Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is slowly but surely becoming one of the most sought-after destinations in Greece. It’s a year-round favourite with visitors thanks to its fantastic beaches, sensational landscapes, and fascinating archaeological sites. This picturesque island brings countless romantic partners on the hunt for the best places in Crete for couples to visit. With over 300 days of sunshine and some of the best beaches in Greece, Crete stands a cut above many others as one of the most romantic places in the world to take your partner, and this guide will help you decide on the perfect location to head to with your beloved.
Chania: one of the best places in Crete for couples
When looking for the ultimate romantic getaway as a couple, Chania city is a good prospect and one of the most sought-after destinations on the island. Chania’s rich history is reflected in the city’s architecture, along the Venetian Port, and down the beautiful alleyways. Although Chania has more beach sand than you could throw a crab at, the region is a lot more than just sun tanning and beaches. Surrounded by mountains, authentic villages, and monasteries, it’s also home to several dive sites such as the Elephant Cave and Minnewaska Wreck, Cretan seafood cuisine, and historical sites that include the Greek Orthodox Cathedral and the Venetian Harbour and Lighthouse.
When to visit Chania
To make the most of your time in Chania, grab your diving gear and head there in early Autumn when a host of marine life moves towards the shallow waters to breed.
Dining in Chania
There are plenty of dining options in Chania, with taverns situated along most streets, as well as several romantic options such as Thalassino Ageri, Salis, The Well of the Turk, and The Five Restaurant.
Things to do in Chania
A few of the romantic things worth checking out in Chania include wandering the Old Town’s alleyways, heading to Elafonisi Beach, hiking Samaria Gorge, and tasting traditional yoghurt in Vrysses together.
Heraklion: secluded beaches and so much more
Heraklion is one of Crete’s most popular cities, with a diverse mix of culture, tradition and history that spans thousands of years. It’s also home to some hidden gems ideal for a romantic getaway to this part of the island. Head out with your partner and explore the city, taking in the mixture of modern and ancient styles, and take time out in the Old Town, and browse through the many shops waiting to be discovered in its alleys.
When to visit Heraklion
Summer in Heraklion is one of the better times to go but also the busiest. To take advantage of the weather but miss the crowds, head there around the end of July when the tourists start dissipating.
Dining in Heraklion
Must-visit restaurants for couples include Peskesi, Alla Ki Alla, Parasties and Kouzeineri. Herb’s Garden is a unique restaurant and popular with many visitors thanks to the panoramic views of the ocean and city harbour.
Things to do in Heraklion
Feeling romantic in Heraklion? Why not consider taking a stroll through the Bronze Age city Knossos, meandering along the Venetian Harbour, sharing a bite to eat by Morosini Fountain or soaking up the sun together on Amoudara Beach.
Elounda: romantic walks and emerald waters
Elounda is a stunning coastal village on the northern coast of Crete, belonging to the Agios Nikolaos municipality. It’s famous for its never-ending white sandy beaches and emerald waters. Elounda is relatively unknown to tourists and largely untouched by the industry, offering a beautiful opportunity to experience a region of Crete in its authenticity. If you’re looking for a place to party with your partner, this isn’t it, but it is the place to escape the hustle and get lost in each other’s company.
When to visit Elounda
July tends to be the hottest and busiest month. The best time to go is usually between August and September, when the weather is usually milder and there are fewer tourists.
Dining in Elounda
Some of the best options for couples in Elounda are Rakomelo Restaurant with its lovely location and must-try lamb, Lotus Eaters, Moon Spinners with an ocean view and Italian coffee, Restaurant Terrassa, and Alyggos Bar for a late-night tipple.
Things to do in Elounda
Some of the things worth doing as a couple in Elounda include meandering around the harbour, walking to the Sunken City of Olous, visiting Spinalonga island and its beaches and checking out the windmills.
Falassarna: the most famous beach
Falassarna is a Greek harbour town located on the west end of Crete. It’s a popular choice for many travellers because of its beaches. Falassarna Bay is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece, and Falassarna Beach has been voted one of the top 10 beaches in Europe numerous times. The main beach, Pachia Ammos, is where most people spend their time; thanks to its length, it never seems overcrowded. Flassarna is perfect for couples looking for the ideal beach getaway with little nooks and crannies to explore.
When to visit Falassarna
The summer months are very popular with tourists but can get very hot. August and September are usually a little milder, and there will be fewer visitors.
Dining in Falassarna
There is a wide range of dining choices along the beachfront for couples; check out places like Galasia Thea with ocean views in all directions, Liokalyvo Falasarna and its beach bar, Orange Blue, and Bird Away Beach Bar for a drink among the rock formations.
Things to do in Falassarna
Falassarna is all about its beaches, and you’ll want to spend time in the sun at all of them; there is Falassarna Main Beach, the Nudist Beach for those who want to bare all, Karkatsouli Beach down the road from Galasia Thea, and Petalida Beach.
Loutro: the windless town
Loutro is one of the best-kept secrets in Crete. This hidden gem is less than 100 km south of Chania and can only be reached by jumping on a boat from Sfakia. Loutro offers breathtaking natural beauty with deep blue-and-green waters. Tourists are few and far between. You’ll be able to spend your evenings tucking into a fresh fish meal before heading out to gaze at the stars shining over the glimmering waters.
When to visit Loutro
Typically, May, October, and November are the best times of the year to go. The weather is usually pleasant, with average temperatures around 20°C and 26°C. There are also fewer tourists during these months.
Dining in Loutro
Check out Notos Restaurant and Rooms with its beautiful views and reasonable prices, Blue House overlooking the Libyan sea, Pavlos, and Akroyiali Beach Bar for refreshing drinks, coffees, and a lovely place to swim.
Things to do in Loutro
Some of the most romantic things to do in Loutro include hiking the Aradena Gorge, walking to Anopolis, exploring Loutro on foot or hiring a boat for a leisurely cruise around the area.
Chrissi Island: cedar trees and exotic landscape
Chrissi Island is a natural beauty spot with a protected ecosystem, located 15 km from Ierapetra, along the south coast of Crete. Although the island has grown in popularity in recent years, it still closely resembles an untouched paradise. Chrissi Island was formed from solidified lava; it boasts almost 50 fossil species and is covered to nearly 70% by a 300-year-old cedar forest. The natural beauty you’ll see on Chrissi Island is all but unrivalled.
When to visit Chrissi Island
If you want the island all to yourselves, head there during early May or the middle of October, and you can enjoy the ultimate secluded getaway with your loved one and mild temperatures.
Dining on Chrissi Island
Chrissi Island is typically a day trip for most visitors, and there are few dining choices here. However, you will have plenty of options on the main island once you return. A couple of our recommendations include Zorbas Seaside Restaurant, with its charming ambience and ocean views or the Kaliotzina, serving high-quality local cuisine and tasty drinks.
Things to do on Chrissi Island
Many of the things worth doing on the island involve visiting one of the beaches; you can swim and snorkel at any of them. Alternatively, take a walk along the boardwalk, marvel at the architectural history, or simply hire a sunbed and soak up the sun.
