When Greece comes to mind, you might think of sunbathing on white sand beaches next to the vibrant Aegean Sea, but the island of Crete is so much more than that! The Mediterranean climate means sunny weather year-round, which means that Crete might be at its best during the winter months.
Crete has those gorgeous beaches that Greece is known for, but it’s also got mountains and canyons, a Purple Hour sunset that might be the best in the world, fun hikes, and the ruins of a civilization so old that it was considered ancient history even by the standards of Ancient Greece.
Whatever you’re looking for, Crete has it and the off-season might be the best time of year to find it! Prices are low, the streets aren’t overcrowded with throngs of tourists and the days aren’t unbearably hot. I also enjoy exploring the small roads winding through the island’s hilly center for hours on end. And the view of the sunset is unforgettable!
In my opinion, the less-explored beauty of Crete is a far better experience than the overcrowded, expensive islands of Greece like Mykonos and Santorini. This island is a place I haven’t spent enough time in and can’t wait to get back to.