Question 1

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in Crete, Greece?

Accepted Answer

Crete offers plenty for budget travellers.  Hiking the Samaria Gorge is a classic, though it involves an entrance fee.  Exploring the beaches, like Elafonisi or Balos Lagoon (though getting to Balos might need a boat trip adding to the cost), is free, and many smaller, less-known coves offer equally stunning scenery at no cost. Visiting ancient sites like the ruins of Knossos, though there's an entrance fee, can be combined with a walk through the surrounding olive groves for a more affordable experience. Many charming villages, like Chania's old town, are free to wander, offering beautiful architecture and local life.

Question 2

What are the best hostels in Crete?

Accepted Answer

Among the hostels in Crete, Cocoon City Hostel, Intra Muros Hostel and So Young Hostel are the most popular ones.

Question 3

What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in Crete, Greece?

Accepted Answer

Beyond the popular tourist areas, Crete holds hidden gems. The charming village of Anogia in the mountains offers stunning views and traditional Cretan life.  The ruins of the ancient city of Aptera offer a less crowded alternative to Knossos, with breathtaking coastal views.  Exploring the less-visited beaches along the south coast, such as Triopetra or Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos), provides a tranquil escape.  The impressive Preveli Palm Forest, near Plakias, is a natural wonder often overlooked.

Question 4

What are the best hostels with a pool in Crete?

Accepted Answer

Cocoon City Hostel, Matala Hostel and Chania Hostel Youth are the best hostels with a pool in Crete.

Question 5

What fun and budget-friendly events or festivals are happening in Crete, Greece?

Accepted Answer

Crete hosts numerous local festivals throughout the year.  Many villages celebrate their patron saint's day with processions, music, and dancing – a great opportunity to experience local culture without breaking the bank.  Check local listings closer to your travel dates as these events are often not widely advertised internationally. The Panigiri (village festivals) are a great way to experience traditional Cretan music and dance.

Question 6

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Crete?

Accepted Answer

Casa De Vacaciones Mixorrouma Para 1 - 4 Personas Con 1 Dormitorio - Casa De Vacaciones and Hostel Stylianos Kissamos are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Crete.

Question 7

What are the best nightlife spots in Crete, Greece?

Accepted Answer

Chania and Heraklion offer the most vibrant nightlife.  In Chania, the old town's narrow streets are lined with bars and clubs catering to various tastes.  Heraklion's harbour area also has a lively atmosphere with many bars and restaurants staying open late.  Smaller towns and villages generally have a more relaxed nightlife, often centred around tavernas with live music.

Question 8

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Crete?

Accepted Answer

The best hostels for families and kids in Crete are Intra Muros Hostel, Matala Hostel and Boho City Hostel.

Question 9

What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Crete, Greece?

Accepted Answer

At least 10 days allows for a good exploration of Crete, enabling you to experience both the beaches and the mountains.  Two weeks would allow a more relaxed pace, enabling more in-depth exploration of specific areas.  A shorter trip will inevitably mean focusing on a smaller region of the island.

Question 10

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Crete?

Accepted Answer

The best pet friendly hostels in Crete are Intra Muros Hostel, So Young Hostel and Matala Hostel.

Question 11

Does Crete, Greece offer any iconic natural events?

Accepted Answer

While not a regular scheduled event, the stunning sunsets over the Libyan Sea, particularly from locations like Elafonisi beach or the Samaria Gorge, are a daily spectacle.  The changing colours of the landscape throughout the year are also a natural event worth experiencing. The blooming of wildflowers in spring is another beautiful natural occurrence.

Question 12

What are the best hostels with parking in Crete?

Accepted Answer

Cocoon City Hostel, So Young Hostel and Constantinos Budget Beds are the best hostels with parking in Crete.

Question 13

Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Crete, Greece?

Accepted Answer

Many villages offer workshops in traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, or olive oil production.  Look for local listings or inquire at tourist information centres.  You might find opportunities to learn traditional Cretan dances or cooking classes focusing on the local cuisine.

Question 14

How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Crete, Greece?

Accepted Answer

Staying in smaller villages rather than large resorts provides more opportunities to interact with locals.  Visiting local tavernas and engaging in conversations (even with basic Greek phrases) can lead to meaningful connections.  Participating in local festivals and events provides further opportunities to engage with the Cretan community.

Question 15

Which restaurants and bars in Crete, Greece offer the best local cuisine?

Accepted Answer

Many family-run tavernas throughout Crete offer authentic Cretan cuisine.  Look for places frequented by locals rather than those solely targeting tourists.  In Chania, Tamam Restaurant is known for its excellent Cretan food.  In Heraklion, Peskes is a popular choice.  However, many smaller, less-known tavernas throughout the island offer equally delicious and authentic food.

Hostels in Crete

117 Hostels in Crete

Notos Heights Hotel Suites

Hostel In Chania

Evina Rooms & Suites

Youth Hostel Plakias

Alianthos Estate Resort - Ex Alianthos Garden

Eva Mare Hotel & Suites - Adults Only

Hersonissos Village Hotel & Bungalows - All Inclusive

Aqua Sun Village

Meropi Hotel

Constantinos Budget Beds

Spiros-soula Family Hotel & Apartments

Niriis Hotel

Best Crete hostels with breakfast included

Ambassadors Residence Boutique Hotel Chania

Mrs Chryssana Beach Hotel

Sunlight Hotel

Mariamare Apts

Best Crete hostels with a locker

Okeanis Golden Resort

Thalassi Hotel

Elounda Akti Olous - Adults Only

Sarikampos Beach

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Crete

Nearby regions

Best Crete hostels with air conditioning

Sofia Rooms

Lenikos Resort

Villas Lefkothea

Panorama - Sea View

Best Crete hostels with laundry available

Chania Hostel Youth 18-50

Cocoon City Hostel

Boho City Hostel

So Young Hostel