World's Best Place to Visit: Crete | U.S. News Travel

World's Best Place to Visit: Crete | U.S. News Travel

World's Best Places to Visit

Sometimes, when the travel bug strikes, the only cure is to pack your bags and go. But where to? We've compiled a list of our favorite spots from across the globe. Our list includes the most popular places and we're adding new destinations all the time, so don't worry if your favorite spot didn't make the cut. Check back soon to see if your dream vacation makes the list. (for obvious reasons, we'll only deal with Crete here :-)

Sitia Promenade

Fortunately, Sitia remains under the radar from developers and crowds of tourists.

Crete Travel Tips

If there was one word to describe the Greek island of Crete, it would be "diverse." Sandy beaches hide amongst soaring mountains, palm-tree forests grow in the middle of sprawling plains, bustling modern cities share coastline with ancient ruins. And speaking of cities -- in Crete they reflect the people that came before; the streets are lined with architecture mirroring the styles of the Minoans, the Venetians, the Ottomans as well as contemporary Greeks. Despite the visible contrasts, this island maintains a sense of unity felt whenever you step onto the street, dine at a local taverna or enjoy a glass of raki at a sidewalk café.

Crete's experiences are as assorted as its history, so take some time to decide what type of vacation you're looking to have before you set anything in stone. For a more urban setting and a variety of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, consider staying along the northern coast in Chania or Heraklion. Those who prefer the great outdoors should head to the southern areas of Chania and Rethymnon for the hiking opportunities and many beautiful beaches.

Plakias, Crete

http://travel.usnews.com/Crete_Greece/Travel_Tips/