Crete – Greece’s largest and most diverse island – offers everything from ancient ruins and mountain villages to luxury resorts and turquoise beaches. But one question travelers often ask before booking their trip is: “Is Crete expensive?”
The short answer is: Crete can be as affordable or as luxurious as you make it. While beach resorts in Elounda and Agios Nikolaos cater to upscale visitors, you’ll also find cozy guesthouses, affordable taverns, and free beaches that make traveling on a budget surprisingly easy. Compared with other Greek islands like Santorini or Mykonos, Crete offers far better value for money, especially if you visit outside the summer rush.
In this complete 2025 guide, we’ll break down how expensive Crete is to visit, from accommodation and dining to flights, car rentals, and island activities, while sharing insider strategies to experience the best of Crete for less.
How Expensive Is Crete to Visit?
Crete remains one of the most affordable large islands in the Mediterranean. A week-long trip can cost anywhere from €600 for budget travelers to €2,500 for those seeking premium comfort.
| Traveler Type | Daily Budget | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Traveler | €60–€90 | Guesthouses, local taverns, public buses |
| Mid-Range Traveler | €120–€180 | 3-star hotels, car rental, restaurant meals |
| Luxury Traveler | €300+ | 5-star resorts, fine dining, private tours |
Prices tend to rise in July and August, while May–June and September–October bring lower rates and fewer crowds.
Accommodation Prices in Crete
Crete’s large size means there’s accommodation for every budget.
Budget stays: Small hotels, hostels, or family-run studios range from €30–€60 per night. Local villages and inland towns like Archanes or Anogeia offer great deals with authentic charm.
Mid-range hotels: Expect €90–€150 per night for comfortable 3–4-star hotels. Chania and Rethymno are ideal bases combining beaches, nightlife, and history.
Luxury resorts: Top-end stays in Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and Hersonissos start at €300–€600 per night, often including infinity pools, spas, and seaside dining.
If you’re visiting Crete in autumn or spring, rates can drop by up to 40%, making even luxury hotels more accessible.
Is Crete Expensive for Food and Drink?
Crete is known for its farm-fresh produce, olive oil, and traditional recipes, and eating well here doesn’t have to cost much.
- Local taverns: €12–€20 per person for generous portions of grilled meats, seafood, and local wine.
- Mid-range restaurants: €25–€50 per person in popular tourist areas like Chania or Heraklion.
- Fine dining: €80–€150 for two, often featuring creative Mediterranean cuisine and sea views.
A beer costs around €4, local wine €5–€6 per glass, and a cup of Greek coffee only €2. Avoid imported alcohol and bottled water to save more, tap water is drinkable in most regions.
According to Visit Greece, Crete’s traditional taverns remain among the best-value dining options in Greece.
Getting Around Crete: Transportation Costs
Crete is larger than most people expect, driving from west to east can take over five hours, so transportation is a key cost to plan.
- Car rental: €30–€70 per day, depending on car size and season.
- Gasoline: Around €2 per liter ($8 per gallon).
- Buses (KTEL): €2–€15 between towns, with frequent service along the north coast.
- Taxis: Minimum fare €4; intercity rides €80–€100.
- Ferries and flights: Ferries from Athens cost €40–€90 one-way, while flights from the mainland or Europe average €60–€120.
For scenic drives, renting a car is worth it, but for city-to-city travel, buses are reliable and economical.
Why Are Flights to Crete So Expensive?
Many travelers notice that flights to Crete cost more than those to other Greek islands. The reasons include limited routes outside summer, high seasonal demand, and fewer low-cost carriers operating in winter.
Booking flights 6–8 weeks in advance, traveling midweek, or choosing ferry routes from Piraeus can significantly cut travel costs.
For flight comparisons and real-time prices, check Skyscanner.
Is Corfu or Crete More Expensive?
Crete is generally more affordable than Corfu. Corfu’s smaller size and popularity among Italian and Western European tourists lead to slightly higher accommodation and food costs.
| Category | Crete | Corfu |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-range Hotel | €120 | €150 |
| Meal for Two | €40 | €50 |
| Car Rental | €45 | €55 |
Crete also has more local dining spots, fewer “tourist trap” restaurants, and greater variety in both budget and upscale lodging, giving it a better value overall.
Is Naxos Expensive Compared to Crete?
Naxos, another beloved Greek island, is smaller and slightly cheaper overall, perfect for backpackers or couples seeking quiet beaches and traditional charm.
However, Crete offers more cultural sites, nightlife, and family-friendly activities. If you plan to visit both, start with Crete for its variety, then unwind in Naxos for tranquility and affordability.
Things to Do in Crete and Typical Costs
Crete’s highlights include beaches, historical landmarks, and scenic hikes, most of which are either free or modestly priced.
| Activity | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Visit Knossos Palace | €15 |
| Samaria Gorge National Park | €5 entry + transport |
| Balos & Elafonissi beaches | Free |
| Wine tasting tours | €25–€40 |
| Boat trip to Spinalonga | €25–€50 |
| Scuba diving or snorkeling | €70–€100 |
The island’s natural attractions, mountains, gorges, and beaches, are its greatest luxury, and most can be explored without paying a cent.
Best Time to Visit Crete for Budget Travel
- Spring (April–May): Mild weather, blooming landscapes, and reduced prices.
- Summer (June–August): Peak season, higher costs but buzzing nightlife.
- Autumn (September–October): Warm seas, fewer crowds, and 30–40% cheaper hotels.
- Winter (November–March): Very quiet but affordable; some resorts close.
For the best balance between price and weather, plan your trip during May, early June, or late September.
Budget Tips for Visiting Crete
- Stay inland or in smaller coastal towns like Paleochora or Sitia.
- Eat at local taverns instead of beachfront restaurants.
- Rent a car with friends to share fuel costs.
- Buy local wine and snacks from grocery stores.
- Travel during shoulder season for lower rates.
- Carry cash for small villages, many places still prefer it.
Luggage Storage in Crete
Exploring before your check-in or after checkout? Radical Storage provides safe, convenient luggage storage in Heraklion, Chania, and other major Cretan towns. Each booking is insured, affordable, and easy to manage online, giving you the freedom to explore hands-free.
Is Crete Expensive? Final Thoughts
So, is Crete expensive? Not at all, at least not compared to other Greek islands. Crete balances beauty, culture, and value in a way few Mediterranean destinations can.
Travelers who eat local, stay outside luxury zones, and explore on foot or by bus can experience Crete for €80–€120 a day, including meals, transport, and lodging. For luxury seekers, Crete also delivers, with world-class resorts, award-winning wineries, and fine dining against unforgettable backdrops.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo adventure, Crete proves that paradise doesn’t have to come with an outrageous price tag.