One island. Plenty of reasons to take the long way.
Your arrival airport is the best place to start. Choose Chania for a stay in western Crete, or Heraklion for central and eastern parts of the island. If you land at one and fly home from the other, search with different pickup and return locations before choosing a car.
Give yourself time between the coast and the mountains. A trip that looks short on a map can include winding roads and village traffic. For a holiday with several bases, compare the full rental period with separate rentals and any delivery charges.

