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The largest of the Greek islands, Crete has long been a firm favourite with UK holidaymakers. Holidays in Crete combine the convenience of large resorts with ancient history and natural beauty. Discover great beaches, rugged landscapes, clear blue seas and ancient ruins. There really is a resort on Crete to suit everyone: Revellers head to Aghios Nikolaos or Malia, one of the liveliest resorts in the Mediterranean and home to electric nightlife, while culture enthusiasts love Rethymnon for its castle and old town. Families like lively Hersonissos, with its water park and seafront promenade, or Sissi, for a more relaxing holiday. Those in search of a traditional Cretan experience head to Elounda or Gouves. The walled city of Chania on the west of the island has pedestriansed streets and a smart harbour, while Heraklion in the east bustles with shops and markets. From budget apartments to luxury spa retreats and all-inclusive hotels in Crete, there's a huge choice of accommodation. Whether you're looking for hot summers, beautiful scenery, archaeological sites, fresh air, delicious food or buzzing nightlife, holidays in Crete are bound to fit the bill.
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Like any Greek island, holidays in Crete start with the beaches and with waterbased activities such as windsurfing, water skiing, boat trips and scuba diving. Make the most of the rugged terrain and stunning scenery with walking, horse riding, cycling or a Jeep safari. Sample the local wines on a winetasting excursion. For culture, head for the Archaelogical Museum in Heraklion or visit the Minoan Palaces in Knossos and Phaesos. There's plenty of retail therapy in the cities of Heraklion and Chania. Don't miss a trip to the spectacular Samaria Gorge, which cuts through the soaring White Mountains.
Nightlife on Crete is varied and depends greatly on the resort you choose to stay in. Malia, Hersonissos and Aghios Nikolaos offer bustling bars and late night clubs, with Malia being a particular hot spot for clubbing holidays. Heraklion and Chania are packed with cosmopolitan clubs, international DJs and trendy bars. Enjoy the quieter life with a meal in a taverna in quieter resorts like Gouves, Elounda or Sissi. Many hotels offer shows and entertainment in the evenings.
Greek cuisine is at its best when served on the terrace of a typical taverna and there are plenty of these on Crete. Enjoy all the Hellenic favourites, from Meze to Moussaka, made with delicious fresh vegetables, herbs and olive oil. Most hotels and resorts also offer an array of international cuisine, from Italian and Oriental to Indian and fast food. Larger resorts have Britishstyle pubs for those who like a familiar taste of home. All inclusive hotels offer great value for money and are ideal for those who like to eat at their hotel. Ouzo is the Greek national spirit, but don't miss a taste of the locallyproduced wine.
Popular destinations in Greece you may be interested in:
Crete,
Corfu,
Halkidiki,
Kos,
Malia,
Rhodes,
Zante
Corfu Town,
Hersonissos,
Kalamata,
Klithea,
Kavala,
Kavos,
Kardamena,
Kefalonia,
Kefalos,
Laganas,
Lefkas,
Lesos,
Mykonos,
Santorini,
Skiathos,
Samos
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