Living in Crete
Need Some Tips for a New Life in Crete?
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Living in Crete
Well...many of our readers are falling in love with Kriti and dream of moving to Kriti, so we have pulled together a some information for you here.
This website is dedicated to letting you get to know this beautiful island of Kriti and the Cretan culture, so please have a good look around.
A village home in CreteFirst Things First
Below are some pages which will start you on your journey to Kriti
- Cretan Food and Wine - first things first!
- Facts - information on location, geography, maps and more
- Maps - to get your bearings
- Weather on Kriti - all about the weather conditions you can expect in Kriti
- Life and Culture of Kriti - all about local culture and customs
- The Major Towns - Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos
Regions
Living in Crete will be influenced by the culture and character of the region you choose...
- The Capital of Crete - all about Heraklion - in the centre of this island
- Chania Crete - introduction to Chania - in the north-west
- Rethymnon Region - in the central west
- Lasithi Region - in the east of Crete
Towns
Chania town - the capital of Chania Region
Rethymnon town - the capital of Rethymno Region
Heraklion town - the capital of the island and of Heraklion Region
Agios Nikolaos - the capital of Lasithi Region
More on our smaller towns or large villages of Crete
Villages of Crete
Living in Crete - many visitors want to choose a new home in a village or close to a village, see our pages dedicated to the many beautiful
All About Crete
Minoan Palace SiteThe culture of Crete is intertwined with its history, so one of your first steps is to understand the vast ancient and modern history of the island, and all the bits in between...
- The History of Kriti - one of the oldest civilizations in Europe - there is no end to the discoveries around the island
- The Nature of Kriti - for lovers of the outdoors; flora and fauna, bird watching, hiking and conservation information
- The Mountains and Gorges - one of the reasons to live here is to enjoy the rugged ranges and endless canyons
- Beaches of Crete - many people do move here to live near the water, here you will find plenty of information about our favourite beaches and how to explore them, perhaps you will find your dream home in one of these locations...?
Practical Tips
- Buying a Property - tips and answers to common questions
- Renting out a holiday home - owning a home in Crete and creating income
- Learn to speak Greek - where to learn Greek - via Skype, or in person in Chania, Heraklion or the Greek islands
- Learn Greek - what is the best way to prepare before you arrive?
- A Little Bit About Easter - one of the biggest celebrations of the year
- The Crete Bus Service - local bus information for the KTEL buses, very reliable and convenient
Rent before you buy
Whether you want to live part-time of full-time in Kriti, perhaps retire to Kriti, or visit for long stretches at a time, these informative sections will assist you.
It is a really good idea to rent before deciding to buy in Crete. Get to know the village you have chosen, and perhaps test the waters before making the final decision to move permanently. There is a lot to learn and living in a completely different culture can be a challenge.
There are lots of opportunities for good value investments rather than quick dream houses, so slow down your dream machine and... siga siga... take it easy before committing to living in Crete!
Property on Kriti - how to get started on finding your home - general tips and suggested service providers.
Buying a Property in Greece - what to keep in mind and answers to common questions, as well as some suggestions for assistance.
Live In Crete and Volunteer
Living in Crete - one way to get to know Kriti is to live and work for a local family, and volunteer your time and effort to them. In this way you will get to know Crete from the inside out. You can live rent free in many different arrangements, making a physical contribution and helping a family. This work can be seasonal, so check the details carefully.
You might help picking olives in November and December, and at other times of the year you might help with cleaning, gardening and other collaborative work.
Local Customs
Here you will learn very quickly what is important to the local people, and easily get to know your new neighbours, respecting their heritage and culture:
Moustakia, Sarikia and Stivania
Living in Crete - Questions?
If you have further questions about Kriti or life on Kriti, please contact us.
If you have stories about moving to Kriti, please contact us to share your stories, and inspire others, or inform and warn others! Others' experiences will help to plan a relocation and get a good understanding of what its really like to retiring or living in Crete.
Getting Here
Take a 1 hour flight from Athens to Heraklion with Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air, with many flights available per day.
Or take a 9.5 hour overnight ferry from Pireaus port of Athens to Heraklion port.
More on flights and ferries below.
When you book with our car rental partners - Rental Centre Crete - you are supporting a local company with excellent service and an easy online booking procedure. We are sure you will be well looked after by Harry and his team. Choose from hybrid or non-hybrid vehicles.
Life in Crete in Images
A run-down home in Crete - awaiting restoration.
A beautifully restored and decorated traditional home in Crete
A traditional village courtyard in Crete.
A restored traditional village home in Crete.
A shady olive grove is never far away from your village in Crete.
"We trust you have enjoyed these tips from the team at We Love Crete. Evíva!"
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