Crete: Markets, Ports, and Panoramic Views

Crete, Greece has a history stretching back thousands of years, known as the cradle of the Minoan civilization and a crossroads of cultures through Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek rule. Today, the island blends its layered history with a modern spirit that feels very different from the desert-like landscapes and ruins I’ve encountered elsewhere in Greece.

I’ve visited Crete several times by cruise ship, arriving at both Chania and Heraklion, and each time found something new to appreciate. The cities felt surprisingly modern, yet just beneath the surface, the architecture often revealed much older foundations.

Chania

One of my most memorable stops was Chania, where I joined a guided walking tour. We began at a bustling market, though it was still early and most shops hadn’t opened yet. As we explored, our guide pointed out how many of the buildings appeared newer but actually sat on much older bones, a quiet reminder of the city’s layered past.

The highlight came at the Old Venetian Port, where colorful buildings framed the harbor and a former mosque stood along the waterfront. Along the way, I stumbled upon a restaurant that proudly displayed menus in at least fifteen different languages, a quirky but fitting reflection of Crete’s international character.

Souda

From Souda, I joined a bus excursion that stopped first at the Allied War Cemetery. The rows of white headstones, neatly lined and surrounded by flowers, created a place of solemn reflection. Our next stop was Venizelos Graves, perched high on the hills with sweeping views over Souda Bay. The panorama from this point was spectacular, with the sea stretching wide and cruise ships docked far below. The excursion ended, fittingly, back at the Old Venetian Port of Chania, giving me another chance to take in its charm.

Heraklion

In Heraklion, I opted for another bus tour, visiting scattered sites and viewpoints around the area. It was more of a glimpse than an in-depth exploration, but it gave me a sense of how Crete’s capital blends everyday life with its historic backdrop.