Cretan tales blog

Tales of Crete

Welcome to our blog page! 
Crete, the largest and most diverse of the Greek islands, is a paradise waiting to be discovered. From breathtaking beaches and rugged mountains to charming villages and ancient ruins, Crete offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. To make the most of your journey, having the freedom to explore is essential—check out our car rental options and start your adventure on this incredible island today!

The island of Crete has an extensive, important history. It was once home to the ancient Minoan civilization, a Bronze Age civilization that predated even the Greeks.
It’s a place filled with everything from historic forts, plates of yummy Greek food and oodles of beautiful scenery. There’s a whole heap of amazing things to do in Crete.
In our Crete travel blog, you'll find all the information you need to plan your trip to Crete. From the best time to visit Crete to what to see, here's everything you need to know.
As Crete is one of the southernmost places in Europe, it enjoys warm summers and good weather most year round, with the exception of winter months, when it can be surprisingly cold and damp.
In fact, snow is not rare between December and February, and in the past years, there have been a number of floods.
The best months to visit Crete are in general the off high season months, April – June and September, but as it’s a big island it is possible to stay away from the crowds even in August.
You can travel to Crete by plane or ferry. Both Heraklion and Chania have international airports and connect both domestic and international flights to and from Crete. For most independent travellers, arriving at Heraklion International Airport makes the most sense.

Be sure to check out our latest travel tips and guides for dozens of beaches, gorges, monasteries and cities around Crete. 
Cave of Saint Fotini
Discover the Hidden Wonders of Saint Fotini’s Cave in Avdou which is also mentioned in historical records as

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Kamara Beach Near Rethymno
Are you ready to embark on a journey to one of Crete's most picturesque treasures?

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Kato Gouves : Things to do during your visit
Are you planning your dream getaway to Crete? Look no further than Gouves, a charming coastal town that promises an

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Sustainable Driving
At OKAY Rent a Car, we are committed to promoting eco-friendly driving habits. Eco-Driving Tips

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Things to do in Heraklion
Heraklion is the largest city and the administrative capital of Crete. The influence of the civilisations

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Analipsi, Crete
Analipsi, is a charming village in Crete known for its pristine beaches, traditional Greek tavernas, and warm hospitality.

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Kasteli & Fourni -Traditional villages of Crete
Explore the charm of Crete's villages! With breathtaking landscapes, welcoming locals,

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Krasi village
Krasi is situated at the foot of Mount Selena at an altitude of 600 m. and is a charming destination.

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Kritsa, Lassithi, Crete
Discover ancient Lato, Byzantine frescoes, local crafts, and the majestic Kritsa Gorge A must-visit

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Lasithi plateau: Day trip by car
The Lasithi Plateau is the largest plateau in Crete. A fertile inland plain at an elevation of 800 to 850m, bordered

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Climate of Crete
The Mediterranean climate on Crete is mild, with mild winters and hot, dry summers. Experience the unforgettable

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Spring on Crete - Cretan customs, Greece
“No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.” Discover interesting villages and settlements, Cretan beaches,

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Clean Monday - Kathara Deftera
Visitors of all ages flock to the picturesque countryside to fly their bright kites in the bright sky.

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May in Crete
As the island basks in the gentle warmth of May, the lingering spirit of Easter permeates the air, creating a festive

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3 best routes for winter drives on Crete
Discover the 3 most unforgettable routes for winter drives in Crete!! there are still tons of things to do in Crete

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April Fool's Day customs in Crete, Greece
Discover blooming landscapes, festive vibes, and springtime wonders. Plan your perfect April getaway on this enchanting

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Epiphany's Orthodox celebrations in Crete, Greece
Epiphany in Greece is celebrated 12 days after Christmas on 6th January (or January 19th for some Orthodox Church

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Orthodox Easter customs in Crete
Orthodox Easter in Crete has plenty of customs such as: Red Egg cracking, Baking Tsoureki, Midnight Church Service &

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Churches and monasteries in Crete
The religion of Greek people is an important aspect of Greek culture and 98% of the Greek population ..

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Topolia Gorge in Crete
Mythology says that this gorge was inhabited by fairies and the goddess Vritomartis during the Minoan era

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Gorge Agiou Antoniou Patsos
Faraggi Agiou Antoniou Patsos: A Breathtaking Gorge Escape in Crete, waterfalls, wildlife, and

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Agios Pavlos beach
Escape to Agios Pavlos Beach, a secluded coastal retreat on the southern coast of Crete.

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8 Benefits of travelling with friends
The decision to travel alone or with friends will be based on your current situation, individual preferences...

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Heraklion Christmas happenings
Celebrate Christmas in Crete with festive lights, traditional kalanda, delicious treats like melomakarona, and cozy village vibes

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New Year's Eve in Crete
Discover Crete in December! Celebrate New Year's Eve with local traditions, enjoy mild winter weather, and get tips on

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7 Tips to choose the right rental car
Planning and being flexible when it comes time to pick up your rental car are required when selecting your vehicle.

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Car rental fuel policy in Crete
The following fuel tank policies are the most popular: ⇒Empty / Empty; aka Empty for Empty ⇒Like for Like; aka As Rented

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Which is the best Cretan beach ?
Crete is the largest island of Greece and its coastline of 1,046 m (650 miles) – the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean..

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Preveli beach, Crete
Preveli Beach mixes in a clean, clear river, a gorge walk, and a freshwater lagoon, all in one adorable little package. 

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Kritiki diatrofi : Cretan Cuisine
The cuisine of Crete is an interesting blend of Greek, Middle East and Italian influence, reflecting the turbulent history..

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Myrtos, the best beach in South Crete
Myrtos village is located 13 km west of Ierapetra. Myrtos has one of the best beaches in South Crete..

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Koufonisi island
Koufonisi or Leuki, is a tropical island located south of Lassithi prefecture in the Libyan Sea.

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Sunken city of Olous, Crete
The sunken city of Olous sleeps one kilometer east of Elounda, near the windmills on the peninsula of Spinalonga

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5 top sights in Malia
There are plenty of things to do in Malia, a town blessed with a stretch of pristine white sand beaches

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Drive to Stavros beach, Crete
Stavros is a village located 17km northeast of Chania, near the northernmost tip of Akrotiri.

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Drive to Agiofaraggo Crete
Agiofarago beach is located about 80 km south of Heraklion city, at the exit of the Agiofarago...

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Neraidospilios cave - Astrakiano Gorge
At ‘Astrakiano Gorge’, north of the Astrakoi Bridge, there is the cave called Neraidospilios...

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Richtis gorge, Crete
Richtis Gorge is located on the north side of Lassithi prefecture between Agios Nikolaos and Siteia...

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10 Top places to see in Crete
Definitely, the 10 best places that you must visit in Crete. The most important sites and the most beautiful villages..

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Everything about Seitan limania beach
Seitan Limania Beach (or else Stephan’s Beach) is 20 km southeast of Chania at Akrotiri and one of the most ..

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Travel with Kids to Crete
The incredible island of Crete has so much to offer to travelling families and it is often voted one of the most popular and safe 

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Automatic vs manual gearbox
Hiring a car for your holiday comes with a lot of questions, mainly: should I get a manual or an automatic?

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Is needed an international driver's permit ?
Do I need an international driver's permit to rent a car in Crete? Check what documents are needed 

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Rethymno, things to do during visit
Rethymno is the third largest city of Crete and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Greece

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Voulisma beach - Istron
Voulisma Beach: a journey to immerse yourself in azure waters, pristine shores, and serene surroundings

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Spinalonga island on Crete
An island located in the Gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete. It is definitely a must-see place on Crete

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Road trip to Matala
Matala is one of the most popular destinations on our island. Live today, tomorrow never comes !!

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Monastery Agia Triada Tsagarolon
The monastery of Agia Triada of Tsagarolon is one of the richest, most impressive monasteries in Crete.

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Elafonisi Beach Southwestern Crete
What characterizes the area of Elafonissos and makes it such an exotic place, are the little sand islets formed, the shallow...

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Katholiko beach
Check your list and add Katholiko beach near Chania, to the places you must visit on Crete and enjoy Impressive ..

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Best tips for driving in Crete
No matter which car you choose, never forget: Follow the rules. Note: Careful driving is required on all country roads.   

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Kalypso Beach, Crete
Kalypso Beach, often referred to as "Pirate's Fjord" This secluded cove, spanning around 100 meters in length

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Mideia, who is she?
In Greek mythology, Medea is the daughter of the king of Colchis, Aetius and Oceania Idia or Hecate and the granddaughter

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Is it safe drive on Crete ?
Always be alert and never assume that other drivers are going to do the right thing. ..

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Amnissos beach near Heraklion
Amnissos is an ideal place to collect your rented car and start your tour around the island to discover and ..

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Travel to Mochlos
Mochlos is a small charming fishing village in the gulf of Mirabello. Nobody arrives in Mochlos by chance...

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Sissi, Crete
Escape to Sissi, Crete, where natural beauty, traditional cuisine, and a tranquil atmosphere 

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Kourtaliotiko gorge
Kourtaliotiko Faraggi (Kourtaliotiko Gorge) stands out as a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers

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Melidoni Cave
Visit Melidoni Cave, a must-see attraction in Crete. Marvel at its impressive geological formations

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Why Visiting Crete
Located in the south, Crete is the biggest island of Greece, offering experiences for everyone

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Komolithi
When Cappadocia meets Crete, it brings to mind the stunning Komolithi Potamida, unique clay hills found in the village of Potamida, Greece.

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Spili, Crete
Visit Spili, Crete: Enjoy picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and authentic Cretan food. A perfect destination

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1821 - 2021 200 years since the War of Independence
2021 marks the 200 years anniversary of Greek Independence that occurred on 25th March 1821.

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Santorini volcanic island visit from Crete
Santorini is the world-famous volcanic island located in the most southern part of the Cyclades group of islands..

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