Crete prices: how to save money during your trip?
At the beginning of August, we set off on a trip around Crete, and although the main goal was to see the island’s most beautiful places, we quickly noticed something else - prices in Crete vary greatly depending on the distance from the sea. The further inland you go, the cheaper food, drinks, and everyday products become.
Food prices in Crete - seaside towns vs villages
In beach towns, a simple Greek salad often costs €9-10. In a small village just a few kilometers from the coast, the same salad costs about €7.5. The difference might seem small, but eating several times a day during a holiday quickly adds up. And no, food in Crete or service in villages is not worse - on the contrary, it’s often where you’ll experience true local hospitality.
Drink prices in Crete - where is it worth buying?
One day, driving from the coast to the mountains, we stopped at a store near the seaside - a bottle of wine we liked cost €10.90. Just ~10 km inland, we found the same bottle for €5.98. Such differences clearly show that when shopping, it’s better to choose local stores inland rather than tourist shops by the sea.
5 tips to save money in Crete
- Eat in small villages - cheaper and more authentic.
- Avoid main tourist areas at lunchtime - even drinks are more expensive there.
- Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables at local markets - great taste, low price.
- Rent accommodation further from the sea - for the same price you’ll get more space and better conditions.
- Plan routes so that you eat lunch or dinner inland, not on the coast - you’ll notice the difference immediately.
Crete map - a helper for saving money
If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to save money in Crete, these simple tricks will help you spend less but experience more. These tips can be your mini-guide - especially if you check the interactive Crete map before you leave and plan your route.
Whether you are interested in food prices in Crete or practical travel advice - remember, the further from the sea, the cheaper it gets. Following the map, you’ll discover not only the most beautiful beaches but also authentic villages where prices will pleasantly surprise you.