• Samaria National Park
  

  
  A breathtaking gorge in the southwestern part of the island in Chania Prefecture. A hike through the complete gorge takes five to seven hours, and is only for the physically fit.
  
  

• Beaches
  

  
  There are scores of beaches on the island. They range from small, stone shingle beaches to long stretches of glistening sand. Some are crowded, with umbrellas and bars, and some are totally secluded.
  
  

• Knossos
  

  
  The Minoan Palace of Knossos is the site of the most important and best known Minoan palace complex in Crete. According to tradition, Knossos was the seat of the legendary Cretan king Minos. The Palace is also connected with further legends, such as the myth of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur, as well as the story of Daidalos and Ikaros.
  
  

• Heraklion Archaeological Museum
  

  
  Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses the most important and representative finds from Minoan civilisation and excavations across the island of Crete. Highlights include statues of the Snake Goddess, the famous Bull-Leaping Fresco, the enigmatic and mysterious Phaistos Disk, and Minoan seals and jewelery.
  
  

• Spinalonga Island
  

  
  Located in the Elounda Bay in eastern Crete, this island is fascinating. It was a Venetian fortress that was later occupied by the Turkish. Today it is open to tourists, and provides a fascinating look at the architecture of all the periods.
  
  

• Monasteries
  

  
  Lovely monasteries are found all over the island. The most famous ones include St. George of Selinari, Moni Toplou and Preveli.
  
  

• Chania
  

  
  Chania is a beautiful port town on the north west coast of Crete, with an atmosphere reflecting its Venetian and Turkish past.
  
  

• Lasithi Plateau
  

  
  The Lasithi Plateau, 900 meters above sea level, is a vast expanse of apple orchards, almond trees and fields of crops. The plateau is a popular bike route.
  
  

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