The 12 most beautiful villages in Crete

During your holidays in Greece, why not explore the most beautiful villages in Crete? Between History and Nature, these extraordinary hamlets are full of must-see sites!

The island of Crete is one of the most amazing regions of Greece. Indeed, this province has had multiple conquests over the centuries. It was built thanks to many cultural and historical influences. Also, its multiple sites contain extraordinary vestiges of its legendary past. Its visitors can explore prehistoric caves, discover ancient monuments or Venetian buildings.

However, this Mediterranean island also has a fabulous environmental heritage. It also houses several preserved sites, very appreciated by hiking ferus. Tourists can also simply enjoy its beautiful coastline and beaches. However, you can only better discover this region by visiting the most beautiful villages in Crete. Far from sightseeing, these will plunge you into the heart of local traditions.

1. Chora Sfakion

Chora Sfakion is one of the smallest villages in Crete, with less than three hundred inhabitants. However, this beautiful hamlet stands on the heights of the south of the island. Since ancient times, its two small fishing ports are the center of its tourism and its economy. They also welcome ferries from Loutro, Gavdos or Agia Rouméli.

However, this splendid village of Crete is characterized mainly by its extraordinary coastline. Its beautiful beaches of fine sand are an ideal place of relaxation and its turquoise waters give it heavenly looks. In addition, Chora Sfakion houses beautiful historic buildings.

2. Anogia

If you want to discover one of the most beautiful villages in Crete, it is in Anogia that you must surrender. This splendid town of a thousand inhabitants will plunge you into the heart of the Greek landscapes. It is nesting in the middle of a wild valley, almost intact. Thus, it is surrounded by a fabulous lush vegetation and a diverse fauna.

It also houses extraordinary natural sites, such as the Zeus Cave or Sfendoni Cave. Also, its restaurants allow visitors to taste delicious local specialities of the island.

3. Spili

Spili is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Crete. This commune of less than eight hundred inhabitants invites you to discover local traditions. It is the chief town of Agios Vassilios and the seat of an Orthodox bishopric. Nevertheless, it is its legendary past that characterizes this village of Crete.

Indeed, Spili is strongly influenced by the Venetian influences of the island. It also has several emblematic buildings of this time. Don't miss them!

4. Agia Galini

By visiting the most extraordinary villages in Crete, you will surely pass by pleasant resorts. Also, the superb Agia Galini will allow you to relax on the fabulous beaches of the island. The typical fine sand and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean will immediately charm you.

This splendid village of Crete is also marked by mythology and history. Thus, he owes his name to a Byzantine princess who would have managed to calm the waves of the sea. She could have reached the dock in this exceptional hamlet.

5. Loutro

Loutro is certainly one of the smallest villages in Crete. This hamlet actually counts only about 60 inhabitants a year. However, its location allows it to attract many tourists each year. Loutro is indeed nestled in the heart of a magnificent creek south of the island.

At the foot of the mountains, this village of Crete offers privileged access to the wild landscapes of the region. It is also at the start of many hiking and mountain biking trails. It is therefore a must for nature lovers.

6. Elounda

If you visit the most beautiful villages in Crete, you can obviously not miss the beautiful Elounda. This town, a little bigger than others, is a very popular destination for tourists. In fact, it is a former fishing hamlet, a few kilometres from Heraklion. It invites you to discover the local traditions of the island and taste its culinary specialties.

Also, you can explore its beautiful paved alleys and historical vestiges. This village of Crete houses several exceptional monuments of the Venetian era. Their visit will allow you to learn more about the history of this region. In the evening we advise you to reach its beaches to enjoy the mild Mediterranean climate.

7. Myrtos

During Ancient Greece, Myrtos was a fishermen's town, particularly appreciated by sailors. It actually stands on the shores of the Sea of Lybie a few kilometers from the Egyptian coast. Today, however, it is its superb beach that makes the popularity of this village of Crete. Its subtropical climate actually invites to refresh in the turquoise waters of the sea.

Also, its heavenly setting makes it an extraordinary tourist destination. However, its environmental wealth is protected by many local organizations. Its visitors must therefore try to enjoy this village of Crete without damaging its formidable natural setting.

8. Platanias

Discover the most beautiful villages in Crete will undoubtedly allow you to cross all areas of the island. Also, you will have to go to the north of the region to explore the magnificent Platanias. This town is one of the most popular tourists. In recent decades, many restaurants, hotels and shops have created themselves in its atypical streets.

Thus, she invites her visitors to better understand the wealth of this unusual island. Among the most beautiful villages in Crete, Platanias will probably be the most amazing. Between modernity and History, it perfectly represents the influences of this Greek province. Finally, its fine sandy beaches will obviously allow you to relax and enjoy the sun.

9. Sissi

If you explore the most beautiful villages in Crete, you can certainly not miss the splendid Sissi. This seaside resort is located north of the Greek island. All you have to do is drive about forty kilometers from Heraklion to reach it. On site, you can enjoy its extraordinary wild landscapes. However, the peculiarity of this village is its incredible tranquility.

Indeed, this village of Crete invites you to discover this region, far from the tourist affluence. This small fishing port actually counts only a few holiday homes and special hotels. You will thus be able to immerse yourself in the heart of local traditions in all authenticity. Also, its peaceful beaches will allow you to relax and disconnect from routine.

10. Archanes

Archanes is one of the most emblematic villages in Crete. Indeed, this hamlet of almost 5,000 inhabitants stands at the foot of Mont Louchtras. It includes the alleged tomb of Zeus, the supreme God of Greek mythology. Also, Archanes is full of historical vestiges of the legendary past of the region.

Its visitors can also discover the fabulous Necropolis of Fourni and the temple of Anémospilia. This village of Crete also has a magnificent Minoan palace, still partially buried.

Finally, this village is obviously the departure of many hiking and mountain biking trails. It is therefore very appreciated by the outdoor ferus.

11. Mochlos

During your holidays, it would be a shame not to visit the most beautiful villages in Crete. On the north coast, it is therefore strongly advised to go to the magnificent Mochlos. This fishing port has given its name to the island that stands right in front of its coasts. After exploring its paved streets, you can take a small cruise ship. Thus, this one will allow you to discover this small extraordinary island.

Between natural sites and history, this village of Crete offers a lot of surprises.

12. Matala

The villages of Crete are extraordinary places of discovery for visitors. Also, the beautiful Matala invites you to explore its historical sites. Among other things, the most temeraires can venture into his neolithic caves. On their side, the mythological ferus will appreciate its ancient vestiges. But culture lovers will simply enjoy its splendid rustic buildings.

However, this village of Crete is also a magnificent seaside resort. Thus, its extraordinary sandy beaches are suitable for relaxation and farniente. In hot summer afternoons, you can even refresh yourself in its turquoise waters. This can be an excellent way to conclude a fun day of exploration.

Finally, this fishing port will also allow you to taste delicious local specialties. On the menu, excellent seafood and delicious stuffed vegetables. What's in the preseason!

So, charmed by the villages of Crete? Do your luggage!