See Also
- Santorini Lodgings
- Crete Hotels
- Where to Lodge in Santorini
- Locations that are highly recommended to reside in Crete
Santorini or Crete – Where To Go?
- The island of Santorini in Greece is exceptionally magical and incredible. If you can only visit one island, it ought to be Santorini
- Crete is also wonderful and beautiful. However, it’s much bigger than other Greek islands and requires one to two weeks (or more) to properly tour the entire island.
- Crete has more outdoor activities. Santorini has more top-notch tours. Both have wineries and great local food.
- Crete has better beaches but they are more spread out and it takes real effort to see the top beaches. Santorini is small and easy to get around to all the popular beaches.
- Crete has more little traditional (non-touristy) villages.
- Santorini is more romantic and better suited to a wedding journey.
- Santorini has superior and more extraordinary luxury lodgings.
- Fira (in Santorini) and Chania and Heraklion (in Crete) all have excellent clubs and night entertainment.
- Both Santorini and Crete have a longer tourism season than most Greek islands. To enjoy swimming weather, Santorini and Crete are best visited between late May and early October. However, if sightseeing rather than swimming is a higher priority, March through November typically have suitable weather. December through February will bring cooler wet conditions but both islands can still be considered decent destinations throughout the year.
Santorini and Crete – What To Do
Santorini, with its iconic blue-domed churches, shimmering seas, and awe-inspiring sunsets, is a paradise for romantic getaways and honeymooners. The island is renowned for its striking volcanic landscape, with black-sand beaches and towering cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea. A boat tour around the island’s caldera is a must.
Unmatched Sundowns: Santorini’s sunsets, especially from the town of Oia, are globally renowned. The method the sun sinks into the sea, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple is a spectacle that leaves spectators spellbound.
Unique Beaches: Due to its volcanic origins, the island features unusual shorelines with distinct color schemes. Red Beach derives its name from iron-rich sand, while Perissa and Kamari beaches have black sand, diverging from standard white sand and providing beachgoers with novel coastal experiences.
Wine Tasting: Santorini’s volcanic soil also contributes to its distinct wine, particularly its crisp Assyrtiko white wines. Visiting local wineries and vineyards not only provides the opportunity to sample these unique vintages but also to enjoy stunning views of the island.
Remarkable Archaeological Sites: For history enthusiasts, Santorini does not disappoint. The ancient city of Akrotiri, often compared to Pompeii, provides a glimpse into a Minoan city preserved momentarily by volcanic ash.
Crete, the largest Greek island, offers a more diverse array of sights. From ruins of ancient civilizations and charming historic towns to sprawling beaches and towering mountains, Crete’s appeal lies in its variety and depth.
Historical Riches: Crete’s story encompasses thousands of years, from the Minoan civilization to the Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman eras. This history is reflected in the island’s numerous archaeological sites, such as the Palace of Knossos, renowned for its association to the myth of the Minotaur, and the old town of Chania with its Venetian harbor and lighthouse.
Spectacular Landscapes: Crete offers a stunning natural backdrop of beauty. The Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest canyons, is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts. Additionally, the island is dotted with beautiful beaches like Elafonisi with its pink sands and Balos with its turquoise lagoons.
Cretan Cuisine: Well known for its healthy and delicious meals, Crete is a gastronomic treasure. Local tavernas serve traditional dishes made using locally sourced ingredients grown near-by, like dakos (Cretan rusk topped with tomato and feta), lamb cooked with stamnagathi (wild greens foraged in the countryside), and locally produced wines and raki.
Vibrant Indigenous Culture: The island’s customs of music and dance continue thriving in the mountain villages of Crete. Visitors can experience traditional Cretan evenings with live performances, folk dancing, and ample local cuisine and wine.
Read More
- Top Lodgings in Santorini
- Highest rated lodgings across Crete
- Popular sightseeing experiences and tours accessible on the Greek island of Santorini.
- Best Tours & Things To Do in Crete
