Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest one in the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, impressive mountainscapes, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich gastronomic culture. Crete is, after all, a small universe teeming with beauties and treasures that you will probably need a lifetime to uncover!

The island has three significant airports, Nikos Kazantzakisat Heraklio, the Daskalogiannis airport at Chaniaand a smaller one in Sitia. The first two serve international routes, acting as the main gateways to the island for travellers. There is a long-standing plan to replace Heraklion airport with a completely new airport at Kastelli, where there is presently an air force base. The island is well served by ferries, mostly from Athens, by ferry companies such as Minoan Linesand ANEK Lines.

The largest and most densely populate region on the island of Crete is Heraklion(Iráklion). Nestling picturesquely among two imposing mountain ranges — Ídi (Mt Psiloritis) to the west and Dikti (Lasithiótika mountains) to the east— Iráklion boasts exceptional archaeological treasures, significant coastal settlements, a series of picturesque villages, vast valleys with olive groves and vineyards as well as the best organized tourist infrastructure in Crete. A unique combination of urban scenery and natural wealth makes the region of Iráklion an appealing all-year-round destination.

The region of Chania (Haniá), on the western side of the island, is dominated by the impressive White Mountainsand its famous National Park, which occupy the largest part of the region. The Prefecture of Chania provides tourist services and activities of all kinds, satisfying all the choices. The city of Chania maintains unaltered all of its characteristics, from the time of the Venetian Rule up until today. Wandering around the Old Town’s maze-like alleys with the beautiful Venetian mansions, the fountains and the elaborate churches will help you discover well-preserved historical monuments. Chania is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Here you can taste the famous Cretan cuisine with a glass of excellent Cretan wine. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit many wineries, where you will get to know the varieties of the Cretan terrain, the special local gastronomyand — let’s not forget — the outstanding Cretan hospitality!