Crete - solo trip!

[PollyCreo]

I'm very excited, flying to Chania but staying in Rethymno for four days. I've got a little studio booked about 1km from the town centre, don't mind the walk though.

I last went to Crete 25 years ago, it was very different as it was a package holiday with an ex. I intend to get the bus to Agios Nikalaos to do the Spinalonga excursion and also plan a day in Chania to chill out and visit the maritime museum. What else is worth visiting? I'd love to revisit the Samaria Gorge but probably not advisable as a solo traveller!

Even if you are not into archaeology much, a trip to the Palace of Minos at Knossos is great. Just to see the mosaics and the art and all that jazz. I am sure there are guided tours around if you search, or ask when you get to Crete. I really think it is a must see if going to Crete.
Can't think of anything else, but you might be able to join a group (if you're willing!) to Samaria.

Ooh lucky you! Chania is absolutely lovely with great restaurants around the harbour. There are trips on glass bottomed boats too. Also agree with the recommendation for Knossos.

If you’re going to Spinalonga have you read The Island by Victoria Hislop? If you haven’t then do! And you can get the boat from Spinalonga to Plaka for the full experience!

Thank you, I will look this up. I have four full days so don't mind making the effort for this! I'm undecided about Samaria, I did that in 1998 with my ex, he died a few years ago so it might dredge up a few sad memories 😵‍💫

No but I have this book somewhere!

Such a charming and sad read. Loved it.

Chania is my go-to for solo travel. I’d head for the Old Town (that’s where I usually stay) and potter around the lovely shops and tiny lanes, and have lunch at one of the tavernas on the harbour.

Thank you for all your advice, I'm learning Greek too so can't wait to practice 😅

Try to get there at opening time if you can - it's so much better before the crowds arrive,
Also the museum in Heraklion. Absolutely fabulous.

Those two beat the socks off Spinalonga imo. Sure, its interesting in a somewhat grim way, and a boat ride is always nice... but the Minoan and Mycenaean stuff is wonderful.

Oh I'm getting overwhelmed now! 😅 This is my first solo trip ever, I fancy myself just sitting at a harbour looking mysterious with a glass of ouzo 🤣

I'm sure you'll have a great time whatever you choose to do!

Thank you. It will be weird for me as my first visit to Crete was years ago with an ex who is now dead. It's not a pilgrimage as such but still holds some memories.

I really need this break (work is so stressful at the moment) and I really appreciate all your tips 🍹

Agree with PP about reading 'The Island' before visiting Spinalonga.

We did Knossos, various museums etc but Spinalonga was my absolute favourite. But I don't think I'd have taken as much from it if I hadn't read the book, which made the island visit so much more poignant and emotional.