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.

St George’s Day, 23 Apr

At the Church of Asi Gonia Apokoronou near Rethymno, hundreds of Cretan shepherds bring their sheep to be blessed on St George’s Day each year, hoping to ensure healthy flocks and a prosperous year. In return, the shepherds distribute free sheep’s milk.
Stavros

Quieter than Platanias, and so an attractive alternative for those seeking a little tranquillity. The lagoon-like bay featured in the film Zorba the Greek .
Sterna tou Bloumofisi, Vamos

Key part of a restored 19th-century stone village. The taverna serves a wide menu of Cretan specialities, baked in wood-burning ovens, and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (see Sterna tou Bloumofisi, Vamos).
Sterna tou Bloumofisi, Vamos

Part of a restored 19th-century stone village, Sterna tou Bloumofisi serves Cretan specialities baked in woodburning ovens.
Suites Pandora, Chania

A stylish collection of two- and four-bed suites, some facing an inner courtyard, others looking out to sea. All have high ceilings, balconies and tall shuttered windows.
Sultanina, Siteia, 16–20 Aug

Siteia’s sultana festival is a relaxed celebration of the grape harvest, with music, dancing, lashings of local wine and nightly performances in the old Venetian fortress, now restored as an open air theatre.
Syrtos

Performed all over Greece, the syrtos is the best known of the Greek circle dances.
Ta Dio Lux, Chania

The best place in town for a sundown cocktail. Tables with a view are at a premium, though, as this is currently Chania’s trendiest bar.
Ta Douliana, Douliana

A typical village taverna, set in the centre of tiny Douliana. Its rickety wooden tables and chairs are on a terrace shaded by vines, and the menu focuses on hearty local cooking, such as arni avgolemono (lamb with lemon sauce).
Ta Grousouzadika, Irakleio

Old-fashioned grill restaurant in Irakleio’s market area. The lamb and pork chops, steak, chicken and sausages are excellent.

Jump to top

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
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €30
- €30–€40
- €40–€80
- €80–€120
- over €120