Chania, the second biggest city in Crete and most important agglomeration in the West of the island dates back until the neolithic period, about 3400 until 3000 years BCE. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements of Europe.

If you are in Heraklion, or even Crete, the archeological museum there is a must. The AMH is one of the greatest museums in all of Greece, second only to the National Archeological Museum in Athens and exhibits the biggest collection of Ancient Minoan artifacts and art. Plan a day for a trip to the Palace of Knossos and a visit to the museum.

Sir Arthur Evans watched the land he just bought with contentment and before his eyes, his dream of an ancient civilization - way before Classic Greece and even before Homer and the Trojan War, with creatures half bull and alf man, roaming around in labyrinths came to life on the island were Zeus was born. He called them "the Minoans", according to the legendary King Minos.

East of the old town and fortress in Rethymno you will find a long stretch of sandy beaches. Just pass the harbor and continue walking a little longer to find your spot.

Another beautiful beach in the South of Crete is Damnoni Beach. And the big plus: You can easily reach the beach by car, unlike most of the other beaches where at least some hiking is involved.

Chania is one of the most beautiful cities of Crete, if not of Greece. But there's not only Venetian and Ottoman architecture to marvel at, but also a nice, recently modernized beach just 10 min on foot from the city center.

Maybe you have heard about the wonderous pink sandy beach in the South-West of Crete. It has been constantly voted Top 10 of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But aren't there many tourists and is it still worth going there?