios Nikolaos near the village of Kalo Chorio in Mirabello Bay. The entrance is very good, the bottom is clean and level - the place is ideal for children.

The beaches of Ierapetra are magnificent and numerous. They stretched for a seven-kilometer strip along the coast of this southern city, indented by picturesque secluded bays. The westernmost and most popular is well equipped, sandy, but the bottom is rocky. Katarades beach is covered with dark coarse sand, the bottom is also rocky. There are beaches covered with small gray pebbles mixed with sand. All of them are marked with Blue Flags for cleanliness and environmental friendliness.

Chrissi island beach – small paradise, located in the Libyan Sea, with soft white sand, clear water, with a good gentle and level entrance to the sea. There is a desire to compare it with tropical islands. Only, unlike palm trees, centuries-old Lebanese cedars grow here.

On the east coast of the Lasithi region there is a series of not very well-known small resort villages with unique sandy beaches.

Vai Beach is magnificent, with soft sand and crystal clear water. Its main feature is that a real one grows next to it. rain-forest from wild palm trees. Warm shallow water and excellent entry into the water make it very good for small children. And its popularity, especially in the high season, is simply off the charts.

Makrigialos beach with fine pleasant sand and always warm shallow water is good for beach holiday with children. It is small but well equipped and has everything you need.

Lagoofa beach is located in the same way as the previous one, on the coast of Makrigialos near large hotels in lagoons sheltered from the winds. The water here is warm and shallow. This attracts tourists with children. In addition, the east coast is not so crowded, and you can always find a quiet place here.

Ammoudi Beach is cozy, with fine golden sand, surrounded by white rocks. The bottom is flat. But there is nowhere to hide from the sun; you must take an umbrella.

Sissy – in the past a simple fishing village - today a resort with several sandy beaches: Bufos, Kalimera Kriti.

Resorts and beaches of the Chania region - the greenest part of Crete

This westernmost region of the island is home to a mass of magnificent, many-kilometer-long Cretan beaches - pink Elafonisi, snow-white Balos, the huge Falasarna beach, and many other, less famous, but no less charming beaches where you can relax with children.

Chania has all the conditions for this - a large number of cozy bays, quiet and windless, sandy beaches with a good entrance to the sea, equipped beach areas with children's playgrounds and simple but fun attractions.

Many kilometers of beaches with amazing pink sand are found only in Chania. And the most famous of them is Elafonisi. This beach is simply adored by children and their parents: shallow, warm, clean water, with a nice gentle slope into the sea. You can meet swimmers here as early as April, because the water here is a little warmer than in other places on the island. The downside is that there is often strong wind and sometimes it is crowded.

The magnificent beaches of Falasarna with snow-white soft sand with pink splashes and azure warm water, a smooth entrance to the sea are the best in Crete. There are 5 of them in total and they are located nearby, following the shore one after the other. Their territory is huge and it is partially equipped. Due to the vast territory, there is never a crowd here and you can always find a secluded place.

The wonderful beaches of Georgioupolis with a gentle, safe entry even for children attract families with children to these places. The local unique flavor of the fishing village and pristine nature make these places even more attractive.

The beaches of Kavros are sandy, wide, clean, with shallow seas - the best that can be offered for children. The disadvantage is that there are often waves in the open bay.

The sandy beach of Platanias, 4 kilometers long, is well equipped and has been awarded “ Blue flag" The resort is quite lively and popular.

Agia Marina – small town and a resort with a magnificent sandy beach. It is the largest on the island and the most comfortable with picturesque pine forests.

Kalamaki Beach is sandy with a picturesque small bay and shallow bottom. Located in the village of Galatas.

The sandy beach of Agia Apostoli is located in two bays, well protected from the wind. The water is clean, around there are beautiful rock formations and picturesque small park with a pine grove.

Chrissi Akti beach consists of two bays with a sandy beach separated by a picturesque hill. One of them, located to the west, with a smooth entrance to the water and shallow water.

Stavros beach with bright yellow sand, located in a beautiful, almost closed bay on all sides at the foot of the mountain in the quiet and peaceful village of Stavros (Akrotiri peninsula), is considered one of the best in Chania for a family holiday, even with kids. It is always quiet and windless here, there is an easy entrance to the sea, and well-warmed water.

Maronti Beach is an ideal place for children and those who have not yet learned to swim. These are several sandy beaches in a large bay sheltered from the wind in the village that bears the same name. There is a very good flat bottom and a picturesque view of the White Mountains.

Loutraki beach, like Maronti and Stavros, is a very suitable place for a beach holiday with children on warm, soft sand. There is amazingly clean and transparent water, a flat bottom, beautiful sand, and a quiet shore.

The beaches of Paleochora are loved by families with children for several reasons. Beaches with both soft sand and those covered with small, rolled, non-prickly pebbles stretch for several kilometers. There are always clean and transparent coastal waters, a gentle entrance and a good bottom. One of the beaches of this resort, Pachia Ammos, is well protected from the winds.

Kalyves Beach – with a quiet calm sea, protected from waves and winds from the north by the Akrotiri peninsula. One part of it is covered with golden sand, the second with small pebbles, regularly awarded the Blue Flag.

Kissamos is a resort town near the sea, far from tourist places(42 kilometers from Chania) for relaxation in peace and quiet with a child. There are a lot of hotels in Kissamos itself and its surroundings. They are mostly small, homely and cozy, relatively inexpensive.

Not far from Kissamos are the island's famous beaches of Elafonisi, Falasarna and Balos Lagoon.

Balos Bay – most beautiful place The Mediterranean, where three seas meet: Mediterranean, Cretan and Ionian. The water in the bay is unique in its mineral composition, its color is completely unusual - bright azure with shades of turquoise, blue and green. The sand is pink and white, and the water is warm and absolutely clear. According to many, this beautiful beach of the Mediterranean is convenient for families with children: shallow water, you can sunbathe while lying right in the water on the sand.

Beaches and resorts of Rethymnon

Due to its proximity to the capital and famous attractions, the Rethymno region is considered a good resort destination for tourists. For a beach holiday, there are long sandy, clean beaches (16 km) with secluded coves and a smooth slope of the seabed. There are many calm and quiet villages on the coast where you can spend an unforgettable vacation with your children.

The city of Rethymnon (“Venice in the mountains”) is the most beautiful city in Greece, striking with lush greenery, flowers, and the beauty of the landscape with ecologically clean beaches. It is approximately equally distant from Chania and Heraklion.

Rethymno has a good urban sandy beach near the embankment, quite comfortable and clean, with warm shallow water, with attractions and opportunities for active recreation.

It may not be worth choosing the city itself for living with children - it’s a bit noisy. But a series of small cozy seaside villages located nearby are quite suitable for young tourists.

Sandy, clean and equipped beaches of Adele in the resort area located from Rethymno to the east - good option for a relaxing beach holiday. But there are some disadvantages - the coastline is open, there are strong winds and waves. In addition, when entering the water, there are rocky areas in some areas of the beach. When choosing a hotel, you need to clarify this circumstance.

Platanias is a quiet small resort village near Rethymnon with sandy beaches for a secluded, relaxing holiday.

Skaleta Beach is sandy, well-equipped, and is positioned as a resort for a relaxing beach family holiday. There are only a few hotels in the village.

Panormo is a small resort village (22 kilometers from Rethymno) with a particularly authentic, calm atmosphere and a popular place for families with children. The beaches are located in a bay, sheltered from waves and wind, the bottom is flat, the sea is shallow - what else is needed for safe holiday with small children.

The four main sandy beaches of Bali are a place for a contemplative, serene holiday in a relaxed atmosphere among mountain slopes covered with greenery, in bays with clear and very clean water. There are never waves in the quietest bay of Karavostasi (or Evita), which is protected from the wind by a mountain cape.

For those vacationing in this area with children, one feature of the terrain needs to be taken into account - quite steep climbs uphill to the resort location and descents back down to the sea.

Preveli Beach is covered with small pebbles and is a natural attraction. There are beautiful sand dunes, amazing palm groves, beautiful sea and strange looking layered rocks.

The state of the beach along with good hotel and convenient location - perhaps the main factors influencing our choice when we go to Crete with children. All that remains is to choose the right resort and hotel that will not allow you to be disappointed when going to the island of Crete with the whole family.

To determine how safe it is to enter the sea, experts advise checking this parameter with the descriptions of a particular hotel. Or additionally request this information from the hotel or tour operators. Most often, on private beaches the entrance to the sea is always sandy (due to bulk sand). And from the descriptions it follows that most of the Cretan beaches meet in all respects the requirements set by parents when looking for a beach for children. Have a good holiday everyone!

Heraklion can rightfully be considered the heart and one of best places for a holiday in peace. The combination of warm sun and mild Mediterranean climate with a unique landscape, and historical places dating back thousands of years with a noisy and active nightlife makes you choose a vacation spot in favor of this city. Sun, sea, antiquities: a holiday in Heraklion in 2019 can give you all this - and much more.

Brief historical background

Heraklion is the administrative center, the capital of Crete, named after Hercules, who performed one of his exploits here. Its Greek name is Heraklion. The city was also known as Khandak, Candia, Heraclea, Khandakas. The city originally emerged as a harbor. Then, in 824, the Arabs who captured Crete rebuilt the fortified fort of Khandak. Subsequently, the city was rebuilt, captured, and ravaged by different peoples - the Byzantines, Venetians, Turks. Only in 1913 the city became part of Greece, and in 1971 it became the capital of Crete.

It is not surprising that such a rich history left a big mark on the formation of the city and its architectural appearance. Today Heraklion - modern city, preserving the memory of its history and offering all travelers a lot of entertainment and recreation. You should not ignore this city of Crete when planning your vacation in 2019.

Brief geographical information and climate

The city is located on the island of Crete on the coast Aegean Sea 334 kilometers from Athens. Heraklion, with an area of ​​120 square kilometers, is home to 175 thousand local residents. Administratively, the city is divided into 5 districts.

The climate here, as throughout the Mediterranean, is temperate, mild and dry. The hottest months are July and August. The air warms up to an average of 28 degrees Celsius. Moreover, the water temperature rarely drops below 16 degrees even in winter. Best time for recreation - June-September. Spring is good for hiking, but not for swimming - the sea is not warm enough at this time of year.

Heraklion on the map

Safety in Heraklion

Crete is considered good place for relaxation even for less protected categories of tourists: children, elderly people, young girls. However, in such big city Still, sometimes thefts happen. Therefore, you should not leave your valuables on the car seats, and also carry all the available cash with you. Of course, don’t forget about sun protection, and also swim only in appropriate weather.

Planning a trip to Heraklion: transport and accommodation

How to get there?

It is convenient to get to Heraklion by plane, since the airport is located a few kilometers from the city center. Direct flights from only operate to summer period. The rest of the time you can fly, for example, through Athens. A ticket to Heraklion in the summer of 2019 will cost about 8 thousand rubles.

Also, if you are traveling throughout the main part of Greece, there is a service to the city. maritime transport from Athens. Nine-story liners depart daily from the port of Piraeus. The cost of a comfortable cabin will be approximately 120 euros.

Public transport in the city is mainly represented by buses. In addition, they also walk around the surrounding area, so there will be no problems with how to get around. You can go to other resorts; a ticket will cost a maximum of 15 euros. Well, if you like increased comfort— You can always order a taxi, the cost will depend on the distance.

Where to stay?

The capital of Crete offers many comfortable hotels (mostly 3-5 stars) with European service, as well as apartments and hostels. Here are some placement examples:

1. A good apartment in the city center, furnished with modern furniture, or a simple two-star hotel will cost two tourists about 3 thousand rubles per day.
2. Institution middle category with a pool can cost two travelers approximately 5-6 thousand rubles per day of stay.
3. One of the luxury hotels, Galaxy Iraklio 5*, offers its guests rooms of different comfort classes from standard to business rooms. The hotel has a SPA salon, restaurant and wireless Internet. The hotel is a 15-minute walk from the city center. The price per day for two guests is around 9 thousand rubles.

Travel to Heraklion: where to go, what to see, what to do?

Even the most experienced tourist will find something to do in Heraklion and will not get bored. Sunbathing and swimming, exploring ancient beauties, having fun in a modern way - all this is possible on vacation in this city.

Beach holidays and water sports in Heraklion

For lovers of passive relaxation, there are wonderful picturesque beaches with clean water. Heraklion and its surroundings are full of sandy and pebble areas, where all tourists will find a cozy place to sunbathe and swim.

There are equipped as well as surrounding and wild beaches, hidden in bays. In general, all of them are marked by a good entrance to the sea, which is convenient for those who vacation as a family with children, and many are also marked with the prestigious Blue Flag. Here are some of the beaches in this resort area:

1. Amudara. Located 4 kilometers from Heraklion. A beach with excellent infrastructure and availability large quantity taverns, cafes, restaurants. Covered with dark sand.
2. Vateianos Kambos. It is very popular among locals, so if you want to see cheerful, sociable Cypriots and relax in a fun atmosphere, this is the place for you.
3. Linoperomata. Do you like active recreation? Head to this beach. The weather is often windy here and you can enjoy windsurfing.

By the way, among the water activities in Heraklion and the surrounding area, diving is also available (in the village of Agia Pelagia there is major center), water skiing, snorkeling, canoeing.

All the best beaches are located 4-15 kilometers from the city, this is their feature. Despite the fact that Heraklion itself lies off the coast, you will have to take a taxi or public transport to get to all the beaches.

Don't forget that in addition to the sea and beaches, there are grape and olive gardens, cliffs, big waves and breathtaking scenic views that are also worthy of attention.

Sights of Heraklion

Curious tourists can expect stories about the history of Greece and the island of Crete. Fans of excursion walks in Heraklion will definitely not be bored. A walk around the city (you should pay attention to August Street - “Street of Illusions”) can already become an impressive excursion. In addition, you should definitely visit the main local attractions.

The Knossos Palace was built more than 2 thousand years ago and is associated with the myth of the Minotaur and the brave Theseus. The most visited of the palaces in Crete. It is more interesting to visit it with a tour, however, if you do not want to invest money, finding the palace will not be difficult - the road is accompanied by signs. Many details of ancient architecture: columns, galleries, frescoes, stairs can be viewed on the territory of the Knossos Palace.

It is worth visiting the Archaeological Museum, which contains artifacts from different eras from the Neolithic to the Roman Empire. This is the most extensive museum dedicated to the Minoan era. Ceramics, jewelry, religious and everyday objects - you can devote at least half a day to the museum’s exposition.

The History Museum of Crete covers the period from the Byzantine era to World War II. You can learn everything about the life, customs and culture of local residents by going to this place. In addition, there are also masterpieces by Cretan artists and even a couple of paintings by El Greco.

Heraklion also has a Museum of Natural History, which is dedicated to the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean, and a Museum of Fine Arts, whose exhibition focuses on contemporary art local creators.

You can enjoy the spirit of history even just by going to the city’s borders. It is surrounded by 16th century Venetian walls with several elaborate gates. And in the center of Heraklion there is a Venetian fountain.

You can also explore a couple of local temple buildings. The Cathedral of St. Titus is the cathedral church of the city; it houses the relics of the apostle, who is the patron saint of Heraklion. The Cathedral of St. Menas is an imposing, monumental building that miraculously escaped bombing during World War II. And the small church of St. Catherine of Sinai currently houses a collection of works of church art.

From Heraklion you can go on excursions to other stunning places. So, there is an opportunity to go to the island of Santorini, visit picturesque bay Balos, enjoy the famous Athens and much more. The abundance of guide offers in Crete will allow everyone to choose an excursion to their liking. In addition, you can explore the surroundings of Heraklion. For example, 70 kilometers from the city lie the ruins of the ancient settlement of Festos, founded by Minos.

Entertainment in Heraklion

The city is rich in more than just attractions. Those who are on vacation with the whole family may need to entertain their child in a simple and uncomplicated way.

Travelers with children can go to the WaterCity entertainment water park, where there are both children's areas and attractions for brave teenagers. This establishment is located in a mountainous area, so enjoy the views at the same time. You can also go to another water park - AquaPlus, the largest on the island. In the summer, the Katerina amusement park is often located in Heraklion; most of its attractions are designed for children.

You should definitely go to the village of Kato Gouves, where the sea aquarium Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is located. Sharks, jellyfish and many other animals await all visitors; by the way, there are audio guides in Russian, so even kids will understand everything they need. In addition, it is worth saying that some Heraklion hotels provide nanny services, animators, and children's clubs, so just carefully choose the place where you will live - this way you will make your vacation comfortable for the whole family.

Fans of city recreation and shopping will be delighted with the large number of boutiques, cafes, bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Among the latter, tourists especially note the Paradise club, which organizes wild beach parties and invites famous and experienced DJs.

Cretan cuisine is a real pleasure with benefits for the body. Fish and seafood, salads flavored with olive oil, and an abundance of homemade cheeses will appeal to all travelers. You should definitely try the local tomato snack, as well as goat milk ice cream and other dairy products. Approximate price for local fast food - about 4 euros, lunch in an average tavern will cost around 20 euros, dinner will cost around 25 euros.

Be sure to visit local shops and shops, buy souvenirs and gifts. What to take with you as a souvenir of your trip to Heraklion? These could be Cretan goods such as:

• pottery with Greek ornaments;
• metaxa cognac;
• textiles made from natural fabrics;
• citrus honey;
• olive oil.

Do you want to enjoy the local flavor to the fullest? Travel to Heraklion during the summer arts festival. From July to September, performances, dances, and concerts are organized in the city. You can admire how modern types art and shows with a national touch.

Numerous agencies offer other entertainment for guests of Heraklion. Jeep safari, fishing from a yacht, a walk on a stylized pirate ship - there is something for any traveler to spend a day.

Heraklion is a real holiday center in Crete. When you go on a trip to this city, get ready to get acquainted with the local flavor, enjoy a variety of dishes, and take excursion trips to mysterious Cretan places. You can competently combine relaxation on well-maintained and clean beaches and learning the secrets of the island. Young and old - everyone will appreciate this safe, interesting, comfortable holiday in 2019.

4. Kedrodasos

Just a kilometer from the famous Elafonisi is the fabulous Kedrodasos beach.

Fine sand, turquoise sea, olive and juniper groves will create a cozy and magical atmosphere.

5. Preveli

Preveli is one of the beach symbols of Crete. It is not located in the most popular place among tourists: south of, at the entrance to the Kourtaliotis Gorge, at the mouth of the Kourtaliotis River. Picturesque date palms, adjacent to monastery The beauty, but at the same time the privacy, made this sandy beach famous and a must-see.

But just a few years ago this beach was visited only by nudists.

6. Matala

South of Heraklion, in the Gulf of Matala on the shores of the Libyan Sea, there is another beach that is worth visiting during your trip to Crete. 10,000 years ago, local residents began to use the coastal cliffs as housing, hollowing out caves in the soft rock.

In the middle of the 20th century, these caves were chosen by hippies who came here from all over the world. Among them were celebrities: Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin.

Today Matala is an ideal holiday destination for the whole family. The seashore is also suitable for small children.

7. Triopetra

Just over 50 kilometers south of Rethymnon - and you are on the beautiful sand and pebble beach of Triopetra. The name comes from the Greek Τριόπετρα, which means “three stones” - three rocks protruding from the sea. The beach can be divided into three parts: eastern, central and western. In the eastern part you can find all the benefits of civilization - a parking lot, a hotel, a tavern, sun loungers, umbrellas. But the central and western parts will appeal to people who prefer to relax in solitude.

We are planning to go in early September. I would like to live away from the mass tourist flow and certainly away from parties, bars, etc. Please advise which area is better to choose so that you can still get to somewhere within half an hour by car.

Hi all! We were in Rhodes in August 2012, we are going to Crete. Please tell me how I can fly on a budget? And which city/suburb is better to go to, so that the same is not too expensive =) We are a young couple, we want to stay for 2 weeks in the middle or at the end of August, we also plan to rent a car.

Hi all. Guys, I'm sad. Friends persuaded us to go to Crete. We bought a triple in Chersonissos to make it cheaper, and then it turned out that they had 350 euros for 2 for 10 days. Now they are worried that they won’t have enough for basic food, having read about Greek salad for 3.5 euros. but I have plans to rent a car for 2-3 days and travel around the island. Tell me, please.

We are traveling as a family with a 3 year old child to the island. Crete. We will be based in Bali. 15 days. I would like to alternate between just lying stupidly on the beach and visiting some places. We are planning to rent a car. Can you recommend interesting places and routes?

Tell me which rental offices can rent a car at Heraklion airport, we have late arrival at 23.45 and early departure at 06.30. Is there something working there at this time? or just rental offices in Heraklion or Chersonissos, because the hotel is booked there. Thank you,

Today, unexpectedly, purely by chance, I came across a profitable tour to Crete. We decided to go :-) The hotel is near Heraklion. We don’t know how to lie like seals on the beach. Please help me with a list of must-visit places. I already know that I want to see the palace of Mnos, the cave of Zeus, visit some kind of water park, scuba dive, swim on jet skis (if possible there)... And, of course, try as much local cuisine as possible. In general, I want...

Hello, the topic is this: we want to go to Greece in July, but since none of those who are going to Crete have any idea where is the best place to go? If you've already had a great rest, please share your thoughts. A group of people are coming, we want to have a blast and have fun, clubs, birrs, restaurants and just youth get-togethers. We fly to Heraklion, and then to where we’ll book a hotel! Questions: Which area is better to choose? City? Is it a village? Which 3-4* hotel is super for this in terms of location and...

Crete is the largest Greek island, where everyone can find something to their liking while relaxing. For those who prefer to sunbathe, there is a wide variety of beaches and deserted bays, as well as small resort villages where the sun shines 34 days a year. For those tourists who like hiking, you will like the huge number of walking routes that lie across the whole country. In addition to all this, you can practice all water sports here, since Crete has the cleanest sea in all of Greece. From year to year, Crete attracts a huge number of lovers of both a noisy holiday and a calm, measured life.

The best beaches of Crete

The island has a huge number of beaches, both pebble and pebble. Some beaches are equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers, showers and changing cabins, while others are absolutely wild and even nudist. Each of the beaches has its own unique features. Each of the four regions of Crete has many beaches, the most beautiful and most popular of which can confidently be listed below.

Beaches

This is a famous sandy beach, which is located just 4 km from Heraklion, in the resort village. It stretches for several kilometers, and here you can find anything, from crowded equipped areas to wild beaches that are far from noise and civilization. One feature worth noting is that just thirty meters from the shore there is a stone ridge in the water, beyond which even the most experienced swimmers do not dare swim. This is an open bay, so the wind is not uncommon here, which is why windsurfing has gained particular popularity. There is an airport nearby, so planes will often fly over the beach.

Matala is a popular sandy beach located in Heraklion. It is surrounded on both sides by rocks and is an original place not thanks to the beach itself, but to the rock against which it rests. This rock boasts a layered structure, which is why it has many long balconies, caves and rooms. This place became popular back in the 60s, when hippies lived here. Today no one lives in the caves, but visiting them is not prohibited. Matala is a well-equipped beach that boasts a variety of umbrellas, sun loungers, cabanas and sun loungers. While relaxing here you can engage in sports such as, for example, diving or surfing. Also, there are many cafes, bars, taverns and discos.

Kokkini Hani

This is a sandy beach, which is located 13 km from the center Heraklion. It stretches 400 meters along the coast and is also 50 meters wide. The beach is completely covered with soft and delicate sand, which is very popular among tourists. Also, it is worth noting that the infrastructure on the beach is well developed; here you can find almost everything: umbrellas, sun loungers, sun loungers, changing cabins, showers, toilets and much more. There are also bars, hotels and taverns. Each beach is separated by breakwaters. You can enter the sea smoothly, making it possible to come here with children. Also, water sports are well developed here, windsurfing is especially popular. It is worth noting that this is a fairly crowded beach, so it is unlikely that you will be able to retire here.

Gouves Beach is located in the province of Heraklion, in the village, 18 km from the city of Heraklion. This is a wide sandy beach that boasts good equipment (hotels, bars, taverns, a lifeguard tower, showers, changing cabins, toilets, sun loungers, sun loungers, umbrellas and much more. Also, it is worth noting that along the beach there is a promenade where can you please

Take a walk admiring the sunsets and sunrises.

This is a crowded and popular sandy beach, which is located 73 km from Heraklion in the village of the same name. You can come here with children, but it is worth remembering that the beach is wild and not equipped with anything at all. Also, don’t forget that you can stay here overnight if you wish.

This is a sandy beach, which is located 67 km from Heraklion, and 3 km from Matala. It is divided into two parts. One part is equipped with a shower, changing cabins, sun loungers, umbrellas, sun loungers, and there are also taverns and bars nearby. In addition to all this, you can enjoy water sports here. The second part of the beach is occupied by nudists. Everything here is not so equipped and you won’t be able to meet many people here either. People come here to fully relax and enjoy nature.

This is a famous beach that is located 68 km from Heraklion, next to Matala Beach. This is the so-called red beach, the name of which comes from the color of the sand that predominates there. It is worth remembering that the beach is absolutely not equipped with anything, the only exception being a couple of umbrellas that are already installed there. Also, it is worth noting that nudists really like to relax here. In addition to all this, you can often find Caretta Caretta turtles here, which lay their eggs here.

This is a beautiful beach, which is located in the village of the same name, 27 km from Heraklion. This is the most real paradise for tourists from all over the world with many discos, taverns, bars and discos. Also, it is worth noting that this beach consists of several bays with golden sand, which are completely protected from the winds. These beaches are well equipped, each of them has a variety of sun loungers, umbrellas, changing cabins, showers, and also provides services for all water sports. There are many hotels of different categories nearby.

Beaches of Rethymno

This is a sandy beach, which is located in the resort village of Ponormos, 22 km from the city of Rethymnon. It is well equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, showers and changing cabins. Also, on the beach there are cafes, taverns, toilets and much more. It is also worth noting that this beach is perfect for vacationers with children, as there is a wonderful gentle entrance to the sea. This beach is located away from the popular beaches, so public transport does not go here. And in order to get here, you need to either take a taxi or rent a car. Also, on the right side of the beach there is an area for nudists.

Plakias is a sandy beach located in the village of Plakias, just 34.5 km from Rethymno. This is a place with a well-developed infrastructure that attracts a huge crowd

Number of tourists from all over the world. This is one of the longest beaches in all of Crete. This place can satisfy the needs of absolutely all tourists. Everything here is well equipped - changing rooms, showers, sun loungers, umbrellas and much more. Also, it is worth noting that this beach is marked with the Blue European Flag, which confirms its environmental cleanliness. The eastern part of the beach is called Paligremnos, and is a favorite place for nudists. Western part characterized by a rocky entrance to the sea, so this part is preferred by fishermen. There are also many hotels and a diving center nearby.

Beach

This is a popular sandy beach, which is located in the village of the same name, 30 km from Rethymnon. The beach itself consists of four areas, in which there are bays that are completely protected from winds and strong waves. The first bay, if you count from the highway, is the largest and most open; in windy weather there are very strong waves here. The second bay is a little calmer and smaller. The third is the central and busiest. To the right of the center of the beach, right behind the mountain cape, there is the quietest bay, where there are no waves even in a storm. Absolutely the entire coastal area of ​​Bali is equipped with changing cabins, showers, toilets, umbrellas, sun loungers and sun loungers. Also, there are many taverns, hotels and establishments that provide water sports services. At the very top there is an observation deck with beautiful views.

Preveli is world famous palm beach, which is located 35 km from Rethymnon. It is popular precisely because of the date grove and crystal clear water. This unique place, with an incredibly beautiful and exotic landscape. Here every tourist can not only swim in salty sea water, but also in fresh water - in the lagoon by the river. On the south side, Preveli is open, so it often suffers from strong winds. Fortunately, this beach is not very well organized. Sure, you can buy drinks and food here, but there’s nowhere to stay. A few years ago there were plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas, but because of this, the beach became exotic, so these amenities were removed.

Adelianos Kambos is a sandy beach located 7.5 km from Rethymno. This is a great place to relax, relaxing anywhere from the beginning of April to the end of October. This beach is well equipped, there are toilets, showers, changing cabins, sun loungers, umbrellas and much more. Also, there are quite a lot of beach bars and taverns here, which attracts young people. It is crowded here almost all year round.

Geropotamos is a beautiful sandy pebble beach, which is 18 km from Rethymno, and only 3 km from Panormo. It is small in size and completely protected from waves and wind. There is a clean and clear sea and cool water, due to the river that forms the lake, not far from the beach. There are also umbrellas, sun loungers and sun loungers. And the diner has food and drinks for every taste. This is a great place to relax.

Beaches

Beach

Falasarna is one of the most famous and popular beaches in all of Greece. It is sandy and has a wide coastline. The beach is located 51 km from Chania. There is snow-white sand and clear water. If you visit this place in the evening, you can witness incredible beauty, since the sun sets directly into the water here. Every year this area is awarded the Blue European Flag, which is given only to ecologically clean areas. The beach has umbrellas, sun loungers, sun loungers, as well as several taverns with delicious national dishes. Water to the beach - 5 euros.

It is also one of the most famous and popular beaches in all of Greece. The beach is located 41 km from Chania. It is incredibly beautiful here, and all this popularity and originality is achieved thanks to the pink color of the sand, which is easily explained by the fragments of small pink shells, of which there are quite a lot on the coast. Also, there is an incredibly clear sea and a gentle slope, so you can come here with children. Every year this area is awarded the Blue European Flag, which is given only to ecologically clean areas. In some places, the maximum water depth reaches only 1 meter. Therefore, both adults and children can relax here.

Balos Beach is a famous beach throughout Greece that attracts a huge number of tourists every year. There is snow-white sand with rare splashes of pink, as well as crystal clear azure water. The beach is only 54 from Chania. There are umbrellas, sun loungers and sun loungers, as well as a small snack bar. You can get here either by bus or by car without any inconvenience.

This is a comfortable beach, which is located right on the shore of Lake Kournas, 43 km from Chania and 24 km from Rethymnon. Everyone can swim in the waters of the lake, enjoy the incredible scenery, and just sunbathe. The beach is equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers, showers, changing cabins and sun loungers. It is worth noting that there are quite a lot of trees here, so finding shade will not be difficult. In addition to all this, on the beach you can rent a catamaran, visit taverns and stay in apartments.

This is a small pebble beach, which is located only 72 km from Chania. This beach is an excellent choice for families with children, as well as at the beginning and end of swimming season. Due to the fact that it is located in a bay, there are never winds or waves here. Ammoudi beach is located far from all kinds of urban infrastructure, so it will appeal primarily to those who love a quiet, calm and measured holiday. Also, it is worth remembering that there are no showers, no umbrellas, no taverns, no cafes, or anything else. Therefore, when coming here to relax, you must take water and drink with you.

This is a magnificent sandy beach, which is located 9 km from the city of Chania, on the northern coast. This beach certainly boasts a wide coastline and beautiful scenery. It is equipped with everything necessary for an unforgettable holiday, there are toilets, showers, changing cabins, various sports, sun loungers, parasols, a cafe and much more. Also, it is worth remembering that every year this beach receives the Blue Flag for the cleanliness of the coastline. nearby, in the village, there are all kinds of supermarkets, shops, discos, bars, restaurants, taverns and hotels where you can always stay.

This sandy beach, popular among tourists and local residents, is located 71.5 km from Chania. Also, many locals call this beach Pachia Ammos. There is incredibly clean and clear water here, a gentle slope, and also clean white sand, in which children will play with pleasure. The beach is fully equipped and has everything you need for relaxation: toilets, showers, changing cabins, sun loungers, parasols, rescue towers and much more. Every year this area receives the Blue Flag award for good equipment and cleanliness of the coastal area. Also, it is worth noting that just a few meters to the left there is a pebble beach where you can retire.

Beaches

This is a small and charming lagoon that is located 12 km from Agios Nikolaos, 23 km from Ierapetra, and also 55 km from Sitia. This is a picturesque area, also called the “golden beach” with sandy coves and clear water. The turquoise color of the water, a clean and flat bottom, light fine sand, as well as the mountains that give the beach its color - this is all that characterizes this area. In addition to all this, the beach offers a beautiful view of the resort town of Agios Nikolaos. The beach is located in a cozy bay, which is protected from waves and winds on both sides. The eastern part of the island is wilder; there are very few tourists here, thanks to which every lover of a secluded and relaxing holiday can find a place for themselves here. There are no sun umbrellas, sun loungers, or changing cabins. This place is preferred by nudists. The rest of the beach is equipped with everything necessary for relaxation.

Elounda is a fashionable sandy beach, which is located 11 km from the town of Agios Nikolaos, right on Mirabello Bay. This place is perfectly equipped and is perfect for a good rest for children and adults. There is everything here: umbrellas, sun loungers, sun loungers, changing cabins, showers, and a toilet. In addition to all this, they offer services for all water sports, as well as fishing and scuba diving. Every year this beach is awarded the Blue Flag, which confirms the cleanliness of the water and coastal area, as well as the quality of the equipment. There are also regular boats directly from here to the island of Spinalonga, which is worth a visit.

Agios Nikolaos Beach is a series of several beaches, including both sandy and small pebble beaches. small-pebbles are located in the eastern part of the city, near the embankment and diving center. All beaches are equipped with umbrellas, cheap cabins, changing cabins, sun loungers, sun loungers and toilets. It is always not very crowded, so this beach is perfect for a calm and measured holiday.

This is a world famous beach, which is located 25 km from the city of Sitia. This beach got its reputation thanks to its palm grove, which is the largest in all of Europe. There are about 5,000 trees in the forest. On average, the oldest tree is 2000 years old. Also, it is worth noting that the very first Bounty advertisement was filmed here. If we talk about the beach itself, it is sandy and light golden in color. The entrance to the sea is gentle and, like the beach itself, sandy. In the rightmost and leftmost parts there are small stones in the water. It is almost always quiet and not windy here. The beach is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, sun loungers, showers, toilets and shower rooms and much more. Not far from here there are taverns with national cuisine and hotels of various categories.

Plaka is one of the most popular and most beautiful beaches on the island of Crete. This is a sand and pebble beach, which is located in Mirabello Bay, 5 km from Elounda. Also, it is worth noting that it is also one of the oldest in Crete. It stretches along 5 km and is an absolutely wild area. Fans of noisy and active recreation should not come here, but those who like a calm and measured pastime. There are clear waters and soft white sand. Also, it is worth noting that you can often meet nudists here. There are quite a lot of umbrellas, sun loungers, showers and changing cabins. In addition to all this, there are many taverns, hotels, nightclubs, discos and bars nearby.

Ierapetra is a series of several beaches that consist of sand, shells and small pebbles. They can be found 31 km from Agios Nikolaos. There are both wild beaches that will suit those who like a calm and measured holiday, as well as fully equipped beaches with umbrellas, sun loungers, toilets, sun loungers, showers and changing cabins. On each of the beaches you can do water sports and really have fun.