Crete holidays from the UK: a practical guide

Crete is the largest Greek island, big enough for a beach holiday, mountain walks, ancient sites and good food in one trip. Most resorts are on the north coast, close to the two main airports.

Getting there

• Heraklion (HER): for the centre and east, including Hersonissos, Malia, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. Flights take around four hours.
• Chania (CHQ): for the west, including Chania town and the beaches of Balos and Falassarna. Around four hours.

Greece is two hours ahead of the UK.

Where to stay

• Hersonissos: a lively resort with beaches, bars and many all-inclusive hotels, east of Heraklion.
• Malia: known for nightlife, with a long sandy beach.
• Elounda and Agios Nikolaos: on the Gulf of Mirabello, with many of the island's luxury hotels and a calmer feel.
• Rethymno and Bali: between the two airports. Rethymno has a Venetian old town; Bali is a small resort on several coves.
• Chania: a beautiful harbour town, and a good base for the west coast beaches.

When to go

• May, June, September and October: warm, with the sea good for swimming from June. These months are often better value.
• July and August: hot and busy, with the highest prices in the UK school holidays.
• November to April: mild and green, good for walking, but many resort hotels close.

Things to do

• Knossos, the Minoan palace near Heraklion, and the city's archaeological museum.
• The Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's best-known hikes, open from about May to October.
• Spinalonga, the island fortress off Elounda.
• Beaches such as Balos, Elafonisi and Vai.

Money and practical tips

• The currency is the euro.
• Crete is large: driving from Heraklion to Chania takes around two and a half hours, so choose a resort near the places you most want to see.
• Check the latest entry rules for Greece and the EU before you travel, including how long your passport must be valid.
• Check what your all-inclusive hotel includes, as some drinks and restaurants may cost extra.

Getting a good deal

The same hotel often costs much less in May, June or late September than in August. Compare the total price including luggage and transfers, and see our guide on how to spot a real holiday deal. Our all-inclusive holidays page lists the Cretan hotels we have picked, with the date we checked each price.