Where to go on holiday in Crete? That’s the question. With so many varied resorts on offer, each boasting something unique, it’s sometimes quite tricky to find the answer! Whatever you’re into, whether it’s brilliant beaches and lively nightlife or adventurous days out and ancient history, we’ve rounded up five of Crete’s captivating resorts to show you.

Chania

FOR HISTORY BUFFS

Want to peel back the layers of ancient Greek history while you’re away? In Chania, you’ll have many opportunities to do so! Life in this charming town centres around the buzzing Venetian harbour which was built back in the 17th century. You can walk the original fort walls, admire the striking lighthouse or take a seat outside a pastel-hued café for a fresh Greek coffee.

The surrounding area is dotted with must-see Minoan sights, including hidden caves and ancient tombs. Tick the Ancient Aptera Theatre and the Archaeological Museum off your list first then head up into the hills to see the Venizelos Tombs. Take in some of the most spectacular views in the region while you’re there.

Gouves

FOR SENSATIONAL SCENERY

Heading east along the coast, you’ll come to Gouves, famed for its brilliant beach and picturesque mountain setting. Whether you’re into stunning sunsets over the sea or tiny, traditional villages that ooze Greek charm, this is the place for you.

The quaint village of Pano Gouves is built into the site of Mount Ederi, making its streets full of twists and turns, ups and downs. Whitewashed houses and family-run tavernas are sprinkled throughout and there’s a trio of pretty churches to admire too. It’s remains pretty much untouched by tourism, so you’ll be experiencing this part of Greece at its most authentic!

Hersonissos

FOR FAMILY FUN

With a fun-packed beach offering a shed-load of water sports, alongside two water parks and a theme park, your little ones will be in their element here in Hersonissos! Team that with an open-air museum and an aquarium and you’ve got yourself endless days of fun.

The main beach has azure-blue water and golden sand and there are plenty of shallow spots dotted along the shore. Mealtimes are also a doddle here, thanks to the huge variety of bars and restaurants on offer. Grab food on the go and dine on the beach or hit up welcoming tavernas for a taste of local cuisine. There are also plenty of cool and quirky shops where you can pick up unique gifts and souvenirs.

Ierapetra

For a mix of old and new

Sun-drenched, beach-lined and history-stuffed? Yep, that’s Ierapetra in a nutshell. Less busy than the bigger towns in Crete, but welcoming everyone with the same world-famous Greek hospitality, this holiday hotspot is a true hidden gem. Beach days are a dream here – soft sands, crystal-clear waters and plenty of space to spread out. Mealtimes are a special occasion here too – Ierapetra is brimming with fish and meze-serving tavernas that will treat your taste buds.

More of a history hunter? You’ll be well and truly sorted here! Ierapetra translates to ‘an old stone’ and, trust us, there are plenty of those here. The most famous ancient attraction has to be the 14th-century Fortress of Kales, sitting pretty on the port of the city with Ierapetra’s cobbled streets behind it.

Malia

FOR PARTY PEOPLE

Bit of a night owl? You’ll love this lively part of Crete, with its late-night beachfront bars and swish cocktail lounges. Begin your evening in one of the many swanky restaurants along the main street, dining on everything from English favourites to traditional Greek dishes and every cuisine in between. Then it’s time to kick back and listen to live music. If you’re up for staying out all night, there are also some big-name clubs!

It’s not all about the night-time though, there’s plenty to see and do here in the day too! Rest your head on the sands of a bright-white beach or browse shops and markets for handmade trinkets and unique gifts.

Aghios Nikolaos

FOR NATURE LOVERS

Shimmering lakes and a colourful marina – that’s just a taste of what you can expect in this pretty part of Crete. If whiling away the days and watching the world go by is high up on your holiday agenda, then we think you’ve just hit the jackpot here. The bottomless Voulismeni Lake is ideal for a relaxing stroll, where you can soak up the sunshine and see the fascinating light reflections on the water. At night, boutiques and tavernas create a warm glow of light, making it an even prettier scene.

Like the rest of the island, Aghios Nikolaos also has an impressive selection of beaches. So after those busy days of adventuring, you’ve always got a spot to lay down your towel and enjoy some rest and relaxation!

Makry Gialos

For serenity-seekers

If your perfect holiday recipe sounds something like ‘sun, sea and solitude’, you’ve found your Greek match – Makry Gialos. Sitting peacefully on Crete's south-eastern coast, this small, bay-hugging village is packed with charm, golden beaches and a port perfect for dreamy seaside strolls.

The first thing that’ll catch your eye when arriving at this quaint town will be the towering, olive-clad mountains – be sure to pack more than just flip flops! Strap on your hiking boots and explore these gorgeous hills on foot – views are so worth it! The most popular routes are located in the Pefki Gorge – easily reachable with a rental car. The main showstopper is Makrigialos Beach, a mile-long, sandy stretch ideal for families!

What is the best month to go to Crete?

If you're all about soaring temperatures and plenty of sunshine, June, July and August are your best bets. But if you'd like it a little cooler, when it's ideal for sightseeing, then visit in May or September.

Ready for a Crete holiday yet? We thought so…