Crete

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and big enough to feel like its own country, with soaring mountains, dramatic gorges, and hundreds of beaches. It was the cradle of Europe's earliest civilization, and the sprawling Minoan palace of Knossos brings that ancient world to life. From end to end, the island mixes deep history with a proud, distinctive local culture.

The variety is remarkable. The atmospheric old towns of Chania and Rethymno charm with their Venetian harbors and tangled lanes, the pink sands of Elafonisi and the lagoon of Balos rank among Greece's most beautiful beaches, and the rugged Samaria Gorge offers one of the country's great hikes. Hearty Cretan cooking and warm hospitality round out the appeal.

Crete has one of the longest warm seasons in Greece, stretching well into autumn. Summers are hot and busy, while late spring and early fall bring warm seas with fewer crowds, and the mild winters are quiet in the lowlands.