Crete (Kriti) is one of the most fascinating, historically significant, culturally rich, and varied regions of Greece. Although it would take a traveler several months to see Crete thoroughly, and years to experience it all, spending as little as a week in Crete can recharge you and fix firmly into your mind the desire to return for longer visits later on.
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Because Crete is so large, so varied, and so full of things to do, we don’t recommend going unless you have at least a full week to spend on the island. If you only have a week at your disposal, we suggest that you choose one of the four regions to explore. If you have more time, you might wish to visit them all, as all have a great deal to offer the visitor. Crete is divided into four regions, or prefectures: Chania, Rethymno, Irakleio, and Lasithi. Even within each prefecture there is great variety. All four have abundant beaches on both the Aegean and Libyan Seas; all four have cities; all four have museums, villages, mountains, and great natural beauty.
The best way to visit Crete is to come for at least two weeks, and to rent a car. It is not necessary to have a 4x4 unless you wish to access some of the more remote beaches. Crete has a decent intercity bus system, but its connections do not serve the attractions so much as the city centers. If you are interested in visiting the smaller, less well-trafficked historical sites and beaches, you will be glad to have your own transportation. We do not recommend staying at one or even two hotels during your stay. You will learn much more about the island if you move around, staying in a new town or city every few days. If you are looking for pure relaxation, however, Crete offers plenty of resorts right on the beach.
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