From ancient Minoan palaces to palm-fringed beaches and hidden gorges, there is something for every traveler.
Whether you rent a car or use the reliable intercity buses, our Hotel IDI reception will gladly assist with maps, local tips, car rentals, and personalized recommendations.
ποΈ Aghia Triada β The Royal Villa
Just a short drive from Phaistos lies Aghia Triada, once a Minoan royal residence built in the 16th century BC. Excavations revealed elegant halls, courtyards, light wells, and shrines β an intimate glimpse into the grandeur of Minoan architecture. The nearby chapel of St. George Galatas, built centuries later, reminds visitors of Creteβs continuous history.πΊ Phaistos β The Minoan Palace
One of Creteβs most important archaeological sites, Phaistos flourished during the 2nd millennium BC as the leading city of southern Crete. Its monumental palace, overlooking the fertile Messara plain, offers stunning views and timeless echoes of the Minoan world.
The famous , discovered here, remains one of archaeologyβs great mysteries.
ποΈ Gortyna β The Roman Capital of Crete
Ancient Gortyna (or Gortys) was a thriving city from the Minoan to the Roman era, known for its Law Code, carved in stone in the 5th century BC β one of the oldest legal texts in Europe.
During Roman rule, Gortyna became the islandβs capital and the seat of early Christianity. You can still see the ruins of the Odeon, the Temple of Apollo, and the Church of St. Titus.
ποΈ Gavdos Island β The Southern Edge of Europe
South of Crete lies Gavdos, a wild and magical island of cedar trees, golden beaches, and turquoise waters.
Legend says it was the island of Ogygia, where the nymph Calypso held Odysseus captive.
Today, it is a paradise of simplicity β ideal for adventurers seeking nature, silence, and unforgettable sunsets.
ποΈ Preveli Beach β The Palm Lagoon
About 35 km south of Rethymno, Preveli Beach (also called βLake Preveliβ) sits where the Megas Potamos river meets the sea, surrounded by palm trees.
Walk through the shade along the riverbank, swim in its cool freshwater pools, and enjoy one of the most photogenic beaches of Crete β a true tropical oasis.
π Agios Pavlos Sandhills
Known for its romantic sunsets and dramatic dunes, Agios Pavlos is a hidden gem west of Agia Galini.
The view from Mount Thronos above the beach is breathtaking β perfect for quiet evenings or even wedding proposals.
Here, the landscape of cliffs, dunes, and endless sea feels untouched by time.
ποΈ Agiofarago Beach β The Sacred Gorge
One of the most enchanting spots in southern Crete, Agiofarago Beach lies at the mouth of a narrow gorge dotted with caves and hermit chapels.
Reach it by boat or on foot through a 40-minute hike β an unforgettable walk between high rock walls.
At the end, youβll find a small pebble beach with crystal-clear water, a natural arch for swimming, and the chapel of St. Anthony, with a freshwater well still used by locals and goats alike.