The island of Crete in Greece is the largest Greek island and the 5th largest island in the Mediterranean. Heraklion, the capital and largest city of Crete, has a population of almost 650,000. Crete is a major part of Greece’s economy, across heritage, industry, and tourism.

This is Greece’s largest and most diverse island, offering everything from ancient Minoan sites and vibrant cities to remote mountain villages and some of Europe’s best beaches. Each region has its own character, so experiences range from cosmopolitan dining and museums to wild gorges, pink-sand shores, and quiet coastal towns.

The island feels more like a small country than a typical Greek island, with exceptional food, strong cultural identity and landscapes that shift dramatically as you travel. Crete rewards good planning and generous time, giving visitors a mix of history, nature and modern Mediterranean life in one destination.

Most tourists stick to the Northern towns and villages, whilst the South and interior retain the most authenticity and have fewer crowds.