Now is the time for all you Greek experts to get opinionated. I have 3 days to spend in Crete. Could possibly stretch it to 4 if I cut Santorini from 3 nights to 2 nights. We are going in May.
I can't decide if I should stay in Chania on the Western side or near Elounda on the Eastern side.
We do NOT plan to rent a car. We will take tours or the public bus or a taxi.
We are NOT beach sitters, although we very much appreciate the beautiful views of water and beach. We like to explore history, beautiful scenery, cultural sights.
I would appreciate hearing different points of view. Thanks

>Chania
As far west as possible, we tourists have destroyed most of the coast, hotels everywhere, just awful.

I agree. If you want to go to a "flashy" resort area that could be anywhere touristy in the world, then do Elounda. If you want to see remaining charm in Crete, stay at Chania.

I spent 5 weeks in Crete last summer and only stayed on the western side.

I haven't even made it to Heraklion, even though it's got tons of that historical stuff you're looking for. I haven't heard much about the eastern side, all I know is that it's more expensive out in the east.

I would definitely check out Chania and a town called Rethymnon, which is half way between Heraklion and Chania.

Crete has many amazing spots but you're only there for 3 days so I suggest two days in Chania and a day in Rethymnon.

Chania and the west! Do not be afraid to rent a car. Easy to drive around the island and there is lots to see.

Definitely rent a car. Cheaper in Rethymnon.

For as little as 30EU per day

I like Santorini much more than Crete, so I strongly recommend that you not cut your stay in Santorini short. I would cut a day from Crete and add it to Santorini.

Santorini is just in it's own league.

Crete is a special place, you cannot compare the two. Two totally different vibes, both great in their own way.

Crete is amazing, do not cut your stay.

Thank you all for your very useful advice.

Chania is better for you in my opinion. elounda is a place with a lot of luxury hotels. some of them are www.portoelounda.com www.eloundapeninsula.com etc. Chania doesnt have beautiful hotels but its a very nice town