When asked about their travels in Greece, many travellers unfortunately think only of Santorini. Although it has iconic white buildings and black sand beaches and it's for sure a very famous destination, there is another island in Greece, a bigger one, which provides limitless hidden treasures and stunning scenes. Crete. Crete is gaining popularity and giving Santorini some serious competition recently. It's also rated as the 5th most popular vacation destination in Europe! Crete offers a way more authentic experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Greek culture.
Here are 5 main reasons why we (expats from central Europe and local Cretans) prefer Crete than Santorini:
Firstly, Crete is way more economically affordable. Santorini is very overpriced. And the service delivered for the prices are either at the same level or even worse than in Crete. In general the price is doubled in comparison in Crete. But in Crete you receive much better services. Anywhere you go in Crete, your money are well spent. Of course you should be aware of “tourist traps” in both places. But the whole Santorini is unfortunately full of them.
Secondly and honestly, you cannot see more from Santorini than you already did on Instagram. Santorini has only the views and white buildings. And a specific wine. That's all. And to be honest, it is too little. Because in a very few days you have nothing to do there. That's also why a lot of people just go to Santorini for 1 or 2 days. But the atmosphere of Santorini is harmed because of this – it became just a touristic island.
This leads us to a third and very important reason – the authentic Cretan culture and history combined with unlimited options. Crete is a very big island, the biggest Greek island, and its diversity is incredible. Palm forests, olive tree groves, waterfalls, gorges, mountains… And we could continue! That's also why Crete offers a deeper immersion into Greek culture. Crete has a unique and very welcoming culture. Cretans still follow their traditions. Not as a tourist attraction but it is their local life. Unfortunately local culture from Santorini disappeared completely.
Another reason why many people prefer to visit Crete is the breathtaking nature. With crystal-clear beaches and stunning palm forests, massive mountains and unique gorges provides visitors an unforgettable experience to this big island which has… everything! It is amazing but Crete really offers something to anybody.
Fifth reason why we prefer Crete is history. While visiting Crete, you can learn a lot about the history which influenced all of Europe. You can understand why are things developed and called in certain way and you can enrich your vacation with an extra activity which is educating and entertaining at the same time!
Final reason is that Crete is far more accesible. As we mentioned before, Santorini became an island for tourists. While Crete is an island where normal local life is going on. It has a lot of advantages including 3 airports and 6 ferry ports making it very comfortable travelling. And all the facilities needed for everyday life.
Conclusion? Well, if you are amazed by the Instagram photos of Santorini, let's do! Let's visit it! We'd just recommend you to come only for a few days and then continue to explore another Greek islands like Crete or Naxos and Milos.
