The El Camino Travel Guide to Crete, Greece

Written by Kayla Doris

We don’t need much convincing to visit one of Greece’s mythical islands, but ECT Greece Expert, Christina Papavlasopoulos, has us sold on Crete. “Authentic is a word that we use over and over again in travel, but to me that’s what Crete is,” she says. “A lot of the Greek islands have gotten to the point where you’re not going to meet many people who are from the island, or the island is mostly focused on tourism. In Crete, it’s still very much the home and village of Greek people. They’re still making cheese, shepherding, working the land, and doing local jobs. It isn’t an island where locals leave during the off-season—it has real year-round life.” As the southernmost and largest Greek island, Crete’s size means its visitors can encounter more than just curated tourist zones. It’s home to mountain villages, working farms, ancient ruins, lush beaches, Minoan history, and a distinct culinary and cultural identity. If its size leaves you wondering where to begin, Christina recommends the El Camino traveler to venture to Western Crete. “Chania—the island’s second largest city, located on the northwest coast—is a really great jumping point. It’s a destination in itself, but from there you can go one hour east to the beautiful, quaint town, Rethymno, or you can go an hour west to the best beaches like Falasarna,” says Christina.

We’ve worked with Christina Papavlasopoulos—ECT Greece Expert and cofounder of Myths + Muses, and local resident and Tella Thera sales manager, Despina Domatzi, to curate a Crete guide tailored to the El Camino traveler with farmhouse feasts, weaving workshops, idyllic beaches, and dreamy accommodation options.

Eat

Enjoy an elevated dining experience at Periplous in Chania. Recommended by ECT Greece Expert, Christina, the restaurant is situated directly in front of the sea, where it serves refined Cretan cuisine using only local and organic ingredients. Expect steamed or grilled fish with fresh vegetables, pureed fava beans, homemade bread, and handpicked wines.

Also included in the guide:

• A garden tavern draped in vines and bougainvillaea, serving rustic feasts off-the-beaten-path

• An electic art studio and brasserie for funky food and stylish cocktails

• The homely spot to go for Cretan meze and moonshine

Image credit: KLOTHO

Stay

Be one of the first to stay at Tella Thera, a nature-inspired boutique retreat opening in July 2025. Tucked into the hills of Kissamos and surrounded by olive groves, its design honors Crete’s elemental beauty with natural stone, whitewashed curves and earthy linens. Relax in the spacious suites—all of them offer plenty of indoor space, plus a private garden terrace, workspace, and sea views—but the deluxe suites include your very own private plunge pool. Don’t have a private pool? Not a problem. You can unwind at the on-site spa, which includes a magnesium pool, steam room and sauna, and chromotherapy showers.

Also included in the guide:

• A “really pretty, small boutique hotel with a great vibe,” according to our resident Greece Expert

• A beachfront boutique stay where sunny Mediterranean charm meets playful curated interiors

• A renovated guesthouse owned by an art historian with a passion for Greek and Arab cultures

Image credit: Periplous

Shop

Head to Rethymno’s Old Town to marvel at KLOTHO, a weaving studio and showroom set in a detached house, surrounded by a beautiful garden and overlooking the sea. The studio is where centuries-old Cretan textile traditions are brought into the present. Founded by Alexandra Theohari, the brand is rooted in sustainability and slow fashion. Every piece is designed by local artisans and handwoven on restored wooden looms using lasting quality materials such as cotton, linen, and raw silk. Visitors can browse the showroom and even take part in a weaving workshop to craft their very own souvenir.

Also included in the guide:

• Where to shop for high-quality olive oil, Cretan tea, local liqueurs, natural soaps, handmade honey products, and artisan ceramics

• The concept shop selling colorful swimwear and accessories

•  Unique gold and silver bracelets, necklaces, and earrings inspired by Greek design. 

Image credit: Tella Thera

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