Between beaches, mountains and cliffs, Crete also has a rich architectural offer.
In this article, you can find the best towns in Crete, as well as the most beautiful villages in Crete.
This guide includes map, tips and photos.
Note: this is more an article about visiting those towns and villages.
If you are wondering where to stay in Crete, check out this other article.
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Crete:
My favorite platform to rent a car in Crete: DiscoverCars
The unmissable boat tour: Gramvousa island + Balos Lagoon
Fun activity: Quad excursion off the beaten path
My favorite places to stay:
- Chania: see best rated hotels – e.g. Casa Delfino
- Palaiochora: see best rated hotels – e.g. Blue Horizon Hotel
- Rethymno: see best rated hotels – e.g. Leo Hotel
Best towns and villages in Crete – Map of top 10
Before all my pictures and tips, here is a map with my absolute top 10 in terms of best villages and towns – the must-see when exploring Crete.
Many places have a lot of charm, it was not easy to narrow it down!
1 – Chania
Why I love this town
I really enjoyed my visit to Chania. One aspect that particularly stands out to me is the city’s charming and colorful architecture. As I wander through the streets, I am greeted by a pleasant array of warm pastels and earthy tones adorning the buildings. The combination of Venetian and Ottoman influences adds an extra layer of allure, creating a sense of stepping back in time.
Plus, the old harbor holds a special place in my heart. The sight of the lighthouse, fishing boats, and cozy waterfront cafes creates a serene and picturesque scene.
Finally, it is a great place to explore the Eastern side of Crete.
Things to do
It is the best option to explore Western Crete such as:
- the Venetian Harbour and lighthouse
- the maritime museum of Crete
- the Greek Orthodox Cathedral
- enjoy the beach
- the Balos Lagoon,
- Elafonisi pink beach (driving required)
- …
Practical tips
- Location – On the West side of Crete
- Heraklion to Chania = 2h15 drive
- Ease of visiting – Chania is quite flat and easy to explore
- How long to plan – 1 day for the town, 3 to 5 days to explore the entire area
- It is also a great place to stay – check out the best rated accommodations in Chania
2 – Loutro
Why I love this village
Loutro is a charming white seaside village at the foot of mountains. You can’t access it by car!!! Just by boat or on foot.
Therefore, you won’t find a large resort with swimming pools. The contrasts of colors are stunning between the white houses, the orange and brown mountains and the shades of green and blue in the water!
You can see more photos in my article about Loutro.
Things to do
- Hike all around the village
- Enjoy the tiny beach
- Feel on a deserted island once the day trippers have left the village
Practical tips
- Loutro is a day trip with the boat and the exploration time
- The village is tiny and won’t take long to explore
- There are several restaurants by the water
- Note that if you stay longer and are not eating at the restaurants, there are only small mini-markets in the village. You need to bring your food.
- It is possible to stay overnight – check out the available accommodations
Need to rent a car in Crete?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Prefer a compact car for the narrow streets in villages
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
3 – Palaiochora
Why I love this town
Palaiochora in Crete holds a special place in my heart, and there are countless reasons why I love visiting this captivating destination. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Crete, Palaiochora boasts a unique charm that enchants me every time.
It is a beautiful destination that combines mountains, beaches and a good atmosphere.
It is away from the crowds as it is located on the South-West shore across the mountain range.
But it is definitively a wonderful destination.
Things to do
It is the best option to explore South Western Crete such as
- ruins of the castle and views from them over the town and towards the mountains
- enjoy the large beach
- Elafonisi pink beach
- Samaria Gorge
- Sougia
- …
Practical tips
- know that because it is isolated at one end of the island, going anywhere will require a lot of driving.
- South West of Crete
- Heraklion to Palaiochora = 3h20
- As it is isolated, plan to stay at least one night in the area, this is not really a day trip destination
- Easy to explore the center, a little uphill to reach the ruins and stunning views
- Check out the best rated accommodations
4 – Matala
Why I love this village
Matala is a very unique place in Crete. It has a very different atmosphere because it used to be a hippie capital.
The beach is enjoyable with the caves cut in the cliffs.
You can see more pictures on my article about Matala.
Things to do
- Enjoy the vibe of the village
- Admire the sunset on the beach with the sun hitting the cliffs
- Phaistos Palace
- Triopetra beach (1h15)
- Heraklion and the Knossos palace (1h15)
- …
Practical tips
- Middle of the South Coast
- Heraklion to Matala = 1h10
- Small village to explore, just need half a day for the area
- Nice plan to stay overnight to watch the sunset and enjoy the night scene
- Check out the best rated accommodations in Matala
Plan your dream trip in Crete thanks to my guide
- 5 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 60+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 150+ original photos to help you choose
5 – Mochlos
Why I love this village
Mochlos is a tiny village on the North-East shore of Crete. It is facing a small island with Minoan ruins.
The village has kept its charm without big chains or loud party hotels. And lots of taverns are offering great food with sea views.
It has a lot of charm.
You can learn more on my article about Mochlos.
Things to do
- Walk along the water
- Take a fisherman boat to the island to see the ruins
- Eat seafood
- Relax by the water
Practical tips
- North East of Crete
- Heraklion to Mochlos = 1h30
- There is only a mini-market in the village, so if you are staying longer than a night you should shop for food before
- To visit you just need one hour, unless you take a boat to the island. but it is a great place to chill by the water
- if you want to stay in a quiet place, check out available accommodations
6 – Rethymno
Why I love this town
Crowd packs in Rethymno were not my favorite, but if you visit outside of the main season, it is a charming town, a blend of history and modernity.
I enjoy strolling through the town’s old quarter, with its narrow cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved Venetian buildings, a journey through time.
Plus, the town has sandy beaches, stretching along the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The vibrant coastal promenade is lined with cozy cafes, stylish boutiques, and picturesque waterfront restaurants, adds a lively and inviting ambiance to the town.
Reythmno is a great combination of history, cultural, beach and food scene.
Things to do
- Visit the old town with fountains, loggia
- Visit the Venetian Fortress
- Harbour and lighthouse
- Discover the surprising Neratze Mosque and many other churches and mosques
- and around:
- Melidoni cave
- The Arkadi monastery
- …
Practical tips
- Center of the North Coast
- Heraklion to Rethymno = 1h20
- Easy to explore on foot
- You need 2 days to explore the town and more to discover the region
- See the best rated accommodations in Rethymno
Where to stay in Crete?
My favorites:
- Chania, a charming town: See best rated accommodations
- Rethymno, history, beach and central location: See best rated options
- Heraklion, main city: See best rated options
- Palaiochora, for stunning scenery, away from crowds – See best rated options
- Mochlos, for a very quiet area: see best rated options
- For a sandy beach and some nightlife: Malia or Bali
7 – Myrtos
Why I love this village
Located on the South Coast, it is away from any touristy routes.
However, the small villages with tiny roads, white buildings, colorful decor and seafront is a great place to breath and to relax.
You may never want to leave.
Things to do
Simply relax by the beach. Enjoy the colorful houses
Practical tips
- South East of Crete
- Heraklion to Myrtos = 1h20
- Very small and short to visit but the vibe is so great, you want to stop and enjoy.
8 – Elounda
Why I love this town
I really enjoyed the peaceful and serene ambiance of this charming town. This is one of the main reasons why I love visiting.
Elounda offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling world, allowing me to unwind and recharge in its soothing embrace. The town’s picturesque coastal setting, with its calm turquoise waters and gentle sea breeze, creates a serene atmosphere that instantly puts me at ease.
Things to do
- strolling along the waterfront
- visit the island of Spinalonga
- Enjoy the colorful fishing boat of the harbour
Practical tips
- North East of Crete
- Heraklion to Elounda = 1h10
- Easy to explore
- You need just a couple of hours for the town or half a day if you also visit Spinalonga
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
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9 – Kato Zakros
Why I love this village
The East coast of Crete has stolen my heart. Its bare landscapes and almost empty beaches are a great reprieve from the locations flooded with tourists.
Kato Zakros is the most well-known place of the 2 because it is home to the 4th largest Minoan palace. You can visit the ruins. And it is located at the end of the Valley of the Dead (a famous walk in a gorge).
Things to do
- Explore the ruins
- Hike in the gorge
- Relax on the beach
- Enjoy lunch at one of the small restaurants by the beach
- See more in my dedicated article.
Practical tips
- East of Crete
- Heraklion to Kato Zakros = 3h
- Check out accommodations in the area
10 – Heraklion, largest town in Crete
Why I love this town
Heraklion is the main town in Crete. It has an old town and a large harbour. In the city center you can enjoy Venetian architecture and visit the amazing Archaeological museum with many Minoan artefacts, including the Phaistos disc.
However, you will not find a beach inside the town (whatever article you read, the beaches listed are outside of the town center).
The closest beach West of Heraklion is Amoudara. A very long beach with brown sand. And to the East is Karteros Beach or a little further Arena beach.
Things to do
- Visit the Archeological museum
- Enjoy the blend of architectures in the town center
- Visit the harbour and fortress
- Head out to visit the famous Palace of Knossos
Practical tips
- Center of Northern coast
- This is the most difficult town in Crete to explore on foot. It requires a lot of walking with lots of cars around.
- However the center is more enjoyable with pedestrian areas
- Plan at least 1 day, but 2 days are better
- Check out the best rated accommodations
11 to 14 – Other best beach towns in Crete
11 – Malia
Located on the North Coast (East side), Malia is famous for its archeological site. It is also a great area with sand beaches and rocky beach areas to explore.
However, it is not for those who enjoy quiet. Malia is known for its nightlife and party vibe.
Check out best rated accommodations
12 – Bali
The Bali beaches in Crete are a series of coves with sandy beaches. They look very different from one another. The first one is long and for people wanting to sunburn, while the Northern beach has more of a village feel. They are mostly resort style – Loud music at tall bars and restaurants.
Check out best rated accommodations
13 – Plakias
Plakias has a great central location on the South Coast. It is a good option for those who want to alternate between staying at the beach in town or explore the rest of the coast with its gorges and wilder beaches. For example, from here you can take the boat to the magnificent Preveli beach with its palm trees.
The large beach has a mix of sand and small gravel.
Check out best rated accommodations
14 – Makry Gialos
Nestled on the southern coast of Crete, the village of Makry Gialos beckons with its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. This hidden gem boasts pristine beaches with turquoise waters that invite to unwind and soak up the sun.Enjoy the traditional whitewashed buildings and colorful bougainvillea adorning the streets. Exploring the village’s quaint shops and waterfront taverns, I discover the flavors of Cretan cuisine and the charm of local craftsmanship.
Check out best rated accommodations
Need to rent a car in Crete?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Prefer a compact car for the narrow streets in villages
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
15 to 18 – Other best villages in Crete
15 – Kritsa
The village of Kritsa in Crete is a hidden gem tucked away in the eastern part of the island. This traditional village boasts narrow streets, charming stone houses, and a tranquil ambiance. The warm and welcoming locals add to the village’s charm, inviting you to immerse in the Cretan culture, with shops showcasing traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and embroidery.
16 – Spili
Another mountain village with charming stone houses, picturesque squares, and a tranquil atmosphere. Spili offers a serene escape from the bustling world. The village is known for its iconic lion-head fountains, where cool freshwater flows endlessly, providing a refreshing respite on a warm day. You can wander through the narrow streets, and then go enjoy the surrounding hiking trails leading to stunning viewpoints.
17 – Margarites
Known for its rich tradition of pottery making, Margarites is a haven for artisans and enthusiasts alike. As I stroll through its winding streets, I am greeted by the sight of pottery workshops and studios, where skilled craftsmen shape clay into exquisite works of art. Explore the village to discover traditional stone houses, quaint squares and hidden courtyards adorned with vibrant flowers. And don’t miss the monastery surrounded by greenery.
18 – Panormos
Nestled along the northern coast of Crete, the village of Panormos has a tranquil and idyllic charm. With its picturesque harbor, crystal-clear waters, a tiny center, Panormos offers a serene escape from the bustling world. The village’s traditional white-washed houses, adorned with colorful flowers, create a postcard-perfect setting that invites relaxation and bliss.
19 to 21 – Other best towns in Crete
19 – Sitia
Located on the North shore, Sitia is a lesser known town. It has not be completely taken over by tourism so you can see how locals live.
There is a large beach and cute fishing boats. It is a practical place to explore East Crete.
Check out best rated accommodations
20 – Ierapetra
As the southernmost town in Europe, Ierapetra offers a unique charm and a sense of adventure. The town’s stunning beaches, with their white sands and crystal-clear waters, invite relaxation and tranquility. The picturesque promenade, lined with cafes and taverns, provides the perfect setting for enjoying the local cuisine while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. You can discover the ancient fortress of Kales, the archaeological museum, the many charming churches and the well-preserved old town with its traditional architecture.
Check out best rated accommodations
21 – Agios Nikolaos
Located on the northeastern coast of Crete, the town of Agios Nikolaos offers a unique blend of coastal charm and vibrant energy. The town’s picturesque harbor, lined with colorful fishing boats, sets the stage for a captivating seaside experience. The streets are lively full of an eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and taverns.
Check out best rated accommodations
Want to see more of the best Crete has to offer?
- 40 best landscapes in Crete (in pictures) – read article
- 20 best things to do in Crete – read article
- The 27 best beaches in Crete – read article
- The most beautiful archaeological sites – read article
- The most beautiful churches and monasteries in Crete – read article
- The best destinations in Crete, where to stay – read article
- Advice for planning your road trip in Crete and your itinerary – read article
- Tips for renting a car and driving around Crete – read article
- The most beautiful boat trips around Crete – read article
- Chania or Heraklion or Rethymno – where to go? – read article
Planning a trip to Crete?
Check out my travel guide eBook to help you plan:
Plan your dream trip in Crete thanks to my guide
- 5 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 60+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 150+ original photos to help you choose
And keep track of your own trip!
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