This Crete travel cost guide will help you plan a realistic budget for your trip while still making the most of your time away. Our Crete trip cost calculator includes average costs from thousands of previous travelers, covering hotels, meals, attractions, entertainment, and local transportation. Crete is a breathtaking island known for its breathtaking beaches, wild nightlife, and impressive archeological ruins, and it would be a shame to miss out on anything because you did't plan your budget. This guide will help you plan the best trip to Crete and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.
How much does it cost to travel to Crete?
Our data from real travelers indicates that visitors to Crete spend approximately $162 (€144) per person, per day, on average.
This travel cost data was last updated on . The daily average cost includes spending on accommodation, meals, local transportation, entry tickets, and sightseeing activities.
Since we know that the typical traveler spends about $162 (€144) per day on a trip to Crete, this amount can be used to help plan your overall trip budget, as well as compare Crete to other destinations.
Past travelers here have spent, on average for one day:
$65 (€58) on meals
$53 (€47) on local transportation
$123 (€110) on hotels
A one-week trip to Crete for two people costs, on average, $2,264 (€2,016). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Below, we go into even more details about typical prices for accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing activities in Crete.
Costs by category are below, keep reading for more information.
Is Crete expensive to visit?
In Crete, budget travelers spend $63 (€56) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $162 (€144) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $425 (€378) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Crete.
Crete is a well-known island that captivates a variety of travelers with diverse travel preferences and spending patterns. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Crete can become quite costly if you let it, but there are ways to save money, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Crete is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to many other destinations.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Crete Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Crete?
The average Crete trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Crete travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Crete cost?
Crete on a Budget
Category
Budget
Mid-Range
Luxury
Accommodation1 For 1 person in double occupancy
$23 (€21)
$62 (€55)
$171 (€152)
Local Transportation1
$19 (€17)
$53 (€47)
$169 (€151)
Food2
$27 (€24)
$65 (€58)
$149 (€133)
Entertainment1
$11 (€9.73)
$28 (€25)
$70 (€62)
Alcohol2
$5-16 (€5-14)
$13-38 (€11-33)
$28-83 (€25-74)
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Crete cost?
A one week trip to Crete usually costs around $1,132 (€1,008) for one person and $2,264 (€2,016) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Crete on average costs around $2,264 (€2,016) for one person and $4,528 (€4,032) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Crete will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Crete on average costs around $4,851 (€4,320) for one person and $9,703 (€8,640) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Accommodation Budget in Crete
The cost of hotels in Crete can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $131, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $244. Overall, prices range from $79 to $470. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.
Average Daily Costs
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Crete for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $123 (€110). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $62 (€55) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Accommodation1
Hotel or hostel for one person
$62
€55
Accommodation1
Typical double-occupancy room
$123
€110
Hotels in Crete
Looking for a hotel in Crete? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Find the best hotel for your travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.
Actual Hotel Prices in Crete
The average hotel room price in Crete based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $131 in the low season and $244 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Crete
Crete offers a good public transit system, so staying farther from the island might save you on accommodation, though the additional cost and time of commuting can add up.
As a family-friendly island, Crete is perfect for traveling with kids, so you may want to find an apartment with more room.
In this island, there are several resorts available. You could discover a place that includes meals, or at least breakfast, with many resorts offering onsite restaurants.
Spending a week in Crete? You may want to consider a vacation rental with a kitchen, especially for longer stays, so you can cook some of your own meals.
By traveling in the low or shoulder season (and avoiding summer), you can benefit from cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds.
Recommended Properties
Transportation Budget in Crete
Public transit in Crete is reliable and reaches key landmarks. There's a decent bus system that travels around the island and offers access to many areas. For a budget-friendly way to travel, public transportation is ideal, provided it's near where you need to go. Taxis and rideshares are also easy to find.
Regrettably, a significant part of the island isn't easy to navigate on foot. The island is large and requires a vehicle to get around, but there are short strolls that let you enjoy the stunning landscapes.
Public Transit:(good) Walkability:(moderate)
Average Daily Costs
Calculated from travelers like you
On average, past travelers have spent $53 (€47) per person, per day, on local transportation in Crete. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Crete is significantly more than public transportation.
Crete has three significant airports. Nikos Kazantzakis at Heraklion and the Daskalogiannis airport at Chania serve international routes and act as the main gateways to the island for travelers. There is also a smaller one located in Sitia.
The island is also well served by ferries. Minoan, Anek and Blue Star all operate daily between Athens and Heraklion. From Heraklion, Anek also has a weekly service to Karpathos, Kasos, Milos, Rhodes, and Santorini - and Hellenic Seaways goes to Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini daily.
Once you are on the island, you can choose to navigate by rental car, taxi, or bus. There are three bus stations in Heraklion, one local and the other two catering to most of the other main attractions on the island.
Transportation Tips
If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
Private Roundtrip Transfer from Chania to Samaria Gorge Park for $82 details
Private Transfer From,To Heraklion Airport & PORT To,From CHANIA for $228 details
Recommended Services
Flights to Crete
How much does it cost to go to Crete? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
Rental Cars in Crete
The price of renting a car in Crete will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Crete
You won't want to overlook the world-class cuisine in Crete. Take the time to dine at local eateries and indulge in their unique specialties. Local cuisine is influenced by the island's fertile environment and excellent agriculture. You'll find olive oil in most dishes and seafood is a major staple. You'll also find a lot of stews and recipes that incorporate local ingredients.
Average Daily Costs
Calculated from travelers like you
While restaurant and meal prices in Crete can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Crete is $65 (€58) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
Food2
Meals for one day
$65
€58
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Crete is around $65 (€58) per person, with previous travelers spending from $27 to $149. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Crete are as follows:
Breakfast: $7 to $20
Lunch: $10 to $26
Dinner: $20 to $46
Coffee: $5
Fast Food or Street Food: $10
Any of Crete's major cities will have more than enough tavernas and restaurants for visitors to choose from. Being the largest city, Heraklion offers just about any kind of food from Starbucks to traditional Greek cuisine, so if you seek variety, one of Crete's cities is your best bet. All over the island you will come across eateries including classic Greek tavernas, traditional cuisine, and some of the best fresh fish taken right out of the sea.
Local markets will allow you to sample all kinds of Cretan cheeses, from goat's to sheep's, mild and soft to earthy and hard, and even some fried varieties that will melt in your mouth. Most markets also offer all sorts of fresh vegetables and baked goods. And be sure not forget the olive oil. With over 15 million olive trees, the island of Crete uses olive oil in just about everything.
Food & Dining Tips
If you're traveling with little ones, try to find restaurants that feature a children's menu. This can really cut costs since these meals are often cheaper. Remember, some places don't display kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter first.
Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.
Make a picnic to save some cash and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Just find a nearby grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and choose a nice park or scenic area for your meal.
Pack a water bottle to save on drinks. It's also a way to help protect the environment.
Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Crete, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
Chania: Evening Feasts A Journey through Cretan Flavors Food Tour for $103 details
Authentic Cretan Cooking Class & Farm Experience in Chania, Crete for $139 details
Amazing Sunset Jeep Safari Route with Dinner for $89 details
Recommended
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Crete
It's clear why Crete attracts visitors, considering its food, resorts, beaches, and family-friendly activities.
Average Daily Costs
Calculated from travelers like you
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Crete typically cost an average of $28 (€25) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$28
€25
The two biggest cities of the island-Heraklion and Chania-hold a façade of modernity with the air of antiquity hiding beneath it all. While Heraklion is more of a metropolis teeming with traffic, cement, and dust, it does hold a few gems of Venetian architecture like the Koules Fortress on the old port, as well as one of the best archaeological museums of Greece. This museum alone, paired with a visit to the archaeological site of the Knossos Palace (on the city's outskirts), will give you a rich knowledge of Minoan culture. The port of Chania is a bit more charming in appearance with beautiful Venetian architecture wherever you turn. Here you can explore the old Venetian Harbor and lighthouse, visit the maritime museum of Crete, of get lost on one of the nearby beaches.
Other popular attractions on Crete include the Venetian castle at Rethymno, the gorge of Samaria, the islands of Chrysi, Elafonisi, Gramvousa, and Spinalonga and the Palm Beach of Vai, which is the largest natural palm forest in Europe.
Outside of the city sights, Crete has a few attractions that appeal to the naturalists out there. Just east of Heraklion on the north side of Crete sits the town of Chersonisos, which houses the Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre. A Travelers' Choice 2015 winner on TripAdvisor, this marine rescue center is home to some of the local sea life and reptiles from all over. The center offers a unique aquarium experience in that hands-on interaction with many of the animals is encouraged.
As far as beaches go, one of the most beautiful on Crete is Elafonissi Beach located on the west end of the island. It is actually an island just off of Crete's southwestern corner, and much of its pristine condition is due to its status as a protected nature reserve. The surrounding area is a turquoise lagoon with white sandy beaches, and shallow waters so calm that you can walk across the sea from Crete to Elafonissi. Another breathtaking place by the sea is Balos Beach and Lagoon, on the northwest corner of Crete. Similar to Elafonissi, the waters are shallow and turquoise and the beaches are white and sandy. There is also an area just past the lagoon good for snorkeling, and it is closer to civilization for those wanting to be close to amenities.
Sightseeing Tips
Museums and Attractions:
When people think of Crete, they often think of its famous museums and landmarks. The island is filled with archeological sites including the famous Palace of Knossos. While most people come to Crete for the natural beauty, in the cities you'll find some great museums and landmarks.
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling:
One of the most sought-after experiences in Crete is scuba diving. The island is surrounded by clear waters that make for great snorkeling and diving. There's a number of beautiful fish and other sea life that you can see. Be on the lookout for crabs, sea stars, sponges, and even octopi.
Beaches:
Plenty of travelers choose Crete as their beach retreat. There are some of the best beaches in the world on Crete. The areas around Chania have some of the island's best beaches, with one of the most beautiful being Balos. On the northern side of the island, be on the lookout for strong winds, particularly in August, which can make for larger waves. The island is large, so you'll find everything from secluded and quiet beaches to more active and lively places.
Hiking:
Hiking in and around Crete is absolutely fantastic. The island is filled with beautiful hikes that run along the shoreline or head inland through the island's beautiful landscapes. There are hikes for every ability level that offer spectacular views and an incredible experience.
A nice way to explore destinations in Crete is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
Wine & Olive Oil Tour with lunch at the White Mountains for $171 details
Chania Villages Food Experience [non-touristy] - Crete for $194 details
Heraklion Private Olive Oil and Wine Gastronomy tour with Lunch for $172 details
Recommended Activities
Nightlife Budget in Crete
In Crete, the nightlife buzzes with energy, and visitors love to spend their evenings enjoying the local bars, clubs, and parties. The island has excellent nightlife with clubs and bars found in Chania, Malia and Stalis to Elounda. The area is popular with British tourists and you'll find many bars open until 2 or 3 in the morning.
Average Daily Costs
Calculated from travelers like you
The average person spends about $25 (€22) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Crete per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$25
€22
Nightlife Tips
Enjoying the nightlife is always a highlight, but cutting back on drinks can really help you save money on your travels.
Enjoy the nightlife, but stay cautious, especially if you're drinking. Thieves or criminals may target you, so stay close to trusted friends and avoid wandering off alone.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Crete. A few favorites from other travelers include:
The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area for $188 details
The Essence of Private Olive Oil, Wine & Distillery Journey for $257 details
In summer, prices tend to soar, and the island gets pretty packed. If you want to save money and enjoy a quieter experience, plan your visit for the shoulder or low seasons.
As a big city, Crete generally offers a range of prices for hotels, food, and fun activities. You can save money by being proactive—compare prices, book early, and seek out free experiences.
Adopting a slower travel pace can lead to significant savings, giving you the chance to appreciate the area's beauty. If your schedule is packed with activities, your expenses can add up quickly. Conversely, slowing down often leads to a more enjoyable experience and less money spent overall.
Budgeting Challenges
Many travelers are drawn to Crete for the remarkable scuba diving. However, it can be pricey, leaving little opportunity to cut back on spending. Dive trips, gear rentals, and boating excursions can take a big bite out of your budget. Don't forget to check your travel insurance to ensure coverage for accidents or weather-related cancellations.
Traveling with young kids means you might want to go for a private vehicle or taxi. Sometimes it's just easier to sidestep the complications of public transportation, but it can also be more expensive.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers
We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Crete.
Why would you recommend Crete to budget travelers? Or, why not?
We found it to be one of the more affordable Greek islands. There's a mix of resorts and hotels and each offers a different experience.
carlos
-
Oct 28 2023
What makes Crete a budget-friendly destination? Or not?
Crete's a large island with many different places to stay. We always stay at a local hotel that's a bit less touristy and incredibly affordable when we're in town.
far_from_home
-
Jan 5 2024
It's a stunning island, but it's really large with limited transportation options, so you can either arrange day tours or rent a car.
micah182
-
Dec 19 2023
Traveling in Crete
Heraklion, Crete, Greece
The largest and most populous island of Greece, Crete has become a frequent vacation destination for many visitors. The terrain of the place is quite varied - very mountainous stretching east to west, with lush valleys, fertile plateaus, gorges, and famous caves like Idaion, the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus. The surrounding smaller islands and beaches are key attractions as well.
Beyond the natural wonders, Crete is also famously home to the ancient Minoan civilization, one of the oldest recorded civilizations in Europe. There are a few archaeological sites on the island, like the Palace of Knossos, and numerous museums worth the while for those looking to dive into the history of the place.
Whether you plan on basking in the natural wonders of Crete, prefer to explore the culture of its cities and history, or wish to do a little bit of everything, this island has enough to occupy an extended visit.
Regions
As mentioned above, Heraklion and Chania, are Crete's two largest cities. In addition to the Venetian architecture, museums, and archaeological sites, the two also have much to offer in places to stay, shopping, and dining. One could spend days getting lost in the bustling nature of Crete's modern culture on the sea.
The next largest populated areas on the island are Rethymno, Ierapetra, Agios Nikolaos, and Sitia. As far as demographics go, nearly half of the populous lives in Crete's main cities and towns, while the other half resides in the rural parts.
Having realistic expectations for your travel expenses is important. While many assume they can visit Crete on a tight budget, the truth is that most people don't enjoy traveling that way. Think about what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer staying in resorts or hostels? Do you love exploring sights and attractions, or dining out? Your preferences will directly impact your budget and travel plans.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $63 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Luckily, Crete has plenty of hostels, including Rethymno Youth Hostel, Youth Hostel Plakias, and Matala Hostel. Here, you can enjoy budget dorm accommodation along with a friendly, social vibe, but amenities are quite limited. Dining is a highlight for all types of visitors in Crete, but budget travelers typically settle for street food or hostel meals, meaning they may not fully enjoy the delightful local cuisine.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. Most tourists in Crete are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $162 per person, per day.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're looking for an all-encompassing vacation filled with luxurious amenities and higher-level service, prepare your budget for around $425 per day. Selecting nicer hotels, savoring meals at award-winning establishments, indulging in lavish adventures, and traveling around the island with taxis or private drivers will call for a luxury budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Luxury Catamaran Cruise All-Inclusive & OnBoard Chef | Top Rated! - offered by Viator.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Bryan & Laurie | Budget Your Trip
Bryan and Laurie started Budget Your Trip so that everyone could find out the real costs of traveling to destinations around the world. Bryan has visited 61 countries, which is exactly one more than Laurie, and she won't let him forget it! Also avid photographers, they enjoy entrenching themselves within the local culture to learn more about the people of a place. Otherwise, they can be found enjoying an exotic meal or a passionate conversation about global events... and also finding out how much everything costs.
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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.
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Heraklion, Crete, Greece
We found it to be one of the more affordable Greek islands. There's a mix of resorts and hotels and each offers a different experience.