7 Day Crete Itinerary: Explore Greece’s Largest Island

Planning a trip to Crete? You’re in for a real treat. Crete is the largest island in Greece, and it’s packed with stunning beaches, charming villages, ancient ruins, and unforgettable food. We spent one week in Crete exploring its west and central regions, and it turned out to be one of our favorite travel experiences.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through our exact 7 day Crete itinerary, filled with tips, activities, and must-see spots. Whether you’re renting a car and planning a road trip or just want a taste of local life, this guide has you covered. You’ll also find our personal recommendations for food, where to stay, and how to get around with ease.

Getting Around Crete: Why You Need a Car

Before we dive into the itinerary, let’s talk about transportation. To truly enjoy all the things to do in Crete, renting a car is essential. The island is large, and many of its best spots are spread out or hidden off the main roads.

We rented our car from Moto Auto Plakias, and we were so happy with their service. The process was smooth, the car was reliable, and they gave us some great local tips too. Having the freedom to drive anywhere at our own pace made a huge difference. If you plan to follow this 7 day Crete itinerary, a rental car is the way to go.

Crete’s roads are generally well maintained, but expect some narrow winding sections, especially near beaches and mountain villages. Don’t worry though, driving in Crete can be part of the adventure.

Day 1: Arriving in Chania and Exploring the Old Town

We flew into Chania and immediately felt the relaxed island vibe. After checking into our hotel, we wandered through Chania Old Town, a colorful maze of cobbled streets, local artisan shops, and cozy tavernas.

The highlight of the evening was the Venetian Harbour. Watching the sunset behind the lighthouse as boats drifted by was unforgettable. We had dinner by the water at a taverna serving fresh grilled fish and meze plates. It was the perfect introduction to Crete.

We ended the night with a walk along the harbor, soaking in the sounds of the city and the sea breeze. Chania had already captured our hearts.

Day 2: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island with Cretan Sailing Cruises

On our second day, we joined a boat trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. We booked with Cretan Sailing Cruises, and we highly recommend them. Their speedboat from Kissamos Port was fast, comfortable, and much more personal than the big tour ferries.

Balos Lagoon looked like a dream with its turquoise water, white sand, and shallow warm pools. We swam, sunbathed, and took way too many photos. On Gramvousa Island, we hiked up to the old Venetian fortress. The views from the top were absolutely breathtaking.

We were also served snacks and drinks on the boat, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. This was one of the best day trips of our one week in Crete.

Day 3: Seitan Limania and Secret Beaches Near Chania

This was our beach-hopping day. First stop: Seitan Limania. Tucked between steep cliffs, this little beach was both dramatic and peaceful. The walk down is a bit of a climb, so bring good shoes. But once you reach the bottom, the views and the water make it all worth it.

Later, we explored a few lesser-known beaches east of Chania. These were quiet, uncrowded, and had crystal-clear water. We spent the afternoon sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing.

That evening, we returned to Chania and enjoyed dinner in the Old Town again, although this time at a family-run spot where the grandmother still did the cooking.

Day 4: Elafonissi and Voulolimni Beach

We got an early start and headed southwest to Elafonissi Beach. Known for its pink-hued sand and shallow turquoise waters, it felt like something out of a travel magazine. We walked along the sandbar, dipped in the calm sea, and just took our time enjoying it all.

In the afternoon, we made our way to Voulolimni, a hidden gem near Elafonissi. It’s more like a natural sea pool than a beach, surrounded by rocks and cliffs. The setting was peaceful, the water warm and calm.

This was our final evening in western Crete, so we returned to Chania for one last walk along the harbor and a scoop of pistachio gelato. The next morning, we would be heading to Rethymno.

Day 5: Lake Kournas and Rethymno Old Town

Leaving Chania, we drove east toward Rethymno but made a detour to Lake Kournas, the only freshwater lake in Crete. We rented a pedal boat and paddled across the calm water, spotting turtles along the way. Surrounded by hills and greenery, it was a peaceful stop.

Once in Rethymno, we checked into our hotel and went exploring. Rethymno Old Town was charming, with narrow alleyways, stone buildings, and hidden courtyards. The mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture gave it a unique feel.

We walked along the harbour, browsed local shops, and had a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the old fortress. Rethymno felt like a smaller, sleepier version of Chania and we loved it.

Day 6: Preveli Beach, Kalypso Bay, and Kourtaliotiko Gorge

This day was full of nature, adventure, and a little bit of driving. First, we drove through the impressive Kourtaliotiko Gorge. There are a few viewpoints where you can stop and admire the towering cliffs and the river running below.

Next stop: Preveli Beach, where a palm forest lines the river before it meets the sea. We hiked down to the beach, walked through the palm trees, and swam where freshwater and saltwater mix. It was unique and beautiful.

In the afternoon, we visited Kalypso Bay, a small rocky inlet with clear blue water. The cliffs around it made it feel like our own private hideaway. We snorkeled, sunbathed, and just enjoyed the stillness of it all.

Day 7: Sunset Cruise to Dia Island with EOS Yachts

Our last day in Crete was something truly special. We joined EOS Yachts for a sunset cruise to Dia Island. The boat was sleek, the crew friendly, and everything felt incredibly well organized.

We swam, snorkeled, and tried paddle boarding. The water around Dia Island was calm and so clear we could see the fish from above. As the sun dipped toward the horizon, we sat on deck with our drinks and watched the sky turn orange and pink.

Dinner on board was delicious. Fresh, simple dishes made with local ingredients. It felt like the perfect way to say goodbye to Crete.

Where to Stay in Chania and Rethymno

In Chania, we stayed in Kalamaki about 5 km west of Chania as we had a car anyway. You could also find plenty of accommodation in the Old Town. Look for guesthouses or boutique hotels with rooftop views. It’s a great area to soak up the atmosphere. Parking can be tricky in the Old Town so keep that in mind.

In Rethymno, we chose a hotel near the beach but still within short driving distance of the Old Town. This gave us the best of both worlds. There are lots of great family-run places with sea views and traditional breakfasts. It’s easy to find something that fits your style and budget.

What to Eat in Crete

Cretan food is fresh, simple, and full of flavor. Some must-tries include: dakos (Cretan bruschetta), fresh seafood, grilled lamb, and of course, raki. Try to eat at local tavernas where the menus change with the season.

We found that some of our best meals were in small mountain villages where the food is homemade and the ingredients come from the owner’s garden. Don’t miss the loukoumades (Greek honey donuts) and bougatsa (sweet custard pastry). Also, make time for a traditional Greek coffee in a kafenio.

Travel Tips for One Week in Crete

• Best time to visit: Late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October) for good weather and fewer tourists.
• Driving tips: Roads can be narrow and winding. Go slow, and be patient with local drivers.
• Beach tips: Bring water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and a towel you don’t mind getting sandy.
• Cultural tips: Locals are friendly and welcoming. A few Greek phrases like “Kalimera” (good morning) go a long way.

Crete is safe, family-friendly, and ideal for solo travelers too. It offers a mix of history, beaches, nature, and incredible food.

Final Thoughts on Our 7 Day Crete Itinerary

If you’re wondering whether one week in Crete is enough, the answer is yes – but you’ll likely want to return. This island is rich in beauty and experiences, and seven days is a perfect introduction.

From magical lagoons and ancient towns to fresh seafood and mountain gorges, every day felt different and full of life. Whether you’re visiting with friends, your partner, or going solo, this 7 day Crete itinerary is a great way to explore Greece’s largest island.

If you’re planning your trip soon – lucky you. You’re going to love it!