Crete is the largest island of Greece.

The beautiful beach of Bali in Crete.

Remarkable for its cultural attractions, Crete has been a crossroads of humanity for millennia. Minoan civilization flourished here during the Bronze Age, and a parade of conquerors have left their mark, from the Dorian Greeks to the Ottoman Turks. This rich heritage is revealed in the monuments of Chania's attractive Old Town: Byzantine ramparts, the Venetian harbor, Turkish hammams, and an Ottoman-era mosque.

Tourists can learn more about the history at Chania's small but noteworthy Byzantine Museum and superb Archaeological Museum. Another Venetian seaport, enchanting Réthymnon is 65 kilometers east of Chania.

Heraklion dates to the 9th century but is today a modern metropolis (Crete's largest city). Surrounded by ancient fortifications, the Old Town is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, such as Byzantine churches and Venetian mansions. Must-see Heraklion attractions include the Archaeological Museum, which displays fine examples of Minoan art; the Historical Museum of Crete; and the CRETAquarium, which is home to thousands of sea creatures.

About five kilometers southeast of Heraklion is a fascinating archaeological site at Knossos, Crete's best-preserved Minoan palace (dating to around 1,900 BC).

Crete's dreamiest beaches are tucked away on the southwest coast. Elafonisi is an amazing pink-sand shoreline lapped by turquoise waters, although it can get packed in high season. Paleochora boasts a long, sandy beach plus many restaurants and hotels. Sougia has fewer crowds, but the beach is pebbly and facilities are minimal.

Seaside splendor is found in Plakiás, a popular resort destination, and the tiny fishing village of Loutro nestled in a remote cove backed by steep, rocky hillsides. Loutro is only accessible by boat or by hiking here on foot; accommodations are limited.

In the easternmost part of Crete, the off-the-beaten-path Lassíthi region is also prized for its exquisite beaches with crystal-clear waters (ideal for snorkeling and swimming) and luxury hotels. This area has many wonderful seaside destinations, including the bustling seaport of Agios Nikolaos built on three hillsides overlooking an attractive harbor; the coastal town of Ierápetra, with a fish taverna-lined waterfront and golden-sand beaches; and Sitía, with its exotic scenery, a superb sandy beach, and an atmospheric harbor full of restaurants and cafés.