Crete, Greece: 6 Places to See - Knossos to Matala Beach
Explore Crete's most iconic destinations across 215 km, from the capital city of Heraklion with its Venetian harbor to the stunning beaches of Elafonissi and Balos. This route connects ancient archaeological sites, coastal attractions, and charming towns that showcase the island's rich history and natural beauty.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Dafnes
- End
- Knossos Palace
- Stops
- 6
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Dafnes — Historic wine town near Heraklion in the Cretan wine region, home to hundreds of wineries producing 80% of the island's wine.
- Matala Beach — Popular hippie beach destination 68 kilometers southwest of Heraklion featuring ancient Roman and Christian caves carved into white limestone cliffs.
- Knossos Ruins — Bronze Age palace complex showcasing Minoan civilization's advanced architecture, art, and engineering from around 1700 BCE.
- Heraklion
- Venetian Harbor
- Knossos Palace
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Rent a scooter to explore Heraklion and the surrounding areas of the island.
- Tip
- Visit the Venetian harbor in Heraklion's old town center for forts, shipyards, restaurants, bars, and shops.
- Timing
- Elafonissi Beach is on the west coast, about 72 kilometers southwest of Chania. Facilities include umbrellas, showers, lifeguards, snack bars, and changing rooms.
- Food
- Visit Dafnes wine region outside Heraklion for affordable and delicious wine tastings in a beautiful setting. Over 80% of Crete's wine production comes from here.
- Tip
- Matala Beach is 68 kilometers southwest of Heraklion, about one hour drive. Pay a 4 euro entrance fee to visit the caves carved into limestone with rooms, stairs, beds, and windows.
- Transport
- Book a skip-the-line guided walking tour for Knossos Palace from Heraklion. Tours are highly recommended as there is limited informational signage throughout the facility.
- Where to stay
- Stay in Chania for at least 3 days as a base to explore island highlights. The city features a 14th-century Venetian harbor, narrow streets, and waterfront restaurants.
- Transport
- Reach Balos Beach by rental car via dirt road or by ferry from Kissamos Port. Car access offers flexibility to explore at your own pace with hundreds of other rental cars using the route.
- Timing
- Balos Beach is about one hour west of Chania in a remote area. Consider spending a full day here for its panoramic views and unique pink sand spots.
- Transport
- Book ferry tickets between Greek islands using ferryhopper.com for easy island hopping.
Video on this route
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