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Bali

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City
—°5
Bali (Greece)
ℹ️

Practical info — Bali

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Take the mini-train to easily commute between the village's four distinct bays.
  • Karavostasi bay at the far north is the quietest and provides the clearest water for snorkeling.
  • Thanks to the protected northern orientation, the sea remains calm here even when northern winds affect other parts of Crete.
  • Rent a boat or book a tour at the harbor to explore the hidden sea caves that are only accessible from the water.
  • Avoid parking in the steep, narrow streets; use the larger parking areas at the village entrance.

🍽 Food

🍽
Fresh Fish at the Harbor

Choose a traditional taverna at the old harbor for the daily catch, often brought in directly by the local boats.

🍽
Dakos

Try this Cretan barley rusk topped with grated tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, and herbs, an excellent light meal.

🍽
Cretan Thyme Honey

Look for thyme honey from local beekeepers; it is highly aromatic and one of Crete's most famous products.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Gaia Store

An excellent shop in the village center for premium Cretan products like olive oil, herbs, and natural cosmetics.

🛍
Handmade Ceramics

Browse the small shops along the hillside for unique pottery and handcrafted Greek jewelry.

🧘
Attali Monastery

Located just outside the village, this 17th-century monastery has a peaceful retreat surrounded by olive groves.

🧘
Karavostasi Beach at dusk

After the day-trippers have left, this beach provides the great quiet setting for a sunset walk.

Positioned into the rugged northern coast of Crete between Rethymno and Heraklion, Bali has evolved from a small fishing village into a popular holiday resort without losing its welcoming character. The steep, green hills here drop dramatically into the sea, forming a series of wind-sheltered, crescent-shaped bays. The relaxed atmosphere and traditional tavernas around the harbor make Bali an excellent getaway for those seeking tranquility. Bali has magnificent beaches to suit every taste. The beach of Παραλία Κατεβατή captivates visitors with its soft sand and clear waters. The centrally located Varkotopos beach is particularly popular with families due to its gently sloping seabed. Those looking for a bit more space will be well accommodated at Livadi beach, while Vlihi Nero beach provides a quieter, cozier alternative for relaxing hours by the Cretan Sea. The dining experience in Bali is deeply connected to the sea. In the numerous tavernas overlooking the coves, visitors can enjoy freshly caught fish and traditional Cretan mezedes. The narrow, steep streets of the village also hide small boutiques and cozy cafes that invite you to linger in the evening, perfectly completing the authentic Greek island feeling.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C131314162024262624211815
Rain mm887542231553418465986

Geography

Population
450
Coordinates
35.41374, 24.78262

Facts

  • Bali is located on the Greek island of Crete.
  • It is situated halfway between Heraklion and Rethymno.
  • The village was known as Astali during ancient times.
  • The bays of Bali are naturally well-protected from the wind.
  • The Monastery of Agios Ioannis Prodromos is located nearby.
  • The terrain of the village is quite hilly and steep.
  • Bali features four main distinct beach areas.
  • The calm local waters are excellent for snorkeling.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Bali (5)

Bali Mare Fountains📍 landmark

Stone fountains in the village square.

Varkotopos beach🎡 recreation

Pebble beach with clear water.

Livadi beach🎡 recreation

Livadi Beach is a long sandy beach with palm trees and shallow waters, popular for families in Bali, Crete.

💶

Vlihi Nero beach🎡 recreation

Small beach with black sand.

Castle of Bali📍 landmark

Venetian castle on a hill overlooking the bay.

Frequently asked questions

Bali: where is it located?
Bali is located in Greece.
Bali: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bali Mare Fountains, Varkotopos beach, Livadi beach.
Bali: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Bali: why is it worth visiting?
Positioned into the rugged northern coast of Crete between Rethymno and Heraklion, Bali has evolved from a small fishing village into a popular holiday resort without losing its welcoming character.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →
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