One Perfect Week in Crete: Itinerary for Curious Travellers

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This route focuses on Crete’s peaceful southern coastline — including a scenic ferry from Sougia to Chora Sfakion that you can take with your car. It’s simple to arrange and adds a unique twist to your journey, bypassing winding inland roads and opening up some of the island’s best-kept secrets.

I first travelled to Crete in 1981 as a small boy, and returned many times throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s.

Fast forward to 2022, and I rediscovered the island with fresh eyes — falling even more in love with its wild southern coastline, hidden beaches, and off-the-radar villages. Since then, I’ve been back three times and have a fourth (3-week) trip planned for later this summer.

This Crete itinerary reflects what I’ve learned along the way — the routes, places, and local gems that curious travellers will love, far from the crowded resorts of the north.

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Is Crete Worth Visiting?

Absolutely – YES! Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, and you could easily spend a week or more exploring just one of its four regional units.

The island offers a mix of stunning beaches, dramatic mountains, and ancient Minoan ruins. But what really makes Crete special is how much of it still feels authentic and untouched, especially when you step away from the busy tourist areas.

For curious travellers, this is a place full of surprises. Even in the height of summer, you’ll find quiet beaches, relaxed seaside tavernas, and small villages where time seems to stand still. This is the Crete I’ve come to love—and I’m excited to help you discover it too.

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How Many Days Do You Need in Crete?

I recommend spending at least 7 days in Crete. That gives you enough time to follow a well-paced itinerary, discover hidden beaches, and experience the island beyond the tourist hotspots.

If you have 14 days, even better. A two-week Crete itinerary allows you to travel further afield, visit multiple regions, and really sink into the island’s rhythm. My 14-day itinerary will be published soon.

The best time to visit Crete is in June or September, when the weather is warm – perfect for hiking gorges and visiting Crete’s hidden beaches – but the crowds are thinner. That said, even during the peak summer months of July and August, it’s still possible to find peaceful, off-the-beaten-path places, especially along the south coast.

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Getting Around Crete: Do You Need a Car (or a 4×4)?

If you want to explore Crete beyond the main towns and resorts, you’ll need to rent a car. Don’t be put off — driving in Crete is straightforward. Once you leave the urban areas, the roads are quiet, and the views are spectacular.

I’ve driven all over the island (after 22 years behind the wheel in the Middle East, I’ve seen my share of tricky roads), and Crete is refreshingly easy by comparison.

💡 Top Tip: Book your car hire in advance — prices can spike in peak season, and last-minute options are limited.

My Car Hire Tip

No need to splurge on a 4WD. Even Crete’s more remote beaches, like Kedrodasos and Glyka Nera, are accessible with a small car — I’ve done them all in a humble Fiat 500.

🚗 My go-to car rental comparison site is Auto Europe – great rates, easy pickup, and no surprises.

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The Perfect 7 Day Crete Itinerary for Explorers

Here’s how to experience the best of southern Crete — with hidden beaches, epic hikes, and historic sites — all in just one week.

🛬 Day 1: Arrive in Chania (or Heraklion) & Head to Sougia

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to dive into the Mediterranean as soon as you land. Luckily, there are some fantastic beaches just a short drive from Chania Airport.

⛱️ Seitan Limania Beach

A dramatic cove carved into a steep gorge, Seitan Limania is just 15–20 minutes from the airport. It’s one of Crete’s most iconic “hidden” beaches — though it’s no longer a secret, so expect a crowd unless you arrive early. The short but steep hike down is worth it for the dazzling turquoise water.

🏖️ Macherida Beach (My Pick)

Just a few minutes from the airport, Macherida is a sheltered cove with crystal-clear water — perfect for a quiet swim to wash off the travel day. Last time I visited, I was in the sea within 45 minutes of landing. The calm water makes it a reliable stop, even on windy days.

If your flight arrives early enough, consider a quick stop in Chania Old Town for a stroll, snack, or a glimpse of Venetian charm before heading south to Sougia.

💡 Top Tip: If you’re visiting Chania, park near Talo Square (navigate on Apple or Google Maps) – there are public parking spots and nearby side streets. From there, it’s a short walk past the Firka Fortress, which leads you straight onto the scenic harbour promenade.

⚠️ Driving Tip: Try to reach Sougia before nightfall. While the road is fine, it does get narrow and winding. I’ve driven it in the dark – it’s doable, but not ideal on your first day.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Sougia

Santa Irene Hotel is a no-frills but clean and comfortable option right near the beach.

🍽️ Where to Eat

Head to Tzitziki Taverna at the far end of the beach road. Trust me — you’ll end your first night in Crete with a full heart and a full stomach.

🥾 Optional: Hike to Ancient Lissos

If you arrive in Sougia by early afternoon and feel like stretching your legs, consider the short coastal hike to the Ancient City of Lissos. It’s a 90-minute round-trip walk along a scenic, rocky path that begins at the eastern end of Sougia Beach. You’ll find ruins, Roman mosaics, and a peaceful cove — perfect for a late swim before dinner.

Day 2 – Samaria Gorge Hike

One of Europe’s most iconic hikes, the Samaria Gorge is a must-do experience in Crete — and a true highlight of any southern itinerary.

I’ve hiked it three times now (with a fourth planned for 2026), and each time I’m blown away by the dramatic scenery, abandoned villages, and glimpses of the rare Kri-Kri goats perched high on the rocks.

The 16km trail starts at the Omalos Plateau at Xyloskalo and descends through towering cliffs to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, where a swim in the Libyan Sea and a cold drink await. From there, a ferry brings you back to Sougia – tired but elated.

🔗 Is Hiking the Samaria Gorge Worth It? (My full guide with tips, timing, and gear checklist)

Official Samaria National Park info here.

Samaria Gorge Plan – At a Glance

🚖 Book a taxi: Reserve a morning transfer to Xyloskalo (the gorge entrance) in advance via WhatsApp with Antonia at Sougia Taxi Meletis — friendly, punctual, and highly recommended. (Approx. €50 one way)

⏰ Start early: Aim to begin your hike when the park opens at 7am to beat the heat and tour groups (taxi transfer is around 45 minutes from Sougia)

🥾 Take your time: The trail is downhill but long — expect 5–7 hours depending on your pace and photo stops.

⛴️ Return by ferry: Ferries depart from Agia Roumeli to Sougia around 5pm (check schedule the day before).

🛌 Stay overnight in Sougia again to rest and prepare for your ferry to Chora Sfakion the next morning.

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🚢 Day 3 – Ferry from Sougia to Chora Sfakion (with your car)

Rise early and head to the small ferry quay in Sougia. You’ll be boarding the Daskalogiannis ferry operated by ANENDYK Lines, which sails east along the stunning southern coast of Crete.

Yes — you can bring your car on the ferry. It’s one of the best-kept secrets for exploring this part of the island without backtracking through mountain roads and really does not cost that much more.

🛑 Optional stop at Agia Roumeli
The ferry usually stops for about 90 minutes at Agia Roumeli, the quiet village at the base of the Samaria Gorge. If you didn’t hike the gorge, this is a great chance to explore a bit of the village, have a quick breakfast, or even take a refreshing swim in the piercing blue waters before continuing on.

⚠️ You don’t need to take your car off the ferry here — just enjoy the break and get back on when it’s time to depart.

⛴️ Then, continue east to Chora Sfakion, passing some of Crete’s most dramatic coastline. As the ferry glides into the striking whitewashed bay of Loutro, take note — you’ll be back here tomorrow for an unforgettable day trip. For now, stay aboard as the ferry continues to Chora Sfakion, your base for the next two nights.

⛱️ Afternoon Activity

If your room isn’t ready when you arrive in Chora Sfakion (or even if it is!), I highly recommend walking the coastal trail to Glyka Nera Beach (Sweet Water Beach).

The path begins just outside the village and hugs the cliffside, offering jaw-dropping views over the Libyan Sea. It takes around 30–45 minutes each way. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water — the trail is exposed and rocky, but incredibly rewarding.

Prefer to take it easy? You can also catch a ferry to Glyka Nera with Deligiannis Lines at 12:45 or 15:00 from the old port opposite the hotel. Just be sure to check the return schedule in advance.

However you get there, you won’t be disappointed — this is one of southern Crete’s most spectacular hidden beaches.

🏨 Where to Stay in Chora Sfakion

If you’re looking for places to stay in Chora Sfakion, I highly recommend two excellent options — I’ve stayed at both:

• The Authentic Village Boutique Hotel – Stylishly designed with warm hospitality in a peaceful setting just a short walk from the harbour. Ideal for a relaxing stay.
  
• Livikon by the Sea – Clean, airy rooms with stunning sea views and a central location right on the waterfront. Perfect if you want to wake up to the sound of the waves.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Chora Sfakion

Chora Sfakion may be small, but it has no shortage of excellent tavernas serving authentic Cretan cuisine. These are a few of my personal favourites:

• Kitchen Stories – Don’t be put off by its size. Despite being the largest restaurant in town, the service is warm, the food is full of flavour and great value, and the view is beautiful. Ask for Giannis — he’s an outstanding waiter.
  
• Taverna Delfini – Arguably the best spot in town to watch the sunset. While the service can be a little slow, the fresh seafood and views across the Libyan Sea are well worth the wait.
  
• The Three Brothers – Rustic, no-frills dining right above Vrissi Beach. Expect paper tablecloths, traditional home-cooked dishes, and friendly service — all with an unforgettable view of the beach and cliffs.

📍 Day 4 – Imbros Gorge Hike & Ferry to Loutro

Today you’ve got options depending on your energy and interests – from scenic gorges to blissful seaside villages. It is even possible to do both in one day (I have)!

🥾 Option 1: Morning Hike in the Imbros Gorge

The Imbros Gorge is just a 30-minute drive from Chora Sfakion and offers a shorter, easier alternative to the Samaria Gorge – ideal if you want to stretch your legs without committing to a full-day hike.

There are a couple of ways to do it:

• One-way hike (recommended): Start at the top of the gorge and hike down to Komitades. From there, you can easily grab a taxi back to the trailhead/Chora Sfakion or arrange a pickup in advance.
  
• Out-and-back hike (my choice): I parked at the top and hiked down to where the gorge opens up – arguably the most scenic part – and then simply hiked back up. It’s manageable, not too steep, and a perfect morning activity. I was finished by 10am!

🛥️ Option 2: Ferry to Loutro

After your hike (or instead of it), take the ferry from Chora Sfakion to Loutro — a postcard-perfect village only accessible by boat or foot. The ferry ride itself is stunning, and once there, you can:

• Enjoy a long lunch by the sea
• Swim in Loutro’s clear, calm bay
• Stroll the waterfront or relax on the beach

Then head back to Chora Sfakion in the late afternoon or early evening. It’s an easy, beautiful day out — and a must-do if you’ve never visited Loutro before.

I’ve only visited Loutro for a day trip so far, but I’ll be spending five nights there in September 2025. I’ll be sure to update this guide with fresh tips and photos after that stay!

Day 5 – Scenic Coastal Drive from Chora Sfakion to Plakias

Today you’ll leave Chora Sfakion behind and take one of the most breathtaking coastal drives in southern Crete — destination: Plakias.

🗺️ Top Tip: Make sure to set your GPS to follow the coastal road via Frangokastello and not the faster inland route. The inland roads may be quicker, but they miss all the beauty. The coastal route is narrower in parts, but manageable and full of jaw-dropping views of the Libyan Sea.

🏰 Stop at Frangokastello Fortress

Your first key stop is the 14th-century Frangokastello Fortress, dramatically set against the sea. It’s worth a quick wander — the ruins are photogenic and steeped in local legend (including ghost sightings of the Drosoulites warriors!).

🏖️ Optional Beach Stops Along the Way

There are plenty of beaches along the route, so it’s worth checking a map ahead of time and choosing one or two to explore:

• ⛱️ Peristeres Beach – A long stretch of golden sand, often quiet and ideal for a peaceful swim.
  
• ⛱️ Rodakino Beach – A laid-back spot with a welcoming taverna, perfect for a coffee or lunch stop.
  
• ⛱️ Souda Beach – Just before you reach Plakias, this is a popular choice with both locals and visitors for a late afternoon dip.

Many other beaches are accessible from this road, though some require a bit of a hike to reach. Unless you’re up for a bit of scrambling, I recommend sticking to those mentioned above for ease and enjoyment.

🏖️ Afternoon Activity: Swim at Plakias Beach

After arriving in Plakias, checking in to your accommodation and grabbing lunch, take some time to relax on Plakias Beach, one of the longest sandy beaches in southern Crete. The waters are usually calm and inviting – perfect for an afternoon swim or lounging in the sun.

🩱 Note: The far eastern end of Plakias Beach (beyond the rocks) is a known naturist-friendly area. If that’s not your vibe, just stick closer to the town side where most families and regular bathers settle in.

🏨 Where to Stay in Plakias

I’ve stayed at two different accommodations in Plakias — each offers something unique depending on what kind of vibe you’re after:

• Christos Suites – Ideally located near the heart of the resort, perfect if you want to be close to shops and tavernas. My favourite taverna in town is right downstairs (see below!)
  
• Paligremnos Infinity – Situated at the quieter end of Plakias, this is a great choice for beach lovers. The views and proximity to the sea make it a peaceful spot to relax.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Plakias

• GioMa Taverna – The best food in town, hands down. This beachfront gem serves high-quality, seasonal dishes and has a loyal following — expect a queue out the door every night. They don’t take reservations, so arrive early or be prepared to wait. It’s worth it.
  
• Ostraco Bar – Great for coffee or a relaxed breakfast by the water. Chill vibes and good people-watching.
  
• LefkoGia Café (in nearby Lefkogia) – If you’re happy to drive 5–10 minutes inland, this small café serves some of the best coffee in the area. A hidden gem for caffeine lovers.

📍 Day 6 – Preveli or Knossos: Choose Your Adventure

Today you have two equally tempting options depending on how much ground you’d like to cover before heading east.

Option 1: Morning Swim + Preveli Palm Beach

Start with a swim at Mikro Ammoudi or Klisidi, two hidden beaches just outside Plakias. They’re peaceful, beautiful, and featured in my Hidden Beaches in Crete guide – ideal for a slow start to the day.

Next, head to Preveli Beach. You can either:

• 🥾 Hike down from the clifftop car park for sweeping views of the beach and palm-lined river, or
  
• ⛴️ Take a short boat trip from Plakias (note: not ideal if you’re continuing on to Knossos later, as the return trip is time-dependent and the sea can be choppy in wind).

After lunch in Plakias or near the beach, begin the 1-1.5 hour drive north then east to Bali, where you’ll stay overnight. It’s a charming midway point between Heraklion and Chania — ideal for airport flexibility.

🗺️ Option 2: Scenic Drive East via Agia Galini & Matala, Then Knossos

Skip beach time in Plakias – well there is probably time for a quick dip at Mikro Ammoudi – and begin your journey east with a beautiful coastal drive. Here’s how to make the most of it:

🚘 Start your drive from Plakias via the Preveli Bridge
Rather than taking the main inland route, follow the more scenic road past Preveli Bridge, which winds through lush hills and offers stunning views of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge before rejoining the main road toward Agia Galini. It’s well worth the small detour.

☕ Agia Galini – Pause here for a quick coffee, seaside views, or a light snack in this laid-back harbour town.

🎸 Matala – Once the free-spirited haunt of ‘60s hippies (immortalised by Joni Mitchell), Matala has a unique vibe. The beach is backed by caves carved into the rock — and the colourful town is fun to explore.

Optional Adventure

If you’re up for it, hike over the hill from Matala to Red Beach, one of the most dramatic and colourful beaches in Crete. It’s about 20–30 minutes each way and absolutely worth it for the views — but note that it will add time and energy to your day. I’ve covered the full details of the Red Beach hike here in my Hidden Beaches in Crete post.

🏛️ Knossos Palace – Continue on to Heraklion, aiming to reach the Minoan Palace of Knossos in the late afternoon (around 4–5 PM). The drive should take around 1hr 15 mins from Matala. The crowds are thinner at this time and the light is golden. Expect mythology, grandeur, and some excellent photo ops. Here’s what to know before visiting.

🛌 Overnight in Bali – After exploring Knossos, drive west to Bali, a pretty seaside village located midway between Heraklion and Rethymno. It’s a peaceful place to spend your final night and well positioned for departures from either Chania or Heraklion airport the next day.

🛌 Where to Stay in Bali

Bali offers a wide range of accommodation options, from simple studios to boutique hotels.

• Mira Mare – I’ve stayed here twice and highly recommend it. The recently renovated rooms are fresh, comfortable, and excellent value for money. It’s a great choice for a final night before your flight.
  
• Troulis Apart Hotel – Set right on the water, this hotel offers stylish, modern rooms with stunning sea views and easy access to the beach.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Bali

For a small seaside resort, Bali has some excellent dining spots:

• Hellenic Street Food – This may just be the best street food I’ve had in Greece. Grab a freshly grilled souvlaki and a Greek salad, then find a spot on the harbour wall to enjoy your meal. Casual, fun, and delicious.
  
• Mambo Beach Restaurant – A relaxed, Mediterranean-style café with great cocktails, sea views, and a laid-back vibe — perfect for a sunset drink or a light dinner.

🏖️ Day 7 – Departure Day (or One Last Swim)

Ease into your final morning in Crete by enjoying a slow start in Bali. If you’re staying at one of the seaside hotels, linger over breakfast or coffee at the Harbour Café — the views are spectacular (just bring sunglasses, as the morning sun is bright!). Take full advantage of late check-out and soak up those last moments by the sea.

⛱️ Evita Beach – For a final swim, head to this beautiful sheltered cove just beyond the main resort area. It’s quieter than the central beach and offers crystal-clear water — a peaceful, picture-perfect farewell to Crete.

✈️ If you’re flying out of Chania:

• Consider a quick detour into Rethymno for a stroll through the old town if time allows.
  
• Or, if you skipped Chania earlier in the trip, use the afternoon to explore the Venetian harbour and old town before your flight.
  
• For one last swim, Macherida or Kalathas Beach are great options close to Chania Airport — peaceful, pretty, and easy to access.

✈️ If you’re flying out of Heraklion:

• Head east toward the capital and make a short stop at the Venetian Fortress of Koules near the old harbour — it’s a worthwhile final snapshot of Crete’s layered history.
  
• Then it’s a quick drive to Heraklion Airport for your flight.

Wherever you’re departing from, leave a little time for a fresh seafood lunch or Greek salad on the way — the perfect way to say goodbye to Crete.

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📅 One Week in Crete: Day-by-Day Summary

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🧳 Two Weeks in Crete?

If you’re lucky enough to have 14 days in Crete, you can expand your adventure to include even more of the island’s diverse landscapes – from pink-sand beaches in the southwest to palm forests in the east and Venetian towns in between.

🏖️ Paleochora, Elafonissi & Kedrodasos (Far Southwest)

Head to Paleochora, a relaxed coastal village with a laid-back vibe, charming promenade, and easy access to Anidri Gorge for a scenic half-day hike.

From Paleochora, take the daily ferry (or inland drive) to Elafonissi Beach, famous for its pink-hued sand and shallow turquoise waters. Nearby, Kedrodasos Beach (a favourite of mine featured in my hidden beaches guide) is quieter and framed by juniper trees — an ideal escape if you want to skip the crowds.

🏔️ Lassithi Plateau & the Cave of Zeus (Eastern Crete)

Nestled in the mountains above Heraklion, the Lassithi Plateau feels like a different island altogether — green, high-altitude farmland surrounded by peaks. Visit the Dikteon Cave (Cave of Zeus), one of Crete’s most important mythological sites, and stop for lunch at a traditional mountain taverna.

It’s the perfect cool and quiet contrast to Crete’s beach days.

🌊 Elounda, Plaka & Spinalonga Island (Northeast Coast)

Just north of Agios Nikolaos, the seaside villages of Elounda and Plaka offer a slower pace and stunning views over the Mirabello Bay.

From Plaka, take a short boat ride to Spinalonga Island – the famous former leper colony rich in Venetian, Ottoman, and 20th-century history. Walking around its fortress walls is a haunting but fascinating experience.

Stay overnight in Elounda for a touch of laid-back luxury, or use this region as a springboard to explore the northeast.

🌴 Vai Beach & the Eastern Coast (Lasithi)

Drive further east to discover one of Crete’s rarest sights: Vai Beach, home to Europe’s largest natural palm forest. This remote stretch of coastline feels distinctly different, with golden sands and Caribbean-blue water.

You can also visit the Toplou Monastery, sample local wines, or hike one of the lesser-known gorges in the area. This region is quieter and less developed, ideal if you’re seeking true solitude.

📣 I will be posting a full 2 and 3 week itinerary in the coming weeks, be sure to check them out.

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Where to Stay in Crete (Quick Tips by Region)

Not sure which part of Crete suits your travel style? I’ve written a full guide to the best areas to stay – including quiet beach towns, mountain villages, and charming harbour cities — based on my own travels around the island.

👉 Read: Where to Stay in Crete for a Local Experience for detailed tips, handpicked stays, and off-the-beaten-path recommendations across:

• Southern Crete – Think hidden gems like Sougia, Chora Sfakion, and Loutro
  
• Chania & the West – Ideal for first-timers who want history, hikes, and Venetian charm
  
• Rethymno & Central Crete – A mix of beaches, old towns, and easy access to the south
  
• Agios Nikolaos & the East – For those drawn to Elounda, Spinalonga, or quieter escapes

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❓FAQ – One Week in Crete

Is one week enough to explore Crete properly?

Yes, as long as you focus on one region — like the island’s quieter southern coast. This itinerary balances hidden beaches, scenic drives, historic sites, and local tavernas without the rush.

Can I really take my rental car on the Sougia to Chora Sfakion ferry?

Absolutely. It’s a local ferry (Deligiannis Lines) that takes both passengers and vehicles. Booking ahead is smart, but the process is straightforward and adds a unique twist to your route.

When’s the best time to visit Crete?

June and September are ideal — warm, sunny, and quieter than peak months. But even in July and August, you’ll find peaceful spots along the south coast.

Do I need a 4×4 to reach Crete’s hidden beaches?

Not at all. Most of the beaches in this guide — including Kedrodasos, Sweet Water Beach, and Mikro Ammoudi — are accessible by standard rental car and a bit of walking.

What if I have two weeks in Crete?

You’re in luck. I’ve added optional highlights like Spinalonga, Elounda, and Elafonissi — plus a teaser for my full 2-week itinerary coming soon.

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Final Thoughts & Travel Tips

Crete is big — don’t try to do it all

Crete is not the kind of island you “do” in a few days, and honestly, it’s better that way. It rewards the curious, the slow traveller, and those willing to venture beyond the northern shores. While the north does have its charms, it’s the south that has truly captured my heart: wild gorges, hidden beaches, and sleepy seaside towns where time slows down.

Southern Crete is your best-kept secret

If you want to swim in crystal-clear water, hike spectacular trails, eat in family-run tavernas, and still feel like you’ve escaped the crowds, then the southern coast is the place to be. It’s not polished or flashy, but it’s soulful and unforgettable.

✍️ Why Trust This Itinerary?

I’ve been visiting Crete since 1981 – first as a child, and more recently with my camera, notebook, and hiking boots. I’ve spent the last few summers revisiting favourite places and discovering new ones: three weeks in 2022, two in 2024, and I’m heading back for 3 weeks this August. On top of that I’ve already booked a whopping 7 weeks for summer 2026. That should tell you something.

Every place in this itinerary – every beach, taverna, and guesthouse — is somewhere I’ve personally visited. I’ve swum at every beach, hiked each trail, and stayed in every hotel I recommend.

If you’re dreaming of Crete but want to do it differently, I hope this guide helps you craft a trip that’s as rich and memorable as mine have been.

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