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Elafonisi is a natural beauty with a pinkish-white sand and a turquoise water. The sand dunes of Elafonisi is a home for rare plants and unique flowers; such as the cedar clumps, lily of the sea, Viola scorpiuroides, and so on. For that reason, the entire area of this beach is part of environmental protection program of the European Union.
As one of the largest and most significant museums in Greece, Haraklion Archaeological Museum displayed a chronological history of Cretan in over 5,500 years--showcasing artifacts from the Neolithic period to Roman times. In addition to its large exhibition spaces, the building also includes a library, laboratories, a drawing room, offices, and Scientific Collection Department.
When visiting Crete, make sure you stop by and stroll around the old town of Venetian Harbour: Chania. You will be mesmerized by a view of pastel-coloured buildings line, and you'll be surprised by the great history and culture backgrounds of those buildings. Chania was the first capital of Crete, and it's keeping ancient historical heritage delicately.
The Palace of Knossos is very popular in Crete, as it is an amazing combo of ruins and recreations; containing a huge palace, courtyards, apartments, frescoes, and more. The intriguing myth of 'the Labyrinth and the Minotaur' is associated with the Palace of Knossos.
Arkadi Monastery is a very meaningful site for the Cretans, it is a symbol of resistance. During the revolution era in 1866, there are more than 900 Cretans (mostly women and children) sacrifice themselves by blewing up barrels of gunpowder, refusing to surrender to the Turk's invading.
Cretaqurium is one of Europe's greatest aquarium, inhabited by more than 2,000 sea organisms. This place offers you a unique experience of exploring the magical Mediterranean sea world with high-tech facilities. Some of the attractions you can find here includes clown fish glow, jellyfish dance, and sharks dart.
Between myths and history, there's only a thin line of them in Crete Island. From ancient age to present days, every place on this island has a special story. It is said that Crete was the birthplace of the European civilization since around 3000 BC. Due to its strategic potition in Mediterranean, Crete became a valuable target of colonialism. Even after this island officially united with Greece in 1913, the Cretans had to maintain its independence through World War II and was reborn from its ashes. In the present, monuments and memorials spread throughout the island reminiscing the devastation and horror of the war, as well as the great fighting spirit for the nation. Crete is a magical island, a hypnotic harbour of the glittering Mediterranean. Expect to explore beautiful beaches, ancient riches, fine cuisines, and uncommon landscapes combining modern cities to dreamy villages.
How to Get Tickets?
It is very recommended to buy tickets online since you will be able to skip the long lines and save your time. You can buy the tickets on this website.
How To Get Around?
You can go around by foot, expecially during spring and autumn/fall. Taxi (max. 4 passengers) is also another option since the fare is lower than other European countries. If you want to experience Greece's public transportation, you can also try the buses, which are more frequent along the north coast between the main towns.
What Should I Wear?
Wear casual but covered-up clothes, especially when you're going to the church on monestary. During the summer, the heat might be a problem, so wear quick-drying tops or dresses. Flip flops are preferred than high heels. Do bring your sunglasses and sunscreen too.
Best Time to Visit
Between late May to early October are the best months to visit since it's the warmest months. During these months, it's mostly sunny, hot, and the water is warm enough for a nice swim.
Currency
Euro
Will I Need a Guide?
No, transportation is easy and you can find anything on this site.
How To Get There?
There are 3 available airports in Crete; Haniá, Iráklio (Heraklion) and Sitía, though the last one just had one terminal built in 2016. Ferry can also be choice if you're travelling from withing Greece.
Additional Info
Please note that taxi fares double after midnight until 5 am. They also don't take credit or debit card, so get your cash ready. Take the dresscode seriously when visiting religious sites.