Wanderlust in Crete: One Woman’s Adventure in Paradise

Chania Harbor, Crete (photo by K. Pyke)

Starting in Athens, the Acropolis tour felt like stepping back in time, wandering through ancient ruins that have witnessed thousands of years of stories. The accompanying Acropolis Museum was just the cherry on top — an immersive dive into the art and artifacts that brought those ruins to life. I also took a side trip to the Temple of Poseidon, which was stunning at sunset, and wandered around the city center just taking in the atmosphere of Greece’s capital. Most of this trip was focused on Crete though.

Acropolis, Athens, Greece (photo by K. Pyke)

Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion, Greece (photo by K. Pyke)

Crete was an absolute dream! From history to food to breathtaking coastal views, this trip had it all. I had many varied experiences — cooking, eating, ancient civilization and history, pottery, weaving, shopping — all unique, and many female-focused.

Touring Chania's Old Town (photos by K. Pyke)

Chania was a standout. The picturesque Old Town, with its Venetian harbor and cobblestone streets, charmed me completely. But what really made the experience was a cooking class in Vamos with the wonderful Miss Koula. She brought Cretan flavors to life with her warmth and expertise — kneading dough for pies and mastering local dishes felt like a celebration of the island’s culinary heritage. I left not just with recipes but also with memories of laughter and stories shared around the kitchen. Miss Koula taught us a little about Cretan agriculture and local herbs, and then she showed us how easy it can be to cook fresh, healthy meals. I have since made several of her recipes at home.

Queen's throne room, Knossos, Crete (photo by K. Pyke)

History lovers are spoiled in Crete, and I couldn't resist the call of the archeological museum at Eleuthera and the legendary site of Knossos. Walking through the ruins at Knossos, imagining the grandeur of the Minoan civilization, was awe-inspiring. And as if Crete hadn’t already won me over, my visit to Spinalonga Island added a touch of intrigue, followed by a blissful swim in the clear, turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. The mix of exploration and relaxation was pure perfection. Greece truly delivered unforgettable experiences!

Wall mural, Heraklion, Crete (photo by K. Pyke)

View from Minos Palace Hotel at sunrise, Agios Nikolaos, Crete (photo by K. Pyke)

Traveling in Crete is an amazing experience, and a little preparation can make it even better! Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your trip:

Embrace local timing: In Crete, life slows down — especially during siesta time, typically between 2 and 5 pm. Many shops and restaurants might close during these hours, so plan accordingly and adopt the relaxed pace.

Wear comfortable shoes: Whether you're exploring the ruins at Knossos or strolling through Chania's cobblestone streets, good walking shoes are essential for all the history and beauty you'll uncover.

Pack for the sun: The Cretan sun can be quite strong, even in cooler months. Sunscreen, a hat and reusable water bottles are must-haves to stay protected and hydrated.

Try local cuisine: Cretan food is a highlight of any visit. Don’t miss dishes like dakos (Cretan bruschetta), Cretan salad (no lettuce, all veggies!) or kalitsounia (sweet or savory pastries). Keep an eye out for small family-run tavernas — they often serve the best authentic meals. No Cretan meal is complete without a glass of raki, a strong distilled spirit made from grape must. It’s offered as a gesture of hospitality and often paired with dried fruits or nuts.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Crete page.