Holidays in Crete East Heraklion

Crete East Heraklion Holidays - Destination Profile

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and birthplace of the painter El Greco. It possesses a landscape so diverse and enchanting that no description is likely to do it justice. From its beautiful golden beaches, crystal clear waters, rugged snow capped mountains and breathtaking scenery, this island is just waiting to be explored.

Crete holds an abundance of fascinating history being also the birthplace of Zeus, father of all Greek gods and the Minoan Empire where the legend of the Minotaur has its origins.

Crete holidays for a diverse selection of treasures

Anyone with an interest in ancient history will find plenty to thrill while on holiday in Crete - the island boasts a cultural heritage spanning at least 4,000 years and many fascinating archaeological sites remain for tourists to peruse at their leisure.

The fabulous blend of cultures found on Crete ensures an edifying trip for holidaymakers - influences of Venetian and Turkish rule can still be found on the stunning island - while the exceptionally friendly and warm inhabitants will make you feel welcome. Whether your dream holiday encompasses days lazing on the beach, visits to historical hot spots or a lively nightlife, you'll find that Crete holidays have just what you're looking for.

Value Crete Holidays with Olympic Holidays

Experience a Grecian paradise for yourself; book fantastic Crete holidays online with Olympic Holidays and discover an island that offers awe-inspiring holiday opportunities. Olympic Holidays the leading specialist tour operator to Greece and the Greek Islands with over 40 years expertise in offering quality holidays at at great value. As well Crete holiday packages, we offer an excellent range of cheap flights to Crete (Chania & Heraklion) and hotels in Crete. Discover the allure of Crete for yourself by booking a cheap holiday to Crete today, for great savings on Crete holidays book online or call our reservations team, lowest price guaranteed!!!

Holidays in Crete East Heraklion - Things to see

Samaria Gorges: Crete has the longest gorge in Europe and second in the world to the Grand Canyon. You get to it by a ferry and you stop on your way at a village called Lutra, only accessible by boat. The gorge cuts through the White Mountains. Apart from its beauty, the gorge is teeming with wildlife and there are incredible wildflowers during spring.

Knossos Palace: This palace, in a beautiful site just 5 km southeast of Heraklion, is the most magnificent and evocative of Crete's Minoan sites. Admission is around 6 Euros, 4 Euros students with official ID and people of 65 or over. Apr to mid-Oct, open daily 8am-8pm. Mid-Oct to Mar, open from Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.

Knossos and Museum: Gain an insight into the history of Crete with this tour of Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Museum

The Archaeological Museum in Heraklion: It is famous for its huge Minoan collection. Opening times: April to mid-October: Tuesday to Sunday 8am-8 pm / Monday 12.30-8 pm. Mid - October to March: closes daily at 5 pm. Around 10 Euros for adults and 6 Euros for students with official ID and people of 65 and over.

Chania Area: Stroll through the streets of the old town that is an intact neighbourhood of the original Venetian buildings. The fortifications date from the 13th century. There is an archaeological and a naval museum, as well as the Historical Archives of Crete. Its picturesque Venetian Harbour is also well worth to visit.

Spinalonga Island: Made famous as the setting of the film 'who pays the ferryman?' Thousands of visitors come here every year to see the ruins of the Venetian Fortress and Leper colony. You take a boat ride over and you are given plenty of time to explore the island. It is a great place to enjoy a barbecue of real Greek food and have a swim in the beautiful water before heading back. A very relaxing day out.

Things to do on a Holiday in Crete East Heraklion

Popular activities during Crete holidays include:-

• Jet skiing
• Scuba diving
• Windsurfing
• Rock climbing
• Paragliding
• Walking and hiking
• Cycling

Fun Excursions while on Crete Holidays

Make your holidays to Crete extra special by booking one of our wonderful excursions, we have a range of excursions that have been selected to cater for everyones interests. Some of our most popular excursions are:-

Spinalonga: This one is for the sailors and sun lovers amongst you. Interested? The come along with us to the haunting island of Spinalonga, an old Leper Colony!

Chrissi Island: An exceptional day to a tropical paradise set in the crystal clear waters of the Libyan sea. Sunbathe on the wondrous beaches of unusual coloured sand.

Unknown Crete: Travel through unspoilt villages where donkeys still travel the roads. Visit a local winery and see how wine is made with the chance to sample and buy.

Cretan Night: If you love food, drink and dancing, then you will love this night out. As you enter the venue, the Cretan lifestyle takes over as the evening is given to plenty of eating, drinking and merry making as only the Greeks know how.

Knossos: If you visit Crete and do not see the ancient palace of Knossos is compares to visiting Egypt and not seeing the pyramids. This is where European civilisation began with the dazzling Mineon people.

Jeep Safari: Travel off the beaten track through traditional mountain villages - a real chance to see a taste of real Greece.

Beach Party: Join your Olympic Reps on your very own sandy beach for an afternoon of partying in the sun! An hour and half free bar will get you in the mood to join in some wild and wicket games.

For further information and to secure your place on all the above exciting days and nights out, see your Olympic representative in the resort. The best time to book would be at the Welcome Get Together on the day after arrival.

Getting Around on Crete East Heraklion Holidays

Bus: Public buses remain a solid possibility for seeing much of Crete. They're inexpensive, relatively frequent, and connect to all but the most isolated villages. The downside is that the schedules are not always the most convenient for travellers with limited time. Certainly you can take them between all major resorts and towns.

Taxi: Getting around by Taxi during Crete holidays is cheap and convenient, be sure to set the price beforehand or ensure the meter us running.

Car: An excellent way of getting around during Crete holidays, car hire gives you complete flexibility as well as the ability to see more of the island.

Crete East Heraklion Holidays Shopping

Popular purchases for those taking Crete holidays include:-

• Tsikoudia or Raki local high street spirit
• Traditional woven fabrics, Cretan Rugs and Blankets
• Locally produced Olive Oil
• Ceramics
• Silverware

Weather and climate information

In the north of Crete the climate is typically Mediterranean; in the south it's almost subtropical. Spring comes early with average temperatures of 15C/61F in March and 20C/68F in April. Summers are baking hot and dry but with strong sea breezes. July and August are the hottest (and windiest) months - temperatures average 25.9C/85F and can reach 40C/104F.

From November to March the weather is cooler and damper, although even in January the average temperature is 12C. During this period, many attractions close, and it can be very cold indeed in the mountains, where snow falls regularly.

East Crete Holidays - View 5 Day Forecast