The 10 Best Camping Spots in Crete for Camper Vans
Crete is one of the finest islands in the Mediterranean for camper van travel. With 1,000km of coastline, towering gorges, ancient ruins, and a landscape that changes dramatically from west to east, there is no shortage of extraordinary places to park for the night. We hand over a full campsite list to every customer at pick-up — but here's our shortlist of the very best.
Organised Campsites — Best Facilities
These have showers, toilets, electricity hookups and often a small taverna or café on site. Great for your first night or after a long drive.
Directly on the beach near Kissamos, with clear water and a relaxed atmosphere. One of the best-positioned campsites on the island. Easy access from the E75 highway.
The island's best-equipped campsite. Excellent showers, a small pool, and friendly staff. Ideal base for visiting Knossos Palace, which is just 15 minutes away.
Small, peaceful campsite a short walk from Almyrida beach. The village has excellent tavernas, a bakery, and a supermarket. Perfect for a 2–3 night stay.
Free Camping — Wild & Beautiful
Crete's roads lead to countless spots where you can park freely overnight. Always leave the place as you found it, take your rubbish with you, and check local signs.
One of Europe's most beautiful beaches, with pink-tinged sand and shallow turquoise water. Arrive before sunset and stay in the large car park. The morning light here is extraordinary.
Park on the plateau above Preveli and wake up to spectacular views over the Libyan Sea. The palm-fringed beach and freshwater lagoon below are reached by a 20-minute walk.
The westernmost beach on Crete, consistently rated among the best in Greece. The wide car park is used by camper vans regularly. Ancient Falasarna ruins are a 5-minute walk.
Accessible only on foot or by sea. Hike 45 minutes along the E4 coastal path from Sougia and you have the beach almost entirely to yourself. Ancient temple remains add to the atmosphere.
A small village on the south coast with dramatic sand dunes and crystal-clear water. Very few tourists make it here. Park near the taverna and enjoy the silence.
Mountain Spots — For the Adventurous
Park at the top of the Samaria Gorge trailhead and spend the night at 1,050m altitude. Brings cooler temperatures even in August. Start the gorge walk at sunrise before the crowds arrive.
A quieter alternative to Samaria. Park at the top of Imbros Gorge and wake up in the mountains before walking 8km down to the coast. A shuttle or taxi brings you back up. Our favourite hike on the island.
Tips for camping in Crete
Rubbish — always take it with you. There are bins in villages but often none in remote spots. The WanderVans is equipped with rubbish bags.
Water — we provide drinking water in the van and there are fresh water springs and taps throughout the island. Never drink from streams.
Fires — open fires are prohibited throughout Crete due to wildfire risk. Use your van's gas cooker.
Insects — the van's design has small gaps. We provide repellent tealights and a lighter. Bring spray for evenings outdoors.
Respect locals — ask before parking overnight near villages. Cretans are extremely welcoming but appreciate politeness.