Greece is definitely high on our bucket list when it comes to countries in the Mediterranean to travel to. However, apart from food and the incredible scenery, are there more things to discover about Greece? This is how we got introduced to a book called Handmade Crete. This has inspired us to explore Crete through the professions inherited from one generation to another its handmade products, and to learn more about the authentic side of Crete this way.
Crete is home to a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with many traditional and contemporary artists and craftspeople working in a variety of mediums. Some of the traditional crafts that are still practiced in Crete include pottery, weaving, lace-making, and embroidery.
You can easily find these products in local markets, artisan shops, and even at local studios or workshops. Many of the towns and villages in Crete have a strong tradition of making these products, so it’s possible to explore the local culture and explore the landscape simultaneously. Quite exciting to discover Greece in a different way!
There are also a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year in Crete that showcase local arts and goods, such as the Rethymno Festival, which features music, dance, theater, and art exhibitions. Additionally, there are a number of art galleries and museums in Crete which display the work of local and international artists.
You can also visit the workshops of local artisans and see how these handmade goods are created. Some of them are even willing to give workshops and classes to visitors, where you can learn to make these products, and make something to take home as a souvenir. The villages in Central Crete that are known for pottery, weaving, lace-making, embroidery, carving, metalworking, glass-blowing, and leatherworking include Ano Asites for Bell making, Thrapsano for Pottery, Zaros for Loom knitting, Messara for Shepherds Crook and Bread Ring, and Gazi for baskets.
Traditional Arts and Crafts Crete is Known For
- Pottery: Traditional techniques and designs passed down through generations are still used to create functional and decorative pottery such as vases, bowls, plates, and jars.
- Weaving: Local weavers use natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool to create a range of textiles, including traditional Cretan costumes, rugs, and blankets.
- Lace-making: Create intricate designs and patterns using threads and needles.
- Embroidery: Local embroiderers utilize various techniques to create intricate designs and inherited patterns inspired by the Cretan nature
- Carving: Wood, stone, and other materials are used by local carvers to create decorative and functional items such as furniture, sculptures, and religious artifacts.
- Metalworking: Metalworkers create decorative and functional items such as jewelry, candlesticks, and other household items.
- Glass-blowing: Local glassblowers create a range of decorative and functional items such as vases, bowls, and other glassware.
- Leatherworking: Local leatherworkers create a range of decorative and functional items such as shoes, bags, and other leather goods.
Exploring Handmade Crete: A Full-Week Itinerary in Central Crete
How to Spend a Week in Central Crete, discovering Crete through its handmade goods:
Day 1:
Arrival in Heraklion, check-in to your accommodation. If you’re in time for brunch, and looking to immediately dig into delicious Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, here are Heraklion’s Best Brunch Spots.
Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of Minoan artifacts and art.
24 km (15 minutes drive), Opening hours: 8:00-19:30 (Monday- Sunday).
Explore the Venetian fortifications and the old town of Heraklion, including the Koules fortress and the Church of St. Titus. 3.2 km (20 minutes walk)
Visit the workshop of the local potter and her handmade ceramics, Maria Kritzotaki. She has traditional and modern styles, and has on-request pottery classes for all interested in this old craft, in the old town of Heraklion. Check her online: Facebook and website.
Learn more about the things you can do and the total vibe in Heraklion on your day here. You can find Heraklion’s best excursions here. Here is also a list of the top favorite beaches near Heraklion.
Day 2:
Visit the Idaion Cave, a sacred cave located in the mountains of Psiloritis, considered the birthplace of Zeus. 74 km (1.5-hour drive), Opening hours: 8:00-19:00 (Monday- Sunday)
Visit Krasi village, a traditional village located in the foothills of Psiloritis, is known for its traditional architecture and it is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Crete. 51 km (1-hour drive).
Visit the bell-making factory of Minas Milliarakis, in Ano Asites village. He is known for his traditional Cretan bells – make sure to reach out to your local hotelier or tour guide to get help with updated information about this.
Visit the workshop of the potter, Ploumakis George in Thrapsano village. He is known for his traditional Cretan pottery and his workshop is open to visitors by appointment. Find him on his website
Another pottery art workshop you can visit is Michalis Houlakis in Thrapsano. You’ll get to see how the pots are made, try to make them with their guidance, and get some products as well.
Day 3:
About 7km away from Heraklion, you can explore the suburb of Gazi.
Visit a popular basket-weaving shop in Gazi – The Boukaraki Here, you can discover the art of basketry. A traditional shop in Gazi, you can see how they made demijohn and baskets in ancient times. There is also the possibility of purchasing the products. All products are accompanied by authentication as authentic Cretan handmade products.
Visit Ammoudara Beach. The beaches in Ammoudara (Gazi), are a few miles and a short hop on the local buses, from the center of Heraklion, and only a short distance from the historical town and site of Knossos. You can also visit lots of restaurants in the area like the tavernas, one example is the Taverna Creta House.
Only 6km from Heraklion
Visit Paleokastro beach. The Paleokastro beach is more stony compared to the sandy Ammoudara, however, the views are still very beautiful.
There are even more beaches near Heraklion in case you want to use this day as your beach day in Central Crete!
Day 4:
If you want to do a day trip from Heraklion, try a beautiful day trip to Spinalonga. There are so many tour companies that will offer half a day trip to Spinalonga and you’ll definitely enjoy the island time and all the history that surrounds it!
Day 5:
Visit the wineries in the prefecture of Heraklion, like the “Douloufakis” known for their traditional Cretan wines.
To complete this day, you can visit Zaros lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in Crete, located in the region of Heraklion. 24 km (30 minutes drive), Opening hours: 8:00-20:00 (Monday- Sunday). Just an hour away from Heraklion, Zaros brings with it a lot of activities and you can find more here.
Day 6:
You can pick one or two from the following, however, be mindful of the distance.
Option 1:
Visit Melidoni Cave, a beautiful cave that was used as a hiding place during the Cretan war of independence. Located in the region of Rethymon, 130km (1.5-hour drive) from Heraklion.
Visit the traditional village of Anogia, known for its rich history and culture. Located in the mountains of Crete, 70km (1-hour drive) from Heraklion.
Useful Links:
Olive Wood Traditional Workshop
You can also visit this traditional lyra workshop of Manolis Stagakis, see how new lyras are made and listen to music!
Option 2:
Visit Lassithi Plateau, a beautiful plateau located in the eastern part of Crete, known for its traditional villages and beautiful nature. Lassithi plateau is famous for its windmills with white cloths, a trademark of the area. These were water and flour mills, made mostly by the Peloponnese settlers that arrived here in the late 19th century, to irrigate the plateau.
Also it is worth visiting Dikteon Cave (stalagmites & stalaktites), Krassi village (for lunch), tsanspass Kritsa gorge. Located 130km (1 hour and 20 minutes drive) from Heraklion.
Option 3:
Visit the traditional village of Anogia, known for its rich history and culture. Located in the mountains of Crete, 70km (1-hour drive) from Heraklion.
Day 7:
On departure day, check out from your accommodation and enjoy Heraklion one last time, doing some last-minute shopping or visiting any places you missed earlier in your trip.
A few suggested stores (but feel free to do your own research or walk around!):
Palamianakis Cutlery – Passed through generations, they create traditional knives and daggers with a combination of state-of-the-art machines, with traditional techniques. See them do it and shop for some too!
Kosmima for Gold and Silver (Jewelry Store) – One of the top shops in Heraklion, visit traditionally made gold and silver jewelry in this shop, found in the Archeological Museum Square.
Since it’s your departure from Heraklion, bring home a piece of Crete with you as a souvenir, or a beautiful memory of your visit to the island.
Please note that the availability of the workshops and the artisans is subject to change and it’s best to reach out to them or the local tourist office for their availability before visiting. Also, the duration of travel and opening hours are approximate and are subject to change.
Cost of Travel in Central Crete
Car rental: The cost of car rental in Crete can vary depending on the type of car and the rental company, but you can expect to pay around 50-70 euros per day for a small car.
Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Crete can vary depending on the type of accommodation and the location. You can find budget-friendly options such as hostels and budget hotels for around 25-40 euros per night or more luxury options such as 4-star hotels for around 80-100 euros per night.
Food: The cost of food in Crete can vary depending on where you eat and what you order. You can expect to pay around 10-15 euros for a traditional meal in a local taverna, or around 20-25 euros for a meal in a more upscale restaurant.
Entrance fees: Some of the places you visit such as the Palace of Knossos have entrance fees, you can expect to pay around 10-20 euros per person.
Traditional crafts: The cost of traditional crafts in Crete can vary depending on the type of craft and the seller. You can expect to pay around 20-30 euros for a traditional pottery piece, around 10-20 euros for a traditional basket, and around 20-30 euros for a traditional loom-knitted textile.
Overall, you should budget at least 700-1000 Euros for this trip, depending on the type of accommodation and car rental you choose, and your food, and shopping preferences.
Best Time to Visit Central Crete
The beautiful island of Crete has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, which means that it can be visited all year round.
Spring (March-May) is a great time to visit central Crete as the weather is usually pleasant and mild, with comfortable temperatures, and the island is covered in wildflowers, which makes it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Summer (June-September) is the peak tourist season in Crete, the weather is hot and dry, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s also a great time to visit the beaches and the island’s many archaeological sites.
Autumn (October-November) is also a good time to visit central Crete, as the weather is still mild, and the crowds have thinned out, which makes it easier to explore the island’s many attractions.
Winter (December-February) is the off-season in Crete, the weather can be chilly and rainy, but it’s a good time to visit the island if you’re looking for a quieter and more peaceful vacation.
Overall, the best time to visit central Crete depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a vacation, whether you want to enjoy the beaches, the culture, or nature, you can find a good time to visit during the year.
Hope you enjoyed this exploration of Central Crete and getting to know the island through its handmade goods. Til our next guide!
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