The Greek island of Crete is a dream come true for photographers and travellers, offering endless picture-perfect moments around every corner. From sun-drenched beaches with turquoise water to charming mountain villages and ancient ruins, the island is bursting with scenic spots that deserve a place on your Instagram feed.
Whether you’re chasing golden sunsets, hidden bays, or unique architecture, Crete has no shortage of photogenic locations that blend natural beauty with authentic Greek charm. In this guide, I’ll take you to the most Instagram-worthy places across the island – some famous, others off the beaten path.
So grab your camera, charge your drone, and get ready to explore the best Instagram spots in Crete that will inspire your followers to visit the island. Whether you’re planning a Crete road trip or just looking to add a few hidden gems to your travel itinerary, these locations promise stunning backdrops for your Crete adventure.
Balos Beach is hands-down one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever seen and it’s just as magical in real life as it looks in the photos. Located on the northwestern tip of Crete, this dreamy lagoon features vibrant turquoise waters, soft white sand, and dramatic mountain views that create the ultimate island paradise.
After a bumpy drive and short hike, the panoramic view from the Balos Beach lookout will completely blow you away, it’s hard to beat this amazing Crete Instagram spot! Spend the day swimming in the shallow, crystal-clear waters, soaking up the sun and taking in the incredible scenery around you.
Trust me when I say that Balos Beach is worth every bit of effort that it takes to reach. Find out how to get there and plan your visit using my complete Balos Beach travel guide.
Unbelievable photography opportunities at Balos Beach
Seitan Limania
Seitan Limania is one of those hidden gems of Crete that looks almost too surreal to be real. Tucked into a narrow rocky inlet on Crete’s Akrotiri Peninsula, this tiny beach stuns with its bright turquoise water framed by vertical cliffs.
After a steep but manageable hike down, you’re rewarded with a truly unforgettable scene, perfect for snapping those jaw-dropping Instagram shots. To top it off, you’ll get to meet the resident goats that call this spectacular beach home.
I visited early in the morning to beat the crowds and the light was incredible as it hit the water. Just be sure to wear sturdy shoes for the descent and pack light. This Insta spot is pure magic in every sense!
Insane view at Seitan Limania Beach
Elafonisi Beach (Pink Sand Beach)
Elafonisi Beach is easily one of the most photogenic places I visited in Crete, truly an otherworldly place! Its unique pink-tinged sand and sparkling turquoise water make it feel like a tropical escape, it’s easy to see why it’s such a famous Instagram spot of Crete.
I walked across the sandbar to the islet and found quieter corners away from the crowds, which made for perfect photo ops. The contrast between the soft pink hues and crystal-clear sea is unreal in photos and even better in person.
Keep in mind that the pink tones are affected by conditions such as weather, time of day, season etc. It may appear more or less pink during your visit so don’t be too surprised if it doesn’t look like the photos you see online.
Due to the popularity of Elafonisi Beach, don’t be surprised to find crowds of tourists there during peak hours. Visit during sunrise or late afternoon light to beat the hordes and get that extra special glow in your Instagram photos!
Pink sand and crystal clear water at Elafonisi Beach
Kolokitha Beach
Escaping to this secret beach of Crete really feels like discovering your own private paradise. Located on a small peninsula near Elounda, this gorgeous beach stole my heart with its vibrant blue water and peaceful, unspoiled setting.
The short drive and easy hike to get there are well worth it, especially if you’re after that perfect, crowd-free Instagram shot. I arrived late in the afternoon and had the beach all to myself. I enjoyed floating in the shallow water for hours here after a sweaty visit to Spinalonga Island.
The turquoise water against the rugged rocks makes for a stunning backdrop you’ll want to capture again and again. If you have a drone, this is an awesome place to launch it!
Drifting in paradise at Kolokitha Beach
Preveli Beach
Preveli Beach offers a totally unique vibe that sets it apart from other beaches in Crete. Located at the mouth of a river and framed by a lush palm forest, this beach feels like something out of a dream.
After a 20 minute hike down from the cliffside parking area, I was greeted with stunning views that begged to be photographed. I flew my drone almost immediately on arrival and it did not disappoint!
The contrast between the freshwater river, tropical greenery, and the bright blue sea creates an absolutely spectacular setting. Whether you’re floating in the river or snapping shots from the lookout above, Preveli is an unforgettable and Instagram-worthy stop in southern Crete.
Preveli Beach is a fantastic photo spot in Crete
Historic Gems of Crete
Chania
Chania quickly became one of my favourite towns in Crete thanks to its beautiful mix of Venetian architecture, colourful harbor views, and charming old town alleys. Every corner feels like it belongs on a postcard, from the iconic lighthouse to the flower-draped balconies and pastel facades.
I loved wandering the narrow streets at golden hour, camera in hand, discovering hidden courtyards and vibrant doorways. Whether you’re capturing reflections along the harbour or snapping sunset shots from the waterfront cafes, Chania is full of picture-perfect moments. It’s easily one of the most photogenic towns in Crete and a must for your Instagram feed.
Colourful buildings line Chania’s waterfront
Chania’s Old Town is a maze of dreamy alleys
Rethymno
The old city of Rethymno is one of those places that completely surprised me with its charm and character. The blend of Venetian and Ottoman architecture gives the old town a unique feel, with endless photo opportunities around every corner. Think ivy-covered doorways, hidden alleyways, and vibrant bougainvillea flowing down every building.
I especially loved the scenic walk along the old harbour, where colourful fishing boats bob in front of waterfront tavernas. The nearby Fortezza offers sweeping views over the city and sea, ideal for sunset shots. Rethymno has a relaxed, romantic vibe that’s easy to fall in love with and even easier to photograph.
The dreamy streets of Rethymno make for a stunning photoshoot backdrop
Soaking up a perfect happy hour vibe at Rethymno’s waterfront
Pitsidia
Tucked away in southern Crete, Pitsidia is a peaceful village that feels frozen in time. I loved wandering its quiet streets lined with whitewashed homes and blooming flowers, capturing candid moments of authentic Cretan life. Idyllic scenes are found at every turn.
It’s the kind of place where time slows down, perfect for cozy mornings and golden hour strolls. The village is just a short drive from the famous Matala Beach, where the sea meets sandstone caves, ideal for a lazy afternoon lounging on the golden sand.
Pitsidia is a great base to stay while exploring this lesser-known corner of the island. You can easily visit some more popular destinations nearby and retreat to the sleepy village at the end of the day.
Romantic scenes in Pitsidia
Matala
Matala is a colourful and quirky beach town located on Crete’s south coast. Famous for its cliffside caves and 1960s atmosphere, this seaside village has a unique character.
The beach itself is stunning with golden sand and clear blue water, but it’s the mix of history and hippie vibes that makes Matala so photogenic. Be sure to climb up to the ancient caves for panoramic views over the bay.
The town is full of colourful murals, cozy cafes, and beachfront tavernas that give off a laid-back, bohemian feel. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer… and snap just a few more photos.
Relax on the beautiful Matala Beach
Loutro
The pretty village of Loutro completely took my breath away at first sight. Tucked away on Crete’s south coast and only accessible by boat or foot, this tiny seaside village feels like a hidden postcard come to life.
The whitewashed buildings with pops of blue, calm turquoise waters, and surrounding mountains make every angle of Loutro effortlessly photogenic. It’s easy see why this hidden gem is one of the most beautiful Instagram spots of Crete.
I really enjoyed capturing the town from the ferry as we approached, an absolutely stunning view. With no roads or cars, it’s blissfully peaceful and perfect for a quiet escape. Whether you’re having dinner by the sea or taking a swim in the crystal-clear bay, Loutro is one of Crete’s most photogenic wonders.
The picturesque village of Loutro
Spinalonga Island
Spinalonga Island was one of the most fascinating places I visited on my Crete road trip, both visually and historically. Just a short boat ride from Elounda or Plaka, this former leper colony offers breathtaking views of turquoise water surrounding its crumbling Venetian fortress walls.
Wandering through its quiet, sun-bleached ruins, I felt like I had stepped back in time. From the boat ride over to strolling around the ancient ruins, every corner of Spinalonga is incredibly photogenic.
It stands out as one of my favourite Instagram spots in Crete, especially after flying my drone! If you’re into capturing atmospheric shots with a story behind them, Spinalonga is an absolute must. It’s a place where beauty and history blend in a truly unique way.
Aerial view of Spinalonga Island
Crete’s Amazing Landscapes
Samaria Gorge
Hiking through Samaria Gorge was one of the most unforgettable adventures I had in Crete. The 16km trail takes you deep into a rugged canyon framed by towering cliffs, winding past ancient rock formations, wildflowers, streams and even a few friendly mountain goats.
The scenery shifts constantly, with narrow passages like the famous Iron Gates offering epic Instagram photo opportunities around every corner.
It’s a long trek, but the reward is worth every step, especially when you reach the turquoise shores of Agia Roumeli at the end. If you’re into jaw-dropping nature shots and love a good challenge, Samaria Gorge absolutely delivers.
Halfway through the Samaria Gorge hike – What an incredible adventure!
The village of Agia Roumeli awaits at the end of your trek
Kourtaliotiko Gorge
Driving through Kourtaliotiko Gorge felt like entering another world with steep limestone cliffs on either side and the wind whistling through the canyon. The scenery of this place really blew me away but the real hidden gem lies at the bottom of the gorge, an amazing waterfall nestled between the cliffs.
Getting to the iconic spot pictured below can be done by hiking for around 15 minutes along a steep path from the parking lot. Once you reach the entrance to the gorge you will quickly realize that the water is incredibly cold, 10 ºC to be exact!
Is it worth braving the icy water to witness this magical Instagram spot of Crete? I think the photo below speaks for itself! Photos truly don’t do this place justice, it must be seen to be believed.
Braving the freezing water for a photo inside Kourtaliotiko Gorge
Agiofaraggo Beach
Located on the island’s south coast, Agiofaraggo Beach is one of the most peaceful and rewarding spots I discovered in Crete. Getting there involves a scenic walk through a quiet gorge surrounded by rugged cliffs and olive trees, it feels like a true off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Upon arrival to the beach, you are immediately greeted by clear turquoise waters and a dramatic rocky backdrop. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a swim in total serenity and snap some picture-perfect, untouched landscape shots for Instagram.
It’s raw, wild beauty at its finest and well worth the journey it takes to get there. Agiofaraggo Beach is easily one of the most beautiful and underrated photography spots in Crete!
Imbros Gorge
Imbros Gorge is a less-crowded alternative to Samaria Gorge with equally stunning scenery making it a quieter spot for capturing Crete’s natural beauty. The hike is shorter and easier, but no less impressive as you pass through towering cliffs, narrow rock passages, and impressive landscapes.
I loved how peaceful the trail felt with plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way, especially in the dramatic narrow sections where the walls close in around you. It’s a beautiful place where you can really connect with nature, take your time, and snap some amazing Instagram shots without the hordes of other tourists.
Amazing photo opportunities in Imbros Gorge
Final Thoughts on Crete’s Best Instagram Spots
As you can see, the island of Crete has no shortage of incredible photography locations. It’s easy to spend 10 days or more just driving around and taking it all in. Be sure to read my blog post to get inspired and plan your own Crete road trip!
Wishing you an amazing trip to Crete, follow me on Instagram for all the Crete/Greece travel inspiration 🙂
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What a fun post to read! The pictures are stunning and are proof that all those spots are Instagram worthy.