Once the centre of an empire which controlled the eastern Mediterranean, this 4,000-year-old palace is Crete's premier historical attraction. Learn about the Minoan kings on tours in September, when crowds won't be an issue.
This Venetian gem is hands-down Crete's most attractive city, but in summer it can be a crowded place. Not so in September, when you can shop at leisure for leather handcrafts, tour the harbour fortifications, and dine out in relaxed style at the town's finest eateries.
Always a delight to visit, Imbros Gorge comes into its own in September, when the terrain is illuminated by gorgeous wildflowers, and peace and quiet reigns. In the mild September weather, walking the near-12km gorge is also easily manageable - not to be missed!
A well-known agrotourism village, Enagron is a major producer of organic fruit and vegetables, and a great place to head for seasonal cuisine. September sees the harvest start across Crete, and dishes like Gamopilafo (lamb and rice) are at their best at the tail end of summer.
This beautiful village is the site of the Festival of St Stavros in mid-September when it becomes party central. If you want to hear folk music, gorge on sweet treats and Cretan wine, and make friends with the locals, it's the place to be.