The Ultimate Crete, Greece Itinerary: 5 Days in Paradise
Crete is the type of place you take with you for life.
I was completely hooked the minute my feet landed on this island: turquoise waters, dramatic mountains, ancient ruins, and food that you want to eat slowly savouring each mouthful.
Crete is a world unto itself, and each region is certainly different than the others.
If you’re dreaming about a visit and are wondering how to best use all that by the sea time, this 5-day itinerary showcases the most in Crete from beautiful beaches and picturesque villages to dramatic scenery.
Now, let’s get into the ultimate Crete adventure.
Day 1: Chania — A Bit of Venetian Charm & Sunset Views
First stop: Chania, one of Crete’s most stunning towns.
Morning Visit Chania’s Old Town
Meander the tight streets of Chania’s Old Town, where Venetian and Ottoman influences collide harmoniously.
The coral-hued buildings, bougainvillea-laden balconies and secluded courtyards make for a postcard-perfect backdrop.
You can pick up fresh fruit, cheese and traditional Cretan snacks at the Agora Market, then head over to the Maritime Museum to learn about Crete’s seafaring legacy.
Afternoon: Lighthouse and Harbor Views
Stroll along the Venetian Harbor, pausing for coffee at one of the waterfront cafés.
The highlight?
The Pharaonic Lighthouse rising from the harbor entrance. That’s a lovely spot to drink in the beauty of Chania.
For lunch, go to Tamam for true Cretan fare. Sample the lamb with stamnagathi (wild greens) or the slow-cooked octopus.
Evening: Late Lunch/Visit to Seitan Limania Beach
A 30-minute drive away from Chania is Seitan Limania, a secluded stretch of sand surrounded by steep cliffs and turquoise waters.
Take a dip, enjoy the golden-hour views and take some unworldly photos before returning to the town for dinner at To Maridaki, a local spot for fresh seafood.
Day 2: Balos Lagoon and Falassarna Beach
Today’s all about discovering Crete’s famous beaches.
Morning: Balos Lagoon adventure
Wake up early and head to Kissamos Port to catch a boat to Balos Lagoon, one of Crete’s most popular beaches.
The white sand, shallow turquoise waters and wild landscape makes it almost feel surreal.
Climb up to the viewpoint for an unrivaled panorama to take in before retreating down for a swim.
Afternoon: Escape to Falassarna Beach
Once you left Balos, head to Falassarna beach is a magnificent golden sandstrip with clear blue water. Lounge, swim or rent a sunbed and soak in the chill vibe.
Lunch: Taverna Spilios (for fresh seafood) Try the grilled sardines or Cretan dakos (rusk salad).
Evening: Wine & Sunset in Kissamos
On the return journey to Chania, visit Pnevmatikakis Winery for a wine tasting overlooking the olive groves. It’s the ideal way to unwind after a day of beach hopping.
Dinner in Chania. Head to Bohème — for Mediterranean fusion dishes and a dreamy garden setting.
Day 3: Crete’s Countryside and Rethymno
Drive east for an hour to Rethymno, a town with Renaissance architecture and a laid-back vibe.
Morning: Visit Rethymno’s Old Town
Begin with a stroll around the Fortezza of Rethymno, an immense Venetian fortress with sweeping views over the sea.
Next, follow the Old Town where you can see the Neratze Mosque and the Rimondi Fountain two of the cities signature points.
Arkadi Monastery & A Cretan Village Lunch (Afternoon)
Arguably the most significant historical site can be found in this area, Arkadi Monastery, which is a beautiful and peaceful.
For lunch, visit Taverna Aravanes in the village Thronos. Cradled in the mountains, this place serves up real home-cooked Cretan food — don’t miss the slow-roasted lamb with rosemary.
Evening: Sunset at Preveli Beach
Finish the day at Preveli Beach where a freshwater river meets the sea to form a palm-lined lagoon. Watch the sunset before returning to Rethymno for a leisurely evening.
Dinner at Prima Plora, a seaside eatery that focuses on farm-to-table fare with a contemporary twist.
Day 4: Heraklion & The Great Minoan Past
Today is all about exploring Crete’s history and its mythology.
MORNING: The Legendary Palace of Knossos
Begin your day in Knossos, the ancient Minoan palace and legendary home of the fiendish Minotaur.
The ruins are more than 3,000 years old, and a guided tour will animate the tales.
Afternoon: Off-the-Beaten-Path Heraklion.
Move on to Heraklion, Crete’s capital. See the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which has the world’s finest collection of Minoan objects.
For lunch, try Peskesi, a traditional Cretan restaurant offering farm-fresh ingredients. The slow-cooked pork with honey and thyme is unforgettable.
Evening: Watch Sunset at Agia Pelagia
A 15-minute car ride North up the coast brings you to Agia Pelagia, an authentic small seaside settlement with a relaxed feel.
“Sit down for a quiet sunset and dinner over at Almyra Seaside Food & Cocktails, where the seafood and cocktails are a perfect match to the view.
Day 5: Elafonissi Beach & Goodbye to Crete
Finish your trip off by visiting one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Morning: Pink-Sand Paradise on Elafonissi
Elafonissi Beach is known for its pink-tinged sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters. Have the wind in your hair and the sun on your face in the morning with the fairy tale views.
In the afternoon: Discover traditional Crete
On the return trip, pause in tiny Elos, a mountain village where you can sample authentic Cretan fare at Taverna Antonis. You should order the goat stew here.
Evening: One Last Night in Chania
Once back in Chania, enjoy one last dinner at Serenissima, a romantic spot hidden in the Old Town. Order the seafood pasta and raise a toast to your trip of a lifetime.
