The island of Crete off the southern tip of Greece was the center of the Minoan civilization (ca. 2600–1400 BCE), the oldest civilization in Europe. As a result, a traveler to the island is bound to stumble upon some really, really old stuff without even having to try.

If you are a fan of ancient history and ruins, Crete just might be your paradise. The island is dripping with history, including the Minoan sites of Knossos and Phaistos, the classical site of Gortys, the Venetian castle in Rethymno, and the Samaria Gorge, as well as many other natural sites and monuments. You could spend a lifetime on Crete just looking at all the things that previous civilizations left behind.

If history is not your thing, Crete still has a lot to offer. Its beaches are stunning, its water pristine and its bustling nightlife has left many a visitor with a bit of a headache the next day, if you know what I mean.

Because it is such a popular destination for tourists and sun worshippers, you can usually find an affordable deal on flights and hotels. Opodo has [1] a great package that will fly you there and keep you there for less than what it sometimes costs to travel within the United Kingdom.

Travel to this island paradise and you’ll see firsthand why ancient civilizations chose Crete as the first place to live in Europe.

[2] Opodo.co.uk