Eastern Crete is the driest area of the island although it still has a lot of olive trees planted there. The area around Agios Nikolaos and Mirambello bay has become a major tourist area, but a lot of the eastern end of the island remains untouched by modern living – in fact it is possibly the least spoilt and least developed area of the island. Towards the centre of the island is very important architecturally and is home to the Minoan palace of Knossos.

Heraklion (Irákleio) is the commercial capital and cultural hob of the island. A modern, cosmopolitan city, Heraklion is steeped in history and variety. There is a colourful harbour where fishermen still bring in their catch, which is overlooked by a splendid Venetian fortress – a reminder of the city’s heyday. In the centre, Plateía Venizélos is lined with cafes clustering around the central fountain, and a variety of interesting shops and tavernas hug the surrounding streets. There are a number of churches, museums and ruins to be explored.