This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Matala.
Crete, Greece, is an island where beautiful nature and a great party scene comes together. You can do many cultural activities, while others don’t do anything but party and sunbathe while visiting Crete, Greece.
Budget accommodation can be found throughout the island, mainly in Chania and near the beaches. However, many budget accommodations are not a Crete, Greece hostel. If you are traveling with two or more people, you will often find private apartments or studios for the same price as you would pay for a bed in a dorm room in a Crete, Greece hostel. Although it may be inviting to book a apartment or studio price-wise, you will not get the same vibe as you would get in a hostel in Crete, Greece. There are only a few hostels in Crete, Greece. Most of them are in Chania. Chania is also home to the airport used by budget airlines flying to Crete.
Chania is located in the west of Crete and offers a few cultural sites. If you intend to travel around the island, Chania is worth staying for a few days. It has got a nice old town and the venetian port is one of the most picturesque ports in Greece. Crete’s biggest archaeological site is Knossos and is mostly visited as a day trip from Heraklion or other seaside towns. Here you can find many ancient ruins; this is a highlight for many visiting Crete.
In summer, some towns in Crete are flooded by European youngsters looking for great parties. Malia and Chersonissos are the party hotspots. Malia tends to attract the most British visitors, whereas Chersonissos is a favourite destination for the Dutch, but in both destinations you will find many more nationalities. If you are traveling with a family or just not into all the parties, you may want to avoid these towns in the summer holidays.
Even if you intend to spend most of your time on the beaches and take it easy, it is recommended to bring at least one pair of decent shoes. Towns in Crete can be very steep and some of the main sites that you may want to visit as a day trip, such as the stunning Samaria National Park, may be difficult to access in your flip-flops.
Written by local enthusiast for Matala hostels
Martin Straatman
