Must-know tips before your arrival

Before travelling to a new destination, it is highly recommended to make some enquiries. This way you will know how to pack your bags, what to expect and what activities to book in advance.

First of all, it is essential to define the moment of the year. The best time to go to Crete is summer because the island is full of life. The weather usually ranges from 25°C to 30°C and there are up to 12 hours of daylight. The high temperatures may sound fantastic for travellers who enjoy the beach and the sea. But, if you plan to hike on the island, opt for May or September when the temperatures are cooler. That's the best time for outdoor activities.

Next, it is crucial to decide where to stay. Crete is the southernmost island in Greece. Heraklion is the capital of Crete and its largest city. Although it's very crowded, there are charming historic buildings to see. So it is a great destination if you are interested in architecture. But there are many other enchanting and quieter towns to choose from such as Chania, Agia Triada, Rethymnon, Damnoni and Plakias.

Finally, it is important to decide on the length of your stay. Greece is a beautiful country with many magnificent islands. So, you must specify whether you will stay for a week or more in Crete or if you are going to visit Athens or other cities during your holidays.

How to travel around the island?

When travelling to Crete, you can arrive by plane at Heraklion's Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER) or Chania's Daskalogiannis Airport (CHQ). You can also catch a ferry boat from Athens. Inside the island, you can travel by bus or by a rental car. Read your car rental contract carefully to know which areas of the island you are allowed to drive through. Some places like Balos Lagoon may be prohibited.

5 incredible places you must visit

• Balos Lagoon is an amazing beach with fine sand and crystal clear water. It is the perfect place to sunbathe, relax and swim since no water activities are allowed as it is a protected natural area. You can visit Balos by boat from Kissamos, Chania, Rethymno and Heraklion. Rental cars do not allow tourists to reach this point on the island due to road conditions.

• Samaria Gorge National Park is located near Chania. You can follow the trails to explore the flora, the fauna and the breathtaking landscapes. Before arriving, check the visiting hours and the accessibility. In addition to individual tickets, it is possible to purchase a group or family ticket. Children under 18, students and adults over 65 are not required to pay a ticket. There are toilets, a medical station and an information centre.

• Voulisma reminds tourists of a tropical destination. With its white sand and turquoise water, it is a must-see place.

• Agios Nikolaos is known for its charm and beauty but also for the outdoor activities it offers. Try SUP or cliff diving and enjoy nature to the fullest. Are you looking for family plans? In the port, tour companies that will take you on a day trip by boat. Although in high season it might be necessary to reserve in advance.

• Spinalonga is a small island off the coast of Crete. During a day trip, it is possible to walk around the fortress and the old town, places full of history. Explore the traditional shops and enjoy the beach. When visiting Agios Nikolaos you can board a boat to Spinalonga. Boats also leave from Elounda and Plaka.