The biggest Greek island, Crete is a hotspot for overseas buyers. And it’s no wonder why. Crete boasts of great natural beauty, such as the Samaria Gorge, and a choice of beaches, including the pink sands of Elafonissi Beach. Discover the vibrant towns of Heraklion, Chania and Agios Nikolaos. We have a great selection of property for sale in Crete, we have land plots for sale, affordable apartments, family houses and luxury villas.
The largest of Greece’s islands, Crete is a popular destination for overseas buyers to hunt for their dream Greek home. In the Your Overseas Home 2023 survey, nearly 30% picked Crete as the number one location in Greece that they would want to own a property. And this is no surprise.
Crete has over 1,000km of coastline. So, with any property for sale in Crete, you’ll have a generous pick of beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling. Vai Beach is surrounded by the greatest palm forest in all of Europe. While Elafonissi Beach turns heads with its pinkish sand. If you like to feel that you have earned flopping down on the sand, Crete also has hard-to-access beaches that can only be reached by ferry or hike, such as Agiofarago Beach.
By flight or by ferry, Crete has good transport links to the rest of Greece and Europe. It has two international airports, Heraklion and Chania, with seasonal flights to the UK lasting from April to October. From April to October, Crete enjoys temperatures in the 20s. July is the hottest month with an average daily maximum of 30°C and twelve hours of sunshine a day. From June to August, there is almost no chance of rainfall. The coldest month is January with highs of 15 degrees and just four hours of sunshine.
On the eastern side of island, you’ll find the largest region, Heraklion. It is home to two of Crete’s most noteworthy monuments, the Minoan Palace of Phaestos and the Minoan Palace of Knossos, which has had many rebuilds since it first came to be in 2,000 B.C. The enchanting main town, from its port to its buildings, tells of the city’s Venetian history. This includes the spectacular Fortess of the Koules, which dates back to the 13th century. To soak up even more history, head to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Heraklion remains an important and busy port city today. Matala Beach and Agia Pelagia Beach are both popular, well-organised and family friendly. While Malia Beach is the best for dancing well into the night.
Chania is Crete’s second largest city. In the Old Town, the Venetian impression has been long-lasting: it’s felt through its architecture and narrow streets. Plus, it is home to the magnificent Yali Tzamisi, the oldest mosque in Crete. Over in the New Town, you’ll find newer buildings, shops and restaurants – it has a less touristy feel, but more day-to-day living is done here.
Plus, Chania is home to the longest gorge in Europe, the Samaria gorge in the White Mountains’ National Park. A national park and a World’s Biosphere Reserve.
Located in the northeast of Crete, Agios Nikolaos is a magnet for holidaymakers. It is situated on the Gulf of Mirabello, a stunning natural bay surrounded by the mountains. Even more beautiful is the Lake Voulismeni, known to the locals as simply “the lake”, according to legend, it was once the bathing spot of Athena and Artemis. The port has a lively atmosphere, it is great for a nibble in one of the taverns, shopping for trinkets or just a leisurely stroll. North of Agios Nikolaos, you’ll find the famous 5-star resort, Elounda.
If you’d prefer to live in a town with a more relaxed vibe, the smaller Sitia might interest you. Plus, should you be seeking an even quieter atmosphere, Crete has villages with a less discovered feel.
On the Your Overseas Home property portal, we have a mix of beachfront and inland properties for sale, and everything in between. Plus, we have land plots for sale in Crete for as little as €50,000. It should be noted that land plots for sale with sea views are available for closer to €90,000. For around €65,000, you purchase an old village home in need of renovation. If you like the idea of owning an old home but would rather that it had already been renovated, then you will need a budget of at least €100,000. Additionally, we have houses for sale in Crete boasting of features such as a swimming pool, sea and mountain views. If you’re seeking luxury property for sale in Crete, we have incredible multi-bedroom villas with stand-out features like security, a private gym and a jacuzzi. Good luck on your Crete home hunt.