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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. With this in mind, we planned our 7-day itinerary through Central Crete, focusing on traditional professions, local crafts, and meaningful interactions with the island’s cultural soul.
Staying at Legacy Gastro Suites in Heraklion gave us a perfect city base. With its blend of heritage design and modern comfort, not to mention gourmet Cretan flavors served daily, we were never far from the island’s beating heart.
Traditional Arts and Crafts That Define Central Crete
Crete is home to a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with many traditional and contemporary artists and craftspeople working in a variety of mediums. They welcome each traveler who wishes to learn more about this side of culture. Some of the traditional crafts that are still practiced in Crete include pottery, weaving, lace-making, and embroidery.
- 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 + Terra Mia Ceramics
Arrival in Heraklion, check-in at Legacy Gastro Suites in the city center. 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. It is located 100m far from the hotel (2 minutes walking distance). 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 (10 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: Pottery & Bell-Making in the Villages
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: Baskets & Beaches near Gazi
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.
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: Day Trip to Spinalonga Island
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: Wine, Weaving & Zaros Lake
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: Choose Your Adventure: Psiloritis or Lassithi Plateau
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 in Psiloritis mountain, known for its rich history and culture. This is located 70km (1-hour drive) from Heraklion.
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.
Day 7: Departure Day + Souvenir Hunt
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.
Travel Tips
Car Rental: Approx. €50-70/day for a small car
Accommodation: Budget (€25-40) to Luxury (€80-100) per night
Meals: Taverna dishes from €10-15; upscale options from €20+
Artisan Shopping: Pottery or lace from €20-30, baskets from €10+
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): Wildflowers, hiking, and perfect weather
Summer (June-September): Peak season for beaches and festivals
Autumn (Oct-Nov): Quieter travel, harvest time, and warm days
Winter (Dec-Feb): Peaceful, cultural travel minus the crowds
Final Thoughts
This 7-day itinerary helped us understand Central Crete not just as a destination, but as a living museum of culture and creativity. Whether you’re an art lover, craft enthusiast, foodie, or simply a traveler searching for meaning, Crete’s handmade soul will leave a lasting impression.
Your adventure starts the moment you check into Legacy Gastro Suites, where tradition, hospitality, and gourmet Cretan flavors come together in the heart of Heraklion.
Until next time, Efharisto!
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