Skip to main content
Hays Travel Homepage
Crete Holidays
Enquire now Call us 0800 408 4048

Crete Holidays

Holidays in Crete

For an unforgettable Greek getaway, Crete truly has it all. As Greece’s largest island, it offers stunning beaches, rich history, and endless adventure. Spend sunny days on Balos Beach with its turquoise waters or explore Matala’s caves and mosaic cliffs. Beyond sunbathing, dive into watersports like scuba diving and windsurfing, or take a scenic boat trip. Hike the rugged Samaria Gorge for breathtaking views or enjoy a wine-tasting tour for a taste of local culture. Visit the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion to uncover Crete’s fascinating past. Popular resorts include Agios Nikolaos with chic cafés, Elounda for relaxed luxury, and lively Malia for nightlife and sandy shores. Whether you crave adventure or tranquility, Crete delivers. With warm Mediterranean weather and authentic cuisine, your holiday will be unforgettable. Book with Hays Travel for expert advice and great value—your perfect Crete escape starts here!

Why Visit Crete?

  • Savor authentic Cretan flavors-fresh seafood, olive oil, and traditional dishes in charming seaside tavernas.
  • Immerse yourself in ancient history at Knossos Palace, where Minoan legends and ruins come alive.
  • Wander through picturesque villages and vibrant markets, experiencing Crete’s warm hospitality and rich cultural traditions.
  • Explore breathtaking beaches like Elafonissi and Balos, with turquoise waters and pink-hued sands.

Crete Holiday Offers

Best sellers: Crete

Places to stay in Crete

More About Crete

Taste Traditional Cretan Cuisine

Taste traditional Cretan cuisine by indulging in authentic dishes like dakos, a barley rusk topped with tomatoes and feta, or savoring rich moussaka layered with eggplant and béchamel. Pair these with fresh seafood at a seaside taverna for a true island experience, complemented by local olive oil and a glass of Cretan wine.

Olive Oil & Wine Tours

Visit family-run olive farms and vineyards to experience Crete’s authentic flavors. Sample world-class extra virgin olive oil, learn about traditional pressing methods, and taste local wines made from indigenous grapes like Vidiano and Liatiko. Many tours include scenic walks through groves and vineyards, paired with homemade delicacies for a true Cretan experience.

Explore Local Markets

Explore local markets in Chania or Heraklion to immerse yourself in Crete’s vibrant food culture. Stroll through colorful stalls brimming with fresh produce, aromatic herbs, and traditional cheeses. Sample authentic street food like souvlaki or kalitsounia, and chat with friendly vendors for a true taste of Cretan life and hospitality.

Travel guide

Like any Greek island, holidays in Crete start with the beaches and with water based 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 wine tasting excursion. 

  • Currency: Euro
  • Average temp: 22°C/72°F
  • Average flight time: 4 Hours
  • Time Difference: +2 hours
  • Most suited for: Families, Couples

Crete Weather

Average monthly temperature in Crete (°C)

  • Jan 15°C
  • Feb 15°C
  • Mar 17°C
  • Apr 20°C
  • May 24°C
  • Jun 27°C
  • Jul 29°C
  • Aug 29°C
  • Sep 27°C
  • Oct 24°C
  • Nov 20°C
  • Dec 17°C
What currency is used in Crete?

Crete uses the Euro as its currency.

What is there to do in Crete?

For an unforgettable Greek getaway, Crete truly has it all. As Greece’s largest island, it offers stunning beaches, rich history, and endless adventure. Spend sunny days on Balos Beach with its turquoise waters or explore Matala’s caves and mosaic cliffs. Beyond sunbathing, dive into watersports like scuba diving and windsurfing, or take a scenic boat trip. Hike the rugged Samaria Gorge for breathtaking views or enjoy a wine-tasting tour for a taste of local culture. Visit the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion to uncover Crete’s fascinating past. Popular resorts include Agios Nikolaos with chic cafés, Elounda for relaxed luxury, and lively Malia for nightlife and sandy shores. Whether you crave adventure or tranquility, Crete delivers. With warm Mediterranean weather and authentic cuisine, your holiday will be unforgettable. Book with Hays Travel for expert advice and great value—your perfect Crete escape starts here!

When is the best time of the year to visit?

The best time to visit Crete is late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September–October). These months offer warm, pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to peak summer. You’ll enjoy sunny beaches, blooming landscapes, and ideal conditions for exploring historical sites without the intense heat of July and August.

What are the popular locations to visit?

Popular locations in Crete include Chania with its Venetian harbor, Heraklion for the Palace of Knossos, and Rethymno’s charming old town. Elafonissi Beach offers pink sands, while Balos Lagoon is perfect for stunning views. Samaria Gorge attracts hikers, and Agios Nikolaos provides a picturesque coastal escape with vibrant cafes and shops.

Get in touch and book your perfect holiday with Hays Travel

With so much choice out there, stop the endless searching - our experts at Hays Travel will find the perfect holiday for you. Speak with an expert now, find a branch near you, search online for great deals, or enquire today to start planning your dream getaway.

‎

Call our experts

Contact the Hays Travel holiday experts today for personalised advice and unbeatable deals on your next getaway.

0800 408 4048

‎

Enquire today

Submit an enquiry today and one of our experienced Hays Travel holiday experts will get back to you as soon as possible.

‎

Visit us in branch

Visit the Hays Travel holiday experts in branch today for personalised advice, inspiration, and unbeatable deals on your next getaway.