With a heavenly history as the birthplace of Zeus, Crete will see you holidaying like a god as you relish in the idyllic island scenes of this luxury holiday destination.

Packed with five-star resorts as far as the eye can see, many boast private stretches of pristine sands making for a gorgeous golden gateway in the Mediterranean. Ideal for sun worshippers wanting to make sure they get the best lounger to soak up the rays, expect to be spending a few hours with sand between your toes and a cocktail in hand. Should you want tranquil waves and a dash of heat, Crete is will not disappoint.

For culture vultures, the area is awash with architectural marvels from Ancient Greece. If you have a love for authentic design, want to learn something new or need to spice up your Instagram feed, trekking through the monasteries and fortresses in the likes of Heraklion is a must. Knossos is easily the most well-known attraction and a fantastic family day out thanks to the mystery and magic surrounding the area. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the famed Minotaur himself.

Once you’ve had enough exploration and adventure for the day, it’s time to stop for lunch or dinner. Mediterranean and traditional Cretan cuisine can be found throughout the island, with plenty of cute cafes and bistros offering food to rival the fine dining establishment. The gourmet options are worth it though, even if it’s just for the views and the extensive array of dishes available. One thing’s for certain, when in Crete, you won’t go hungry.

If you prefer soaking up some history rather than the sun, Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses the largest collection of Minoan artefacts and is constantly being updated with rare finds. Close by to Knossos, if you fancy a little detour this choice is wonderful.