Crete All-Inclusive Holidays: An Expert’s Guide to Greece’s Largest Island
Welcome to Crete, where you can spend your days exploring ancient civilizations and modern luxury, and evenings enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Agios Nikolaos is a charming resort town that sits dramatically over the scenic Mirabello Bay. Indulge in local cuisine and drinks, and treat yourself to the culinary delights Crete has to offer. Enjoy a slower pace during your all inclusive holiday, perfect for lounging by the pool or on the sandy beaches. Whether you’re searching for budget-friendly holiday options or looking for all inclusive holidays to Crete, you’ll find great value in our all-inclusive packages that cover flights, meals, and snacks without extra costs.
Crete’s all inclusive hotels offer luxurious accommodations featuring pools and spas, ensuring a relaxing stay. Head to the waterfront for leisure activities and nightlife, or walk through historical sites and mingle with locals. Spend your nights at lively clubs and bars, or find the perfect spot for a quieter evening. Nearby attractions and dining options abound, making it easy to explore and enjoy. Shop at local markets and discover vibrant shops, or simply unwind and enjoy the scenic beauty of the harbour. Crete is the ideal getaway, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation for everyone, including family-friendly activities for the little ones.
Choosing Your Perfect Location
Dr. Michalis Alexandrakis, Cretan tourism director with 30 years of experience, explains: “Crete’s size means each region has its own character. While Malia attracts younger crowds, areas like Elounda, located near the picturesque Mirabello Bay, offer sophisticated luxury. Chania, with its Medieval harbour, and Rethymnon combine beautiful beaches with rich history. Aghios Nikolaos and Heraklion provide vibrant waterfront experiences with bars and cafés, perfect for leisure activities and nightlife.”
Resort Areas Overview
Heraklion Region
Hersonissos
- Best for: Families, active couples
- Known for: Water parks, sandy beaches, nightlife, inclusive hotels
- Atmosphere: Lively, tourist-friendly
- Distance from airport: 20 minutes
- Beach type: Sandy, organized, perfect spot for various activities
Hersonissos is located on Crete’s northern coast and is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse attractions. The area offers great value with its all-inclusive holidays to Crete, making it a convenient travel option for those seeking a relaxing getaway. Families with little ones will appreciate the family-friendly activities and safe, shallow waters. Luxurious accommodations featuring pools add to the appeal, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free vacation experience.
Visitors can enjoy the lively nightlife with numerous clubs and bars, while the nearby attractions and dining options enhance the overall experience. The vibrant shops in Hersonissos offer a range of products, from traditional goods to designer boutiques, making it a shopper’s paradise.
Malia
- Best for: Young groups, party lovers
- Known for: Vibrant nightlife, beach parties, beach bars, and clubs
- Atmosphere: Energetic, youthful
- Distance from airport: 35 minutes
- Beach type: Long sandy beach, perfect for day and night activities
Gouves
- Best for: Families, peaceful seekers, and those looking for a relaxing getaway
- Known for: Traditional village, quiet beaches, and family-friendly activities for little ones
- Atmosphere: Relaxed, authentic, and stress-free
- Distance from airport: 15 minutes
- Beach type: Mixed sand and pebble, with safe, shallow waters ideal for little ones
Nearby attractions and dining options enhance the appeal of Gouves, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing vacation.
Lassithi Region
Elounda
- Best for: Luxury seekers, couples
- Known for: High-end resorts, Spinalonga island, scenic harbour
- Atmosphere: Sophisticated, exclusive
- Distance from airport: 1 hour
- Beach type: Sheltered bays, crystal waters, vibrant waterfront leisure activities and nightlife
Agios Nikolaos
- Best for: Mixed groups, couples
- Known for: Lake, harbour, dining, waterfront leisure activities, nightlife
- Atmosphere: Cosmopolitan yet traditional, charming
- Distance from airport: 45 minutes
- Beach type: Small coves, municipal beach, scenic bays
Chania Region
Platanias
- Best for: Families, couples
- Known for: Long beach, shopping, vibrant shops offering traditional leather goods, ceramics, and local delicacies. You can also witness artisans at work in some stores and explore designer boutiques and markets.
- Atmosphere: Lively but not overwhelming
- Distance from airport: 30 minutes
- Beach type: Long sandy beach
Agia Marina
- Best for: Families, beach lovers, little ones
- Known for: Beautiful beach, water sports, nearby attractions
- Atmosphere: Tourist-friendly, relaxed
- Distance from airport: 25 minutes
- Beach type: Sandy, shallow waters, ideal for little ones
Agia Marina is perfect for families, especially those with little ones, thanks to its safe, shallow waters. Additionally, there are plenty of nearby attractions and dining options to explore, making it a well-rounded destination for all ages.
Rethymnon Region
Adelianos Kampos
- Best for: Families, beach enthusiasts
- Known for: Long beach, traditional tavernas
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly, peaceful
- Distance from airport: 1 hour
- Beach type: Sandy, gently shelving
Climate and When to Visit
Maria Stavrakaki, local meteorologist, explains: “Crete enjoys the longest summer in Greece, with warm weather from April through October. The south coast is generally warmer and drier than the north.”
Seasonal Overview
Spring (April-May)
- Temperature: 15-25°C
- Rainfall: Light occasional showers
- Highlights: Wildflowers, Easter celebrations
- Perfect for: Hiking, sightseeing
- Special note: Ideal for archaeological site visits
Summer (June-September)
- Temperature: 25-35°C
- Rainfall: Very rare
- Highlights: Beach life, water sports
- Perfect for: Swimming, resort activities
- Special note: South coast can be very hot
Autumn (September-October)
- Temperature: 20-28°C
- Rainfall: Occasional
- Highlights: Grape harvest, warm sea
- Perfect for: Swimming, hiking, culture
- Special note: Perfect for mixed activities
Winter (November-March)
- Temperature: 10-20°C
- Rainfall: More frequent
- Highlights: Green landscapes, snow on mountains
- Perfect for: Cultural visits, local life
- Special note: Many resorts close
Beyond Your Resort
Professor Andreas Markakis, archaeological expert and tour guide, advises: “Crete’s history spans 5,000 years. Don’t miss Knossos Palace, but also explore lesser-known sites like Phaistos and Malia Palace.”
Must-See Attractions
Palace of Knossos
- Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Book: Licensed guide recommended
- Tip: Buy combined ticket with Heraklion Museum
Samaria Gorge
- Best time: Early morning start
- Duration: Full day
- Season: May to October
- Note: Moderate fitness required
Spinalonga Island
- Best time: Morning for photos
- Duration: Half day
- Access: Boat from Elounda/Agios Nikolaos
- Historical note: Former leper colony
Chania Old Town
- Best time: Evening for atmosphere
- Duration: Half day or full day
- Highlight: Venetian harbor
- Tip: Visit local market in morning
Local Experiences and Activities
Water Activities
- Balos Lagoon boat trips
- Diving in Elephants Cave
- Snorkeling in Elounda
- Water sports in Hersonissos
- Cave exploration by boat
Cultural Experiences
- Traditional cooking classes
- Olive oil tasting tours
- Wine routes of Heraklion
- Pottery workshops
- Shepherds’ hut visits
Dining and Cuisine
Chef Georgios Mavrakis, owner of a traditional taverna in Archanes, shares: “Cretan cuisine is the heart of the Mediterranean diet. Even in all-inclusive resorts, seek out local specialties like dakos, kalitsounia, and gamopilafo.”
Local Specialties
- Dakos (Cretan rusk salad)
- Kalitsounia (herb or cheese pies)
- Gamopilafo (wedding rice with lamb)
- Sfakianopita (cheese pie)
- Apaki (smoked pork)
Recommended Local Restaurants
Salis, Chania
- Specialty: Modern Cretan
- Price range: High
- Best for: Fine dining
- Must try: Fresh fish
Peskesi, Heraklion
- Specialty: Traditional Cretan
- Price range: Medium-high
- Best for: Authentic local dishes
- Must try: Gamopilafo
Ferryman, Elounda
- Specialty: Seafood
- Price range: High
- Best for: Harbor views
- Must try: Fresh catch of the day
Practical Information
Transport
- Airport transfers: Two main airports (Heraklion and Chania)
- Local buses: KTEL service between major towns
- Taxis: Available but book in advance
- Car rental: Recommended for exploring
- Boat services: Regular between coastal towns
Money Matters
- Currency: Euro
- ATMs: Widely available
- Credit cards: Accepted in most places
- Local markets: Cash preferred
- Resort extras: Check all-inclusive terms
Health and Safety
- Emergency number: 112
- Hospitals: Major facilities in Heraklion, Chania
- Pharmacies: Found in all towns
- Water: Safe to drink in most areas
- Sun protection: Essential
Cultural Insights
Local Customs
- Philoxenia (hospitality) is important
- Late dining (after 9pm common)
- Casual dress acceptable
- Religious sites require modest dress
- Local festivals (panigiria) welcome visitors
Language Tips
- Hello: Yassas
- Thank you: Efharisto
- Please: Parakalo
- Good morning: Kalimera
- Good evening: Kalispera
Tipping Culture
Hospitality expert Nikolaos Papadakis explains: “While all-inclusive packages cover most services, tipping is appreciated for exceptional service.”
Tipping Guidelines
Restaurants & Tavernas
- Local restaurants: 5-10%
- High-end restaurants: 10-15%
- Cafes: Round up bill
- Hotel restaurants: Optional
All-Inclusive Resorts
- Bar staff: €1-2 per drink round
- Housekeeping: €1-2 daily
- Restaurant staff: €5-10 per week
- Concierge: €5-10 for special services
Transportation
- Taxi drivers: Round up or 10%
- Tour guides: €10-15 per day
- Private drivers: €20 per day
- Boat trip crews: €2-5 per person
Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
Environmental scientist Dr. Elena Papadimitriou advises: “Crete faces challenges with water conservation and overtourism. Choose eco-certified accommodations and visit popular sites in off-peak hours.”
Eco-Friendly Practices
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Carry reusable water bottles
- Support local producers
- Use public transport where possible
- Respect protected areas
- Choose local products
Expert Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay
- Visit archaeological sites early morning
- Book popular restaurants in advance
- Use local buses for authentic experiences
- Explore mountain villages
- Try local wines
- Learn basic Greek phrases
- Respect siesta times (3-5pm)
- Book gorge hikes with licensed guides
Planning Your Perfect Holiday
Best Time to Book
- Summer peak: 8-10 months ahead
- Shoulder season: 6-8 months ahead
- Winter: 3-4 months ahead
- Easter period: Book very early
Package Types
- Standard all-inclusive
- Ultra all-inclusive
- Family packages
- Adult-only options
- Luxury all-inclusive
Region Selection Tips
- First-time visitors: Heraklion area for central location
- History lovers: Chania or Rethymnon
- Luxury seekers: Elounda
- Party lovers: Malia
- Families: Hersonissos or Agia Marina
- Peace seekers: Sissi or Gouves
Final Recommendations
“Crete is an island of contrasts,” says Dr. Alexandrakis. “From your all-inclusive base, explore our rich history, unique gastronomy, and natural wonders. Don’t miss our mountain villages, where time seems to stand still, and always make time for a meal in a family taverna.”
Essential Experiences
- Watch sunset from Balos Lagoon
- Visit a mountain village
- Try local raki with meze
- Explore Knossos Palace
- Swim in a secluded beach
- Visit a local market
- Hike a gorge
- Attend a local festival
Best Photo Opportunities
- Spinalonga at sunrise
- Chania harbor at sunset
- Balos Lagoon viewpoint
- Phaistos Palace ruins
- Elafonisi pink sand beach
- Rethymnon old town
- Preveli Palm Beach
- Samaria Gorge
Explore Crete
Note: All expert recommendations are based on professional experience in Cretan tourism and hospitality. Contact specific travel agents for current offerings and availability. While all-inclusive resorts provide excellent amenities, we encourage you to explore beyond your resort to discover the true spirit of Crete.