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Holiday information on Crete, Greece

"The Strip in Malia is a real treasure trove for party animals, and there's a superb beach and sizzling summer temperatures too!"

Crete, the largest Greek island, is steeped in culture and history. The home to Zeus and the cradle of European civilisation, visitors here are following in the footsteps of legends. The rugged coast and snow capped mountains that stand imperiously inland only add to Crete's mystic aura.

Crete has some fantastic coastal scenery ranging from rugged inlets sheltering beneath cliffs that jut out towards the sea to long sweeps of golden sand. The three bays at Hersonissos are pretty if a little too popular. The quiet life is never far away though if you are willing to do some exploring of your own. The large crescent of Chania Bay and the swathe of golden sand at Malia will tempt those who enjoy their beaches wide and long. You will also find various watersports from wind-surfing to scuba-diving here.

Crete is not only famed for its cheeses, wines and olives, honey is also one of the island's finest products and a jar of it makes for a tasty souvenir. There are plenty of jewellery shops selling high quality silver and gold. Dolphins are considered lucky so they tend to feature in much of the jewellery.

As on most of the large Greek islands you can find a nightlife to suit your tastes. For raucous nights of beer and bright lights you should head to Malia. Aghios Nikolaos and Hersonissos have a more diverse range of entertainment from specialised restaurants to tavernas and the odd disco. Most towns have plenty of traditional bars to keep you refreshed, if you are lucky you'll get a spectacular sea view with your Ouzo.

The coastline here alternates between long stretches of golden sand and sheltered coves that cower beneath rugged cliffs. As you relax under the warm sun it's difficult to believe you are in the land of King Minos and the myth of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth. However should you visit the Palace of Knossos and the town of Chania you will soon be under this ancient island's spell. Chania is a photographers dream, swamped with Venetian and Turkish architecture it is one of the most evocative and picturesque towns on any of the Greek islands. Inland nature takes over, a walk down the Samaria Gorge will inspire thoughts of Argonauts and Minotaurs. Crete's beauty however is certainly no myth.

Santorini Treat yourself to some Greek island hopping during your stay and cruise across the sea to the beautiful island of Santorini. With its whitewashed villages, famous blue domed churches and unusual volcanic terrain, Santorini is one of the most scenic locations in Europe. You can take a guided tour (not included) giving you the chance to see more of the island or spend time in the capital Thira and browse through the many art and craft shops at your leisure - the choice is yours. A memorable day out not to be missed.