Top 10 Outdoor Activities to do in Crete
Crete is the largest Greek island and a true paradise for nature lovers. With its huge sandy beaches and mountainous terrain such as Mount Ida, home to the cave of Ideon (where, according to legend, Zeus was born), Crete will not fail to surprise you. During your stay in Crete, you will be able to do many different cultural activities. But if you want to add some adrenaline to your stay, you will find a wide variety of landscapes where you can do all kinds of outdoor activities! That's why we have prepared a list of the best activities to do in Crete!
On the map below, you will find the location of each activity according to its number on the list!
1- Paragliding in Chania
What better activity to discover the island of Crete than paragliding? Paragliding is a great way to observe the landscape and enjoy the view while having a good time. That is why for the first activity to do in Crete, we strongly recommend a paragliding flight in Chania (Chania), in the north of the island. Chania is one of the most famous cities on the island. It is known for its colourful old town, its Venetian harbour and its lighthouse. For about 20 minutes, depending on the wind direction, you will fly from Falasarna or Varipetro. From these two spots you will have breathtaking views of Crete.
2- Quad biking trip to Rethimno
Go for an adventure on a Quad or Buggy tour in Rethimno off the beaten track! On the second of our list of things to do in Crete, you'll head into the heart of the Cretan mountains to discover unique rock formations and shallow rivers. Along the way, you'll see the local flora and fauna on your Quad or Buggy ride and visit small villages that you won't find on a map. And for lunch, you'll eat sandwiches with delicious local produce, before heading back to base!
3- Canyoning at the Portela Gorge in Viannos
Canyoning is a fun activity to do with family or friends, and Crete is the ideal place, so why not combine the two and do canyoning in Crete? For this we have selected the Portela Gorge Canyoning in South Crete where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery south of Heraklion and make the most of the Cretan landscape.
Depending on your experience, your level and the thrill you are looking for, your guide will choose between the two different canyons. Whichever you choose, you can be sure that you will remember this day forever. Jumps, slides and abseiling await you!
4- Kayaking in Chania
How can you not talk about the sea when you are in Crete? If you are a true adventurer and water is your element, we recommend you to try thesea kayaking tour in Chania. Sea kayaking is a great way to paddle the turquoise waters near Chania and have a great time with your group. For half a day, the guides will take you to explore the deserted and secret beaches of Crete, and you can even go for a swim. This single or double kayak activity will allow you to see the island from a new perspective.
5- Jet Ski and Snorkeling from Ammoudara Beach in Heraklion
For the next activity to do in Crete, we suggest another water activity: Jet Skiing with Snorkelling in Heraklion. Explore the bay of Heraklion by renting a jet ski and ride the waves of this magnificent spot with a breathtaking view. Whatever your level on this water bike, the instructors will brief you on how to ride the jet ski to master the vehicle. You will have the chance to cruise the blue waters of Crete and marvel at the bay of Heraklion, especially towards Ammoudara. This is a great way to have fun while enjoying the view of the beautiful Cretan landscape.
6- Scuba diving near Heraklion
Diving, snorkelling, freediving... whatever technique you use to visit the depths of the island, the experience is bound to be fascinating. Explore the incredible underwater world of Crete in untouched areas accessible only by boat, andscuba diving near Heraklion is the ideal activity for those looking for a new and unique experience. On your scuba diving trip near Heraklion you will be guided and supervised by certified instructors. You will go to one of the many dive sites in Crete where you can start exploring the beautiful underwater world in crystal clear waters!
7- Parasailing over Heraklion
One of the best ways to enjoy the view of the rocky mountains of Crete is undoubtedly by parasailing. An adventure that will start on the beach of Ammoudara, 7 km from the centre of Heraklion, where you will meet your instructors who will take you to the sky. During your parasailing flight over Heraklion, get ready to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Sit comfortably on the parachute seats and prepare to reach a height of 1000 metres (300 feet). You will fly for 7 minutes in the air before landing safely on the boat.
8- Coasteering in Lentas
Coasteering is a new adventure activity that is a mixture of cliff jumping with swimming, abseiling and climbing. So try this thrilling activity near Lentas, where you will have the best views of the island! After your briefing, you can start your coasteering activity near Lentas at the water's edge, passing through narrow paths. You will zip line, climb cliffs and swim in the sea to cool off. So don't hesitate to try this original and fun activity during your stay in Crete! Children from 12 years old can also participate in this adventure!
9- Stand-Up Paddle and Snorkeling in Chania
Stand Up Paddle is a fairly recent discipline that is very popular in the summer, as it is accessible to everyone. Also known as SUP, this activity is ideal for a good time in the sun! So for the 9th on our list of things to do in Crete, we recommend a mix of two different activities: combine the SUP tour with snorkelling around Loutraki in Chania, and discover the whole bay of Loutraki for two hours. During the briefing, beginners will learn the basics of the sport so they can paddle like a pro! Only then will the real fun begin! You can paddle, swim, discover the sea bed or just relax on your board, but if you want to try an activity that requires bigger waves, take a surfing course on Falasarna beach!
10 - Via Ferrata in the mountains of Asterousia
Halfway between hiking, tree climbing and rock climbing, the Via Ferrata is the activity that will delight those who love thrills and breathtaking landscapes. Starting from the village of Vagionia, located 1.5 hours from Heraklion, go on a Via Ferrata in the mountains of Asterousia, while being safe. From there you will have a breathtaking view of the sea and Heraklion. From 10:00 to 15:30 you will do your briefing, your via ferrata, then you will have a picnic lunch and finally you will return to the base.
If you prefer a more classic walk, you can also try a trekking tour in the Lefka Ori mountains in the west of Crete.
Now you have all the keys to take action with this list of the best activities to do in Crete. From the sea to the rivers, to the sky, to the mountains, there is something for everyone, whether you are alone, with family or friends! If you prefer to choose for yourself, check out all our outdoor activities in Crete.
But if you are looking for other cities to visit in Greece, a major Greek destination is undoubtedly Santorini. With its white and blue cliffs and beautiful landscapes this island is a paradise on earth! We recommend you to discover the 10 outdoor activities to do on the island of Santorini.