Traveling to Crete: the most common mistakes travelers make
At first glance, a trip to Crete seems simple - you buy the tickets, pack your suitcase, and already imagine the photos from Crete’s beaches, mountains, or small towns. But in reality, it often happens that you forget something, miss out on places, or sometimes even overpay just because you didn’t think ahead.
Here are the most common mistakes travelers make in Crete, and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Not renting a car
Public transport in Crete works, but not everywhere and not very conveniently, especially if you want to reach remote Crete beaches or the mountains. A common mistake is planning the trip only by bus. This way, you lose a lot of time, and some places are practically accessible only by car.
Car rental in Crete is not a luxury, but a necessity if you want to see more.
2. Car rental deposit
When choosing a rental company, pay attention to the conditions. Some companies require a large deposit, and getting it back can be a hassle. Fortunately, there are reliable companies where you can rent a car without a deposit (e.g., Voyager in Crete, rent-a-car-crete.gr).
3. Road quality and car choice
Roads in Crete are generally good, but navigation may lead you to narrow, rough paths. It is more convenient to choose a smaller car - it’s easier to drive in the mountains or stop along the road. You also need to be attentive, as locals tend to drive quite boldly.
4. Weather conditions and plan B
Crete is known for strong winds, especially in the western part of the island. Many travelers plan a beach day only to find waves or blowing sand. That’s why your trip planning should also include a “plan B” - visiting caves, monasteries, museums, or exploring towns.
5. Too little cash
Cards work in many places, but not everywhere - especially in small tavernas or villages. Small expenses in Crete are often paid only in cash.
6. Underestimating the sun
The Greek sun in Crete is very strong - you can get sunburned in just a few minutes. Sunscreen with SPF is a must in your luggage, otherwise holidays in Crete can quickly turn into an unpleasant experience.
7. Not realizing the island’s size
Crete is the largest Greek island. Crossing it from one end to the other takes 4-6 hours. A mistake is trying to see everything in one week. It’s better to choose one side of the island in advance (e.g., Chania or Heraklion region) and plan your route there.
8. Price differences in different regions
One observation from our trip - the further from Heraklion, the cheaper it gets. Near Chania we noticed: shops are cheaper, portions in cafes are larger, and drinks more affordable compared to the capital.
How to prepare for a trip to Crete?
Crete is a wonderful island, but mistakes can spoil the mood or cost extra. Preparation helps avoid them: research routes, have a plan for weather changes, and make sure you are comfortable.
To make route planning easier, use the interactive Crete map - it includes all the main Crete attractions, beaches, mountains, and towns.
