Summer
The most popular time to visit Crete is its vibrant and beautiful summer, and it’s easy to see why. Explore ancient history, relax by the pool and savour fresh Cretan cuisine by the sea.
Book with full confidence – every villa holiday is safe, secure and financially protected.
Crete, the largest Greek island will just take your breath away. Chania is worth visiting because of its idyllic beaches and pristine waters, which are ideal for relaxation and water sports enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the island's mountain villages, like Rethymnon offer a glimpse into traditional Cretan life, where you can savour local cuisine and immerse yourself in the culture. Heraklion, Crete's historical capital, has a rich tapestry of history, from ancient ruins like Knossos to fascinating museums. Eastern Crete invites you to explore, with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Your Crete villa holiday will provide you with an authentic taste of the Cretan way of life. From charming hideaways to luxurious villas in Crete with private pools, there’s no better way to soak up the island’s beauty and tranquillity.
Book with confidence, knowing that over 4,333 customers have rated us 4.7 on average reflects the care and personal service we put into every booking.
Quick and easy to use website to book. Good quick response received
This is the third time I have booked with Solmar and the service is excellent. Always very helpful.
Easy to navigate site, view options and book. Confirmation and follow up communications, with information, points of contact and support are very clear and reassuring.
Looked initially on the Solmar website, and then spoke to Ange on the phone. She was very knowledgeable and helpful, and a great asset to the company.
We wanted a complete package, including flights and hire car, and Eleanor from their customer service team went out of her way to get everything just the way we wanted. Fantastic service. We've been with Solmar before and found them to be very efficient so chose them again this time.
I just booked online it was very easy and straightforward I have booked several times with Solmar villa's and have been really pleased with all my bookings I would highly recommend them
Exemplary service from the entire team. So focussed on the customer experience and ensuring that everything is perfect.
The personal service from Kristal was superb. I know I've come to expect this from Solmar, but it is always so appreciated. Keep up the great work and thank you.
Efficient, polite just needs to make small print bigger for overall a good service.
Victoria agent who I spoke with was excellent and very helpful in getting us the right location and villa.
Simple to book and immediate contact to offer further assistance with any extras such as flights ,car hire ,transfers ,etc . Concierge service to help and deal with any queries you may have with your future trip . Overall Solmar appear to be a quality company with the services offered so far . Top marks .
Managed to speak to someone quickly and they emailed information promptly and had listened to what I needed so service was good.. spoke to someone different the next day and all the information had been recorded so the conversation was easy . Biggest benefit was talking to a real person and not having to navigate lots of AI conversations /options .
The phone is answered quickly, staff are polite, helpful and knowledgeable. If you have a query they are always happy to help or sort any problems. We would definitely recommend Solmar.
This is our 6th booking with Solmar Villas. The service is amazing. We book on line and get a follow up phone call, to ask if there is anything else they can support us with. The staff are really helpful, this also includes the representative’s in resort. Would highly recommend Solmar Villas.
Efficient and friendly customer service going through the booking process with me.
For any of our villas in Crete with private pools, every stay promises comfort and seclusion, ensuring your island experience is nothing short of exceptional. With Solmar Villas, it's not just the start of an unforgettable journey – whether you're seeking beachfront bliss, cultural experiences, or breathtaking natural beauty, there's something for everyone.
Crete offers endless family-friendly adventures, from stunning beaches and water parks to historical wonders like the Palace of Knossos. To create lifelong memories in the heart of the Mediterranean, visit mountain villages and indulge in delicious Greek cuisine. The island's warm Mediterranean climate and welcoming locals make it a top choice for family holidays, whether you're after relaxation and adventure (or both).
The bar is set high for Crete's stunning beaches, many with the highly coveted Blue Flag status for cleanliness and safety. From the renowned golden sands of Chania to the exotic allure of Elafonissi Beach, each shoreline is so varied. The diversity is due to the island's geographical structure, with some beaches framed by rugged cliffs and others sheltered in peaceful bays.
Whether you prefer bustling seaside action or peace and quiet, Crete's beaches cater to every preference, making it a top destination for beach lovers.
A gem of Crete, this beach offers a paradise of pink sands, turquoise waters, and unique seashells. Visitors can soak in the natural beauty, swim in shallow lagoons, and explore the small islet nearby. It's a tranquil haven for beachgoers looking for a breathtaking escape.
This beach is nestled on the northwestern tip of Crete, and is often likened to the Caribbean for its astonishing beauty. With its powdery white sands and crystal-clear, shallow waters, it's easy to see why.
What sets Balos Beach apart is its captivating Lagoon of Balos, a shallow, calm pool created by sea and land, similar to a natural swimming pool. This unique landscape makes it perfect for families with children. The picturesque Gramvousa Island stands majestically in the backdrop, adding to its beauty. To reach this beach, you can either opt for a scenic hike or boat tour (both offer spectacular views).
Balos Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers too, with rare flora and fauna, including protected species like the loggerhead sea turtle. It's also ideal for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling and exploring the rugged coastline.
Located in Lassithi, Crete's eastern coast, Vai Beach is the perfect place for families to relax and enjoy the sheer joy of natural beauty. A palm tree forest surrounds the beach, making it a private haven in one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations.
Often regarded as being one of the best beaches in Crete, Falassarna Beach, located on the northwest coast, is a pristine paradise known for its soft, golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
This picturesque beach offers breathtaking sunsets and is a favourite spot for relaxation and water sports enthusiasts (windsurfing is available). It's an ideal destination for families with young children because of its gently sloping shoreline.
Crete is a family-orientated holiday destination, so the nightlife is more relaxed and laid-back. For something more upbeat, Chania or Heraklion are ideal spots to embrace the authentic Greek culture paired with modern entertainment.
Soak in the relaxed evening atmosphere with a casual stroll through the waterfront stopping at local dessert parlours for ice creams that are lined up along the coastline.
During the summer months, Crete host various cultural events and festivals including open-air concerts, theatre performances and art exhibitions.
Crete's culinary scene is an amazing journey of Mediterranean flavours. Sample traditional dishes like Moussaka, made with layers of aubergine and minced meat, or savour the taste of Dakos, a Cretan salad featuring crisp barley rusks topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and cheese. Seafood enthusiasts can also enjoy fresh catches of the day whilst dessert lovers must try the sweet delights of Loukoumades (deep-fried dough drizzled with honey).
Local wines and the aniseed-flavoured spirit, Raki, are popular choices to accompany your meal. Pair your dining experience with the warm hospitality of Cretan tavernas, and you'll discover why Crete is a paradise for food enthusiasts.
For authentic Greek cuisine, Parasties is the restaurant to visit. For an unforgettable dining experience, they use locally sourced ingredients and cook in a traditional Cretan way using fire between two rectangular stones.
For seafood lovers, Salis is the place to be. Its magical setting helps, as you can watch the harbour while drinking high-quality wines and choosing from a range of dishes, such as seared tuna.
Families can also choose from a range of family-friendly eateries, including Pizza Hut and Mcdonald's, as well as pubs in the area.
In its early days Crete was home to the Minoans, a Bronze Age Civilisation whose footprint still flourishes on the island today. You’ll also come across a blend of Roman, Turkish and Venetian influences throughout Crete’s towns and villages, with old fortresses and pretty, cobbled streets waiting to be explored straight from the doorsteps of our villas in Crete.
The Palace of Knossos is a remarkable archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the sophisticated world of the Minoan civilisation. Explore the well-preserved remains of this ancient palace, adorned with vivid frescoes, intricate architecture, and the mythological associations of the Labyrinth, believed to be connected to King Minos.
As the heart of Minoan culture and history, Knossos provides an immersive journey through time, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the mysteries of antiquity.
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete is a treasure trove of ancient wonders. It houses an impressive collection of Minoan artefacts, including intricate pottery, vivid frescoes, and archaeological finds from sites like Knossos. With its rich historical insights and well-preserved exhibits, the museum offers a captivating journey through the ancient civilisations that once thrived on the island.
Nestled in the rugged mountains of Crete, the Ideon Cave is a legendary natural wonder steeped in Greek mythology. According to myth, it is where Zeus, the king of the gods, was raised. Today, it is a site of historical and cultural significance, attracting visitors with its unique geological formations and the mystique of its mythical past.
Whether you're staying in central Crete or the surrounding areas, you'll find plenty of things to do as a family. From adventure parks to strolling around the regions, the kids will love it too.
Explore the Old Town, stroll along the Venetian Harbour, and enjoy family outings to beautiful beaches like Elafonissi and Balos. Discover historical sites, go on boat tours, and enjoy delicious Cretan cuisine together. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Chania is a popular tourist choice, promising unforgettable family adventures.
The Amazonas Park is a captivating wildlife sanctuary offering a chance to get up close and personal with exotic animals. Explore lush botanical gardens, interact with diverse species where the world's most endangered bird species can be found and enjoy educational experiences suitable for the whole family.
This park is an exciting prehistoric journey for visitors of all ages. Step back in time to encounter life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs in a natural setting. Explore interactive exhibits, learn about Earth's ancient history, and enjoy a fun-filled, educational experience for the whole family. Dinosauria Park offers a thrilling adventure into the world of dinosaurs, making it a must-see attraction in Crete.
We specialise in giving families, couples and large groups the holiday experience they deserve. Most of our villas are in the Chania region, but options are available in Heraklion, Rethymnon and Agia Pelagia too.
Crete has the perfect combination of rustic villas and more modern options so that you can select accommodation based on your preferences. For that luxury feel, our villas in Crete with private pools have been handpicked from the most stunning regions and feature air conditioning, BBQ facilities and free WiFi included as standard. So, after a busy day exploring, you can unwind easily and appreciate a relaxed evening ready to recharge for the next day.
We also have a selection of budget-friendly Crete villas ideal for families. Our guests love having their own private retreat, away from the busy hotels yet close to the sea and resorts.
If you'd like to book one of our villas in Crete with a private pool, we recommend you book in advance to avoid disappointment.
To find out more or for help with booking your villa holiday in Crete, get in touch with the friendly Solmar team today.
Just a short drive from our villas in Heraklion, Knossos Palace is an ancient Bronze Age archaeological site. Known as the setting for the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, the palace is steeped in legend and offers a fascinating insight into the island’s history. The earliest sections were built around 1900 BC by the Minoan civilisation that called Crete home, and the site was rediscovered by Minos Kalokairinos in 1877.
Tucked away in Crete’s stunning national park, Samaria Gorge is simply breathtaking! Lace up your hiking boots and follow the winding trails that weave through forests and mountains, leading you to some of the most picturesque spots hidden among the rocks. Bring your comfiest shoes and your best camera, and get ready to be amazed by these incredible views.
A haunting sight off Crete’s north-east coast, Spinalonga Island is steeped in mystery thanks to its chilling past. The famous fortress perched atop the rocky hills was built by Venetian settlers in the 13th century to protect the island from pirates, but over time its history took a darker turn. From its role as a smuggling hub to becoming the home for leprosy patients exiled from the mainland in the early 20th century, discover the many stories of this eerie Crete island.
Hover to view average price info
Villas in Crete aren’t operated Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Annual sunshine
300 days
Hottest period
June to August
Busiest month
August
The most popular time to visit Crete is its vibrant and beautiful summer, and it’s easy to see why. Explore ancient history, relax by the pool and savour fresh Cretan cuisine by the sea.
Experience spring in Crete, where vivid beauty, colourful blooms and charming towns come to life. Enjoy peaceful hikes, savour seasonal delights and soak up the gentle warmth, making spring the perfect time to visit this Greek island.