Platanias Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Platanias, located in the beautiful region of Crete, Greece, is a charming village that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities. Situated on the northern coast of the island, Platanias is known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and picturesque landscapes.
Visitors to Platanias can enjoy a wide range of activities, from relaxing on the golden sandy beaches to exploring the quaint streets and alleys of the village. The village is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including the famous Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Europe.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Platanias, with its ancient ruins, traditional architecture, and historical sites. The village is home to several churches and monasteries, including the Agios Dimitrios Church, which dates back to the 13th century.
For those looking for a taste of local cuisine and vibrant nightlife, Platanias offers a variety of restaurants, tavernas, and bars serving traditional Cretan dishes and refreshing drinks. The village comes alive at night with live music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
In addition to its natural beauty and historical charm, Platanias also boasts a range of modern amenities, including hotels, resorts, and shops, providing visitors with everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Crete
Platanias Attractions - What to See and Explore
Platanias offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Afrata Beach, Nea Kydonia, Gulf of Chania. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Platanias – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Platanias, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Arkadi Monastery (Rethymno), Fortezza of Rethymno (Rethymno), Archaeological Museum of Chania (Chania).
Best Time To Visit Platanias
Learn when is the best time to travel to Platanias weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Place
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Moussaka
Moussaka is an eggplant- or potato-based dish, often including ground meat, in the Levant, Middle East, Greece, and Balkans, with many local and regional variations.
Dish
Cretan cuisine
Cretan cuisine is the traditional cuisine of the Mediterranean island of Crete.
Cuisine
Tzatziki
Tzatziki, cacık or tarator is a dip, soup, or sauce found in the cuisines of Southeast Europe and the Middle East. It is made of salted strained yogurt or diluted yogurt mixed with...
Dish
Feta
Feta is a brined curd white cheese made in Greece from sheep milk or from a mixture of sheep and goat milk. It is a crumbly aged cheese, commonly produced in blocks, and has a slightly...
Cheese
Souvlaki
Souvlaki, plural souvlakia, is a popular Greek fast food consisting of small pieces of meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer. It is usually eaten straight off the skewer while...
Dish
Crete