Europe

Situated off the coast of Greece and only a few hours by plane from the UK, the island of Crete is a heavenly and mythical destination, ideal for those looking for a different setting; one where cultures meet and the magnificent alternates with the wild. To experience a holiday in Crete is to plunge into thousands of years of history, where the ancient gods rub shoulders with legendary civilisation, as witnessed by the ruins of Knossos not far from the splendid city of Heraklion, the ramparts of Rethymon and the incredible fortress of Frangokastello. However, Crete is more than vestiges of history; it is also a paradise where nature-lovers will be transported to Heaven, with the gorges of Samaria, the isle of Elafonissi and the plateau of Lassithi. To holiday in Crete is to also enjoy a hospitable and warm people, the discovery of little neighbouring villages where life is lived in time with the seasons and in line with the sun. You will adore strolling through Agios Nikolaos, Loutro and Matala, or discovering the less touristic regions such as the Messara plain.

Crete

Of all the countries in the Mediterranean basin , Greece is without doubt the one which has the most tourists ... and for good reason! There aren't many places in the world where the culture, the history, the welcome and the beauty, come together in such perfect harmony. Taking a trip to Greece is first about taking a trip in time and walking in the steps of one of the most brilliant civilisations of antiquity : Athens, Olympia, Delphi and Mycenae are place where the magnificent ruins are witness to a heritage that is still living today. Travelling in Greece, is also a chance to enjoy a very special climate, warm and dry, which is ideal for long swims in the paradisiacal water of the Aegean sea or precious time to relax on hidden beaches in small coves in the Cyclades.A trip to Greece , is also about the pleasure of exploring an ancient cuisine where vine leaves, olive oil and Raki will make you sigh with pleasure. Why wait any longer: Ελλάδα σας περιμένει!

Greece

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Ierapetra

Balos lagoon stretches into the Gramvousa peninsula, on Cape Tigani.

Balos

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Balos lagoon is absolutely idyllic. I recommend visiting it during your <a href="/crete/">stay in Crete</a>. I particularly liked its beach of fine sand, bathed in warm, turquoise water: a sort of tropical paradise, but without the palm trees!
Avoid visiting the lagoon in summer: the place is literally stormed by tourists. To avoid the crowd, I went to the lagoon early and made the most of this magnificent beach, in complete peace. From Balos lagoon, the view is beautiful over the Gramvousa peninsula and the small islands of Agria and Imeria: wild pearls!
To get to Balos lagoon, I recommend enjoying a trip on the water from Kissamos, in one of the boats which stops there. If you have a car, you can leave from the village of Kaliviani; be careful on the road, all the same: it's a fairly bumpy trail. Consider a 4x4, which can turn out to be incredibly useful. But the coastal view is absolutely marvellous and well worth the detour!

The best local travel agencies in Crete for family tours with kids

Family tour ideas in Crete

The best tailor-made Crete tours for families with children, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Family holidays in Crete

Family Tours

Family Holidays in Crete | Child-Friendly Tours

The best local travel agencies in Crete for two week tours

Two week tour ideas in Crete

The best two week tours to explore Crete, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Two weeks in Crete

Two Week Tours

Two Weeks in Crete | 14 Day Tailor-Made Tours

The best local travel agencies in Crete for one week tours

One week tour ideas in Crete

The best one week tours to explore Crete, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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One week in Crete

One Week Tours

One Week in Crete | 7 Day Tailor-Made Tours

The best local travel agencies in Crete for self drive tours

Self-drive tour ideas in Crete

The best road trips and self-drive tours in Crete, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Road trips in Crete

Self-Drive Tours

Best Road Trips in Crete | Explore Crete By Car

The best local travel agencies in Crete for hiking and trekking tours

Tour ideas for trekking and hiking in Crete

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Hiking in Crete

Hiking & Trekking

Hiking & Trekking Tours in Crete | Tailor-Made Tours

The best local travel agencies in Crete for island tours

Tour ideas for exploring Crete's islands

The best island holidays and island-hopping tours in Crete, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Islands in Crete

Islands

Island Holidays in Crete | Explore Crete's Islands

The best local travel agencies in Crete for Spring tours

Spring tour ideas in Crete

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Spring in Crete

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The best local travel agencies in Crete for wellness holidays

Wellness tour ideas in Crete

The best wellness holidays and relaxation tours in Crete, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Wellness retreats in Crete

Wellness & Relaxation

Wellness Retreats in Crete | Relaxation Holidays

The best local travel agencies in Crete for privately-guided tours

Guided tour ideas in Crete

The best privately-guided tours in Crete, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Guided tours in Crete

Guided Tours

Guided Tours in Crete | Expert Local Guides

Balos Holidays

Balos: How to get there?

Balos: See when to go?

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