Crete is famous for its sights, ancient sculptures and historical monuments. Tourists come here to enjoy the picturesque scenery and swim in the clear sea. Numerous travelers are attracted by beautiful beaches, quaint little historical cities, delicious food and wine, and friendly, hospitable locals. Those who are interested in Crete is where, you need to carefully look at the map of Europe.
Crete on the map of Europe
It is important to note that Crete is not a state, but the most big Island Greece and the second largest (after Cyprus) Eastern Mediterranean. It is located in the Aegean Sea, in close proximity to three continents - Europe, Asia and Africa. Crete covers an area of 8336 sq. km. The length of the island is 260 km, and the length coastline- 1046 km. The largest width is 60 km, and the smallest is 12 km.
A high mountain range crosses the island from west to east. It is formed by three different groups of mountains. The White Mountains (2453 m) are spread in the West, Mount Idi (Psilorite - 2456 m) is in the center, and Mount Dikti (2148 m) is in the east. These mountains have endowed Crete with fertile plateaus such as Lassithi, Omalos and Nida. Here are caves such as Diktion and Idaion, as well as gorges like the famous Samaria.
Magnificent scenery of the island
Before planning a trip to Greece, inexperienced travelers wonder where Crete is and how to get to it. It should be noted that this is a very popular holiday destination among tourists. different countries, not uncommon here and the Russian language. History buffs come here to explore. historical monuments, ancient cities and rich museums. For supporters active rest local travel agencies offer excursions to the mountains and gorges. Those who prefer a beach holiday will find a wonderful coastline and warm water. After all, the island is washed by three seas - Libyan in the south, Ionian in the west and Cretan in the north.
O. Crete on the political map
Tourists often wonder where the island of Crete is located, in which country and with whom it borders. On the world map, Crete is located between three continents and borders countries such as Italy and Turkey. It is one of the peripheries of Greece. Today, Crete consists of four nomes (regions): Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno and Lassithi. The most popular resorts are located in Lassithi and Heraklion. These are the cities of Agios, Elounda, Nikolaos, Malia, Hersonissos.
Island map
Living conditions in the resorts of Crete
Prices for hostels in summer season the following: the average cost of a bed per night is about 10-25 euros.* It is possible to come during the autumn or winter months and book a room for more low prices(plus fewer people).
Budget prices for hotel rooms can be found in 2-star hotels, the price starts from 25 euros* per night. Rooms in this price range have a private bathroom, mini-fridge, air conditioning, TV and many offer complimentary breakfast for their guests. During the summer, prices are constantly rising as Crete is a very popular holiday destination, especially in July and August.
On a note! Airbnb is an alternative to hotels. The cost of common rooms starts from 10 euros, and separate guest houses(including studio apartments) can be rented for only 40 euros per night.*
The average cost of a good dinner in a restaurant in Cyprus is about 20 euros, even in the tourist area. Lunch in a luxurious restaurant will cost from 30 to 150 euros*. In order to save on food, you can buy sandwiches and kebabs. Seafood is sold at a price of 35-45 euros*.
Beaches on the island
Crete has a well-developed bus system. In addition, bus travel is quite inexpensive. In the main cities, a bus ticket costs €1.80.* There is also a ferry service. The best way getting around the island - car rental. It should be noted that the island is quite large, and buses to some places do not run. Prices for car rental will vary depending on the brand of car and the season of booking. vehicle. In terms of air travel, there are three airports on the island.
Important! Daily flights are carried out in the direction of Crete - Athens. The cost of the flight is 30 euros*.
Flora and fauna of the island
From the foothills of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) extends the region of Apokoronas. The area is green and fertile, which is unusual for a rocky region. Apokoronas is a rich agricultural region with numerous vineyards, olive and orange groves. There are also many cypresses, oaks, lemon trees and avocados. One of the best gifts of nature is the wild flowers of the Apokoronas region. The landscape is decorated with mountain ranges covered with snow until May.
It should be said that 55 unique ecotypes were found in Crete, 160 plant species are found nowhere else in the world. Endemic plants grow high in the mountains. Among them is a rare and endangered dwarf tree - Cretan Dzelkova (Latin designation - Zelkova cretica).
island flora
The most famous of the Cretan animals is the wild mountain goat kri-kri. These goats were brought from Persia thousands of years ago. Now their main area of \u200b\u200bresidence is the Samaria Gorge. It was for the protection of kri-kri goats that it was created in 1962 national park Gorges of Samaria. Among the mammals of the island there are also such interesting animals as the prickly rat, the Cretan wild cat, the Cretan badger and the Cretan marten. There are also many reptiles, frogs, insects and shellfish. Many birds nest in the wild gorges of Crete and on the swampy plains. Among them, the rarest species of vultures is the bearded one.
Note! There are no poisonous snakes in Crete, but scorpions are found, although their bite is not fatal.
Holidays in Crete
Holidays in Crete will delight people of all ages. People come here with friends and family. There is something for everyone on the island. Here you can lie on the beach all day long, or you can take a car and go on an exciting journey, so that later the question never arises: “What country is Crete”?
*Prices are valid for September 2018*
Crete is the largest island of Greece, and is washed by three seas (Cretan, Libyan and Ionian). It is located at the crossroads of trade sea routes from Egypt, Asia and Europe, which favorably influenced the creation of the most ancient European civilization.
Crete island on the world map
How to get to Crete
But how to get here? There are two options:
- by plane;
- on a ferryboat.
First the option is more convenient, but it is worth noting that in Crete international flights only accepted two airports: Chania and Heraklion. Most of Russian aircraft it lands in Heraklion, since the Nikos airport is located there - the main gate of the island. You can fly both with transfers and direct flights, more detailed information. If you get on a ferryboat departing daily to Heraklion from Piraeus, then change is inevitable.
A direct flight from Moscow takes about 3-4 hours.
The climate of Crete
So, you have decided to go to Crete. When is the best time to do this? Probably at the same time as other people - the maximum influx of tourists from May to October. It is advisable to plan your vacation for this period, the air temperature warms up from +23 to +35 degrees. Island climate subtropical, the maximum humidity does not exceed 50%.
Warm weather here lasts for ten months a year, the swimming season lasts about the same.
Weather in some cities of Crete
The best beaches in Crete
The nature of Crete has retained its original appearance to this day. High mountains south, beautiful warm beaches in the north, fertile land in the west and east - this is the true essence of the island! In addition to the previously mentioned beach Agapa Beach, there are other beaches in Crete that deserve attention. One of the best - the beach Elafonisi, which is famous for its unique pink sand. Malia and Francastello are also very popular with tourists.
It is advisable to take a mask with you, as there will be an opportunity to admire the underwater delights.
Elafonisi beach, Crete National cuisine of Crete
A distinctive feature of the character of the Cretan natives is the immense hospitality preserved in the patriarchal way of life. Greek cuisine famous for its olives, cheese, field herbs, lemons and seafood. The most famous dishes are "Khokhli"(fried snails served with vegetables), "Moussaka"(baked meat with vegetables, sauce of cheese, milk, flour and eggs) (patties with homemade cottage cheese, cheese and herbs) and many others are no less tasty. For dessert serve "Xerotigana"(brushwood, spiral shape), "Likhnarakya"(Cretan cheesecakes) and of course jam. From strong drinks drinks better known grape vodka "Cicoudia", which is suitable for all dishes without exception.
It is important to remember that when ordering a Cretan dinner, one should not forget about the volumes of the portions there. Otherwise, most of the dishes will remain on the plates. Therefore, for the “weak” tourists, they have developed a dinner option so alien to the Cretan mentality, called a half portion.
Calicunya, Greek cuisine Things to do in Crete
- There are a lot of attractions in Crete. What are only the unique monuments of ancient architecture left by former civilizations! This the palaces of Mallia and Phaistos, the Palace of Knossos, in which, as the myths say, the famous Minotaur was imprisoned. A ticket here will cost about 27 euros.
- Fascinating excursion to the Lassithi valley accompanied by familiarity with olive oil production and tasting local wines, will cost somewhere 40 euros.
- So-called traditional evening, which includes horseback riding, safari, sightseeing and dinner, will cost on average 36 euros.
- Do not forget about the coastal waters of the island, which are considered the cleanest on the planet.
Knossos Palace, Crete Hotels on Crete
A distinctive feature of the hotels of the island is that even "Five Stars" standing here cheaper than in the UAE. The best ones are:
- Grecotel Creta Palace , located in Rethymno. Luxury rooms, SPA centers, family holidays - in general, everything you need.
- Grecotel Club Marine in Panormo. Designed primarily for family vacation- a lot of entertainment, rides, children's clubs.
- Agapi Beach- one of the most popular Russian tourists hotels. Located next to the beach of the same name, which is considered the best on the island.
- Krini Beach- an economical option for young people or families. Calm, quiet, comfortable.
- Out of Blue Capsis Elite Resort - luxury resort, consisting of several luxury hotels.
- New hotel Grecotel Amirandes features modern design. There are many pools, tents, playgrounds and attractions.
Video "Eagle and Tails" on the island of Crete, Greece
Andrey Bednyakov and Nastya Korotkaya understand the myths and legends of ancient Greece
Holidays in Crete available practically everyone strata of the population. Here they will find their shelter and students looking for inexpensive accommodation and fun noisy discos; rich and wealthy businessmen Those who are looking for privacy and comfort will be able to choose one of the many luxurious hotels. For newlyweds and people vacationing families, there is also a cozy corner. There is a large selection resort places, hotels, among which each tourist will choose exactly the option that he can afford.
But the most best beaches, excellent tourism infrastructure and internal logistics are located exactly on the north coast, so those who are used to quality service go there.
Airfare to Crete
By filling out the form below, you can see the cost of a flight to Crete on a date convenient for you with all leading airlines.
You can find out the cost of a trip to Crete, flight and accommodation options, and choose the right package tour using ours.
detailed map Crete in Russian. Map of roads, cities and regions on the map of Crete. Show on map Crete.
Where is the island of Crete on the world map?
Crete is the largest of the islands and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean. On the world map, it is located between three continents: one hundred kilometers from Europe, one hundred and seventy kilometers from Asia and three hundred kilometers from Africa. The island is one of popular places For beach holiday in Europe. Geographical coordinates Crete: 35°18′35″ N w.. and 24°53′36″ east. d.
Where is Crete located on the map of Greece and Europe?
The island is located almost in the very center of the Mediterranean, and geographically it is considered to be part of Europe. Upcoming European countries are Italy, Türkiye and Cyprus.
Currently, Crete forms one of the 13 regions of Greece and is one of the most economically and culturally developed centers of the country. In addition, the island is the most southern resort Greece.
Resort areas of Crete
There are several tourist areas into which the island is conditionally divided. So, its most popular resort areas are: the Lassithi area: (the cities of Agios, Elounda and Nikolaos), the Heraklion area (the cities of Malia, Hersonissos, Stalida and Gouves), the Rethymnon area (the cities of Rethymnon, Bali and Panormo) and the Chania area (Agia Marina , Georgioupolis and Platanias).
Interactive map of Crete with resorts and cities
Millions of tourists visit the island every year to enjoy the clear sea and the most beautiful beaches, picturesque nature and impressive ancient monuments of palace cities. On interactive map You can find various tourist sites: cities and resorts, hotels and restaurants, temples and other attractions. For convenience, the map can be enlarged or opened in a new window.
Geographic location of Crete
Crete is located in southern Europe and is washed by three seas (Cretan, Libyan and Ionian). The island has a mountainous surface, which sometimes makes it seem larger than it is in reality. More than half of the area rises more than 200 meters above sea level. The coastline is indented, here you can meet a large number of capes and bays.
Crete is an island where legends and myths alternate with modern reality, where marvelous palaces that have seen millennia and fashionable, comfortable resorts and hotels are located. These are cities, large and small, these are villages where the national, Greek flavor has been preserved. Holidays in the cities of Crete is a holiday, a continuous series of pleasures, luxury and comfort.
The cities of Crete - you can count them, as they say on the fingers. Each of them has its own unique appearance, character, traditions and customs, its own unique story originating centuries and millennia ago. Crete is divided into four nomes: Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno and the nome of Lassithi with the administrative center of Agios Nikolaos. All big cities Crete is mainly located on the north coast of the island. There, for the most part, there are best resorts Crete.
The main city of the island of Crete is the city of Heraklion - the capital of Crete. It is home to about a third of the population of the entire island. In its area are the most popular resorts of Crete.
The second largest and no less significant city of Crete is Chania. The city has perfectly preserved its historical appearance - the old part, represented by Venetian and Turkish buildings, mosques, arouses the constant delight of tourists.
The resort town of Rethymnon is the third largest city on the island. Like other cities, it is located on the seashore, and is famous for the longest beach in the city. The reviews of tourists about the resort are ambiguous, but one thing is for sure, that this is the most common resort of Crete among those who like to relax without losing all the benefits of civilization.
The fourth largest and one of the most beautiful cities of Crete is Agios Nikolaos. It is also the administrative center of the Lassithi Ag nome. Nikolaos is located in the northeastern part of Crete, on the shores of the picturesque Mirabello Bay.
Crete photo
Crete: where are
Crete is the largest Greek island, the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean. It is located 110 km from Europe, 175 km from Asia and 300 km from Africa. Geographically belongs to Europe. Crete is washed by three seas - the Cretan in the north, the Libyan in the south and the Ionian in the west. The administrative center is the city of Heraklion.
The area of the island is 8261 km² (together with the islands of Gavdos and Dia - 8336 km²), the length of the coastline is 1046 km.
Modern Crete is one of the thirteen peripheries (regions) of the Hellenic Republic and is one of the largest economic and cultural centers countries.
Crete island on the world map
How to get to Crete
You can fly to Crete by plane. On this Greek island 5 airports, and only 3 of them are civil: Heraklion (Nikos Kazantzakis Airport), Chania and Sitia. The other 2: Kasteli and Timbaki are military airfields. The main tourist flights go to Heraklion airport.
The duration of the flight from Moscow to Heraklion is 3 hours 30 minutes.
Crete: video
Crete walk
Life and Traditions of Crete
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Everyone knows where Greece is. But few people know where the island of Crete, which is part of Greece, is located. Yes, visually we represent. That Crete must be somewhere off the coast of Greece in the Mediterranean. But if we are asked to show the island of Crete on the world map, then we will all miss it. Therefore, let's see where this chic island for tourists is located and hurry to rest on it.
Crete itself is the most major islands, which is part of Greece (Cyprus, as you know, left Greece a long time ago). And in the entire Mediterranean Sea, it ranks fifth in number and in territory.
In addition to olive groves, the island has unique plants that have disappeared all over the world except this island. Also on the island there are mountains, and in the mountains there are gorges. And they are almost all open to tourists who are happy to visit them.
Crete is the most popular resort in Europe. It is visited by over a million tourists every year. At the same time, the population of the island is more than 800,000 thousand people! And this is surprising, because the island itself is small, only 8336 km².
A distinctive feature of the island is that the streets there are very narrow. This was done in order to save space for buildings and not to take too much from nature. And it all looks very nice and compact. And it seems that it’s even better this way, and nothing needs to be changed.
Since Crete is part of Greece, and Greece is the European Union, you need to apply for a visa to visit the country. Find out how much a visa to Greece costs.
Crete is famous for its hotels. Among the hotels there are both new and old ones. And everywhere is equally good. And most importantly - each hotel has its own unique view from the windows.
If you are tired of lying on the sand and swimming in the sea, then you can rent a boat or a yacht and swim in the sea. You can go fishing or just see the beauty of the island and the sea.
We also recommend climbing the mountains. After all, incredible landscapes open from their height, and you will remember these shots forever.
