Greece’s largest and most popular island of Crete is a destination you’d likely want to visit during summer so that you can get lost in all which it has to offer, unhindered and in absolute comfort. Consisting of four prefectures, the following five “must-knows” about Crete will help you make the most of your visit to this abundantly beautiful island, known for its friendly locals to add to the experience:
High season is late June to early September
As with pretty much every other popular travel destination, peak-season signals the spiking of demand, which naturally results in raised prices. Perhaps because Crete is an island, this applies even more so. However, you don’t necessarily have to resign yourself to the generally higher prices. If you book accommodation and flights in advance, you can get the low-season price. If you plan on flying in ultimate style, private jet charters with Jettly are well worth considering if you’re looking to avoid the masses and enjoy a simple booking process and a quick and luxurious flight. Prices of services such as car rentals generally stay the same, but advance booking helps with the organisational aspect.
You can help keep Crete tourism-friendly
The lingering effects of the financial crisis might have had something to do with it, but Greece has always prided itself as a top tourist destination, through-and-through. This applies even more so in the case of the particularly popular spots like Crete. As a result, feedback from visitors is welcomed and encouraged, taken very seriously. You may address the Hellenic Tourism Organisation if you have a complaint about a service provided to you, while on your visit.
A variety of accommodation options available
Perhaps as a result of how it’s primarily marketed, Crete is often seen as an invariably luxury travel destination. The truth though is that there are a range of different types of accommodation options available, so you don’t necessarily have to break the bank living it up in a five-star hotel, a tourist villa or house, or an apartment. However, this doesn’t mean alternative options such as traditional hostels, agrotrourism accommodation, organised camping areas and youth hostels are dirt-cheap. It’s generally more expensive than other popular destinations, all around the world, despite the financial issues.
You’ll need a car to explore the island properly
The type of public transport efficiency synonymous with mainland EU locations can never really be expected of a pure tourist destination such as Crete. So the availability of internal travel options such as by bus or taxi would rather have you considering getting a motorbike, or perhaps even a bicycle. However, based on the popularity of car rental companies such as rental-center-crete.com, the indication is that if you want to do the island properly, you’ll need to rent a car. You want to enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with a vehicle, which you can rent for longer than a single day at better rates.
Suitable for every type of traveller
There’s something for every type of traveller on Crete Island, from the beach bum travellers who just want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, all the way through a range of cultural experiences to some of the most vibrant nightlife.