Gepa Viaggi: Kissamos, Crete

Kissamos, Crete Greece

Discover the Charm of Kissamos, Crete – A Traveller’s Haven Set on the enchanting island of Crete, Kissamos, also known as Kastelli Kissamou, is a peaceful coastal town that draws visitors in with its mix of natural beauty, ancient history, and warm Cretan hospitality. As you arrive in Kissamos, the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean lap its picturesque beaches, while the dramatic backdrop of the Cretan mountains completes a postcard-perfect scene. Begin your trip with a wander through the quaint streets of Kissamos town. Here you can soak up local life, browsing small shops selling traditional Cretan products, from olive oil and wine to hand-crafted ceramics and textiles. The town also has a weekly market, where you can taste fresh local produce and chat with the friendly locals. Be sure to call into the Archaeological Museum of Kissamos, housed in a Venetian–Turkish monument, to trace the region’s rich history through artefacts dating from prehistoric times, through the Hellenistic period, and into the Roman and Byzantine eras. Kissamos is a brilliant base for beach lovers and anyone looking to unwind by the sea. Balos Lagoon, with its exotic turquoise waters and soft white sand, is an unmissable highlight and can be reached either by a scenic hike or a short boat trip from the harbour. Equally impressive is Elafonissi beach, famous for its distinctive pink-tinged sand and crystal-clear water – perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling. For something more low-key, make your way to Falassarna beach, where the wide stretch of sand and spectacular sunsets create a truly unforgettable atmosphere. Away from the shoreline, Kissamos rewards those keen to explore. The area is criss-crossed with trails that weave through olive groves, vineyards and along coastal paths, revealing Crete’s wilder, unspoilt landscapes. For a step back in time, visit the ancient city of Polyrinia, where the ruins quietly tell stories of long-gone civilisations. Round off your day in one of the local tavernas, lingering over authentic Cretan dishes paired with a glass of raki or local wine, as you reflect on your sun-drenched day in the Mediterranean haven of Kissamos.

Recommended airport

Nikos Kazantzakis (HER)

Nearby destinations

Kissamos, Crete, Greece

Kissamos, Crete Greece