Find a perfect sunshine villa break in Crete
The largest of all the Greek Islands, Crete has a wealth of stunning landscapes, ancient history and hidden coves to explore. Alongside sun-soaked golden sands, a Crete holiday delivers a diversity that sees people return time after time. Discover the wonder of ancient civilisations at the archaeological museum in Chania, before seeing the real thing at the Minoan Palace of Knossos. If you prefer an active Greece holiday, take a hike in the White Mountains or go snorkelling in turquoise waters. The choices here are endless.
The island of Crete is a popular package holiday destination, but if you’re looking for something a little more personal, browse our range of luxurious villas to find something with wow factor. Looking for sweeping sea views and sandy beaches within walking distance? Or do you have a large family that needs outdoor space to play? Choose from gorgeous white-washed villas with their own private pools, or stone-built homes with leafy gardens and terraces for al fresco dining.
All of our Crete villa holidays come with our best price guarantee, so you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible deal for your getaway. If you live for the thrill of exploring somewhere new, a day in Chania, one of Europe’s oldest cities, is essential; stroll the Venetian harbour and dine out on Cretan meze, made with fresh, local produce and rich olive oil. Or visit the Blue Flag beaches of bustling Agia Pelagia and secluded Agios Nikolaos to really discover the two sides to this enchanting island.
Sfakaki
Xerokampos
Falasarna
Kissamos
Achlades
Stalós
Agia Pelagia
Chania Town
Chania Town
Villa holidays provide the perfect combination of affordability and comfort. Villa holidays are often much cheaper than staying in hotels, allowing you to enjoy the flexibility of self-catering accommodation without spending a fortune. You can choose from a wide selection of villas, all of which offer spacious living areas and fully-equipped kitchens. You'll have the perfect space to relax and unwind without relying on the extra charges and amenities of a hotel.
A villa and a hotel are both popular vacation lodging choices, but there are some key differences that set them apart. Villas offer more in the way of privacy and seclusion, with spacious rooms, dedicated outdoor areas, and larger kitchens allowing for relaxed in-home meals and entertainment. Moreover, villas are often located in residential areas, with access to the local community and amenities. In contrast, hotels offer a more traditional and convenient lodging experience.
The best time to visit Crete is in the spring or autumn, when temperatures are more moderate and there is less rainfall.
Some of the best areas to stay on holiday in Crete include the port city of Chania, with its charming old town and lively waterfront area, the bustling beach resort of Malia, and the beautiful Elounda region with its many beaches, golden sand and crystal clear waters.
To get to Crete from the UK, you will need to fly to Heraklion International Airport in Crete. Direct flights between the UK and Heraklion can be found with airlines such as Thomas Cook and Aegean Airlines. From Heraklion Airport, you can take a ferry, bus or hire a car to transfer to your chosen destination on the island.
The currency used in Crete is the Euro (EUR).
The time difference between the UK and Crete is two hours ahead.
The main language spoken in Crete is Greek, with most of the population also speaking English as a second language.
Crete has plenty of opportunities to explore. Visiting the four UNESCO World Heritage sites, exploring the many archaeological sites, or tasting local dishes all make it a great destination. Visit the towns of Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos to be enthralled by the beauty of the Mediterranean.
Crete is renowned for its abundance of fresh, home-grown ingredients in its unique Mediterranean cuisine. On offer are traditional Greek dishes with local herbs and spices such as moussaka, fava and dakos, as well as delectable seafood dishes. Local wines, ouzo and Cretan raki are the perfect accompaniments to the traditional dishes.
Crete is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Europe. Sandy beaches, clear blue waters, spectacular cliffs and unique rock formations make these beaches some of the most desired vacation spots in the Mediterranean. The endless stretch of shorelines make perfect spots for swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing and other water sports.
Greece’s sun-drenched islands have been delighting holiday-goers for years. Whether you’re seeking the family-friendly atmosphere of Paxos and Corfu, or the magnificent ancient history of Rhodes, Greece offers a little slice of holiday paradise.