Crete: The island talent

Exclusive resorts and quaint tavernas, beautiful beaches and an untouched hinterland

Year after year, Crete sets new records for visitor numbers. And for 2025, the "Island of the Gods" is once again among the top 3 most popular travel destinations for Germans in all forecasts. Weather, beaches, crystal-clear water, hotels, culture, landscape, cuisine and the proverbial friendliness of the locals - everything is just right here. The trend is therefore likely to continue to grow in the future. Especially when the new airport opens in 2027 and finally replaces the chronically overloaded airport near Heraklion. The island has adapted well to the increasing demand. Old mid-range hotels have been renovated and upgraded, new resorts are being built and investments have been made in the infrastructure. Yes, in some regions, such as Hersonissos or Malia, it is crowded and the coast is partly built up. But Crete is large and diverse, so there is no question of overtourism.

As a result, the eastern part of Crete, which is not yet so developed in terms of tourism, is increasingly coming into focus. New resorts such as a Robinson Club near Ierapetra have been built or are in the process of being built. But there is still plenty of unspoiled countryside, secluded bays, quiet villages, quaint tavernas, lots of space and tranquillity. Speaking of space and tranquillity: in the last two or three years, a lot has been invested in environmental protection, which should also benefit previously overcrowded beaches such as Elafonisi and Balos. In many places, the authorities have put an end to the uncontrolled growth of crowded sunbeds and parasols on the beaches. Illegally erected beach tavernas and beach bars were also torn down. Even drones were used to monitor the measures. Not everyone likes this, but it will be good for the island in the long run.

More luxury for the island

The trend in accommodation on Crete is also moving towards greater comfort and more luxury. International chains in particular are increasingly discovering the island as an interesting destination. Modernizations are often associated with rebranding. On the Gulf of Mirabello - the Cretan Riviera - near Agios Nikolaos, for example, the Wyndham Grand became the Mirabello Bay Luxury Resort following a relaunch with considerable investment. The new features of the 5-star resort include five new private villas, which are located on a hill with a magnificent view of the bay and the nearby town of Agios Nikolaos and offer guests absolute privacy. Each villa has its own terrace, pool and garden. The high-quality interior design creates a homely atmosphere with elements of stone and wood.

On the coast of the Libyan Sea near Ierapetra in the south-east, an old middle-class house has been transformed into a luxurious beach resort from the Curio Collection by Hilton. But new buildings are also being constructed. Last summer, for example, the InterContinental luxury hotel opened in Agios Nikolaos on the Gulf of Mirabello with modern architecture inspired by the Cretan landscape. The opening of the McGallery Nikos Seaside Resort right on the promenade was also not too long ago. "Agios", as it is known for short, is increasingly developing into an international hotspot with numerous good bars and restaurants. Nearby Elounda, still probably the chicest and most exclusive place on Crete, also contributes to this.

Only about half an hour's drive east along the north coast, the picturesque coastal town of Mochlos is a real gem. The Aldiana Club, where the popular TV series "Stars of the South" was once filmed, was located on a large bay outside the village. The club was expanded and completely rebuilt into a lifestyle beach resort. The Ananea Rocrita shines with rooms with a swim-up option - i.e. from the terrace straight into the large pool. A trend that is becoming increasingly popular on the island despite water problems. Just as villas and suites with their own pool are becoming increasingly popular. This is particularly evident in a new luxury resort in western Crete, which is due to open in May. At the Oros beach resort, 117 of the 186 rooms, suites and villas have a private pool. Especially for families, there is a children's club, a playground and a large family pool with pavilions.

Also in the west, in the picturesque village of Marathi near Chania, the JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa is an absolute highlight. The elegant hideaway spans 100 acres of coastal landscape and seamlessly blends modern elegance with the island's rich heritage in all 160 luxurious rooms, suites and villas. Five exceptional restaurants bring local flavors and produce to the tables. Anóee, the authentic Cretan restaurant, surprises with its open-fire cooking concept. The spa invites you to enjoy wellness experiences in the open air.





The family-friendliness celebrated in Oros is no longer a given everywhere, even on Crete, where people are traditionally particularly fond of children. The trend towards "adults only" has recently gained enormous momentum. More and more luxury hotels are now also focusing exclusively on an adult clientele.

Trendy town of Rethymnon

Rethymnon is certainly the most interesting vacation resort on Crete at the moment. It's not actually a town, but the third largest city on the island. But you don't really notice that. Rethymnon is lively, charming, with a beautiful old town, a promenade that invites you to take a stroll, extensive sandy beaches close to the town and numerous top accommodations - in short, something of a jack of all trades when it comes to vacations in Crete. The gastronomic scene features authentic tavernas and modern-casual dining venues such as Lemonokipos. To relax and party, head to the trendy beach clubs and beach bars such as the Baia Beach Club. The wide sandy beaches to the left and right of the city stretch for miles, and the neighboring towns are also highly recommended.

Experience the south coast

There are also larger vacation resorts on the south coast, such as Plakias, Matala or Agia Galini , which are more characterized by package tourism. However, there are also many less developed places than on the north coast. This and the breathtaking landscape attract many individual vacationers. Villages such as Lentas or Agios Pavlos enjoy cult status in the Berlin scene. Xerokampos in the south-east or Sougia in the south-west have hardly changed over the years and still exude the magical flair from the days when young backpackers from all over Europe made pilgrimages to the island. Don't miss Loutro , this almost achingly beautiful coastal town set against the steep mountains, which can be reached by ferry or on foot. When the day trippers have left on the last ferry and you are sitting comfortably in a taverna at the harbor, you can enjoy a unique atmosphere here with raki, wine and Greek music.

The bay of Triopetra in the same neighborhood as Agios Pavlos is also very beautiful. But here it is clear that development is not standing still on the south coast either, and this is not without controversy. A major project is currently being planned: the Triopetra Bay Resort . In the first phase, a hotel is planned, while in the subsequent development phases
residential buildings, a golf course and a conference center are to be added.