Crete Travel Guide
Crete: 10 Days on the Wild & Wonderful West Coast
Crete had been on my radar for quite a while. Greece’s largest island, rich in culture, mythology, and natural beauty, seemed like the ideal destination for a summer escape. This time, we focused on the West Coast and made sure to include everything from remote pink-sand beaches to picturesque old towns and sophisticated resorts. We planned 10 days in total, which I highly recommend—less would be rushed, more would be paradise.
The best decision? Renting a Mini Cabrio. There’s nothing quite like cruising along Crete’s coastal roads, hair in the wind, the Mediterranean shimmering in the rearview. Buckle up for a mix of barefoot beach days, elegant dinners, boat adventures and historic city charm. Here’s how we made the most of it.
The Dream: Elafonisi Beach
Our journey began in the remote southwest. If you've ever seen photos of Elafonisi Beach with its famous pink sand and shallow turquoise lagoons, you might think they're photoshopped. They’re not. Elafonisi is truly magical—but only if you plan your timing right. Most people visit on a day trip from Chania or Rethymno, which means it gets crowded. We stayed nearby at Elafonisi Villas, which allowed us to enjoy the beach early in the morning and after 6 PM—when the daytrippers are long gone and the light turns golden.
The villas are perched above the coast with sweeping views, a great pool, and a laid-back Greek vibe. It’s more of a self-catering setup than a full-service hotel, but for a few days of raw beauty and quiet, it’s perfect. The west of Crete feels untouched and wild, so come prepared with a car and a spirit of adventure.
DO
Visit Elafonisi early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Walk the sandbar to the islet and bring water shoes for the rocky parts
Watch sunset from your villa with some local rosé
SLEEP
Elafonisi Villas / great location, panoramic views, relaxed privacy / €€
The Showstopper: Balos & Gramvousa by Private Boat
Crete isn’t short on postcard-worthy beaches, but Balos might just be the star. Located on the northwestern tip of the island, it’s best accessed either by a 4x4 along a very rocky road—or by private boat, which was our choice. We started our day early from Kissamos Port and chartered a boat to take us first to Gramvousa Island, a rugged place with a Venetian fortress and stunning views.
After a hike and swim, we continued to Balos. The lagoon’s colors range from milky turquoise to deep cobalt, and the white sand feels like sugar. On a private boat, you have the freedom to arrive before the crowds, explore hidden coves, and picnic onboard.
DO
Charter a boat from Kissamos for Gramvousa & Balos (worth every euro)
Bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light lunch for a boat day
Don’t miss hiking up Gramvousa for aerial views of the bay
The Sophistication: Chania
From the wild west, we made our way northeast to Chania, the most charming town on Crete. With its Venetian harbor, pastel buildings, elegant restaurants and boutique shopping, it’s a totally different vibe from the beach life we had just left behind.
We stayed at AZADE Hotel, a beautifully restored neoclassical townhouse right in the heart of the old town. Think bohemian elegance with designer details and a roof terrace for morning coffee or sunset drinks. It was the perfect base for three nights of urban exploration and romantic strolls along the waterfront.
EAT
Pallas / fine dining with sunset views over the harbor / €€€
Salis / modern Greek cuisine with an excellent wine list / €€
Senal / casual local gem hidden with great food / €€
DRINK
Boheme / perfect for an aperitivo in a lush courtyard / €€
The monastery of Karolos / DJ beats and creative cocktails in an old monastery courtyard / €€
Manousakis Winery / lovely hidden gem atop Chania with guided tours and tastings in lush gardens / €
SLEEP
AZADE Hotel / refined style in Chania’s old town / rooftop terrace & great breakfast / €€
The Luxury Finale: Elounda
After a week of exploring Crete’s west and north, we headed east to Elounda for a luxurious ending to our trip. While Elounda is technically on the northeast coast, it’s worth the drive for a complete change of scenery. Here, the coast is more developed but in a very elegant way—think quiet coves, glamorous resorts and high-end dining.
We checked into Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel, a resort that takes privacy and design to another level. Each suite has its own pool, many with direct sea access. Service is impeccable, and there are several excellent restaurants on property. The mood? Understated Greek Riviera with a hint of jet-set nostalgia. Read our Review here.
EAT
Calypso / fine dining inside Elounda Peninsula with French flair / €€€€
Old Mill at Elounda Mare / Cretan tasting menu in a romantic garden / €€€
Kanali / fresh fish and sea views in a laid-back setting / €€
DO
Visit the island of Spinalonga by boat
Have a long, lazy lunch at Plaka village nearby
Spend a full day enjoying your suite, pool and resort facilities
SLEEP
Elounda Peninsula / private pools, sophisticated service, seaside bliss / €€€€
Crete by Cabrio: The Ultimate Way to Explore
Crete is huge. A car is essential, but if you want to elevate your experience, rent a Mini Cabrio. From winding mountain roads to dramatic coastal drives, the scenery is spectacular. We loved the freedom of having the roof down, the playlists blasting and the landscapes changing around every corner. If you're planning a 10-day route like ours (Elafonisi – Balos – Chania – Elounda), a Mini Cabrio is both fun and functional.
Crete’s west coast surprised us. It’s raw and real, yet full of refined touches if you know where to look. From pink sand to blue lagoons, wild hills to polished hotels—this trip gave us a little bit of everything. If you’re dreaming of a Greek getaway that balances luxury and authenticity, Crete is calling.
