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Towns & Villages in Crete

Major Towns of Crete

A holiday to Crete is not complete without a visit to one of the 3 major towns, Chania, Rethymnon or Heraklion, all of which are situated on the northern coast of the island. These towns all have large areas of modern buildings that are not particularly attractive, but they also each have an area known as “the old town” where the buildings are stunningly beautiful having been built centuries ago by different foreign invaders such as the Venetians and the Turks. Nothing can compare with a stroll around the harbour or down the narrow, bougainvillea lined alleys that comprise most of the old towns, particularly in Chania and Rethymnon. These streets were originally designed to be wide enough for 2 laden donkeys to pass by each other easily. Today there are a myriad of colourful gift shops, street markets and romantic open air tavernas which entice the many tourists who visit every year. The major towns, particularly Heraklion, also house the best archaeological museums on the island. The young and old alike will enjoy the festive atmosphere and the incredible beauty of Crete’s large towns. Chania Town is 25 minutes drive from Chania Airport, 2 hours from Heraklion Airport, 30 - 40 minutes from the Apokoronas area and 20 - 25 minutes from West of Chania. Rethymnon Town is just over 1 hour’s drive from either Chania or Heraklion Airports, 45 – 55 minutes from the Apokoronas area, and 1 hour and 10 minutes from West of Chania. Heraklion Town is 10 minutes drive from Heraklion Airport, 2 hours and 10 minutes from Chania Airport, 1 hour and 45 minutes to the Apokoronas area and 2 hours from West of Chania.