Neighborhood guide
Where to Stay in Crete
The 3 areas worth basing yourself in Crete, Greece — ranked by our editors, with walking distances from the center. First-timers: start with Chania.
Top pick
Chania
Venetian harbour town — lighthouse, restaurants, the old town lanes.
#2
Heraklion
Largest city — museum, Knossos a short drive, ferry connections.
#3
Rethymno
Middle-coast old town — Venetian fortress, sandy beaches, walkable centre.
Getting around
KTEL buses link the north-coast towns; rent a car for inland villages and beach coves.
Drive the road to Elafonissi early — the parking fills by 10am in summer.