If you want to experience the authentic Crete in winter, here are some tips from a local that will help you plan your trip and make the most of your stay.
- Try the local cuisine. Crete is famous for its quality, its variety and its health benefits. It is based on the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes the consumption of olive oil, vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts, herbs, cheese, yogurt and honey, and moderate amounts of fish, meat and wine. You can savor the Cretan cuisine at one of the many taverns, restaurants, or cafes, where you can taste the local specialties, such as dakos, kalitsounia, snails, lamb, and cheese pies. You can also take a cooking class or a wine tasting tour and learn how to prepare or appreciate the Cretan delicacies.
- Explore the nature and the culture of the island. Crete has a diverse and stunning landscape, with mountains, gorges, forests, lakes, and beaches. You can enjoy the sun and the sea, even in winter, as the temperature doesn’t go below 15 degrees Celsius, especially on the south coast. You can also go hiking, biking, or horseback riding in the natural parks, such as the Samaria Gorge, the Lassithi Plateau, and the Palm Forest of Vai. You can also visit the archaeological sites, such as the Palace of Knossos, the Phaistos Disc, and the Spinalonga Island, where you can marvel at the ancient architecture, art, and mythology.