Crete is the most southerly island of the Greek Islands and its largest, well known as popular tourist resort especially over the summer months due to the sunny, warm seasonal weather. A wealth of local mythology and history means that you will be steeped in culture, especially of ancient gods such as Zeus, whose birthplace this island apparently is. You can experience this through the many museums and archealogical sites dotted around the island. As well the more cultural activities you can experience adventure in Crete through taking part in water sports, scuba diving, horse riding, mountain/adventure sports, and walking and hiking. There are both organised tours but also the opportunity to enjoy this on your own by follwoing your own path. Car hire is an option when staying on the island through the local airport from such companies as Alamo Care Hire, Hertz, Argus Car Hire and Car Rentals. The freedom of a car will allow you to explore the less trodden path by tourists and normally enjoyed by locals. You never know you may find a secluded spot to enjoy a romantic getaway.
Crete Airport information
There are three airports on the island: Heraklion International Airport (HER), Ioannis Daskalogiannis Chania International Airport (CHQ) and Sitia Public Airport (JSH). Heraklion International Airport is the main one. It’s located approximately 5km from the city of the same name and is composed of one terminal building. It contains a small number of cafes and one main restaurant. There’s also a limited number of shops available and one ATM. For lost property you can contact the information desk. There’s one disabled toilet and it’s advisable to contact your airline prior to flying for further assistance.
Ioannis Daskalogiannis Chania International Airport is based 15km east of Chania. It’s smaller than Heraklion and deal with about 1.5 million passengers yearly. The airport contains limited shops and food outlets and one ATM. However, disabled access is easier. Sitia Public Airport is located 1km form the city center. This airport is the smallest of the three and deals only with domestic flights. cheap car hire in Crete can be obtained from any of these airports.
Places to visit around Crete
The island of Crete has a picturesque stretch of coastline where many visitors come to relax and explore. There are a multitude of beaches to choose from and it’s beneficial to car hire in Crete in order to find your personal piece of paradise, from exotic waters at Elafonisi and the secluded bay of Agios Georgios to the bustling resorts of Matala and Almiros.
When investigating the heritage of this intriguing island there’s no better place to begin than the majestic Palace of Knossos. This Minoan palace, composed of four wings surrounding a rectangular court, was discovered in the 19th century. The Monastery of Arkadi is another significant building. With the appearance of a fortress. this religious structure is now home to a museum which contains an exhibition based on the Holocaust of 1866.
Those wanting a more in-depth look at the history of Crete will not be disappointed with the array of museums Crete has to offer. The open air museum of Lzchnostatis provides a deeper understanding of Cretan folk traditions. The Archeological Museum houses an amazing collection of artifacts dating back to the Minoan era. A more natural museum is the Cave of Zeus. Thought to be where Rhea took Zeus as a baby to protect him from Cronos in Greek mythology, this cave is full of Minoan symbolism.
If you’re more of a nature enthusiast, you should head to Samaria Gorge. This is considered one of Greece’s most stunning natural phenomena and spans out for approximately 16km. Ha Gorge, on the eastern region of the island, is a mass of canyons and ravines waiting to be investigated. Tours are a fantastic way to explore the geography of the isle. Visitors can catch a boat from Rethymno harbor and visit well known dolphin areas.
When you desire a cerebral break, Crete also contains a number of fun parks to keep you entertained, including roller coasters at Limnoupolis Water Park or water sports at Star Beach Water Park. Alternatively, you can set sail on Captain Hook or Barbarossa to Bali or Marathi and take part in a pirate tour. You’ll be entertained by the ‘crew’ and have the chance to relax on stunning secluded bays.
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