Crete is the biggest Greek island and has one of the richest histories. Home to the fabled Minoans, it boasts a myriad of ancient ruins of a people said to have sowed the seeds of Western civilisation. However once you've found your flight to Crete, you'll discover that there's more than ancient history to keep you occupied. The island boasts long stretches of sandy beaches and quiet azure waters, whilst inland is dotted with whitewashed farms and villages tucked around rugged mountains.

How to get there
Many airlines operate direct flights to Crete from London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Belfast and Dublin and they take just under four hours. Crete is also on the network of budget carriers like Ryanair, BMI and Thomsonfly.

When to go
Crete enjoys a warm summer, pleasant spring and autumn and has fairly mild winters. The peak summer months of June, July and August are very busy and are the most popular with tourists, so you shoud aim to avoid to as it is harder to find bargains on flights. April and May have a very pleasant climate and by missing the major tourist season you should find it easier to find cheap Crete flights.

What to do
If you're up for a lively holiday then head for the resorts near Malia Beach, which are packed with funky bars and suntanned twenty-somethings. Families are spoiled for choice in the resorts near Rethymnon Beach and Sun Beach. Those wanting to escape the masses should avoid the Northeast coast and head around the rugged coastline where you'll find little beaches tucked away from the world. Cretans are particularly proud of their food and anywhere you go will turn up an excellent taverna or relaxed pavement cafe where local specialities are the order of the day. But if you can't live without your home cooking then all the major resorts feature British bars that will cater to the most die hard pie and chips fan!

Once you’ve booked your flights why not try our search for cheap hotels in Crete?