Is Chania in Crete the best location to be based?

Crete is a wonderful destination for your trip. You will find amazing beaches, delicious food and wine, scenic hiking trails, and rich historical sites. Here are some suggestions for your travel planning:

• You can fly into either Heraklion or Chania, depending on which part of the island you want to explore first. Heraklion is closer to the eastern side, where you can visit the famous Minoan palace of Knossos, the archaeological museum of Heraklion, and the beautiful beaches of Elafonissi and Balos. Chania is closer to the western side, where you can enjoy the charming old town and Venetian harbor, the impressive fortress of Rethymnon, and the stunning Samaria Gorge.
• Chania is a good location to be based, as it offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy apartments. You can also find many restaurants, bars, and shops in the city center, as well as cultural and historical attractions. Chania is also a convenient base for exploring other parts of the island, as it has a good road network and public transportation system.
• Hiring a car is a great idea, as it will give you more flexibility and freedom to discover the hidden gems of Crete. You can rent a car from here, you will find reliable and affordable companies that offers a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to minivans. You can also benefit from their free delivery and pick-up service, unlimited mileage, and 24/7 road assistance.

As Crete is a big island you may consider splitting your stay and visiting the eastern Crete, especially Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. These are two beautiful towns with many attractions and activities to enjoy. Here are some suggestions for your trip:

• Beaches: Eastern Crete has some of the best beaches on the island, with clear blue waters and soft sand. You can relax, swim, sunbathe, or try some water sports. Some of the most popular beaches are Voulisma, Almyros, Ammoudi, and Elounda. You can also visit the small island of Spinalonga, which was once a leper colony and a Venetian fortress. You can take a boat tour from Agios Nikolaos or Elounda and explore the island’s history and scenery.
• Archaeological sites: If you are interested in ancient history and culture, you can visit some of the archaeological sites in eastern Crete. You can see the remains of the Minoan palaces of Malia and Zakros, which date back to the second millennium BC. You can also visit the Cave of Zeus, where according to Greek mythology, the king of the gods was born. The cave is located on the Lassithi Plateau, a fertile area with traditional windmills and villages. Another option is to visit the Roman city of Gortyna, which was the capital of Crete during the Roman period. You can see the ruins of temples, theatres, baths, and the famous Law Code of Gortyna, one of the oldest legal documents in Europe.
• Things to do: Besides the beaches and the archaeological sites, there are many other things to do in Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. You can stroll around the picturesque harbors and marinas, where you can find many shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can also visit the Lake Voulismeni, a small lake connected to the sea by a narrow channel. The lake is surrounded by colorful buildings and a park, and it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can also enjoy some nightlife in Agios Nikolaos, which has many bars and clubs to suit different tastes. If you are looking for some adventure, you can join a safari tour or a hiking tour and discover the natural beauty of eastern Crete.

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