The Most Instagrammable Places in Crete

August 21, 2024
Activities, Destination

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a paradise for travelers and photographers alike. Its blend of breathtaking natural landscapes, charming villages, and ancient history offers countless opportunities for capturing stunning photos. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just looking for the perfect shot for your Instagram feed, Crete has something to offer. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most Instagrammable spots on the island, with a special focus on some lesser-known gems that will make your feed stand out.

If you’re seeking dramatic landscapes, Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a must-visit. Located near Rethymno, this gorge is known for its rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the powerful wind that rushes through its narrow passage. The best time to visit is early morning when the light is soft, casting a golden glow over the rocks and creating stunning shadows.
Instagram tip: Hike down to the bottom of the gorge to capture the waterfalls, or take a panoramic shot from above to showcase the sheer scale of this natural wonder.

Preveli Beach is not just a beach; it’s a tropical oasis. Located on the south coast of Crete, near the end of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, this beach is famous for its palm forest, the only one of its kind in Europe. The combination of the crystal-clear Libyan Sea, the freshwater river flowing into it, and the swaying palms creates a scene straight out of a postcard.
Instagram tip: Capture the river as it meets the sea with the palms in the background for a stunning, unique shot.

Tucked away in a secluded cove, Kalypso Beach is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of rocky landscapes and turquoise waters. The dramatic cliffs surrounding the beach provide a perfect backdrop for photos, especially during sunset when the colors become even more vibrant. The beach itself is small but incredibly picturesque, making it a perfect spot for intimate and serene shots.
Instagram tip: Use the natural frames provided by the cliffs to highlight the contrast between the rugged rocks and the serene waters.

Lake Kournas is the only freshwater lake in Crete and is surrounded by lush hills, making it a serene spot for photography. The lake’s calm, reflective waters mirror the sky and surrounding landscape, creating picture-perfect moments at any time of the day. Paddleboats are available for hire, allowing you to capture unique angles from the middle of the lake.
Instagram tip: Aim for a symmetrical shot of the reflections on the water, especially during the golden hour for a truly magical effect.

The Venetian harbor of Chania is one of Crete’s most iconic spots. With its charming lighthouse, colorful buildings, and historic architecture, the Old Port offers endless photo opportunities. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets or capturing the sunset over the harbor, Chania’s Old Port is a place where history and beauty converge.
Instagram tip: Capture the lighthouse at sunset with the golden light reflecting off the water for a breathtaking shot.

Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most unique beaches in the world. Located on the southwestern coast of Crete, this beach is a paradise for beach lovers and photographers alike. The shallow waters and the stunning colors of the sand make it a perfect spot for capturing ethereal beach scenes.
Instagram tip: Get close to the water’s edge to capture the pink sand against the turquoise water, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer.

Rethymno’s Old Town is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, Venetian buildings, and Ottoman architecture. The colorful facades, bustling squares, and historic monuments make it a perfect spot for street photography. Each corner of the Old Town reveals a new surprise, from flower-adorned balconies to quaint cafes.
Instagram tip: Find a quiet alleyway with colorful doors or a small café terrace to capture the essence of this historic town.

Loutro is a small, car-free village on the south coast of Crete, accessible only by boat or on foot. Its whitewashed buildings, set against the deep blue of the Libyan Sea, create a picture-perfect scene that’s hard to beat. Loutro is peaceful and quiet, offering a tranquil setting for photos that capture the essence of Greek island life.
Instagram tip: Capture the village from the water, or from a higher vantage point, to show the contrast between the white buildings and the deep blue sea.

Vai Beach, located on the eastern tip of Crete, is home to the largest natural palm forest in Europe, offering a truly exotic atmosphere. The combination of golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and thousands of swaying palm trees makes Vai a unique destination on the island. The beach has a distinct tropical feel that is rare in Europe, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the island’s diverse beauty.
Instagram tip: Climb up to the nearby viewing platform to capture the entire beach and palm forest in one breathtaking panoramic shot.

Voulisma Beach, also known as the “Golden Beach,” is one of Crete’s most stunning seaside spots, located near the town of Istron in the Lassithi region. Its white sands and vibrant turquoise waters are reminiscent of the Caribbean, making it a perfect place to relax and take photos. The beach is easily accessible and offers amenities, but its main attraction is the striking color of the water, which seems to glow under the Cretan sun.
Instagram tip: Stand at the top of the steps leading down to the beach to capture a sweeping view of the bright blue waters meeting the shore.

Matala, located on the southern coast of Crete, is famous for its stunning beach and the ancient caves carved into the cliffs overlooking the sea. Once a haven for hippies in the 1960s, Matala retains a laid-back vibe that attracts visitors from all over the world. The beach’s unique setting, with the caves providing a dramatic backdrop, offers plenty of opportunities for striking photographs.
Instagram tip: Capture the contrast between the golden sand and the dark caves, or take a shot of the sunset as it paints the sky in vibrant hues, casting shadows over the caves.

Crete is a photographer’s dream, with each of these locations offering unique and breathtaking scenery. From the rugged beauty of Kourtaliotiko Gorge to the serene waters of Lake Kournas, the island’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for creating stunning visual content. So pack your camera, charge your phone, and get ready to explore and capture the most Instagrammable spots in Crete.

Happy photographing!

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