Useful Tips for a Successful Trip
💡 Opening Hours:
- Shops: 09:00-14:00 and 17:00-21:00 (closed in the afternoon!)
- Restaurants: Lunch 13:00-15:00, Dinner from 20:00
- Museums: Most are closed on Mondays
🍽️ Food and Restaurants:
- The Greeks eat late - restaurants fill up only after 21:00
- Tip: 5-10% in restaurants (not mandatory, but appreciated)
- "Μερίδα" (merida) = medium dish, "Μισή μερίδα" = half dish
- Ask for "ψωμί" (psomi - bread) - usually free
🏖️ Beaches:
- Chairs and shade: 6-10€ per day
- You can always sit for free outside the organized area
- Bring your own towel and water to save money
🚗 Driving:
- A valid Israeli license is sufficient
- Gasoline: "Βενζίνη" (benzini) = gasoline, "Πετρέλαιο" (petreleo) = diesel
- Parking: White = free, Blue = paid
📱 Communication:
- Wi-Fi available in most hotels and restaurants
- Local SIM: about 15€ for 10GB
- Recommended app: Google Maps for routes
🎁 Gifts and Souvenirs:
- Cretan olive oil, honey, herbs
- Raki (Ρακή) - local drink
- Ceramics and traditional pottery