I will be arriving in June.
7 nights in Crete (should I stay all 7 nights in Chania, or do 4 in Chania and 3 somewhere else)? Would like to visit the popular beaches and historical sites. Recommendations on lodging (3 star or 4 star)?
On day 8, fly to Naxos, and stay in Naxos 3 nights. Should I stay near the port in the main part of town? Recommendations? Has anyone stayed at Iliada suites?
Day 11, ferry to Tinos. Should I stay near port in Tinos or rent car and stay somewhere else out of town? Recommendations? Has anyone stayed at Onar hotel and suites?
Day 14, ferry to Athens. 2 nights in Athens before flying out on day 16. Visit Parthenon, which neighborhood is best for lodging?
First timer and really want to experience Greek culture and food. Will rent a car at each location if needed. Budget is $200-$350 per night.
Any help on my itinerary would be greatly appreciated! And lodging recommendations also. Thank you!
Posted by
Chania, Crete
17 posts
"7 nights in Crete (should I stay all 7 nights in Chania, or do 4 in Chania and 3 somewhere else)? Would like to visit the popular beaches and historical sites. "
A base in or near Chania is good for 'popular beaches' by which you probably meant Balos, Falasarna and Elafonisi.
There is plenty of history everywhere in Crete but if you meant archaeological sites and of course, in Crete especially, Minoan sites it would be a good idea to spend a few days in or near Heraklion where you will be closer to these sites. And don't miss the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (the Chania one is very good too but the former is in another league).
Posted by
France Southwest - Occitanie
3488 posts
Personally, I can't imagine going to an island and staying less than five full days with a rental car given how much there is to do and see. And I don't see the point of going to an island only to stay in the capital/port, whether it's Naxos, Tinos, or anywhere else.
Below are few, if any, photos of Naxos Town or Tinos Town.
Naxos
https://photos.app.goo.gl/UsWAKEjA4BuBA42e8
Tinos
https://photos.app.goo.gl/FXQHRBf2wpa1Yinh7
But to each their own.
Posted by
469 posts
Yes, we stayed at Iliada Suites in October for four nights and it was sensational.
I have done a review on TA with some photos if you are interested. Here is the link to it.
We found everything about the hotel to be perfect, but do bear in mind there is not a swimmable beach there, which didn't bother us one bit. It does have a pool though and stunning views.
We booked a room with a terrace and hot tub, although the terrace alone would have been enough.
Posted by
Indiana
1126 posts
Our stay at Hotel Grotta in Naxos was terrific. We loved everything about it, from the staff to the facilities and a breakfast that is wonderful. It's a very short walk to Naxos town, an we walked to other areas as well. We had a phenomenal private guide for a day trip to places further afield on the island, unfortunately he is no longer conducting tours.
Posted by
21 posts
Are you planning to hire a car or use public transport on Crete?
Posted by
176 posts
In Naxos we stayed at the Naxian Secret which I highly recommend. From its location it is a 15-20 minute walk to town and 15 minutes to Agios Georgios. ( beach) It is also located a short distance from a supermarket as well as an excellent restaurant for gyros etc that the locals patronize. It is family run and the suites are very spacious. They make a delicious breakfast which they will serve you by the pool or on the balcony of your room. They will also arrange for a taxi to pick you up at the ferry port which is much cheaper than the ones you can get when you walk off the ferry.
Posted by
OP
10 posts
Yes, I plan to rent a car.
Posted by
21 posts
AS you are hiring a car I would look at a second base a little east of Heraklion as there is so much to see and do in that area and it is so rich in history. As well as Knossos and the museum check out Ancient Lato close to the gorgeous village of Kritsa which is probably my favourite site in Crete and is also in a stunning location. Also have a look at the former leper colony of Spinalonga, Malia Palace (great beach nearby) Gournia, the Lassithi Plateau. If looking to stay in a larger town have a look at Agios Nikolaos or if looking for a smaller base with more of a village feel Sissi or Elounda.