By Wedding Planners Who’ve Been There
When couples ask us for venue recommendations in Crete, we always start with a simple truth: the island is full of breathtaking spots — but it’s the hidden gems that truly take your breath away. As wedding planners based in Crete, we’ve had the privilege of organising celebrations across the island for past 15 years, and these five venues are currently among our personal favourites. Not only are they incredibly beautiful, but we’ve worked with them directly, so we know they deliver unforgettable experiences time and time again.
Here are our top five hidden gem wedding venues in Crete — where magic, beauty, and local charm come together.
1. Karavitakis Winery — Chania Region
A modern and charming winery tucked away in the lush countryside of Chania, Karavitakis is the perfect choice for intimate weddings. With a capacity of up to 70 guests, it offers a refined yet down-to-earth atmosphere surrounded by vineyards. A church on the grounds allows for religious ceremonies, and there’s a covered space available as a plan B in case of rain.
Months for hire: April, May, June, and the second half of October.
You have covered this venue in our previous posts, read here.
2. Aravanes — Rethymno Region
For those dreaming of a wedding with a view, Aravanes delivers in every direction — a traditional Cretan village with a panoramic outlook over a stunning valley and mountains, including the majestic Psiloritis the highest mountain in Crete. It’s rustic, authentic, and absolutely breathtaking.
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Outdoor capacity: up to 200 guests
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Indoor capacity: up to 120 guests (a must-have option with Crete’s ever-changing weather)
This venue beautifully blends tradition and nature, with a team that truly understands hospitality.
One of many unique weddings we organised here, can find out more in one of our blogs, read here.
3. Seaesta Beach Venue — Chania Region
A cozy, laid-back beach bar that transforms into an intimate wedding haven. Seaesta is ideal for couples looking for a seaside celebration with toes in the sand and hearts full of joy.
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Capacity: up to 40–50 guests
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Bonus: Rooms available on-site so guests can stay the night — and wake up the next morning surrounded by loved ones. It turns a destination wedding into a full-on experience.
4. Church of Analipsi — For Intimate Elopements, Rethymno Region
This picturesque seaside church is made for intimate elopements or symbolic/church ceremonies. While it’s not a full wedding venue, it’s an absolutely magical spot for that moment of “I do.”
Its charm lies in its simplicity, peaceful setting, and stunning photo opportunities. The celebration would follow at another venue — but the vows here? Unforgettable.
5. The Olive Grove — A Blank Canvas in Nature, Rethymno Region
This one holds a special place in our hearts. The Olive Grove is not your typical venue — it’s a raw, enchanting space surrounded by hundreds old olive trees. What makes it so unique is that it allows us to create everything from scratch.
No pre-set rules, no limitations — just a beautiful natural setting where we bring in each and every vendor to build your dream wedding from the ground up.
With our years of experience and deep knowledge of local vendors, this is where we get to co-create magic with our couples. If you’re dreaming of a handcrafted wedding that reflects your story, this is where it begins.
Ready to Discover Your Perfect Spot?
Each of these venues offers something special — and we’re here to help you find the one that feels like you. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a full celebration under the stars, we know just the place to make it happen.
