DK Travel : Crete

Although it could not be more Greek, Crete is really a country within a country, with its own history, folklore and traditions. It was the birthplace of Europe’s oldest civilization, the enigmatic Minoan culture which flourished over 4,000 years ago. Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Saracens, Venetians and Turks also left their mark. This rich human heritage is set against the backdrop of magnificent mountain scenery and beaches lapped by a deep blue sea.

Odos Souliou, Rethymno

Rethymno’s up-market shopping street, lined with stores selling copies of Minoan pottery, traditional Cretan pottery and modern ceramics, as well as colourful cotton and linen, lace and embroidery.
Officers & Gentlemen by Evelyn Waugh

A pithy account of the British in Crete in World War II.
Old House Tavern, Malia

The international dishes and Greek favourites are good value at this restaurant in the old part of Malia, which has tables in a shady courtyard.
Olives

You will see more than 40 different kinds of olive for sale in Greek markets. Their strong flavours complement a glass of retsina wonderfully.
Olives

Olives and Greece are inseparable. Indeed, without the olive – which has provided not only food but also oil for lamps, wood for fuel and timber for building ships and homes – Crete might not have become the cradle of Minoan civilization. Olives are sold in a bewildering array of sizes and flavours, with as many as 40 different types available from all over Greece.
Omalos Plateau

A fertile plain, ringed by rocky slopes, lies high up on the northern side of the White Mountains. Millennia of winter rains have washed the topsoil down from the surrounding slopes to create this upland oasis. Most people pass through without stopping, but, especially in spring, this is one of the prettiest, most peaceful spots in Crete.
Oriental Bay, Paleochora

This quiet restaurant serves Cretan and other Greek dishes and is very popular with locals. Pleasant courtyard.
Ottoman Empire

The Ottoman Turks invaded Crete in strength in 1645 and held the island until the end of the 19th century.
Ouzeri Elisabeth, Malia

A quieter, more traditional island in Malia’s sea of neon-lit cocktail bars. Choose from ouzos and meze and Cretan wine from the barrel.
Ouzeri Manos, Ierapetra

A good spot for leisurely ouzo sipping and meze snacking, amid a string of tavernas, bars and cafés that stretch between the Venetian Fortress and the ferry pier.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €12
- €12–€18
- €18–€24
- €24–€32
- over €32