Our favourite time to visit is in February when the city is quieter and there are fewer tourists. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Barcelona’s charm and beauty without the summer crowds. Traveling in the low season gives you more space to truly take in everything this incredible city has to offer.

WHAT TO SEE IN BARCELONA?

1. SAGRADA FAMILIA

Barcelona is most famous for the breathtaking Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí. This architectural marvel is simply spectacular. You have to take a slow walk around the basilica to fully appreciate the details, from the towering spires to the beautiful façades.

Every corner reveals something new, from carvings to stunning stained glass. It does not matter if you are interested in art or architecture, Sagrada Familia is so amazing that everyone will be mesmerised. We also recommend that you book the tickets to visit the inside. 

2. GO TO PARK GUELL

Another must-see Gaudí masterpiece is Park Güell. Many visitors visit this famous colorful bench here at the park for that perfect Instagram shot. The space there is limited, so it is really hard to take a photo without other people.

But the park’s real magic lies elsewhere, so after you take a photo of the bench, do not forget to walk around the park and enjoy its beauty and panoramic views of the city.

You have to take your time exploring its pathways and discovering hidden artistic details that make Park Güell a true Barcelona highlight! ->You can get your tickets here.

3. VISIT CASA BATLLÓ AND CASA MILÀ

Speaking of Gaudí, you can also visit his remarkable creations, Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. Both buildings showcase Gaudí’s genius with their unique designs, from the flowing curves of Casa Batlló’s façade to the wave-like architecture of Casa Milà.

You have to take a tour inside to truly appreciate the creativity and innovation behind these masterpieces.

Both are perfect examples of Gaudí’s ability to blend art, nature, and function. This makes them essential stops for any visitor exploring Barcelona’s rich architectural heritage! 
->You can get your Casa Batlló tickets here. 
->You can get your Casa Milà tickets here. 

4. GO ON A LOCAL GUIDE WALKING TOUR IN BARCELONA

If you are planning a trip to Barcelona, this city walking tour is a must! It is led by a knowledgeable local guide. You will explore the charming Gothic Quarter, visit iconic spots like the Barcelona Cathedral, and uncover hidden gems that most tourists miss.

With flexible booking options and excellent reviews, it is an unforgettable way to experience the essence of Barcelona. Don’t miss out on this adventure—book your spot today!

5. CARMEL BUNKERS

Barcelona is amazing from every angle, but even more so from above. One of the hidden gems that offers the best views of the city is the Carmel Bunkers. From the Carmel Bunkers, you will have a panoramic view of Barcelona.

Don’t forget to bring some water, as there aren’t many shops nearby. It is a peaceful spot to enjoy a quieter side of the city, away from the crowds, and truly worth the trek! 

6. GOTHIC QUARTER

Visiting the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is like stepping back in time. This historic neighbourhood is filled with narrow streets, charming squares, and centuries-old buildings. You have to take a walk through its maze-like alleys to discover hidden gems like the Barcelona Cathedral, quirky shops, and lively tapas bars.

The Gothic Quarter’s atmosphere is a perfect blend of medieval history and modern energy. It is a fascinating place to explore and experience the heart of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

7. LA RAMBLA STREET IN BARCELONA

Besides Gaudí’s landmarks, there are many other attractions worth visiting in Barcelona, and La Rambla is one of the most famous. You have to take a walk down this bustling street, lined with shops, kiosks, and street performers.

It is always lively and offers a great atmosphere for soaking in the city’s vibrant energy. Here you will be able to find souvenirs but also pickpockets, so watch your belongings.

8. VISIT MERCATO DE LA BOQUERIA

My favourite spot in Barcelona is Mercato de la Boqueria, a vibrant central food market that is always full of tourists. For a more relaxed experience, I recommend heading there early in the morning to enjoy a light breakfast.

You can grab freshly cut fruits or a refreshing smoothie from the many fruit and veggie stalls. Plus, the earlier you arrive, the fewer tourists there will be, so you will have more space to explore and enjoy the market’s flavours!

9. GO TO FLAMENCO SHOW

Experience the magic of authentic Spanish culture at a flamenco show in Barcelona’s historic City Hall Theater. This passionate performance will take you on an emotional journey with music, singing, and incredible dancing by some of Spain’s most talented artists.

Set in the charming early 19th-century theater, it is a must-see for anyone looking to dive deep into the heart of flamenco. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable evening in Barcelona!
->You can find your tickets here.

10. GO TO THE BEACH IN BARCELONA

Barcelona’s seaside location makes it perfect for a beach day. On a sunny afternoon, you can head to the beach, relax in the sun, sip on a coffee, or enjoy a snack by the shore.

Watching the locals learning to surf adds to the laid-back vibe. It is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the Barcelona lifestyle while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Don’t miss out on this experience when exploring the city!

11. VISIT MONTSERRAT

A visit to Montserrat with a guided tour is amazing. You will enjoy a scenic ride up the mountain by cog-wheel train, take in the breathtaking views, and explore the beautiful Royal Basilica of Montserrat.

The tour also includes a visit to the revered Black Madonna and free time to taste local liqueurs or discover more of the area’s unique history. It is the perfect half-day trip from Barcelona, ideal if you are staying for a longer period. Secure your spot through the link and enjoy a flexible booking!

12. VISIT THE PALACE OF CATALAN MUSIC

The Palace of Catalan Music is a stunning concert hall and a true gem of Barcelona’s architectural heritage. The palace is known for its breathtaking modernist design. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a cultural experience like no other. If you decide to attend a performance or simply tour the building, you will be amazed by its beauty and history. Don’t miss the chance to visit this iconic venue during your stay in Barcelona!
->Book your tour or tickets through the link.

WHERE TO STAY IN BARCELONA?

If you really want to enjoy your stay in Barcelona, I recommend searching for a hotel with a rooftop terrace it adds a great bonus to the experience.

We tried two different hotels. The first and more affordable is Motel One Barcelona-Ciutadella. It has beautiful and spacious rooms, but the location is not as central as we would prefer. 

The second hotel we tried is Boutique Hotel H10 Montcada, which has smaller rooms, but the location is just perfect and the view from the rooftop terrace is amazing.

SEE ALSO:

The Top 10 Things to Do in Valencia for an Unforgettable Vacation

The post The Ultimate Barcelona Itinerary: Top 12 Things to See and Do appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

You will get to experience stunning sights, rich history, and amazing food.

WHAT TO SEE IN THE CITY OF VALENCIA?

Whether you are here to explore futuristic landmarks, enjoy a day at the beach, or wander through charming neighbourhoods, Valencia will steal your heart. Join us as we guide you through the best places to see, eat, and relax, so you can make the most of your visit and create unforgettable memories.

Let’s dive into Valencia together!

1. THE CITY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a must-see! This place feels like stepping into the future. The buildings are breathtaking, and their architecture is unique.

You can check out the science at the interactive museum, or explore the largest aquarium in Europe. There is also an option for you to catch an impressive show at the planetarium.

It is the perfect blend of learning and fun for all ages, and you certainly don’t want to miss it while you’re in Valencia!

2. LA LONJA DE LA SEDA IN VALENCIA

La Lonja de la Seda, or the Silk Exchange, is like stepping into a time machine back to Valencia’s golden age. This stunning Gothic building will amaze you with its towering columns and intricate ceilings.

As you stroll through the grand halls, you can almost picture the bustling silk traders who once did business here centuries ago. It is a perfect spot for history lovers or anyone who appreciates impressive architecture.

3. GO TO THE FLAMENCO SHOW PALOSANTO

For an unforgettable evening in Valencia, you have to see a Flamenco show at Palosanto. It’s more than just a performance. You really see emotion and passion expressed by performers!

You will be mesmerised by the dancers’ fiery movements, the guitar’s soulful strumming, and the electric atmosphere.

The intimate setting makes you feel like you’re part of the show. It’s an authentic taste of Spanish culture that will leave you amazed and wanting more!

->Get the tickets here.

4. VISIT BARRIO DEL CARMEN IN VALENCIA

Barrio del Carmen is Valencia’s trendiest neighbourhood, where old meets new in the most exciting way. You can wander through winding streets filled with colourful street art, ancient city walls, and cosy little cafés.

By day, it is perfect for a relaxed stroll, where you will be able to soak up history and culture. By night, this area comes alive with vibrant bars and a buzzing atmosphere. If you want to party or experience the true heart and soul of Valencia, Barrio del Carmen is the place to be!

5. JARDÍ DEL TÚRIA PARK

Jardí del Túria is Valencia’s big green park, right in the heart of the city. This park was once a riverbed and is now a long, beautiful stretch of gardens, playgrounds, and walking paths.

Here you can have a peaceful picnic or a jog. If you just want to wander through nature, it is also the perfect spot for that.

Plus, you will enjoy beautiful views of the City of Arts and Sciences along the way. It is a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and recharge.

6. VALENCIA CENTRAL MARKET

Valencia Central Market is a food lover’s dream! Inside the market, you will find stalls with fresh produce, seafood, spices, and more. It is the perfect place for you to try local Valencian treats, explore the food culture, and eat some good, fresh snacks. 

The lively atmosphere, mouth-watering aromas, and endless variety of food make it the perfect spot to experience the city’s culinary delights.

7. TAKE AN ORGANISED TOUR OF VALENCIA

Best of Valencia – Hidden Gems Tour:

Discover Valencia’s top landmarks and hidden gems on a private tour, guided by a local expert. You will explore both famous attractions and lesser-known spots that only locals know about.

This personalised tour is perfect if you are looking for an in-depth, unique experience of Valencia’s history, culture, and beauty. ->Book here.

Valencia 3-Hour Bike Tour:

Explore Valencia on a 3-hour bike tour! Pedal through the historic centre, along the green Turia Gardens, and past the City of Arts and Sciences. Bike is also the best transportation for exploring the city. 

It is a fun, active way to see the city while learning about its rich history and soaking up its outdoor beauty. ->Book here.

Valencia Complete Tuk-Tuk City Tour:

See Valencia’s main attractions in style on a Tuk-Tuk tour! In just a few hours, you’ll visit the historic centre, cruise along the beach, and take in modern attractions like the City of Arts and Sciences.

Perfect if you are short on time but want to cover a lot of ground with ease and fun! ->Book here.

8. VISIT MALVARROSA BEACH

Malvarrosa Beach is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine in Valencia.

The golden sands stretch along the coast, and the sea is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a walk by the shore. With beachside restaurants serving up delicious paella and refreshing drinks, it’s easy to spend the entire day here.

Whether you’re after a peaceful day by the water or some fun in the sun, Malvarrosa Beach has something for everyone! -> Check out the best-rated bike tour to the beach.

9. GO ON A CATAMARAN RIDE

For an unforgettable experience in Valencia, a sunset catamaran cruise is a must! Imagine sailing along the beautiful Valencian coast, feeling the Mediterranean breeze on your face as you relax on a spacious catamaran.

As the sun sets, you will witness beautiful views of landmarks like the City of Arts and Sciences, all while sipping a glass of cava.

With calming music in the background, it’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate after a day of exploring the city. This is also the best activity to do on your last day for a perfect ending of a trip. 
->Check the prices here.

10. MONTANEJOS HIKING AND HOT SPRINGS TOUR

If you are in Valencia for more than just a few days and want to experience an adventure, the Montanejos Hiking and Hot Springs tour is perfect for you!

Just an hour from the city of Valencia, this full-day trip takes you on a guided hike through the breathtaking landscapes of Montanejos.

You will follow a trail along the beautiful Mijares River, with beautiful mountain views. You will also visit the impressive Chorro waterfall, which releases 300,000 litres of water per minute—an incredible sight!
->Find out more about the tour.

WHERE TO STAY IN VALENCIA

THE MYR MARQUÉS HOUSE HOTEL VALENCIA

In Valencia, we stayed at the Marqués House Hotel, which is in a perfect location. The hotel is right in the city centre, but on a quiet street. The hotel is newly built, and our room and bathroom were beautifully decorated and spotlessly clean.

There is also a bar, and we were welcomed with a complimentary drink on arrival.

A highlight not to miss is the rooftop terrace. Unfortunately, we only discovered it on our last day, but had we known earlier, we would have spent more time soaking up the warm winter sun up there.

-> You can check out the hotel here.

SEE ALSO:

Did you Know you Can Find Amazing Vegan Restaurants in the City of Valencia? Check Them out Here!

The post The Top 10 Things to Do in Valencia for an Unforgettable Vacation appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

I recommend staying for at least 4 nights, if you have time, ideally would be to stay at least one week, because there is so much to see and do.

The easiest way to travel around the city is with an Octopus card. You can use the card for all public transport and entrances. If your accommodation is strategically located, you can also do a lot of sightseeing on foot. Here are my top 10 things to do in Hong Kong:

AVENUE OF STARS

Avenue of Stars is a walking promenade and one of Hong Kong’s iconic sights, with a beautiful view of the skyline. It honors those who have greatly contributed to the Hong Kong movie theatre. It is a great place to soak up some sun and beautiful views.

There is also a Bruce Lee statue, and every night at 8 PM, you can watch a Symphony of Lights, which is a 10-minute light and sound show.

THE PEAK TOWER – SKY TERRACE 428

Sky Terrace 428 is one of the must-visit places in Hong Kong. You can go there by taxi or the Peak Tram. I loved my experience with the Peak Tram. It is just a short ride uphill on a beautiful tram with glass ceilings, so you can see the amazing view.

The view from the top is breathtaking, and you get many beautiful photo opportunities. You can buy tickets for Sky Terrace and the Peak Tram in advance with Klook and avoid waiting in line. 

My top tip for visiting the Sky Terrace 428 is to pick a day with clear skies so you will have the best view possible.

LUGARD ROAD IN HONG KONG

When you are visiting the Sky Terrace 428, you can also visit the Lugard Road. The walk on Lugard Road is easy, and you do not need any special equipment, just a comfortable pair of sneakers, a bottle of water, and mosquito repellent.

It is a stunning walk that offers an amazing view of Hong Kong.

MAN MO TEMPLE

Man Mo Temple is a beautiful temple in Hong Kong. It is hidden among all the tall skyscrapers. It is a peaceful temple in the middle of the city. There is no entrance fee. 

LANTAU ISLAND – BIG BUDDHA

It is a must when visiting Hong Kong. The best way to get there is with Ngong Ping 360 gondola. There is a cheaper option to take the bus, but it takes longer to get there.

On Lantau Island, you will find the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. For this activity, you will need at least half a day.

1-DAY TRIP FROM HONG KONG TO MACAO

The best way to do a daily trip to Macao is with TurboJet. It is a fast Jet that will take you from one destination to the other in about one hour. The ride is smooth and comfortable. Do not forget that you need to bring your passport.

Macao is a unique destination where you will find modern hotels with big casinos, and in the city centre, you will find a true Portugal vibe.

DIM SUM IN HONG KONG

When visiting Hong Kong, you have to try dim sum. Dim Sum refers to small, sweet, and savory dishes combined with drinking tea.

There are many dishes to choose from, and usually, the menu includes dumplings and steamed buns.

CHI LIN NUNNERY AND NAN LIAN GARDEN

If you have some extra time in the city and want to visit a scenic garden, this is the place to go. The garden is full of beautiful Bonsai trees. There is also a vegetarian restaurant right in the park.

You can also visit Chi Lin Nunnery, a beautiful Buddhist temple just across the street from the Nan Lian Garden.

TAKE A RIDE WITH HONG KONG TAXI

I know it is just a taxi ride, but in Hong Kong, every taxi ride is special. The taxis are iconic, and they are affordable, so do not be afraid to jump in one.

CENTRAL-MID-LEVELS ESCALATORS

It is the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world. It covers about 800 metres in distance. We did not expect it to be this long. It is a fun activity to do in Hong Kong.

Just remember that you have to walk all the way down when you reach the top.

SHOPPING – K11 MUSEA

Luxurious shops are everywhere in Hong Kong. If you love all the big and famous brands, this is the city for you. One of the most luxurious shopping centres in the city is K11 Musea.

WHERE TO STAY IN HONG KONG

Accommodation in Hong Kong is not very affordable, but there are many great hotels to choose from. We compared hotel prices and discovered that Agoda has the best deals for the city.

AFFORDABLE – THE CITYVIEW

The Cityview has comfortable rooms and is in a great location close to the Temple Street Night Market. The Cityview hotel has world-class green eco standards, and it is a good accommodation in Hong Kong.

Check the hotel availability here.

MID-RANGE – CORDIS

Hotel Cordis offers amazing views from most of the rooms available. It is in a great location and right next to the MTR station. The breakfast selection is great, and it also offers a rooftop pool.

The location, views, and price are the main reasons we chose the Hotel Cordis for our next visit to the city. You can check the availability here.

MID-RANGE – HOTEL ICON

The rooms in Hotel Icon are spacious. Every room has a drinking water tap, so there is no need for plastic water bottles. The view from the pool is beautiful, with a skyline view of the city. If you have the budget to go to this hotel, do not think twice.

Check the availability on Agoda here.

SEE ALSO: From Temples to Tropical Paradise: The Ultimate 14 Day Thailand Itinerary for Every Traveller’s Dream

The post The Ultimate Guide to Hong Kong: Top 10 Things to Do on Your Next Adventure in the City appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

With the list of our favourite top 10 things to do in Phuket, we will help you experience unforgettable memories in this tropical destination.

1. MONKEY HILL VIEWPOINT

Visiting the Monkey Hill viewpoint is one of the top things to do. Monkey Hill is situated near Phuket Old Town and is a free tourist attraction. If you are not afraid of the monkeys, bring a few bananas and they will love you.

You can walk uphill and interact with the monkeys that are living there. You also get a great view from the top of the hill. Have a good pair of walking shoes and water with you.

2. PHUKET OLD TOWN

In Phuket Old Town, you can step back in time and wander through the charming streets. You can also admire the well-preserved architecture and street art. Do not forget to try the local street food and shopping. There are also many cute coffee shops. 

Phuket Old Town is also close to the Monkey Hill viewpoint, so you can combine both activities.

3. PARTY ON BANGLA ROAD IN PATONG

Phuket is probably most famous for its Bangla Road in Patong. This street offers the best nightlife and parties in the area. Bangla Road is the best place to go if you are in a party mood.

There are many bars and nightclubs on both sides of the street. If you are more adventurous, you can check out ping-pong shows, which are tourist shows specifically famous in Thailand.

4. VISIT PHUKET’S NIGHT MARKETS

Naka Weekend Market, Malin Plaza, Patong Otop Shopping Paradise, and Chillva Market are the most famous night markets. Exploring the night markets in Phuket is not only about shopping and dining but also a place to experience the local culture. 

You should definitely experience Thailand’s night markets. It is one of the best things to do when visiting.

5. BIG BUDDHA

Standing tall at Nakkerd Hill, the Big Buddha is an iconic landmark that offers panoramic views of the island. Explore the sacred grounds and witness the impressive 45-meter-tall statue, a symbol of peace and enlightenment.

You can also go on a half-day tour by Travstore that takes you to some of the island’s most iconic attractions, including Big Buddha. 

6. FREEDOM BEACH

We visited many beaches in Phuket, and the best one was Freedom Beach. The easiest way to reach it is with a motorbike. After you park and pay a small fee, you have to walk down the hill to get to it. The ocean is clear, and the water is turquoise.

There is also an option to rent a taxi boat to get to the beach. The hike back up to the parking can be quite challenging in the tropical heat.

7. DELICIOUS THAI FOOD IN PHUKET

Thailand is a country of delicious food. You have to try some of the best traditional dishes, which are: pad Thai, tom yum, green curry, massaman curry, and mango sticky rice. These are just a few of our favourites.

You can find traditional Thai food almost everywhere on Phuket Island. The best way to try different food is also to visit one of the famous night markets.

8. DAY TRIP TO PHI PHI ISLANDS

The most memorable part of the vacation was a one-day trip to the Phi Phi Islands. We booked our trip with Simba Sea Trips, and I could not recommend them more.

The guides are very friendly and helpful. They take you to see the famous Maya Bay, and at the end of the day, you stop at Coconut Island for dinner. This day trip to Phi Phi Islands is unforgettable.

You can book a similar experience from Phuket to Phi Phi, Maya Bay, and Bamboo Island on Klook. 

9. NAI HAN BEACH

Nai Han is a great beach to visit in Phuket. The waves are strong, so it is not the best for swimming, but you can refresh yourself in the shallow water. Nai Han Beach is good for surfers. 

It was one of our favourite beaches because of the good atmosphere.

10. THAI MASSAGE

When you think of Thailand, one of the first things that comes to mind is a traditional Thai massage. It is a practice that is deeply rooted in the country’s culture and history. Because Phuket is a popular tourist destination, you can find many places to experience Thai massage.

In Phuket, you can find Thai massage in luxurious spa resorts or simpler, and affordable street massages.

WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET?

AFFORDABLE – PALM VILLAGE IN PHUKET

Palm Village is set in Rawai Beach. All rooms feature air conditioning, a seating area, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The apartments are spacious and clean, and surrounded by beautiful gardens and trees.

MID RANGE – CHANALAI FLORA RESORT

Chanalai Flora Resort is within 5 minutes of Kata Beach and is offering 2 pools and 2 restaurants. All rooms are spacious and very clean.

The staff is very friendly and helpful. This hotel in Phuket is close to many bars and restaurants. Check the hotel’s availability and prices here.

LUXURY – PHUKET MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA, MERLIN BEACH

If you are looking for a luxurious tropical getaway, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa is the place for you. Stay minutes from the entertainment hub of Patong Beach and Phuket Old Town.

Take advantage of five-star resort amenities, including a 24-hour fitness centre, three pools, and a day spa. Check the availability and prices here. 

Phuket is an island that offers something fun to do for everyone. If you love spending your vacation on the beach or want to experience something more adventurous, you will not have a problem finding things to do to enjoy in this tropical paradise.

We hope that you learned something new in our guide to our top 10 things to do in Phuket

SEE ALSO: 

From Temples to Tropical Paradise: The Ultimate 14-Day Thailand Itinerary for Every Traveller’s Dream

The post Phuket: Discover the Best Top 10 Things to Do appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

Renting a car in Crete is a must. You will have the freedom to explore and have the best experience on the island. The roads are good and easy to navigate so you will not have problems compared to other Greek islands.

->Find the Best Car Rental Deals Here!

But if you just want to relax on the beach and not hop around the island for your holidays you can do that too. Crete has it all.

1. VISIT HERAKLION THE LARGEST CITY ON CRETE

Heraklion has many interesting things to see and do. It is the fourth largest city in Greece and the largest one in Crete. In the Old Town, you will find the Cathedral of St. Minas which is the largest church in Crete.

When exploring the Old Town, you will most likely find the Morosini Fountain in Lion Square. The area around the Morosini fountain is very lively and you can find many shops, bars, and restaurants around.

Do not forget to visit Koules Fortress. It is just a short walk from the Heraklion Old Town. It is a Venetian fortress from the early 16th century. If you are interested, you can also explore the newly renovated insides.

Some other important sights we recommend visiting are the Natural History Museum of Crete and the Historical Museum of Crete.

2. HERAKLION ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most important and famous museums in Greece. It is really interesting even if history is not your favourite. In the museum, you will find artifacts from all periods of Cretan history. The exhibition is really interesting and worth visiting.

3. THE PALACE OF KNOSSOS

If you decide to visit the museum, you can buy a combo ticket to visit The Palace of Knossos. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Crete. You can explore the ruins of the ancient palace and learn something about history. I recommend you take a private guided tour of the Knossos Palace.

If you decide to visit the Knossos palace without a tour guide you will not have the best experience. We did that and did not find it very interesting not knowing what we were looking at.

4. MATALA BEACH

You can visit the famous Matala beach. One of the most distinctive features of Matala is the series of artificial caves carved into the cliffs that line the beach. These caves were initially created as Roman-era tombs and later became a part of the hippie culture during the 1960s and 1970s.

5. VISIT CHANIA THE SECOND LARGEST CITY ON CRETE

Chania is the second largest city on the island of Crete. Renting a car is a must if you want to explore Chania and the surrounding area. The city is the most popular destination on the island. If you decide to rent a car we recommend staying a little bit outside of the city. There are many beautiful beaches and great restaurants in the area.

We rented our car on Discover Cars and were happy with our experience. 

6. BALOS LAGOON

The most beautiful beach in Crete is Balos Lagoon. It is a 1-hour trip from Chania, but it is worth it. The views from the top are breathtaking. You have to hike down the hill to get to the amazing beach. Just be sure to have enough water, snacks, and a good pair of walking shoes because it is quite a hike if you arrive by car. There are also no restaurants at the Balos Lagoon, just a small coffee shop.

An important tip for visiting Balos is to arrive early to secure yourself a parking spot. There are also many boat tours available that will get you to the Balos Lagoon. 

You can find many options on GetYourGuide, it depends on where is your starting point on Crete. Check the availability here.

7. VISIT RETHYMNO ON CRETE ISLAND

It is the third largest town on Crete island. Rethymno is known for its picturesque old town, rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. There is the Venetian fortress, known as Fortezza, which is one of the town’s iconic landmarks. It sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area.

8. ELAFONISSI BEACH

Elafonissi is a beautiful beach located on the southwestern coast of the island of Crete. It is famous for its unique pink sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and picturesque natural beauty.
The beach offers a range of amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports equipment for rent.

There are also several tavernas and cafes where you can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine.

Our best tip for Elafonissi Beach is to arrive early because it is a very popular beach on Crete Island. If you want to relax in peace there are many better options on Crete Island.

9. PHALASARNA BEACH ON CRETE ISLAND

Phalasarna, also known as Falassarna Beach, is another stunning beach located on the island of Crete. It is known for its natural beauty and, crystal-clear waters. Many restaurants and bars are offering to rent a sunbed for a reasonable price. You do not need to bring food, because the restaurants offer many great and delicious Greek and international dishes.

You can also enjoy the beach for free and bring your own food and water.

Phalasarna is also a great beach to watch a sunset on Crete. It is the beach that we visited the most while staying in Chania. It really is a place to relax.

10. ENJOY GREEK FOOD IN CRETE

Last but not least – the food. Greek cuisine on the island of Crete reflects the island’s rich history, and the use of fresh, local ingredients. Crete’s cuisine is known for its foods including vegetables, olive oil, and herbs.

When visiting Crete, be sure to explore the local tavernas and markets to experience the authentic flavours and traditions of this beautiful Greek island.

Crete is so big that you will need to spend there at least a week or two if you want to see it all.
It is very beautiful and one of the Greek islands that you cannot miss!

SEE ALSO: Crete is a Greek Island with many Vegan Restaurants. Here are the Best 10 Options for You to Try on Your Holidays

The post Discover the Best of Crete: Top 10 Must-See Attractions appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.