Crete for couples: 8 romantic things to do, where to stay and when to go
The most romantic places in Crete, from Chania in the west to Elounda in the east.
- Most romantic: Chania harbour, Balos, Falassarna sunset, Spinalonga and Plaka.
- Stay: Chania Old Town or Elounda.
- Best months: May-June and September-October, with a hire car.
As a couple, base yourselves in Chania or Elounda, rent a car and reach the famous beaches early. If you keep Shabbat, arrange it with Chabad in Chania or Hersonissos.
Why Crete suits couples
Crete is Greece's largest island, and it has everything for a couple: Venetian towns, turquoise lagoons, sunsets over the sea, fishing villages and luxury hotels. It is very big (260 km from west to east), so choose one or two areas rather than trying to see it all. For couples, the west (Chania) and the east (Elounda) are the most romantic choices.
8 things to do in Crete as a couple
- An evening at Chania's Venetian harbour: the promenade, the lighthouse and the Old Town lanes. The Etz Hayyim synagogue is close to the harbour. See Etz Hayyim synagogue in Chania.
- Balos lagoon: turquoise water below an island fortress. Go by boat from Kissamos port (about an hour each way, May to October) or by dirt road.
- Sunset at Falassarna: a long beach in the west, one of the best places for sunset.
- Elafonisi: a shallow lagoon with pinkish sand. Arrive early, as the car park fills by 9:00 in summer.
- Seitan Limania: a narrow, dramatic cove near Chania, good for snorkelling. The way down is steep, so wear good shoes.
- Preveli: a river meets the sea beside a palm grove, on the south coast.
- Spinalonga and Elounda: a short boat trip to an island with a Venetian fortress, then a fish dinner in Plaka village facing the island. See the Elounda guide.
- Rethymno: a small old town with a fortress and harbour, good for an evening. See the Rethymno guide.
Where to stay in Crete as a couple
| Area | Atmosphere |
|---|---|
| Chania Old Town | Boutique hotels in Venetian houses, romantic evenings |
| Elounda | Luxury hotels on Mirabello Bay, quiet |
| Rethymno | Old town, long beach, better value |
| Hersonissos | Many hotels and nightlife, less romantic |
When to go to Crete as a couple
May, June, September and October are the most pleasant months: warm but less crowded. July and August are very hot and the famous beaches are full. Details in Crete month by month.
Tips for couples in Crete
- Car: almost essential, as distances are long. See car rental in Crete.
- Flights: in summer there are direct flights from Israel to Heraklion and Chania. See flights to Crete.
- Shabbat and kosher: there are Chabad houses in Chania and Hersonissos. See Chabad Crete.
- Comparing: undecided? See Crete or Rhodes and Rhodes for couples.
More on the site: the Crete guide.
FAQ
What are the most romantic things to do in Crete? An evening at Chania's Venetian harbour, Balos lagoon, sunset at Falassarna, Spinalonga and a fish dinner in Plaka.
Which area of Crete is best for couples? Chania Old Town for a romantic atmosphere, and Elounda for quiet and luxury hotels.
How many days do you need in Crete as a couple? At least 5 to 7 days, with a car. In a week you can combine the west with two days in the east.
Is there a Chabad house in Crete? Yes, in Chania and Hersonissos.
