West Crete Itinerary: Explore in 5 Days

Introduction

Are you prepared for an awe-inspiring adventure on the stunning island of Crete, Greece? With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and pristine beaches, Crete offers an unparalleled experience for travellers.

Though 5 days may seem short to explore such a vast island, fear not! We have curated an exciting itinerary for you to make the most out of your trip to West Crete. Let's delve into the highlights of this mesmerizing destination!

On your first day in West Crete, you'll arrive in Chania, a charming Venetian port city located on the northwest coast of the island. Chania has a rich history and is home to numerous landmarks, museums, and galleries.

‍

Looking for a trustworthy transfer on your holiday? Click here

‍

THE 10 BEST Chania Town Beach Hotels of 2023 HERE

‍

Do you prefer vacation rentals? HERE you can find the best.

‍

Day 1: Chania

‍

Morning: Explore Chania Old Town

Start your day's adventure by delving into the labyrinthine Chania Old Town, a network of narrow streets and alleyways that will transport you back in time. 

This historic district boasts an array of architectural gems, including the iconic Venetian Harbor, the formidable Firka Fortress, and the historic Mosque of the Janissaries. 

Dive into the rich history of Chania, Crete, Greece, as you explore the charming and picturesque Chania Old Harbour. 

Discover the fascinating story behind this ancient city and experience its cultural heritage firsthand.

‍

Chania Old Town Private Tour with pick up HERE

‍

Afternoon: Visit the Chania Archaeological Museum

After exploring the old town, head to the Chania Archaeological Museum to learn more about the island's ancient history. 

The museum has a large collection of Minoan artifacts, including pottery, jewellery, and sculptures.

Evening: Dinner at a traditional taverna in Chania Old Town

Take a relaxing evening walk along the charming Chania Town and delight in the stunning scenery as the sun sets. Submerge yourself in the local culture by treating yourself to the delectable flavours of Cretan cuisine at a traditional taverna. 

Indulge in fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and exquisite local wines. For the best dinner in Chania, head to one of the charming restaurants in Chania Old Town, where you can savour mouth-watering dishes and soak up the ambience. 

Make sure to try the seafood dinner in Chania, and create unforgettable memories to end your day in this beautiful city.

‍

Restaurants in Chania Town HERE

‍

‍

Tips: 

Enjoy the sunset: The Chania Harbor is known for its stunning sunsets. Find a cosy spot at one of the local bars or restaurants and enjoy a drink while watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon. It's a perfect way to end a day at the harbour.

Take a boat tour: One of the best ways to experience the harbour is by taking a boat tour. You can choose between a day or evening tour and enjoy views of the Venetian buildings and the Aegean Sea.

‍

‍

Day 2: Balos Beach - A Photographer's Paradise

Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of Balos Beach, a natural wonder that will leave you in awe. Balos Beach is a stunning natural wonder located in the northwest of Crete, Greece.

It is known for its turquoise blue waters, soft white sand, and breathtaking views. 

The beach is situated on the Balos Peninsula, a rugged and rocky landform that juts out into the Mediterranean Sea. 

The peninsula is also home to the famous Balos Lagoon, which is separated from the open sea by a narrow strip of sand. 

Balos Beach is also family-friendly, offering shallow and warm waters, perfect for children to swim and play. Relax and unwind in this idyllic setting, and let the natural beauty of Balos Beach captivate your senses.

‍

Gramvoussa and Balos Beach boat tickets here

‍

Balos Lagoon & Falassarna Beach - Semi Private Jeep Tour with Lunch here

‍

‍

‍

Morning: Boat trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island

Start your day early and head to the Kissamos Port to embark on a boat trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.

The boat trip will take you through the scenic Balos Bay and Balos Peninsula, providing breathtaking views of the sea, cliffs, and beaches. If you are lucky, you may even spot some dolphins swimming alongside the boat.

Afternoon: Turquoise-blue wonder

After a one-hour boat ride, you will arrive at the uninhabited island of Gramvousa, where you can explore the famous Gramvousa Fortress which offers panoramic views of the surroundings. You can also relax on the beach or go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters.

After spending 1.5 hours on Gramvousa Island, the boat will take you to the Balos Lagoon, listed as one of the world's best beaches. You will have 2.5 hours to enjoy the turquoise waters, pink sandy beach, and the natural beauty of the surrounding cliffs and rocks.

Evening: After a perfect day

After returning to the Kissamos Port, you can head back to your accommodation in Chania town. Time to get a good night's sleep for the next day. 

Tips: 

Bring appropriate shoes: The hike up to the top of the hill next to Balos Beach can be quite rocky and steep, so it's recommended to wear appropriate shoes with good grip. Sneakers or hiking shoes are good as well.

You can visit Balos Beach without car with hotel pickup. Click here to Book.

‍

Day 3: Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the southwestern region of Crete, Greece. It is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island and is a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and adventure. 

The gorge stretches for over 16 kilometres and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it a protected area that is home to rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. 

‍

Samaria Gorge Tour from Chania with Hotel pickup HERE.

‍

Morning: Hiking through Samaria Gorge

Begin your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Chania, and embark on an approximately 1.5-hour drive to Omalos Plateau. While on the drive, admire the natural beauty of the White Mountains, and witness some of the unique rock formations in the region.

Upon arriving at the plateau, enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead.

After breakfast, begin your hike through the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's longest and most stunning gorges. The hike spans approximately 13 kilometres, and it will take you between 5 to 7 hours to complete depending on your pace.

As you hike through the gorge, appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you, from towering cliffs and rock formations to verdant trees and plants. Listen to your English-speaking guide as they point out the various rare plants, flowers, and bird species that are native to the region.

The hike may be challenging, but the breathtaking scenery will make it worth the effort.

Afternoon: Rest and relax in the village of Agia Roumeli

As you reach the end of the hike, you will arrive in the coastal village of Agia Roumeli.

Here, you can spend some time relaxing and swimming in the refreshing waters of the Libyan Sea or indulge in some local Cretan cuisine in one of the many tavernas or restaurants.

Later, meet up with your guide to collect your ferry tickets to Sfakia. Take the opportunity to explore the village and its surroundings before you board the ferry for your next adventure.

Evening: Libyan Sea Adventure

As you board the ferry, sit back and relax as you enjoy a scenic ride along the Libyan Sea. The ferry will take you through the stunning coastline of Crete, and you will get to witness some of the most beautiful beaches and hidden coves.

Upon arriving in Sfakia, a bus will be waiting to transfer you back to your starting point in Chania. Arrive back at your hotel in the evening, tired but content after an unforgettable day of hiking, exploring, and taking in the beauty of Samaria Gorge.

‍

Timetable to the Ferry from Agia Roumeli to Sfakia HERE.

Tips: 

Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: The hike through the gorge is a strenuous 13-kilometre trek, so make sure to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip. It's also important to wear breathable clothing that covers your skin to protect you from the sun and insects.

Bring plenty of water and snacks: 

There are no shops or restaurants along the way, so make sure to bring enough water and snacks to sustain you throughout the day. It's recommended to bring at least 2-3 litres of water per person.

Day 4: Elafonisi Beach - A Tropical Paradise

After a day of adventure, it's time to relax and unwind at the world-renowned Elafonisi Beach.

This tropical paradise boasts pink sands, turquoise waters, and untouched natural beauty that will transport you to a blissful state.

Ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Elafonisi Beach offers a tranquil escape, where you can soak up the sun, take a dip in the crystalline waters, or simply revel in the breathtaking scenery. 

‍

‍Elafonisi Full-Day Tour from Chania HERE

‍

Elafonisi Beach Private Tour HERE

‍

Morning: Drive to Elafonisi Beach

Start your day early and head towards Elafonisi, located on the southwest coast of Crete. It's approximately a 2-hour drive from Chania, but the scenic route offers breathtaking views of the island's rugged terrain.

As you leave Chania, you'll drive through picturesque villages and past stunning natural landscapes. You should pass through the village of Elos, which is famous for its chestnut trees, and stop for a quick breakfast and coffee break.

From there, you'll continue driving along the winding roads through the Topolia Gorge. The gorge is a narrow and twisted passage that cuts through the mountains and is a popular spot for tourists to stop and take in the stunning views.

As you emerge from the gorge, you'll soon catch your first glimpse of the sea and the breathtaking coastline that leads to Elafonisi.

Afternoon: Enjoying the beach and its crystal-clear waters

Once you arrive at Elafonisi Beach, you'll be amazed by the breathtaking views of crystal-clear turquoise waters and the unique pink sand.

The Pink Beach gets its distinctive hue from the crushed shells, and it's a must-see attraction on the island. During your stay on Elafonisi, be sure to take plenty of pictures to capture the beauty of this incredible island.

And if you get hungry, there are several local taverns nearby where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or snack. This day is about chilling. 

Evening: Wonderful memories 

It's time to head back to Chania. Keep in mind that the drive from Elafonisi to Chania takes around 2 hours, and it's recommended to start heading back before sunset to avoid driving in the dark.

The journey back to Chania offers another opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Crete, so take your time and enjoy the drive. You'll arrive back in Chania in the evening, filled with unforgettable memories of your Elafonisi trip.

Day 5: Rethymno

For the final day of your Crete adventure, you'll head to Rethymno, a town where history and charm collide. Explore the medieval town, with its narrow streets, Venetian architecture and Ottoman influences.

‍

Rethymno Walking & Gastronomy Tour HERE

‍

TOP Restaurants in Rethymnon HERE

‍

Rethymno & Kournas Lake - Private Tour from Chania with snacks HERE

‍

‍

Morning: Visit Rethymno Old Town and its landmarks

Begin your day trip by driving east from Chania to Rethymno. After about an hour's drive, you'll arrive at the heart of Rethymno, where you can explore the charming old town.

Take a stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional architecture, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the local shops.

Don't miss the Venetian Loggia and the Rimondi Fountain, both iconic landmarks of the city.

Afternoon: Exploring Rethymno Fortezza and its panoramic views

In the afternoon, head to the Rethymno harbour to enjoy some fresh seafood for lunch at one of the local tavernas near the Lighthouse of Rethymno.

After lunch, visit the impressive Rethymno Fortress, a Venetian-era structure that offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city. You can also take a walk along the sandy Rethymno beach, which is located just a short walk from the fortress.

Evening: Nightlife in Rethymno Old Town

As the sun sets, head back to the old town to explore its buzzing nightlife scene. You'll find plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, each offering a unique ambience and selection of Cretan delicacies.

Savour some traditional Cretan dishes and wash it down with some local wine or raki. Don't forget to grab some souvenirs and handcrafted items from the local markets before you leave.

As your adventure in Crete comes to a close, you can bid farewell to this remarkable island and its warm hospitality. Cherish the memories of your trip to Crete, and perhaps start planning your next visit to explore even more of its hidden gems. 

FAQs

What are the must-visit places in West Crete in 5 days?

Some of the must-visit places in West Crete include:

• Chania Old Town
• Rethymno Old Town
• Samaria Gorge
• Balos Beach
• Elafonisi Beach
• Knossos (located in Heraklion, but worth a day trip)

Is it possible to cover both Chania and Rethymno in 5 days?

Yes, it is possible to cover both Chania and Rethymno in 5 days. However, you will have to prioritize which activities and sights are most important to you.

How far is Rethymno from Chania?

Rethymno is approximately 65 kilometres east of Chania, and it takes about an hour to drive there.

What are some popular outdoor activities in West Crete?

Some popular outdoor activities in West Crete include:

• Hiking in the Samaria Gorge
• Snorkelling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Elafonisi Beach
• Taking a boat tour to Balos Beach
• Exploring the White Mountains on a Jeep Safari

What is the best time of the year to visit West Crete?

The best time to visit West Crete is during the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, if you want to swim in the sea and feel the 30-33 Celsius on your skin, the best time to visit is during the summer (June to August).

Is it necessary to rent a car to explore West Crete in 5 days?

It's not necessary to rent a car, but it's highly recommended if you want to explore the region fully. Public transportation in West Crete can be limited, and having a car gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want.

It is important to note, however, that the places mentioned in the blog can also be reached on an organised tour from Chania.

What is the best time to visit Elafonisi Beach?

The best time to visit Elafonisi Beach is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is warm and sunny.

WITH SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO IN CRETE, IT CAN BE HARD TO KNOW WHERE TO START. LET US TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF PLANNING BY CREATING A CUSTOMIZED ITINERARY JUST FOR YOU. CLICK HERE FOR MORE.