Lassithi Tourism

Tourism in Lassithi combines everything: from picturesque villages, medieval castles and Minoan ruins to stunning beaches, rugged gorges and landscapes of breathtaking natural beauty.

Though you will find a few popular tourist resorts like Elounda, Sitia and Ierapetra, Lassithi remains one of the least touristy regions in Crete, retaining its charm and authenticity. The capital city is Agios Nikolaos, which is built on the northernmost point of Mirabello Bay, the largest bay on the island. There is a port in Agios Nikolaos, which may be connected to Sitia and Santorini, depending on the year. The main port is located in Sitia, 60 kilometers east of Agios Nikolaos, while, close to Sitia Port, lies the Sitia Public Airport "Vitsentzos Kornaros", which receives mostly charter flights, as well as flights from a few other cities around Greece. As ferry crossings to Lassithi are often limited, it may be more convenient to take the ferry to Heraklion and proceed to Lassithi by bus or by car.

Just outside the port of Agios Nikolaos, on Akti Koundourou Street, visitors will find the municipal tourist information office, where they can get all the necessary information regarding their trip. In Agios Nikolaos, there is a tourist police department as well, for any problems that might arise during your Crete vacation. Of course, you can also find useful information on our Lassithi travel guide prior to your arrival.

Located on the easternmost edge of Crete, Lassithi is one of the best places to combine relaxation with a complete immersion in nature. Spreading over an area of 25 square kilometers, the verdant Lassithi Plateau is dotted with picturesque villages, each more beautiful than the others, while Agios Nikolaos boasts a fabulous lake that is said to be bottomless! The renowned islet of Spinalonga, which is located between Elounda and Mirabello Bay is a must-visit, as you can see an imposing Venetian Fortress and the remains of the leper colony that used to operate there till 1957. Nature lovers can revel in the Ha Gorge and other spectacular gorges and caves, while history enthusiasts can explore the ruins of the Minoan Palace of Zakros and other ancient settlements.

In Agios Nikolaos and the other popular resorts, travelers will find plenty of cafeterias, taverns and restaurants, in which to relax after their sightseeing, as well as plenty of accommodation options. Lassithi may not boast a particularly vibrant nightlife, but visitors will be able to enjoy a nice night out in one of the clubs available in Elounda and the areas that have been developed for tourism; lounge bars can also be found in the rest of the region.

One of the most striking features of Lassithi is the magnificent beaches that can be found all along its coasts, which rank among the most beautiful ones on the whole island. First and foremost among them is Vai, where grows the largest known palm tree forest in Europe, while other popular choices include Elounda and Istro. Generally speaking, most of the organized beaches can be found on the northern coast, while those in the south remain more secluded, affording greater privacy and relaxation.

For a truly authentic experience of Lassithi, you can explore its traditional villages, which are just the place to experience the renowned Greek hospitality and the celebrated Cretan cuisine with its mouthwatering delicacies.