Your Crete travel guide, from Chania

Choose a base near your main interests. Chania suits a western itinerary, Rethymno combines an old town with beach time, Heraklion works for city culture and Knossos, and Agios Nikolaos offers an eastern base. Plan one region first instead of crossing the island every day.

About a week covers one region at a relaxed pace, for example Chania and the west. With 10 to 14 days you can add a second base and see the east too. A shorter trip works if you stay in one area.

A car is useful for exploring rural villages and less accessible beaches. For a city stay or trips along the main KTEL bus routes, you can manage without one.

Start with Marathi or Agii Apostoli for a practical beach-day plan, then compare Falasarna, Elafonisi and Balos for different west-coast outings. Remote access and open-sea conditions are different from a serviced sandy bay; read the individual guide before deciding.

Start with the area and dining style you want, then compare current menus. The Chania and Rethymno dining guides link to venue and tourism information. Confirm the date, seating and any dietary needs directly before making a special journey.

Yes, on selected cars. Many local suppliers in Crete offer cars with no deposit, accept a debit card or cash, and include full insurance with zero excess and free cancellation. Conditions differ by car and supplier, so check the deposit, payment method and exclusions before booking. How no-deposit rental works.

Yes. Open the Rent a Car in Crete page, enter your pickup location and dates in our car rental search, and compare available cars. Review the selected supplier’s deposit, payment and insurance terms before completing a booking.