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As the largest of the Greek Islands, it’s no surprise Crete’s got a lot going on. And that's certainly the case here on the eastern side, where adventure-ready mountains sit alongside neon-lit clubs, sleepy towns and ancient Minoan treasures. Mega town Malia is where the party happens, Stalis is the place to while away the days on a sandy beach and Rethymnon has a gorgeous harbour and Old Town to explore. Then there’s Elounda where things get a bit more swanky.
Gouves, Crete (Heraklion Area)
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Based on 2369 reviews
Elounda, Crete (Heraklion Area)
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Based on 787 reviews
Elounda, Crete (Heraklion Area)
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Elounda, Crete (Heraklion Area)
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Based on 1341 reviews
Analipsis, Crete (Heraklion Area)
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Based on 834 reviews
Elounda, Crete (Heraklion Area)
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Based on 1970 reviews
Greek
Euro
+2hrs
£3.10
£26.50
4.5hrs
Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands and comes with an unbeatable beach-blanketed coastline to complete every holiday snap album. You’re sure to find the perfect spot, whether you’re after superb sandy stretches for sunbathing, rocky coves for snorkelling or wind-swept waters for surfing.
Agios Nikolaos, Sissi or Stalis will tick all the boxes – especially if sun, sea and sand are your main criteria. For a taste of tradition, head to the hills where you’ll find quaint villages like Koutouloufari and Piskopiano. If it’s world-renowned nightlife you’re after, make it Malia, the island’s party capital.
Crete is steeped in history. Some of the mountainside villages have barely changed in centuries, while the sprawling ruins at Knossos are over 3,000 years old. Heraklion’s museum is one of the finest in Greece and will teach you everything essential about the island’s past, including its glory days under King Minos.
A brilliant beach, great nightlife and ancient ruins nearby make Hersonissos a big hit.
Gouves is a resort of two halves – modern Kato Gouves is pure beach fun, and the mountain village of Pano Gouves specialises in sensational views.
Tucked away between the non-stop liveliness of Malia and Hersonissos, Stalis is a laid-back little resort with one of the best beaches in all of Crete.
You’ll find a permanently cheery feel to this resort, with plenty of sun beating down throughout the year.
Calling all party people! Malia’s a Mecca for fun in the sun, and each bay has its own lively beach bar, with resident DJs pumping out floorfillers throughout the day and well into the night.
This peaceful inland village has the best of both worlds – scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere just moments from a bustling coastline.
Lose yourself in the rich blue sea. Jump in and get a snapshot of how Elounda does things.
Unlock your own nugget of culture in this classy Cretan resort.
Unmask the vast history of Agia Pelagia by starting at Knossos, the famous Minoan palace, and working your way back into town.
When you look at its bigger, livelier counterparts, Sissi is pretty different.
These sandy surroundings, glossy nearby waters and verdant parks boast a luxurious feel, but Fodele is a place of more traditional inland touches.
Snuggled on Crete’s north-east coastline lies the charming little village of Piskopiano. It’s all whitewashed buildings and cobalt blue doors here, creating a striking scene against the rugged backdrop.
For the widest stretch of the softest sand, head to Aghios Nikolaos. Nearby, you’ll find the place to go for cute seafront tavernas serving fish fresh from the Mediterranean. Laid-back stretches offering the coolest water sports will entice families, but if you want to dance on the sands, make for the Malia seafront.
See all beaches (25)Gouves, Crete (Heraklion Area)
Crete (Heraklion Area)
A trip to ancient palace complexes is a must in Crete. The ruins are thought to be part of Europe’s oldest city, while the region’s also home to some impressive and fascinating medieval castles. If you’re looking to dig up some history, the resorts all have something to gawp at.
See all sights (17)Crete (Heraklion Area)
Aghios Nikolaos, Crete (Heraklion Area)
If you’re after a family-friendly day out, Crete has three waterparks to whet your appetite. Hardcore hikers will not want to miss a ramble through gorgeous gorges and canyons, while the water sports scene is a massive draw for marine fans. You can even try your hand at a spot of fishing.
See all activities (32)Crete (Heraklion Area)
Hersonissos, Crete (Heraklion Area)
Traditional Cretan food is fresh and rustic – think hearty lamb pasties and olive oil-rich salads. Being an island, the seafood is second to none and is served fresh from the net in many of the seaside tavernas. Raki is the local tipple and tastes a bit like Italian grappa. It’s strong stuff, so be warned!
See all eating and drinking (12)Fodele, Crete (Heraklion Area)
Hersonissos, Crete (Heraklion Area)
Crete’s famous for its leather goods and you’ll find plenty of boutiques and markets all over the island. Keep an eye out for ceramics and silver, too – in some shops you can watch the craftspeople as they create their wares. Foodies will want to take home the local olive oil and honey.
See all shopping (11)Elounda, Crete (Heraklion Area)
Aghios Nikolaos, Crete (Heraklion Area)
Malia is Crete’s hottest spot when it comes to nightlife. Its beachfront bars and clubs promise booming sound systems, laser shows and foam parties. Elsewhere, there’s a share of waterfront clubs, while the smaller towns boast live music bars where you can listen to everything from traditional Greek tunes to jazz.
See all nightlife (16)We don’t have any villas in this resort right now. But we’ve hundreds available in other destinations, so find your perfect one now.