Crete and Greek Islands: 4 stops from Santorini to Red Beach
Explore Crete, Greece's largest island, featuring dramatic coastal landscapes and rich Venetian heritage. This 60.9 km route showcases the island's diverse attractions including historic Hania with its 16th-century lighthouse and the stunning Balos Beach, accessible via scenic mountain roads.
- Distance
- 60.9 km
- Mode
- route
- Start
- Santorini
- End
- Red Beach
- Stops
- 4
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Santorini
- Milos
- Crete
- Red Beach — Unique Santorini beach distinguished by distinctive maroon-colored volcanic sand and towering red cliffs creating a striking Mars-like landscape.
Useful for your trip
- Timing
- Visit Oya village in Santorini early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience an incredible sunrise.
- Transport
- Reach Santorini by ferry from Athens or by flying from most European cities.
- Transport
- Access Milos by ferry from Santorini or by taking a short flight from Athens.
- Transport
- Reach Cefalo on Milos by boat, though hiking is also an option.
- Transport
- Reach Symi only by ferry or boat as there is no airport on the island.
- Transport
- Balo's Beach on Crete requires about an hour drive from Hania on a dirt road, then a decent hike from the parking lot.
- Transport
- Reach Lefkada by driving via Causeway from the mainland, no ferry needed.
- Transport
- Access Shipwreck Beach on Zakynthos only by boat.
- Tip
- Rent a boat on Zakynthos to explore the island's coast, coves, and nearby islands like Marathonisi.
- Timing
- Watch sunset from Porto Katsiki on Lefkada for incredible views surrounded by steep cliffs.
- Tip
- Visit Myrtho Beach on Kefalonia, a 1.5km long white sand beach that has been voted Greece's best beach multiple times.
- Avoid
- Avoid visiting Red Beach on Santorini during peak tourist hours to escape crowds.
Video on this route
Top 10 Greek Islands To Visit - Greece Travel Guide