Crete

The Historical Museum of Crete offers an opportunity to get acquainted with the island's culture and history. — Michelin Guide

This most amazing of archaeological sites once lay hidden beneath a huge mound hemmed in by low hills. — Fodor's

The world’s greatest museum of Minoan art exhibits many of the finds from the Palace of Knossos and other monuments of the Minoan civilization that thrived in Crete some 4,000 years ago. — Frommer's

A rich collection of Cretan folk items showcases exquisite weavings and pottery, basketry, farm implements, household furnishings, and clothing. — Fodor's

South of Chania a deep, verdant crevice extends 10 km (6 miles) from near the village of Xyloskalo to the Libyan sea. — Fodor's

Balos Lagoon is accessible by boat from Kastelli commercial port, or by track suitable for vehicles (8km) then a footpath (2km). — Michelin Guide

Looming over Rethymno, this Venetian fortress cuts an impressive figure with its massive walls and imposing bastions. — Lonely Planet

The Arkadi Monastery, in the hills some 23km southeast of Rethymno, has deep significance for Cretans. — Lonely Planet

The compelling Late Minoan site of Gournia (pronounced goor-nyah) lies just off the coast road, 19km southeast of Agios Nikolaos. — Lonely Planet

The tiny triple-aisled Church of Panagia Kera, 1km northeast of Kritsa, contains the finest Byzantine frescoes in Crete. — Lonely Planet

Scattered up the hillside, sheltered by two rocky spurs, the impressive ruins of Lato, an important Dorian city, occupy a superb site. — Michelin Guide

With its floating citadel and desert terrain, Spinalonga Peninsula (or Kolokytha) protects the coast, from Elounda to Plaka. — Michelin Guide

It's hardly a world-class aquarium, but there's more than enough here to occupy your kids on a day when you need a break from the beach. — Frommer's

The olive groves that surround and finance the monastery yields excellent oils, and the shop is stocked with some of the island's finest. — Fodor's

The museum building used to be a Turkish guardhouse and prison. — Fodor's

A protected Natura 2000 area, Elafonissi beach is a victim of its own success: it is overrun by hordes of tourists in summer. — Michelin Guide

A marvellous spot with enchanting creeks. Be sure to make a stop here or, better, stay overnight, as there is quality accommodation to be had. — Michelin Guide

The villa of Agia Triada has plenty of charm and makes for an interesting visit. — Michelin Guide

There are few places where Hania's historic charm and grandeur is more palpable than in the old Venetian Harbour. — Lonely Planet