Crete map: the four regions, cities, airports and beaches
Crete is Greece's largest island, so understand the map before you pick a hotel. Here is how the island divides and what each area offers.
- Crete has four regions: Chania and Rethymno in the west, Heraklion in the centre and Lasithi in the east.
- Two international airports: Heraklion in the centre and Chania in the west. The main road runs along the north coast.
- Hersonissos and Malia lie east of Heraklion; Elounda and Agios Nikolaos are in Lasithi.
Because Crete is so long, choose an area based on your arrival airport, and don't try to see the whole island in a week.
Where is Crete?
Crete is Greece's largest island, in the southern Aegean between Europe and Africa. It is long and narrow: driving from end to end takes hours. High mountains run through the middle, so most towns, hotels and the main road are on the north coast.
The four regions
| Region | Main town | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Chania (west) | Chania | Old town and Venetian harbour, Balos and Elafonisi, Samaria Gorge, Etz Hayyim synagogue |
| Rethymno (west-centre) | Rethymno | Small old town, long beaches, mountain villages |
| Heraklion (centre) | Heraklion | Main airport, Knossos, Hersonissos and Malia |
| Lasithi (east) | Agios Nikolaos | Elounda, Spinalonga, Lasithi plateau, Vai |
Where is Hersonissos?
On the north coast east of Heraklion, with Malia further east; both are close to Heraklion airport. Guides: Hersonissos and Malia nightlife.
Airports and choosing a base
- Heraklion (centre): closest to Hersonissos, Malia, Elounda and Agios Nikolaos.
- Chania (west): closest to Chania, Rethymno and the western beaches.
See flights to Crete and flights to Chania.
North coast vs south coast
- North: most hotels, the main road and towns; convenient but can be windy in summer.
- South: quieter and wilder, with small villages and coves, but reaching it means crossing the mountains.
Navigation tips
- Hire a car: car rental in Crete.
- Download an offline map; reception can be weak in the mountains.
- Don't trust mountain drive times; roads twist and summer traffic is heavy.
More: Crete guide, best beaches in Crete, is Crete expensive and the Crete destination page.
FAQ
How many regions does Crete have? Four: Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and Lasithi.
How many airports does Crete have? Two international airports: Heraklion and Chania.
Where is Hersonissos on the map? On the north coast, east of Heraklion and close to its airport.
Can you see all of Crete in a week? Hardly. Crete is very long, so focus on one or two areas.
