Have about 8 days (not counting travel) between Athens and Crete in early November. Have never been and know it is not really enough time. Of course, the Acropolis and other sites in Athens are on the list, but wondering about other great things to do.
In Crete, we are staying in Hania and will have a car. The afternoon we fly in we will explore that city and then plan some day trips, hopefully with some hiking.
Any suggestions welcome!!
Just saw this.
We did a late November cruise last year, spent 5 days in Athens, had a port stop in Chania.
Athens was great, we stayed in the plaka district. Easy to walk to restaurants and shops.
Did a day trip to Delphi which was a big highlight of the trip. If you are interested in biblical history, I hear Corinth is worth the visit.
We did all the highlights, acropolis, the museum, saw the crossing of the guard. Walked the city, stopping at spots that interested us.
In Chania we went to the palace of Knossos. It’s across the island, was interesting but it was maybe overload of ruins by that point. Driving across the island was interesting, lots of beach resorts. Olive trees, be sure to pick up some olive oil.
The weather was great! Warm but not hot.
Thanks! Appreciate the info. I think it is supposed to be somewaht of olive oil harvest.
Samaria Gorge is stunning. It might feel chilly because the wind can blow through but wow, it was really something to see. The walk will take at least 2 hours. Then you can get a taxi or bus back to where you park the car, if you rent one. Visit the Arkadi Monastery. It’s beautiful. We loved driving up into the hills of Crete. We had some pretty hair raising drives, not because of bad roads, but because it is actually a bit more mountainous than you would expect.
A note about the palace of Knossos, it is actually outside of Heraklion and a good 2 hour+ drive from Chania. It is worth going to, very interesting. The museum in Heraklion is good.
It’s unfortunately not going to be swimming weather in November. We went there in August and actually were shocked that the water was quite chilly. But it will be perfect weather for hiking and sight seeing. Lots of lovely streets and cafes in both Chania and Rethymnon.
Thanks for the info! Unfortunately, I believe Samaria gorge closes around now. But there are others that may not be quite as spectacular, but still great. Definitely plan to hike one of those, weather permitting, and to visit the palace. Interesting that the water was not warm in August and know it will not be in November!