Preveli Monastery Crete
Historic monastery with stunning sea views, above a unique palm forest beach and lagoon on Crete's south coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Preveli Monastery Crete
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic monastery with stunning sea views, above a unique palm forest beach and lagoon on Crete's south coast.
"A must-see for its history, spirituality, and breathtaking views over the Libyan Sea."
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility by visiting the monastery first thing in the morning. :clock1:
🥾 Hike Down to the Beach
The 15-20 minute hike offers stunning views; alternatively, take a boat from Plakias. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Preveli Monastery Church
Main Monastery Building
Admire the beautifully carved iconostasis and impressive frescoes, with relics of Greek saints adding spiritual depth.
Panoramic Libyan Sea Views
Monastery Courtyard
Soak in breathtaking vistas of the Libyan Sea from the monastery's elevated position. A truly unforgettable sight.
Preveli Palm Forest & Beach
Below the Monastery
Hike down to this unique palm forest and lagoon, the second largest in Crete, for a refreshing dip.
+1
Monastery Wildlife
Monastery Grounds
Enjoy the charming presence of peacocks, geese, ducks, and singing birds roaming the monastery grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Monastery Visits
Combine Monastery with Beach Bliss
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility by visiting the monastery first thing in the morning. :clock1:
🥾 Hike Down to the Beach
The 15-20 minute hike offers stunning views; alternatively, take a boat from Plakias.
📸 No Photos Inside Church
Photography is restricted inside the main church and museum areas. :no_photography:
💰 Entry Fee
There's a small entry fee of around 4€ per person for the monastery and museum. :euro:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility by visiting the monastery first thing in the morning. :clock1:
🥾 Hike Down to the Beach
The 15-20 minute hike offers stunning views; alternatively, take a boat from Plakias.
📸 No Photos Inside Church
Photography is restricted inside the main church and museum areas. :no_photography:
💰 Entry Fee
There's a small entry fee of around 4€ per person for the monastery and museum. :euro:
🌿 Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the chance to see the peacocks and other birds that call the monastery home. :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Preveli Monastery for its stunning sea views, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere, often highlighting the charming wildlife. The adjacent Preveli Beach, with its unique palm forest and lagoon, is a major draw, though the hike down can be challenging for some. While generally well-regarded, some find the monastery's opening hours inconsistent and the beach can get crowded.
"Great Club. No wait like at Berghain. The bouncer is easy-going. Only 4€ entry! Photography is not allowed on the main floor but they don’t put stickers on your cameras. The soundsystem is a bit dated but the whole vibe here is awesome! Not too crowded either, but I wished the door was a bit stricter on who they allow in. Big groups of Germans in socked Birkenstocks and shorts just ruin the groove."
Ignaz Wrobel
"Preveli Monastery is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, set in a stunning location with breathtaking views over the Libyan Sea. The church inside is wonderfully decorated, with a beautifully carved iconostasis and impressive frescoes. You can also see the relics of Greek saints, which adds a deep spiritual atmosphere.
The grounds are full of life – peacocks, geese, ducks, and many singing birds make the visit even more charming. It’s a perfect spot to combine history, spirituality, and nature. A must-see if you are exploring the south of Crete!"
Datini si Obiceiuri
"Really impressive monetary dating back to the 13th century. You'll have the most amazing view and will learn a lot about the history of the place. Some of the Icons are just fabulous. If you go to Preveli beach you should not miss it. But come early to beat the crowds and the arbitrary opening times of Orthodox monetaries."
Lorenz Blumenthaler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive from Rethymno towards Preveli Monastery. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Parking is available near the monastery, from where you can walk down to Preveli Beach.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Preveli Monastery directly. Renting a car or taking a taxi from Rethymno or nearby towns like Plakias is the most convenient way.
You can drive to the parking area above Preveli Monastery and then hike down to the beach. Direct car access to the beach itself is not possible.
The most scenic way is to hike down from the Preveli Monastery parking area (about 15-20 minutes). Alternatively, you can take a boat trip from Plakias.
The hike is generally considered moderate, taking about 15-20 minutes. It's well-trodden but can be steep in parts. Wear comfortable shoes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours for Orthodox monasteries can be variable. It's best to check locally or arrive early in the day, as they may not be strictly adhered to.
The entry fee for Preveli Monastery and its museum is typically around 4€ per person.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site upon arrival. Advance booking is generally not required for Preveli Monastery.
Visitors should dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. Photography is not allowed inside the church and museum.
Yes, you can access Preveli Beach via boat from Plakias without necessarily visiting the monastery itself, though the hike from the monastery parking offers great views.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the monastery grounds, but strictly prohibited inside the church and the museum.
The courtyard offers stunning panoramic views of the Libyan Sea, and the grounds with peacocks provide charming photo opportunities.
Yes, Preveli Palm Beach and its unique palm forest are very photogenic. The lagoon and the river mouth are particularly popular for photos.
While not explicitly stated, it's advisable to check local regulations regarding drone usage near religious sites and natural reserves.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of both the monastery and the beach.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can explore the beautiful church with its frescoes and iconostasis, a small museum, and enjoy the peaceful grounds with wildlife and sea views. +1
Preveli Beach is famous for its stunning palm forest, a rare sight in Crete, and the clear river that flows into the Libyan Sea, creating a beautiful lagoon.
There are usually seasonal facilities like sunbed rentals and a small taverna near Preveli Beach, but it's advisable to bring water and snacks, especially outside peak season.
The monastery grounds are home to peacocks, geese, ducks, and various singing birds, adding a lively atmosphere to the visit. +1
Yes, the monastery has a rich history, dating back to the 13th century, and played a role in Crete's history, including during WWII.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing plenty of water and snacks, as facilities at the beach can be seasonal. The boat trip option from Plakias is also a fun alternative for families who want to avoid the hike. Remember to dress modestly for the monastery visit.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The unique palm forest at Preveli Beach is a significant draw for nature lovers, showcasing a rare ecosystem on Crete. Combine your visit with exploring the Kourtaliotiko Gorge itself, which offers further hiking opportunities and dramatic scenery. The combination of historical sites, natural wonders, and scenic trails makes the Preveli area a prime destination for active travelers.
📸 Photographers
Preveli Beach and its palm forest offer a completely different, yet equally stunning, photographic subject. The contrast between the lush green palms, the blue sea, and the river lagoon is striking. Capturing the winding river as it meets the sea is a classic shot.
Early morning or late afternoon will yield the best light and fewer people, allowing for more creative shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monastery's Spiritual and Historical Significance
The monastery also holds historical importance related to Crete's role in World War II, with exhibits in its museum detailing these events. The grounds themselves are a testament to its enduring presence, offering a peaceful sanctuary with stunning views. The blend of religious devotion, historical context, and natural beauty makes it a compelling destination for many travelers.
While the main monastery is a focal point, the surrounding area also holds significance. The monastery's location offers a strategic vantage point overlooking the Libyan Sea, a feature that has been important throughout its history. Exploring the monastery provides a glimpse into the enduring faith and resilience of the Cretan people.
Exploring Preveli Beach and its Unique Palm Forest
The beach itself is characterized by a beautiful lagoon formed by the Kourtaliotiko River, which flows from the imposing Kourtaliotiko Gorge and empties into the Libyan Sea. Visitors can swim in the refreshing river or the clear sea waters. The hike down from the Preveli Monastery parking area, approximately 15-20 minutes, offers breathtaking views of the beach and the gorge as you descend.
+1Access to Preveli Beach can also be gained via boat from the nearby village of Plakias, offering a different perspective and an easier option for those who prefer not to hike. While the beach is popular, it retains a wild and natural charm, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and beachgoers exploring the Rethymno region.
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