#1 of 21 Restaurants in Palaikastron. Named for the Minoan burial rite of burying the dead in caves along the steep sheer walls of the gorge, the gorges footpath is also the final point of a cross-country trekking path across Southern Europe. Where to eat? The Best Day Trips from Agios Nikolaos - The Tiny Book 50 things to do in crete Discover the Island! The monks of this monastery contributed a lot to the Cretan Revolution. However, these are two distinct museums, both in the same village. The cave stands at 1025 meters above sea level, and it covers an area of more than 2200 meters. Zeus Cave, Psychro Cave, and Dikteon Andron are three names given to this stunning cave located in the village of Psychro on the Lasithi Plateau. At Agia Fotia, you can find deep blue waters with coarse grey sand and plenty of activity. Upon your arrival, you can reach Lasithi by taxi, by KTEL bus or by car. Youll see some of the most pristine seas, sea caves, and hollow inlets (for which the island is named). Wind sports are practiced in Xerokampos and the . The Sitia Beach Hotel is modern and fresh, with spacious rooms and plenty of outdoor space, including gardens, outdoor dining, and pools. The gorge leads from Zakros to Kato Zakros. Guests can book a simple room, a room with breakfast, half board, or fully inclusive. There is a shop as well. Surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Dikti range, the Lasithi Plateau is a fertile highland where visitors can witness the authentic rural character of inland Crete. This impressive cave rich in stalactites and stalagmites is where Zeus was born, according to Greek mythology. Top Things to Do in Crete, Greece - Crete Attractions. For you to have an idea, a complete trip Chania-Agios Nikolaos by bus can last up to 5 hours. Founded in 2016, Fourni Horses offers organised trail rides through the surrounding landscape. The seabed of Lassithi has interesting flora, fauna and some wrecks to explore. per adult. Its rugged mountains and secluded beaches draw locals and few tourists, yet there are modern hotels and resorts, friendly locals, and plenty to do. Do you have a question about Greece and the Greek islands? It is a great idea to rest at this beach after having explored the archaeological site, or once youve hiked down the Zakros Gorge, also known as theValley of the Dead. BOOK YOUR TRIP!Plan ahead to get convenient offers and deals. 52 Incredible Things to Do in Lasithi Region for a Top Vacation in Crete The museum of Agios Georgios in the Lasithi Plateau consists of four different sections, the Cretan Folklore Museum, the Neoclassical Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum and the museum of Eleftherios Venizelos. Things to Do in Lasithi Prefecture - Tripadvisor Entrance Fee: Full ticket 8.00, reduced 4.00. According to archaeologists, the town can be separated into different neighborhoods, while there were two roads surrounding both the lower and the upper areas of the settlement. You can venture into the area with your car to admire the solitary landscape, however, keep in mind that part of the territory is off-limits since it belongs to a naval station managed by the Greek Navy. The owners are more than willing to share hiking or climbing knowledge and equipment for the more adventurous guests. The monastery today is home to one of the most important wineries in Crete, and it is open to the public during the whole year from 10 am to 6 pm. Things to Do in Crete. This is a popular trail for hiking and running, quite popular at the beginning and the end of the hot season (especially in May and September). Historical Tours. THE 10 BEST Lasithi Prefecture Rainy-Day Activities Best Activities for a Rainy Day in Lasithi Prefecture Enter dates Filters 1 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Shopping Transportation Types of Attractions Nightlife Spas & Wellness Museums The monastery offered secure protection thanks to the impressive fortified 10-meter-high walls that surround the structure. _ Known for being the cradle of western civilization, Crete is home to ancient settlements and ruins spread all over the island. Spinalonga is located in the Gulf of Elounda, near the towns of Agios Nikolaos and Plaka. Where to Eat in Chania: Guide to the Best Restaurants in Chania for a Tasty Experience. >> Get ready to visit Sitia and learn where to stay, what to do, or where to eat in town with this useful guide. The beach is organized, so you will be able to rent an umbrella or even spend the night in one of the many rooms to rent and studios in the small Agia Fotia village. ACCOMMODATION: Find affordable hotels and rental homes here. Sisi is home to several popular beaches that receive visitors from all over Europe every summer. Explore Ancient Knossos 9. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Crete - UPDATED 2023 - Tripadvisor The Ierapetra waterfront is one of those places. For those who love the farm to table dining concept, Karnagio is a must do. This island can be reached by boat from Ierapetra in about an hour and it is famous for the exotic beaches. Diving is a popular activity, particularly in places of northern Lassithi, where there are organized centers that offer diving trips and courses of all levels. The river is cold and clean and it produces a weird hot-cold effect when it mixes with the sea that feels really refreshing on the hottest days of summer. While spending time in Makrigialos, you can also explore nearby gorges and attractions, and be amazed by the southern pace of life, made of hospitality, simplicity, and wild landscapes. I might earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost. Weve many times said that food in Crete is mostly made of dishes that find ingredients in the mountains, including lamb and goat, but also wild greens, and different cheeses. Although staying in Agios Nikolaos can be the obvious (and most comfortable choice), there are plenty of interesting villages and towns in Lasithi offering accommodation, either by the sea or in the mountains. It stands opposite the ancient Minoan town of Palekastro and it holds a remarkable status as a sanctuary since many different objects for religious rituals were found in the area, including a great number of clay figurines, from 1400 to 1450 BC, some of them quite unique, such as the figures of curious animals, including weasels and tortoises. It was founded in the 15th century and was restored in the 19th century by monk Gerontogiannis, who lived in a closed cave. Inside the cave, there is a small church. Alternatively, you can also take the public bus at the Ktel Station. This list of things to do in Lasithi includes ideas about where to stay in Lasithi as well as where to enjoy traditional Cretan and Greek foods. During a visit to Sitia, dont miss a stop at the local Archaeological Museum, the Venetian Fortress, and some of the best beaches in East Crete. Crete is the largest island in Greece and one of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean. The place was excavated in the first years of the 20th century by the American archaeologist H. Boyd and the findings include a small palace on top of a hill, the residence of the administrator, the market and the grounds of some stone houses whose walls were 2m high. Set within a traditional Cretan village, the hotel complex offers babysitting services, child-friendly activities, and more. One of the wildest regions on the island, off the beaten track, and many times underrated, Lasithi is one of the most amazing places in Greece for a truly relaxing holiday. Remember that if you visit in the period that goes from June to August, the Kornaria Festival is a must-attend cultural event that celebrates the life and work of Vitsentzos Kornaros, a remarkable Cretan poet and author of the romantic epic poem Erotokritos as well as one of the most important figures of the so-called Cretan Renaissance. The extensive region known asXerokampos, in the southeastern area of Lasithi, features a collection of varied and beautiful beaches that are mostly hard to access and quite remote, making it an ideal place to go for complete isolation and total relaxation. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission. Day trips last about 4-5 hours; there are no services on the island so guests must take food and water. Kritsas-Katharou rode for about 16 km more to reach Katharo. Chrissi Island is a protected reserve part of the Natura 2000 Program, with a surface thats about2 km by 7 km. The windmills are located to the northern entrance of the plateau and they use groundwater to irrigate the crops. Toplou Monastery is the only surviving monastery in the Sitia area. Do not hesitate to ask the community! The place showcases authentic objects, part of the Cretan way of life including furniture, work utensils, textiles, and pottery. Not far from the beautiful Tholos Beach, on the northern coast of Lasithi, the small village of Kavousi shelters an ancient monumental olive tree worth a visit. Click here to book a boat cruise and guided tour to Spinalonga from Agios Nikolaos. There are a few organized beaches in and around the village ofSisi, a traditional settlement with a quiet vibe, great hotels, and a few options for entertainment. Ierapetra is located on the south coast of eastern Crete; it is the most populous town in the Lasithi region. The tranquil seaside settlement of Makrigialos is a fantastic destination on the southern coast of Lasithi if youre looking for a quiet village with gorgeous beaches. And more? " Best choice in town " 07/21/2022. The plains are among the most fertile lands on Crete. For more information check my post on Kato Zakros. According to the locals, there are many miracles associated with the icon of Panagia Kera which is believed to have been transferred to Constantinople although the icon is said to have found its way back to the temple. Agios Nikolaos is a coastal town and the largest town in Lasithi, Crete. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. The Kales Fortress of Ierapetra stands right at the entrance of the port. Parking in Chania has been made easier with the new. Quite off the beaten path, and certainly less popular than the Lasithi Plateau, theKatharo Plateauoffers some of the most impressive landscapes in East Crete for you to discover. Gourniasis a late Minoan town that has been fully excavated. Even children know that they met him by watching cartoons and maybe even reading fairy tales. Full-Day Private Tour to Falassarna-Elafonisi-Kedrodasos . However, it is believed that other more ancient civilizations occupied the area in previous centuries. Best Things to Do in Crete Greece - Travel the Greek Way You can join a fishing trip like this one. If you're planning to spend some time exploring the region, then this post is right for you, keep reading to discover all the things to do in the region of Lasithi! You will find Kritsa within a short car ride from Agios (about 11 km), in the Dikti Mountains, not far from a wonderful natural area in Lasithi, the Katharo Plateau. In fact, the hike is considered an easy route that takes a bit more than an hour and a half to complete. >> Read this guide to plan a day trip to Chrissi from Ierapetra. Greeka team and its community members will be delighted to help you! Stroll the Alleys of Chania's Old Town 3. If you prefer an odd visit, head to the Museum of Water and Hydraulics, a thematic museum that aims to showcase the importance of water in Cretan life through ordinary objects of the past. If you decide to explore Hamezi, dont hesitate to pay a visit to the modern village. The gorge gets its name from the red butterflies that live among the lush bushes and flowers that populate the gorge, although they are not as many as there used to be. In the past, windmills were key to irrigating the fields and providing water for animals and plants, however, theyve been replaced by more modern technologies. Although this is the less tourist-developed region of Crete, it is yet charming in its own unique way. Under the Venetians, Ierapetra became prosperous. The coast boasts clear turquoise and its one of the last uninhabited spots in the Crete region. The olive oil comes from local producers, as does the entire wine list. Historians consider Pyrgos to be an administrative site and its often used as an example of what an administrative site during the Minoan civilization would look like. Eastern Crete Guide: Things to Do in Lasithi - Greece Travel Ideas FERRIES: Ferryhopper has convenient ferry tickets. The ancient site of Vassiliki was constructed in the Minoan times but it was destroyed many times until totally abandoned in the late Minoan period. Read this guide on how to get from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos. . For instance, you can choose the seaside resort of Elounda, for a luxury retreat by the sea or the solitary southern town of Ierapetra. Take A Day Trip to Chrissi island from Ierapetra, 7. The ancient settlement, thats not far from Kritsa, is believed to have been in continuous conflict for its borders with the neighboring city of Olous (now a sunken city near Elounda). Guarding a tragic but fascinating history, Spinalonga is better known for being home to the last leper colony in Greece. Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a64f62f3573b0f55b5c53a534a1a9083" );document.getElementById("a31670a0aa").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Actually, the best gift you could have given her is a lifetime of adventures. 31st) but opens on weekends with good weather conditions. The beach is sheltered within a protected natural palm tree forest known as Finikodasos (). The beautifulchurch of Agios Nikolaos(Saint Nicholas) is truly worth a visit. Covering the easternmost section of the island, Crete's quietest and most unspoiled region is full of palm-fringed beaches, woodland waterfalls, sun-baked vineyards, and remote archeological sites. >> Check out this visit guide to Toplou Monastery to get ready for a visit! A perfect destination all year round, Sitia lies on the western side of Sitia Bay and it features a pleasant climate all year round, mostly warm and dry, like most of eastern Crete. Although it is quite a safe hiking trail, it can be truly rewarding to join a group to hike Richtis and make new friends that also share the passion for Crete and for walks in nature. Elounda is best known for its dramatic landscape and spectacular beaches. Among the findings, there are objects from the seaside cemetery of Agia Fotia (close to Ierapetra) and a remarkable skull of an athlete with a gold wreath and a coin in his mouth coming from the distant archaeological site in Polyrrinia, near Kissamos. This fee is paid on the island.Boats: The first boat of the day departs from Plaka at around 9.00 am. First of all, head to the Krisotopoula Museum dedicated to the local heroine known as Kritsotopoula. Notable findings were excavated in Vassiliki, such as jugs, dishes, jewelry, and ceramic items. It is between two beaches where guests can enjoy water sports, and is a short walk from Agios Nikolaos town. It is a popular destination for those wishing to rent a house by the sea in a place thats not regularly hit by massive hordes of tourists. It houses exhibits from the region of Sitia and the wider region of Lassithi, dating from the Minoan till the Roman times. Vai, Xerokampos, Agia Fotia, Kouremenos, Istron, and Palekastro are among the most beautiful beaches of Lassithi, although a drive around will bring visitors to many secluded beaches. THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Lasithi Prefecture - Tripadvisor With so many options, it is a great hotel for both couples and families or friends. The beautiful Richtis Gorge and its waterfall make one of the prettiest hikes on the island. Everything takes place every year all over the city while the most important exhibitions are held in theVenetian Kazarma. Some links are affiliate links, this means that if you click on a link and purchase an item, I might receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. It was constructed by the Venetians in the 13th century but not much of the castle remains today. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Lasithi Prefecture - Tripadvisor This archaeological site was set in a strategic position, not far from the valley of Myrtos, and protected by the mountains. Unforgettable Day Trip to the Lasithi Plateau, Crete Nature & adventure Entry tickets Day trips Water activities Guided tours Food & drinks Transfers Our most recommended things to do in Lasithi Regional Unit 1. Popular things to do. >> Read more in this thorough guide to visiting Spinalonga. The property boasts hammocks perfect for lazily reading in the shade, beach access, and traditional Cretan dances. Since driving there might be a bit of a nerve-wracking experience, different companies offer a boat trip that also includes a visit to Spinalonga as well as a barbecue lunch on this beach. The hiking path is relatively easy and the gorge is even recommended for beginners. Most of the gorge is accessible even if youre not a highly experienced climber, however, some experience and equipment will be needed to pass certain points. Where to Eat in Agios Nikolaos For those who love the farm to table dining concept, Karnagio is a must do. A unique excursion in Lasithi will be to take a horseback riding tour with Fourni Horses. from . 15 Best Things to Do in Crete, Greece, in 2023 - Goats On The Road from . The place is also an excellent base to explore the southeastern coast of the island and has gorgeous souvenir shops, delicious family-run tavernas, and amazingly charming alleys to wander in the evening. If youre traveling to Agios Nikolaos from Chania or Rethymnon, you must change the bus when you get to Heraklions Public Bus Station. Opposite the coast, there is an islet hosting an ancient Minoan site worth exploring. Thanks for visiting! Click here for more information and to get the latest prices. The area is now a protected archaeological area also housing a museum. Check the official websiteperiodically to get updated information if you plan to visit. We took a sumptuous picnic and about 4 . One more Minoan settlement you can discover on the island is located very near the magnificent village of Myrtos, not far from Ierapetra. Through the pages of this blog, I want to help you make the very most of your visit to Greece and the Greek Islands and show you how to plan your trip to Greece like an insider. It has historical importance for Crete as 3,600 Greeks were slaughtered there by the Turks in 1823. Visit Ano Zakros Village and Kato Zakros Village, 12. Do you like Over here, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas or visit the beach bar above for lunch or a drink Or even better, head to the nearby Kalo Chorio village and enjoy some of the best tavernas in Lasithi. During the Classical Greek period, it was the strongest town and by the Hellenistic era it was a pirate town. The history of Lake Voulismeni is surrounded by several legends. The museum exhibits items from the Minoan, Geometric, Archaic, Classical and Roman times. Although driving towards the Kolokitha Beach (also known as Agios Lukas) can be a bit difficult, the place offers a fantastic sandy beach where to spend a whole day and enjoy the calm sea of Mirabello Bay. >> Admission fee: 3 for adults, children free Opening hours: 10.30 am-2.30 pm and 6 pm-8 pm. There is a lot more to see and visit in the center of Agios Nikolaos, all activities that will let you explore the rest of the capital of Lasithi like a local. Greece Crete Lasithi Prefecture Ierapetra Things to do in Ierapetra Best Places to Visit in Ierapetra - Ierapetra Attractions Things to Do in Ierapetra Popular things to do Tours & Sightseeing Day Trips & Excursions Top Picks Ports of Call Tours Outdoor Activities Private & Custom Tours Water Tours Cultural & Theme Tours Sporting Events Once youre in town, one of the most important places to visit is the Venetian fortress located facing the bay of Sitia, very close to the waterfront promenade, the Kazarma (a word that clearly comes from Casa dArma Italian for barracks). 8 Best Things to Do in Crete, Greece Last updated Feb 19, 2023 by Ryazan Tristram I guess you're wondering what are things to do in Crete and see this beautiful island as one of the best places to see in Greece. Diving here can be done all year round. You can find more information on both museums in this guide to the best museums in the Lasthi region. C$56.78. Although many believe that its name is related to the modern Greek sidero (meaning iron) the words have a different root and its current name remains a mystery since there is no trace of such mineral on the cape. Greeka Destinations Lassithi TRAVEL GUIDE TO LASSITHI As one of the least touristy regions to visit in Crete, Lassithi combines it all: from picturesque villages, to exotic beaches and intriguing archeological sites, this place is full of amazing locations to explore! The Sitia Geopark, a UNESCO World Geopark, is in one of the most ecologically and geologically diverse areas of Crete, where the Zakros mountains dominate. Im Chrysoula, born and raised in Athens, Greece. Chrissis bare geography features unique juniper trees, a rare cedarwood forest thought to be the largest in Europe. Popular things to do. If youd really like to visit but dread the driving part, then check out these guided tours that for quite an affordable fee include a visit to Psychro Cave as well as an interesting tour of the Lasithi Plateau: Tzermiado is one of the villages you should visit on a day trip to the Lasithi Plateau.
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