Top 10 outdoor activities in Crete
During your stay in Crete, you'll be able to do lots of different cultural activities. But if you want to add a dose of adventure to your stay, don't miss this list of the best things to do in Crete to discover the island's varied landscapes!
Crete is Greece's largest island and a true paradise for nature lovers. With its immense sandy beaches and mountainous terrain such as Mount Ida, home to the cave of Ideon (where, according to legend, Zeus was born), Crete is sure to surprise you.
On the map below, you'll find the location of each activity according to its number on the list!
1. Boat trip from Chania
This 6-hour cruise will take place in the old port of Chania(Chania in modern Greek) in the west of the island. The excursion heads east, crossing the Akrotiri peninsula, the bay of Katholiko and its monastery, and the pirate bay of Seitan Limani. The monastery of Katholiko used the beach as a port to berth and repair their ships. Did you know that the beach was frequently used by pirates to attack the monastery and was abandoned in the 16th century?
The private beach of Katholiko, in the Akrotiri region north of Chania, awaits you for a refreshing dip. This boat trip to Chania is a must, as as well as enjoying the clear, turquoise water, you'll discover the mysteries hidden among the cliffs.
2. Quad bike excursion to Rethimno
Set off on a quad or buggy adventure in Rethimno off the beaten track! For the second on our list of things to do in Crete, head off into the heart of the Cretan mountains to discover gorges with unique rock formations and shallow rivers.
Throughout your quad or buggy tour, you'll admire the local flora and fauna and visit picturesque little villages that you won't find on a map. And for lunch, what could be better than sandwiches made from local produce?
3. Scuba diving near Heraklion
Diving, freediving, snorkelling... whatever your technique for visiting the depths of the island, the experience is bound to be fascinating. Explore Crete's incredible underwater world in pristine sites accessible only by boat.
Scuba diving near Heraklion is the ideal activity for those looking to experience new and unique sensations. On your diving excursion, you will be guided and supervised by certified instructors. You'll go to one of Crete's many dive sites, where you can start exploring the magnificent underwater world in crystal-clear waters! You can choose to dive once, four times or even six times.
4. Canyoning in the Kourtaliotiko gorges
Canyoning is a fun activity to do with family or friends, and Crete is the ideal location, so why not combine the two and go canyoning in Crete with your travelling companions? For this, we've selected canyoning in the Kourtaliotiko gorge near Rethymno.
This natural playground becomes the source of the Kourtaliotiko River! You'll be able to abseil down the steep canyon wall near the waterfall and jump for a thrill boost in the water as many times as you like. While you're swimming, you'll discover a hidden cave - time to get out your camera! Specialist canyoning instructors and guides will be on hand to guarantee your safety and guide you through the various activities.
5- Snorkelling at Mononaftis
For the next activity to do in Crete, we suggest another water-based activity: a snorkelling excursion on Mononaftis beach. Discover the bay of Mononaftis and observe the local marine life. At Agios Pelagia, a popular spot on the island, you can make the most of the aquatic life: the cleanliness and temperature of the water make this activity particularly enjoyable.
This spot, 25km from the capital, is steeped in ancient fishing culture and right in the heart of a protected bay. Get ready to marvel at the reefs, canyons and underwater caves. It's a great way to have fun while taking in the views of the magnificent Cretan landscape.
6- Paragliding in Chania
What better way to discover the island of Crete than paragliding? Paragliding is the perfect way to take in the scenery and enjoy the view while having a great time. That's why a paragliding flight in Chania (Chania) can't be missed on our list of the best things to do in Crete.
As well as being one of the most famous towns on the island, Chania is famous for its colourful old town, Venetian port and lighthouse. For around 20 minutes, depending on the wind direction, you will fly from Falasarna or Varipetro, at a height of 1000 metres. Breathtaking views of Crete are guaranteed!
7- Parasailing over Heraklion
Let's stay in the air, albeit at a lower altitude than paragliding. Another great way to enjoy the view of Crete's rocky mountains is undoubtedly a parasailing flight. This is an adventure that begins on Ammoudara beach, 7 km from the centre of Heraklion, where you will meet your instructors who will take you up into the sky.
During your parasailing flight in Heraklion, get ready to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Sit comfortably on the parachute seats and prepare to reach a height of 100 metres. You'll fly through the air for seven minutes before landing safely on the boat.
8- Hiking in the Agia Irini gorges
Discover the superb Agia Irini Gorge on a hike near Kissamos. A great option for families or walkers looking for a traditional Cretan gorge. Agia Irini is around 7.5km long and forms part of the Lefka Ori. The descent is approximately 500m, making it accessible to all types of hiker! Whether you're a beginner hiker or a keen sportsman, you'll be delighted to find a bit of fresh air in the surrounding vegetation.
This gorge takes you from the village of Agia Irini, through the White Mountains, to the coastal town of Sougia on Crete's south coast. Beginning among the immense pine forests and opening onto imposing cliffs on either side, this hike will leave you with unforgettable memories!
9- Stand Up Paddle excursion in the bay of Loutraki
Stand-up paddling is a fairly recent discipline that is very popular in summer, because it's accessible to everyone. Also known as SUP, this activity is ideal for having a good time in the sun!
Combine the SUP tour with snorkelling around Loutraki in Chania, and discover the bay of Loutraki in its entirety for two hours. At the briefing, beginners will learn the basics of the sport so they can paddle like a pro! Only then will the real fun begin! You can paddle, swim, discover the seabed or simply relax on your board.
10- Kayaking near Chania
How can you not mention the sea when you're in Crete? If you're a true adventurer and water is your element, we recommend you try asea kayaking excursion in Chania. Sea kayaking is the perfect way to paddle the turquoise waters near Chania and to spend some quality time together as a group.
For half a day, the guides will take you to explore the deserted and secret beaches of Crete, and you can even go for a swim. This single or double kayak activity will allow you to see the island from a whole new angle.
Towards other adventures...
Now you've got everything you need to get started with this list of the best things to do in Crete. From the sea to the rivers, the sky to the mountains, there's something for everyone, whether you're on your own, with family or friends! If you prefer to choose for yourself, check out all our outdoor activities in Crete.
But if you're looking for other towns to visit in Greece, a top Greek destination is undoubtedly Santorini. With its white and blue cliffs and sublime landscapes, this island is a paradise on earth! We recommend that you discover the 10 outdoor activities to enjoy on the island of Santorini.