One Week in Crete, Greece

Here is my most important tip: Rent a car at the airport!

Picture this: cruising down the winding coastal roads with the wind in your hair, stopping at charming, authentic villages along the way, and discovering hidden beaches that are off the beaten path. Plus, you’ll be able to set your own schedule and explore at your own pace, without worrying about missed buses or tour groups. Trust me, it’s worth it! I also recommend booking ahead of time to avoid dreaded lines and the possibility of no available cars.. Having your own set of wheels on the island is a game-changer. You’ll have the freedom to explore and stop where ever you want, at your own pace.

One Week in Crete

Port-Town Chania

The port-town Chania is very touristy but is definitely worth stopping by, even if you only spend a little bit of time there. Chania has a long and fascinating history, dating all the way back to ancient times when it was founded by the Minoans. Over the centuries, the city has been influenced by the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venetians, and the Ottoman Turks, each leaving their own unique mark on the architecture, culture, and history of the city.

Walking along the beautiful harbor, you’ll find cute restaurants, vendors, and numerous historical and cultural sites, such as the Archaeological Museum of Chania (I didn’t have a chance to visit the museum myself).  A morning or afternoon trip to the unique and vibrant old town should definitely be on your itinerary if you’re interested in history and culture and instagrammable spots.  

One Week in Crete

Seitan Limani Beach

Seitan Limani was on my bucket list, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. As soon as I got there, I was greeted by some super friendly goats. Yes, goats! Speaking of scenery, this beach was absolutely stunning. From the top, it looked like a zigzag maze that you just had to explore. Getting down to the beachfront was an adventure in itself. The beach itself was made of cobblestones, which was actually pretty cool. And the water was the most beautiful shade of light blue I’ve ever seen. It was like something out of a postcard. This beach is pretty small, so you definitely want to make sure you bring everything you need with you: Towels, water, snacks… And make sure you keep your food and drinks hidden from the goats because they have no shame and will steal your sandwich right out of your hand if you’re not careful. Trust me, I learned that the hard way! Overall, I absolutely loved this beach, and I would totally go back in a heartbeat. So if you’re looking for a fun and adventurous beach to explore, definitely add this one to your list!

Tip:

There’s no public transportation that goes directly to the beach. The easiest way to get there is by car. But be warned: This is not an easy drive!  If you don’t feel comfortable driving, you can take a taxi from Chania. Just be aware that the taxi ride will be relatively expensive, and you may need to arrange for the driver to pick you up at a specific time for the return journey. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that if you have any physical limitations, you might want to skip this one. Getting down to the beach is quite a steep walk, so just be prepared for that, and wear suitable shoes!

One Week in Crete

Samaria Gorge

Samari Gorge is Located in the White Mountains of Western Crete and is one of the most popular natural wonders on the island of Crete. The gorge is a famous destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts and really is an adventurous hike. The trek can be challenging and takes about 4-6 hours, but the breathtaking views along the way make it all worthwhile.  As you hike through the gorge, you’ll be surrounded by towering cliffs and stunning rock formations. The trail is well-marked, and there are several rest stops and watering holes along the way. The hike through Samari Gorge ends at the small village of Agia Roumeli, where you can enjoy a well-deserved meal and wait for the fairy back.

Tip:

Proper planning is crucial when traveling to and from the destination, as there is no public transportation available. My personal experience was a bit unpleasant due to being badly dehydrated. The line to board the ferry was long, and once we were on the boat, the motion of the waves made me feel even worse. Despite feeling unwell, I managed to catch the bus that takes visitors back to the parking spot. However, since I bought the last ticket available, I had to sit on the floor of the bus. Looking back, I wish I had been better prepared for the journey. But, besides that, Samari Gorge is a great adventure for all nature lovers and will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

One Week in Crete

Chania Sougia Beach

Chania Sougia beach- For a more luxurious vacation experience, I decided to book a hotel in Moni Village, Sougia. The hotel was situated in the mountains with serene and stunning views. Although one wouldn’t expect to be close to the beach while in the mountains, I was surprised to find that it was only a quick 7-minute car drive away. Sougia beach is located between the villages of Paleochora and Agia Roumeli, and you can expect to arrive at a colorful pebble-stone beach and breathtaking views. In addition to the stunning scenery, there are plenty of small restaurants and taverns that serve delicious food. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but there was something about the Sougia that gave off a great vibe, and the people were very super friendly. There are also plenty of hostels and hotels next to the Sougia beach itself,  and if I will ever visit again, that is where I will plan my stay.