Crete, Greece: 10 Places to See, Knossos to Chania
Explore Crete's most iconic attractions across 382.8 km, from the ancient Palace of Knossos to stunning beaches like Elafonissi and Balos Lagoon. This route connects charming old towns in Chania and Rethymno with outdoor adventures including the legendary Samaria Gorge and the scenic Omalos Plateau.
- Distance
- 382.8 km
- Mode
- route
- Start
- Crete Travel Guide
- End
- Agia Roumeli
- Stops
- 10
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Crete Travel Guide
- Explore the Palace of Knossos
- Samaria Gorge — One of Crete's top outdoor adventures, a 16 km serious hike through a massive canyon in the White Mountains with the famous Iron Gates section
- Elafonissi Beach — Beach with pale pink sand and shallow turquoise water on the southwestern tip of Crete
- Balos Lagoon — Features white sand and shallow turquoise water in a heart-shaped bay surrounded by rugged hills and rocky cliffs, accessible by boat from Kissamos
- Rethymno Old Town
- Swim and Chill at Seitan Limania Beach — Secluded turquoise cove surrounded by towering white limestone cliffs, accessible by steep descent and offering pristine swimming in crystalline Mediterranean waters.
- Chania Old Town
- Omalos Plateau — Starting point of the Samria Gorge hike in the White Mountains
- Agia Roumeli — Village at the end of the Samria Gorge hike where hikers can swim and catch a ferry
Useful for your trip
- Timing
- Visit Palace of Knossos in early mornings as it gets hot and busy later in the day.
- Tip
- Use a guide or audio tour at Palace of Knossos to better understand the ancient site.
- Tip
- Samaria Gorge hike is 16 km from Omalos Plateau down to Agia Roumeli village and takes a full day. Ends with a ferry ride out.
- Timing
- Visit Chania's harbor at sunset when the light hits the water and the whole place glows.
- Timing
- Come to Elafonissi Beach early or stay late to avoid crowds during peak season.
- Tip
- Elafonissi Beach has both natural protected areas and organized sections with sunbeds; choose based on your preference.
- Transport
- Reach Balos Lagoon by boat from Kissimos or hike down from a cliffside parking area for epic views.
- Tip
- Bring your own snacks, plenty of water, and shade for Balos Lagoon as there are limited beach facilities.
- Transport
- Loutro village is only accessible by boat or hiking; there are no roads or cars.
- Tip
- Wear good shoes and take it slow on the winding drive and steep rocky path down to Seitan Limania Beach.
Video on this route
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