The Aegean Sea has given the world a constellation of magnificent islands. Their beaches every summer become the cherished dream of thousands of tourists tired of the daily work routine. The names Santorini or Crete evoke the most pleasant associations in the memory of those who have already visited the Greek fairy tale, and the lucky ones with the cherished tour in their pockets have the anticipation of happiness and delight from the expectation of a meeting.
Criterias of choice
The climate in Santorini and Crete is formed by the southern latitude and the proximity of the sea. The weather at the height of the summer season on the islands is sunny and hot, and pleasant breezes make it possible to comfortably endure even high temperatures:
- The beach season in Crete starts at the end of April and lasts until the first days of November. On the southern coast of the largest island of Greece, it is a little hotter, thanks to hot African winds, and on average, the air and water temperature in the high season approaches + 26 ° С and + 35 ° С, respectively.
- Santorini is slightly cooler, but the timing of the beginning and end of the swimming season is almost the same as in Crete. The most favorable period for a holiday in the Cyclades archipelago is in May and October, when the temperature in the air does not tend to exceed the 30-degree mark.
Air travel to Crete and Santorini is possible with charters taking to the skies from Moscow and some other Russian cities during the summer season. Regular flights are also available from Moscow to Crete, but it is not possible to get directly to Santorini. The Greek and Russian carriers have scheduled flights to Athens, where they will have to switch to domestic airlines. The travel time for a direct flight will be a little more than 3.5 hours, and for a ticket you will have to pay from 21,000 to 26,000 rubles.
Hotels in Crete and Santorini comply with the international classification:
- A double room in a 3 * hotel in Crete will cost $ 55-$ 60 per night. Breakfast is usually included in the bill. All-inclusive hotels, familiar to many Russian tourists, are found in Crete more often than on other Greek islands. The largest island in the country is the most developed region in terms of tourist infrastructure.
- A similar room in Santorini for the price and comfort will hardly differ from the Cretan one. The distance to the beach from all resort hotels is covered on foot for a few minutes, and free internet, swimming pool and parking at the hotel are attached to the list of other options almost everywhere.
Santorini or Crete beaches?
The volcanic origin of the Cyclades archipelago, called Santorini, has led to the coverage of its beaches. Sand in Santorini has many shades and photo sessions against a background of pink or black give an unforgettable experience and picturesque cards in a Greek album.
Crete is more diverse in terms of beaches and many kilometers of its coastline are represented by wide sandy areas and small cozy rocky ones. For lovers of solitary meditation, the nature of the island has equipped rocky bays, and for fans of communication and outdoor activities, local residents have opened hundreds of rental points for all kinds of equipment on the shores.
