Lassithi Region

The Lassithi region, at the eastern tip of Crete, is a corner of the island full of charm, history, and natural beauty. Its capital, Agios Nikolaos, sits on the stunning Bay of Mirabello, where a small lake, Voulismeni, nestles at the heart of the town. Cafés, tavernas, and winding streets full of shops selling traditional crafts and jewellery give the town a friendly, lively atmosphere. Agios Nikolaos is perfect for exploring on foot, strolling along the waterfront, or enjoying the calm beaches nearby—many of which have earned Blue Flag status for their cleanliness.

Just beyond the town, the villages of Plaka and Elounda offer a glimpse of traditional Cretan life. Elounda’s marina and central square bustle gently with life, while Plaka retains a quieter pace with small shingle beaches and cosy fish tavernas along the waterfront. From Elounda, a boat trip to Spinalonga, the former Venetian fortress and leper colony, is a must-do. The calm waters of the bay make it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and other watersports.

Heading inland, the Lassithi Plateau is one of Crete’s most iconic landscapes. A fertile, green valley dotted with around 10,000 traditional windmills, it’s a reminder of the island’s agricultural heritage. The plateau is also home to the Diktaean Cave, said to be the birthplace of Zeus. Throughout history, the plateau offered refuge to Cretan fighters resisting Venetian and Turkish rule, and its dramatic scenery continues to captivate visitors today.

Along the southern coast, Ierapetra, Europe’s most southerly town, combines history, beaches, and a mild climate. The town has Roman ruins, a Venetian fort, a Turkish mosque, and a long promenade lined with cafés, tavernas, and shops. Nearby beaches are perfect for swimming, and boat trips take visitors to the golden island of Chrissi or Koufonisi with their unique crushed-shell beaches.

A little further east, Makrigialos is a quiet seaside village named for its long sandy beach, ideal for families and safe swimming. The village retains a relaxed pace, with tavernas, cafés, and a small harbour where locals and visitors meet. Inland, the surrounding hills are dotted with traditional villages worth exploring.

Kato Zakros is a traditional fishing village tucked into the southeast corner of Crete, with a pebble beach lined by tamarisk trees and several excellent fish tavernas. The nearby Minoan Palace of Zakros and the famous Valley of the Dead make it a popular spot for history enthusiasts and walkers alike.

For a unique blend of history and charm, the village of Mochlos sits opposite a small island of the same name in the Bay of Mirabello. In Minoan times, Mochlos was an important port, and small boats still ferry visitors across to explore its excavations. The area is ideal for snorkelling, with rocky bays, a small shingle beach, and a sandy cove.

The town of Sitia climbs like an amphitheatre from its harbour to the Venetian castle, with white houses, narrow streets, and steps leading to stunning sea views. The town’s long sandy beach is safe for swimming and ideal for sunbathing. Day trips from Sitia include the Minoan ruins at Zakros, the palm forest at Vai, the Monastery of Toplou, and the “Valley of the Dead.”

Nearby, Palekastro and its surrounding villages offer a quieter side of Lassithi. The beaches of Chiona and Kouremenos are perfect for swimming and windsurfing, while traditional villages like Agathia provide glimpses of authentic Cretan life. The area is ideal for walking, with numerous gorges and scenic trails, and the palm-strewn beach at Vai is a true highlight—unique in Greece and carefully preserved under conservation regulations.

Lassithi is a region of contrasts: bustling towns and tranquil villages, historic sites and natural wonders, sandy beaches and mountain trails. From Agios Nikolaos to Sitia, and from the Lassithi Plateau to the palm oasis of Vai, it offers something for every traveller seeking the true spirit of Crete.