How to spend Five days in Crete
From sun-drenched beaches to quiet villages, join me on a visual journey across Crete, featuring stunning landscapes and three amazing hotels that made this trip unforgettable
Day 1: Chania to Kapsaliana – A Beautiful Start in Crete
I am always so eager to start exploring the first morning of a trip, especially when you're waking up to the golden light of a Cretan sunrise. Our journey began in Chania, where we stayed at the stunning Casa del Fino. The hotel's rooftop offered an unobstructed view of the early morning sky, the sky transformed into a kaleidoscope of pinks, oranges, and purples, while the sound of birds flying overhead filled the air.
We made our way downstairs for breakfast, which felt like the perfect continuation of that peaceful morning. The spread was simple yet delicious—fresh pastries, local fruits, and rich coffee. The breakfast courtyard was secluded, shaded with trees. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns across the table.
Chania is a photographer's dream, with its maze of narrow streets and colorful buildings lining the Venetian harbor. Built in the 14th century for commercial purposes and protection against pirate raids, the harbour stands as a testament to the city's rich history.
As we wandered through the town, I found myself photographing everything—the turquoise waters, the charming tavernas, and of course, a few curious cats who seemed to always be at the right place at the right time.
As much as we loved exploring Chania, it was time for our next stop. The drive to Kapsaliana Village Hotel was stunning—winding roads with sweeping sea views on one side and rugged mountains on the other. Olive groves and tiny stone chapels dotted the landscape a perfect contrast to the vibrant energy of Chania.
Kapsaliana Village Hotel is unlike any place I've ever stayed. Once an old olive oil mill dating back to the 16th century, it's now a beautifully restored complex that blends rustic charm with modern luxury.As we explored the property, I couldn't help but be taken by the history and the sense of calm that filled every corner.
Our room was just as special—earthy tones, thick stone walls, and a private terrace that overlooked the rolling hills. The whole place felt like it was designed for slow mornings and golden evenings. Before dinner, we took a swim in the pool, the water cool against the lingering heat of the day. As the sun dipped below the hills, the sky turned a deep shade of orange, casting long shadows over the landscape.
A slow dinner under the stars ended the day, with a lingering warmth in the air, we wandered to the hotel's outdoor bar. With wine in hand, we settled in playing cards under the glow of lanterns. The day faded gently, wrapped in the quiet magic of Crete.
We woke up to what was, without a doubt, the best hotel breakfast I’ve ever had. Set against a backdrop of lush nature, the spread was both calming and energizing. Fresh fruit, warm pastries, and an iced coffee in hand, I was ready for the day’s adventure.
Next, we headed out to explore Crete’s famous palm forest. The mountain drive was scenic, and we parked at the top before hiking down to get a closer look. The views of the vibrant blue sea and sprawling palm trees below were breathtaking. The hike down was gorgeous, but be prepared for a more challenging climb back up!
At the bottom, we stopped at the little café for a snack and, of course, more iced coffee to cool off. We enjoyed swimming in the crystal-clear sea and walking along the river that winds through the palm forest.
Once we made the trek back up, we drove through the winding mountain roads to Kalypso, a hidden cove carved into dramatic cliffs. The sea shimmered in endless blues, its crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. We wandered along rocky paths, watching cliff jumpers plunge into the depths below.
We drove to Plateia Myrthios, a hillside restaurant that quickly became our favorite of the trip. Perched high above the coast, it offered breathtaking views of the mountains cascading into the sea. The food was fresh, simple, and rich with local flavors. We were treated to sweet cherries and a glass of local wine, a warm gesture that made the place feel even more special.
We spent the late afternoon at Souda Beach, a peaceful stretch of coastline framed by rugged cliffs and shaded tamarisk trees. The dark pebbled shore met clear, inviting waters, perfect for a swim. As the afternoon light softened, we watched locals and travelers drift in and out, some enjoying a quiet swim, others gathered at the small seaside taverna.
We headed back to the hotel just in time to catch golden hour. The sky softened into warm hues, casting a golden glow over the landscape as the last light of the day. We settled onto our balcony, the evening air was warm and still, filled with the distant hum of cicadas and the occasional murmur of laughter from below. With no plans but to unwind, we let the night unfold slowly—playing cards, reminiscing about the day's adventures, and simply soaking in the peacefulness of our little corner of Crete. The world outside felt far away, and for those quiet hours, nothing existed beyond the glow of lanterns, the rustle of the breeze, and the endless stretch of stars above.
After yet another delicious and calming breakfast at Kapsaliana Village Hotel, we took our time to savor the morning sunshine and the incredible food. This time, a friendly cat joined us for a bit of our meal, adding an extra touch of charm to the experience.
It was time to say goodbye to this beautiful hotel and head to our next destination, Dedalos Touch. Only a 20-minute drive from Kapsaliana, Dedalos is nestled in the mountains, offering a quiet and stunning escape. We checked into an apartment with a private pool that overlooked the sparkling sea—it doesn’t get much better than that. The view from our balcony was absolutely breathtaking, with the rolling hills below blending seamlessly into the vibrant blue of the Mediterranean.
After settling in, we drove to the nearby town of Bali, where we enjoyed a relaxed lunch by the water. Bali is known for its picturesque harbor and laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.
Once we were back at the apartment, we couldn’t resist taking a dip in our pool, enjoying the serene surroundings and cool water under the afternoon sun.
For dinner, we headed to Paraplous, a fantastic seaside restaurant that gave us the perfect view of the sunset. As we dined, the sky transformed into a canvas of warm colors, capping off a perfect day in Crete.
We started the day with a leisurely morning, soaking in the serenity of our apartment. Since breakfast isn’t included at Dedalos Touch, we made our own coffee and enjoyed pastries we had picked up the night before.
We spent the rest of the morning exploring Rethymno, a city where Venetian and Cretan influences blend seamlessly. Wandering through its narrow streets, we admired pastel buildings, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and the scent of fresh coffee in the air. By the waterfront, we strolled past the Venetian lighthouse and watched fishing boats bob in the marina. Stopping at a seaside taverna, we enjoyed fresh orange juice and honey-drenched pastries.
Afterward, we drove to Lake Kournas in Kavallos, a serene freshwater lake known for its resident turtles. Surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves, the lake’s crystal-clear waters shimmered under the midday sun. We rented a paddle boat and set off in search of spotting a couple turtles.
Once back on shore, we explored the charming village, its narrow streets lined with quaint ceramic shops and traditional tavernas. The artistry on display was irresistible, and I couldn’t leave without picking up a handmade espresso cup.
On the way back, we stumbled upon another secluded beach—one of those hidden gems Crete is known for. The calm, turquoise waters and quiet shoreline made it feel like we had the whole place to ourselves. We took our time, swimming and relaxing, before heading back to our apartment.
In the evening, we decided to cook dinner in our kitchen. Sitting on the balcony, we watched the sunset paint the sky in the most beautiful hues, yet again. I could never get enough of the sunsets in Crete—they were always breathtaking. After dinner, we lounged under the stars, chatting and gazing up at the night sky.
Our final day in Crete was simple yet perfect. With only the morning left, we decided to make the most of it by staying close to Dedalos Touch and soaking in every last moment. We spent our time by the pool, reading our books, jumping in and out of the water to cool off, and simply enjoying each other’s company. There’s something about the stillness of the mountains, the warmth of the sun, and the refreshing water that makes time feel like it slows down.
As the hours passed, we took it all in—the peacefulness of a Greek morning, the beauty of Crete, and the quiet moments that make travel so special. It was the perfect way to end our time here, savoring the simplicity of the moment and the memories made.
