I've asked my Greek sister-in-law who has visited the island many times.

First thing you need to know is that it is huge, and the largest of all the Greek Islands. With the distances and roads journeys can take a lot of time.

The most important archaeological site is the ancient city of Knossos just south of Heraklion and it's a must.

Other places to consider - there is a very beautiful old town with castle called Rethimno west of Heraklion.

At Toplou there is a 15th century monastery that is very picturesque and well worth a visit.

There is a lovely beach at Vai which is famous for its forest of palm trees...

Matala is a village with another good beach - it is most well known for its neolithic caves which a bunch of hippies lived in during the 60's before getting kicked out...

And for something completely different, apparently the Watercity water park is a lot of fun if you like that kind of thing!