Hello,
We have reserved a timeshare for a week in crete. We are trying to decide whether to rent a car. We will be staying about 15 miles from the capital and we know we want to see as much of the island as possible.
Any tips on getting around and what to see in crete would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Laurie
A car would be handy and provide the most flexibility. Crete has a pretty good bus system, but as anywhere in Greece, it seems to get someplace and back in a day (except maybe from where you will be staying into Heraklion and back) is a challenge.
A week does not leave much time, assuming you probably want beach time as well, but of course hit the Museum in Heraklion as well as the Arch site at Knossos, it is close to you. Aside from that, Chania is a great city to check out, many people also like to hike the Samara Gorge, and if you have a car, you can check out smaller towns or other ancient sites.
Laurie
I agree with Paul that a car is worth it, if funds allow.
There is a regular bus service, pretty much hourly, along the north coast from Agios Nikolaos to Chania. That means it is easy to get to Rethymnon and Chania, both of which are worth a visit.
Getting by bus into the mountains, or onto the south coast, is much trickier though. If you want to be able to just spend time touring about then you really need a car.
Alan
Crete is huge and it takes a minimum of a week with a rental car just to barely scratch the surface, so yes, you do need to rent one. Be sure to go to your local AAA office to pick up an International Driving Permit, no test or membership required. Bring 2 passport photos with you to save a few dollars.
I would get a car. I visited Crete many years ago and didn't rent, but we were really limited in what we could see and do. We loved it though.
Pam
