Crete has over 1,600 towns and villages. Heraklion is the capital and largest with 130,000 inhabitants.
Chania and Rethymnon are the next, respectively 75000 and 35000 inhabitants. But there is so much more, quaint fishing country cities, vibrant seaside resorts and cozy mountain villages. Here is just a small selection.
Heraklion, Crete's largest city and capital, with about 200,000 inhabitants. Well worth a visit, in connection with Knossos. Driving time from Villa Marella approx. 2 hours.
Chania is undoubtedly Crete's most beautiful major city. Cozy waterfront promenade, good restaurants and a wealth of shopping streets. Not to forget the magnificent indoor market. A must !! You come here in fifteen minutes by car or half an hour by bus from Tavronitis.
Rethymnon Crete's 3rd largest city, with about 30000 inhabitants. Old Town with cozy narrow shopping streets, and the fort is really worth visiting. It takes about an hour by car from Villa Marella.
Agios Nikolaos is a distance east of Heraklion and not far from Spinalonga. A very beautiful and cozy medium-sized city that is worth a visit. Expect about 3 hours driving time from Villa Marella.
Kissamos, also known as Kastelli, is a town of about 5,000 inhabitants. Cozy beach promenade with many restaurants and a very nice town beach. Approximately 20 minutes drive from Villa Marella.
Paleochora is a real gem of a town situated on the southern coast of Crete. A very nice beach runs along the west side of town, lots of cozy eateries. The main street closes at 19, and restaurants are moving into the street. You should counter one hour and 10 minutes drive to Paleochora. Awesome trip across the mountains.
Kolymbari is just 4 km from Villa Marbella. Cozy town with a fishing port, many cozy shops and seafront with 6-7 restaurants. Only 5 minutes by car or bus from Tavronitis.
Platanias has much to offer. Shopping Eldorado, a plethora of restaurants, football pubs, a torrid nightlife and a cozy Old Town with stunning views. Only 5-6 minutes by car or 10 minutes by bus from Tavronitis.
Agia Galini is located on the south coast, across Rethymno. Fantastic great city built on a steep hillside with stunning views of the Libyan Sea.
Plakias is a cozy small coastal town located on the south coast, across from Rethymnon. There are many fine beaches in the area, and the city can be combined with a trip to Preveli Beach described under Beaches.
Chora Sfakion is a cute little village on the south coast with a breathtaking nice website. This is the top spot for boat service from Paleochora. One can thus drive to Paleochora, take the boat to Chora Sfakion, and drive back.
Loutro is a small town just west of Chora Sfakion. You can only get here by foot over the mountain or by boat from Chora Sfakion. Here one finds real peace and tranquility vacation!