Imagine a winter wonderland not blanketed in snow, but bathed in Mediterranean sunlight. Welcome to Crete in winter. As Greece’s most autonomous and diverse island, Crete is an intriguing place to visit all year round. Its cities are very vibrant and buzzing, full of life, while its rural locations are effortlessly astonishing, as winter gives the landscapes an alluring Winterland charm. While the Mediterranean winter climate in Crete is mild with occasional cold spells, visitors can expect many crisp, sunny days. Read on to find out what three destinations in Crete make a great escape in the winter months.

Heraklion - The Fortified City

The capital of Crete is none other than Heraklion, the largest fortified city in the Mediterranean. A city whose old town centres around a beautiful harbour that is enveloped by Venetian Walls, which provide a riveting promenade with amazing scenic views of the sea on the one hand, and the mountains on the other. A cosmopolitan city that combines contemporary vibes with a diverse cultural heritage that spans centuries, from the Ancient Greek eras up to modern-day history. The Koules Fortress, located right on the seafront at the harbour, is the garrison of Heraklion; imposing and impressive, it is one of the most iconic sites in the city.

A stroll around its centre, which is a maze of streets, will lead you to the stunning marble Morosini fountain at Lion’s Square, while you can also admire the patron St. Minas Cathedral and St. Titus church on 25th August Street. For immersing into the local vibes, the central market of 1866 Street houses a plethora of stores that carry local wares of their many local and high-quality products. Cretan cuisine is known far and wide, so sampling the local gastronomy is an absolute must! Sample the local spirit, Raki, but remember it's strong! It’s a usual Cretan welcome treat, and remember to savour the delicious honey-glazed doughnuts called ‘loukoumades’. As you relax during downtime, surrender to an unequalled sense of pampering and experience a bit of understated luxury in a central city hotel home to some fine dining restaurants in Heraklion.

Chania - Colourful Cretan Town

Chania is one of the most picturesque prefectures of Crete. With a gorgeous Venetian port built around the city, it provides incredibly scenic walks for its winter guests. With a many cafes, restaurants, tavernas, and bars, a stroll around will create a dilemma about what to experience first. Some of these are higher up in the buildings surrounding the port and offer wonderful views. The embankment of Chania also includes a mosque built during the Ottoman Empire in 1694 that usually hosts a number of exhibitions and is considered an attraction in its own right.

The iconic lighthouse, located at the furthest point where the ports meet the open sea, greets the boats that enter and is visible from almost anywhere around the port. It is an incredibly photogenic landmark, especially around the sunset, with the waves crashing over its base if it is a windy day. However, it is highly likely that you will also be able to enjoy the mild winter weather that Crete is known for, thus making a saunter around truly fulfilling. For a central location combined with Cretan hospitality, choose a hotel in the heart of Chania that features many facilities and amenities that will make your stay as-as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Charming streets of the old town in Chania

Communal area at Samaria Hotel in Chania

Lassithi - Breathtaking Landscapes

Lassithi is Crete's easternmost regional area that receives less tourism, primarily because there is so much going on elsewhere in Crete. However, when talking about Crete's natural beauty, you should highlight the landscapes of Lassithi. It may not be the home of Mount Psiloritis (in Rethymno), the White Mountains, or Lefka Ori (in Chania). Still, it does boast striking beaches that soothe your soul as you gaze upon them on crisp winter days, such as the beautiful region of Elounda. Although famous for the summer holidays, the sea view suites of Elounda boast spectacular views of Mirabello Gulf that visitors can enjoy during the winter season.

Private beach club at Elounda Gulf Villas Resort

Agios Nikolaos is the region's capital and a popular destination, offering art, culture, exceptional food, and beaches. Lassithi also features an impressive plateau surrounded by a mountain range, which is simply spectacular. Venturing out into the Cretan countryside during the winter months has a charm that comes second to none. It is strongly suggested to spend some time driving around to fully appreciate all that Lassithi has to offer. There are many picturesque and traditional villages to discover, thus immersing into the local culture as much as possible.