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Our best offers in Crete!
Luxembourg > Heraklion
Luxembourg > Chania
Vacation in Crete
Land of gods and paradise on earth
Spanning both past and present, Greece welcomes you with its exuberant nature, wonderful archaeological sites and fantastic beaches. Myths and traditions merge in the picturesque villages where you can find folklore and local crafts. There are many seaside resorts to be found around the Greek islands, with high-quality hotels to meet all expectations and Hellenic people, well-known for their hospitality, will welcome holiday visits under an ever-present sun.
A legendary island with an authentic soul
This island, often said to be ‘blessed by the gods’, boasts breathtaking landscapes, diverse plant life, heavenly beaches bathed in turquoise waters, and an impressive historical and cultural heritage. The many archaeological sites here, including Knossos and its famous museum, are a glimpse into the glory of Crete's past. The thousands of windmills on the Lassithi plateau and the Samaria Gorge are the perfect place to take long walks and admire unique landscapes.
Hotel areas
35.3387352, 25.1442126
Hersonissos
This popular holiday destination lies around 26 kilometres east of Heraklion. It's perfect for a family holiday or a break with friends, where you can alternate between the beach, sightseeing and going out. The town has a lively atmosphere during both the day and evening, and the seafront promenade is lined with tavernas, boutiques, bars and nightclubs. It is also bordered by several beaches that offer water sports activities. Distance from Heraklion airport: 20 km.
Anissaras
This popular destination, which was originally a small fishing village, is around 26 kilometres east of Heraklion. It lies to the north of Hersonissos and is much quieter, but still has plenty to offer. Distance from Heraklion airport: 20 km.
Gouves
This popular holiday resort on the north coast boasts numerous tavernas, cafés and shops of all kinds. It is around 10 kilometres from Hersonissos and around 20 kilometres from Heraklion. There's also a beautiful sandy-gravelly-rocky beach that adorns its seafront. Distance from Heraklion airport: 20 km.
Stalis
This seaside resort lies between Hersonissos and Sissi, around 35 kilometres from Heraklion. It boasts 2 kilometres of warm, golden sand, making it one of the most beautiful beaches on Crete. Magnificent coves with shallow, crystal-clear waters make this landscape even more enchanting. Distance from Heraklion airport: 30 km.
Malia
Situated around 35 kilometres from Heraklion, this seaside resort boasts 3 kilometres of beaches – each one more beautiful than the last – interspersed with enchanting coves. If you like to dance, Malia is the perfect place to party and have fun in the evenings. Distance from Heraklion airport: 30 km.
Elounda
This seaside resort, which was once a small fishing village, lies in the pretty bay of Mirabello, just across from the island of Spinalonga. Here you'll find tavernas, kafenions and typical shops, as well as luxury hotels. Distance from Heraklion airport: 70 km.
Amoudara
This tourist resort is bordered by a 9 kilometre-long sandy and pebbled beach, where you’ll also find a number of shops, bars and tavernas. It is located just 6 kilometres west of Heraklion, making it a good base for exploring the cultural and historical treasures of the capital. Distance from Heraklion airport: 9 km.
Kokkini Hani
This coastal village in the Heraklion region invites you to explore its superb beaches, particularly Arina beach, its town centre and the surrounding archaeological sites. Distance from Heraklion airport: 10 km.
Panormo
This picturesque little village is one of the most beautiful in Crete and is located not far from Rethymno. Here you will find the ruins of the Basilica of Agia Sophia, one of the largest royal Christian churches in Greece, built in the 5th century and discovered during excavations in 1948. Distance from Heraklion airport: 55 kilometres. Distance from Chania airport: 80 km.
Rethymno
Rethymno is the third largest town on the island of Crete, with around 30,000 inhabitants. The old town, with its picturesque narrow streets, beautiful monuments and weekly market, is one of the island's biggest attractions. Not far from here, you'll also find a charming little Venetian port with a lighthouse that is not to be missed. Distance from Heraklion airport: 80 km. Distance from Chania airport: 60 km.
Vrahassi Lassithi
The village is surrounded by numerous olive groves. It's a little corner of paradise, perfect for nature lovers and holidaymakers in search of peace and quiet. Distance from Heraklion airport: 35 km.
Analipsi
This quiet seaside resort benefits from its proximity to the island's capital, as well as other sites and attractions such as the AcquaPlus water park and the Cretaquarium, which are perfect for families. It's also a place that celebrates age-old farming traditions, from olive picking and wine-making to potato growing. Distance from Heraklion airport: 16 km.
Fodele
This verdant village surrounded by orange groves is well worth a visit. Its main square, surrounded by streets full of craft shops and authentic tavernas, is the perfect place to shop and stroll. Distance from Heraklion airport: 27 km.
Ierapetra
Ierapetra is the 4th most populous town on Crete. Olive oil production is a major activity here, and its location is ideal for exploring the island of Chrissi, just opposite. Distance from Heraklion airport: 70 km.
Platanias
Platanias, bordered by a long sandy beach, is the largest seaside resort in western Crete. This village is lively both by day and night, with many amenities close to your hotel, such as bars, restaurants and shops, as well as good places to go out at night. Distance from Chania airport: 30 km.
Kolymbari
The village of Kolymbari, situated on the Rodopou peninsula, is bordered by a long pebbled beach. Despite recent tourist development, it remains a quiet, picturesque and traditional village with a harbour. It's perfect for a quiet holiday. Distance from Chania airport: 42 km.
Agio Apostoli
Around 4 kilometres from the centre of Chania lies Agio Apostoli, a seaside village named after the little church of Agioi Apostoloi. It is popular for its beautiful little coves with clear waters, well-equipped beaches and numerous tavernas, restaurants and shops. It's the perfect place to combine a relaxing beach holiday with sightseeing. Distance from Chania airport: 18 km.
Kalyves
Kalyves is a quiet seaside resort that has retained the peaceful atmosphere of a Cretan village, but you'll still find all the amenities you need close to your hotel, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants for going out. Distance from Chania airport: 28 km.
Georgioupolis
Georgioupolis is located in the region of Chania and was originally a fishing village. Today, it is a tourist-focused resort with a beautiful beach. It is also close to the beautiful Lake Kournas. Distance from Chania airport: 46 km.
Maleme
Maleme, in north-west Crete, is 16 kilometres from Chania. This quiet village with a beautiful beach is still a developing seaside resort, but you'll still find plenty to keep you entertained and out and about. Distance from Chania airport: 32 km.
Agios Nikolaos
This charming coastal town is home to Lake Voulismeni, which is now open to the sea via a canal, and is where – legend has it – Athena and Artemis used to bathe. It is surrounded by a pedestrian promenade lined with cafés, tavernas and shops, as well as other shopping streets. Agios Nikolaos is one of the island's main tourist towns and takes its name from the church of St Nicholas, located to the north. Distance from Heraklion airport: 60 km.
Adelianos Kampos
Adelianos Kampos lies on the edge of the Adele plain, from which it takes its name – 'Kampos' means plain in Greek. This small village lies between Chania and Heraklion, just 4 kilometres from the Venetian port of Rethymno. It borders a pretty beach, perfect for a relaxing seaside holiday, and its location provides easy access to all Crete’s main attractions. Distance from Chania airport: 72 km. Distance from Heraklion airport: 76 km.
Must-do & Must-see - our suggestions
Must-do
- Exploring the Samaria Gorge is an amazing experience for experienced hikers. Its 18 km of remarkable scenery will allow you to discover no less than 450 species of plants, and will take you over wooden bridges and through very narrow passages that can reach an impressive heights of 700 metres.
- On the island of olives and wine, a visit to an oil mill and a winery is a must. It is a good occasion to learn more about the techniques of making these exceptional products, and you even have a chance to taste them directly at their producers.
- For those interested in ancient times, a visit to Knossos, the famous palace of King Minos, will take you back to the Minoan civilisation. The ruins of the once 5-storey palace have been partially reconstructed. The associated museum provides an overview of all the archaeological findings related to this culture, from the Neolithic period to the fall of the Minoan empire.
Must-see
- Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the historic port city of Rethymno, and stop in one of the small shops to buy a souvenir, such as a traditional handicraft or local delicacies. For lunch, take a seat in one of the restaurants along the harbour, and enjoy freshly caught fish while taking in the view of the Venetian fortress.
- The island of Spinalonga is well worth a visit. The thick walls of the fortress, the ancient ruins, and the houses have much to tell. The former Venetian citadel, later transformed into a leper colony, is only 160 m from the mainland and can be reached by boat from Elounda or Plaka.
- The Vai beach has a real Caribbean atmosphere thanks to the Cretan date palms that grow there, forming the largest palm grove in Europe with almost 5,000 trees. This vast area belongs to the monastery of Toplou, making it the largest landowner in Eastern Crete.
Excursions
Excursions will allow you to discover your destination from all perspectives. LuxairTours offers a range of selected tours that will allow you to discover unmissable places, paradisiacal beaches, typical dishes... LuxairTours organises a range of quality excursions for you.
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This cruise will take you to the picturesque island of Santorini, situated to the north of Crete. Part of an extraordinary archipelago of the same name, Santorini is the remains of an extinct volcano, now an impressive caldera in the Cyclades.
It is one of Greece's most fascinating destinations. The eruption of the volcano over 3,000 years ago left its mark on this island of spectacular contrasts – from the deep blue of the sea to the black sand and the white houses built on the rim of the reddish crater. There are various ways to enjoy island – get close up to the volcano's crater, relax on the black beaches or follow the coast towards Oia. This trip is not to be missed!
Departure from all hotels. Transfer to the port not included.
Don't forget to bring sunglasses, a towel and a camera. -
This excursion will introduce you to Crete's past and the Minoan culture, named after the legendary King Minos. The palace has been partially rebuilt to give you an idea of its former splendour. The excursion then takes you to Heraklion, the largest city in Crete.
Once there, you will have a guided tour of the famous Palace of King Minos at Knossos. You can also visit the archaeological museum opposite (optional), where you can admire the treasures of Minoan civilisation. The excavations and reconstructions carried out by Sir Arthur Evans will help you to better comprehend the grandeur of Minoan culture.
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An excursion made for adventurers where you will discover Crete from your all-terrain vehicle. You will leave the major routes to follow charming trails passing through traditional villages in order to discover beautiful spots far from the beaten track. You will have the chance to go for a swim en route and to have lunch in a tavern.
Discover Crete in a different way, between the sea and the mountains, following charming paths through quintessential villages, passing by rivers and gorges.
We offer the 4x4 option to allow you to explore the diversity of the island in a different way.
With regards to the itinerary, please contact your LuxairTours guide. Meal included.
Bring: sunscreen, helmet or hat, bottle of water, glasses, driving licence and passport. -
In the morning, you will start with an excursion along the northern coast towards Agios Nikolaos, situated in the magnificent bay of Mirabello. A traditional fishing boat known as a ‘caique’ will take you to the island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony and refuge for Christians persecuted under Turkish rule. Here you can see the fortifications surrounding the abandoned village, remants of the Venetian occupation of the island. After a tour of the island, the excursion continues by boat to a calm bay sheltered from the wind, where you can take a swim. You will then be served lunch before you head back home.
Boat trip from Elounda or Agios Nikolaos to the island of Spinalonga (€8 entrance fee).
Not available from the Rethymnon area. -
This excursion will take you around the mountain of Stroumbolos and introduce you to the authentic beauty of Crete, with its magnificent landscapes, small inland villages and local traditions.
First, you will stop in the village of Anoghia, which is undoubtedly the most authentic village on the island, known for its weaving and embroidery crafts. This is followed by a visit to the Sfendoni cave, with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The excursion continues with a walk and lunch (included in the price) in Axos, offering superb views of the mountains and surrounding countryside. Finally, you will take part in a tasting of various local delicacies.
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This cruise departs from the port of Kissamos for the island of Gramvoussa, situated in the extreme north-west of Crete, 1 kilometres from the peninsula of the same name.
On the island of Gramvoussa, you can visit the Venetian fortress situated on its promontory 140 metres above the sea and admire a 360-degree panoramic view from the walls of this former pirate hideout.
In the afternoon, you’ll have some time for swimming after a short boat transfer aross the waters of the Balos lagoon, which is reminiscent of the beaches and waters of the Indian Ocean. Lunch is available on board.
At the end of the afternoon, the boat will take you back by the same route to the port of Kissamos, where a bus will be waiting to take you to your hotel. -
The town of Rethymnon, which has been marked by Venetian and Turkish occupation, boasts remarkable architecture and a unique atmosphere. After visiting the old town, you will have some free time. You’ll then head to Chania, the ancient capital, where many cultures have left their mark.
For more information and bookings, please contact your LuxairTours guide on site.
Important Information
- Tourist tax: According to the official category of hotel booked, an obligatory tax must be paid on site: 3-star: €3.00, 4-star: €7.00, 5-star €10.00 (per room and per night).
