Agios Nikolaos: Crete's Captivating Coastal Gem
Discover Agios Nikolaos: a blend of ancient history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture on Crete's mesmerizing Mirabello Bay coastline.
Agios Nikolaos, the capital of Lasithi, is a charming coastal town on Crete known for its picturesque harbor, the intriguing Lake Voulismeni, and stunning views of Mirabello Bay. With a rich history dating back to ancient times, it offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination.
A brief summary to Agios Nikolaos
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Local tips
- Stroll around Lake Voulismeni, the heart of Agios Nikolaos, and enjoy the views from the top of the surrounding cliffs.
- Take a boat trip to Spinalonga Island to explore its Venetian fortress and learn about its history as a leper colony.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos to discover important artifacts from eastern Crete.
- Explore the local beaches, such as Almyros and Voulisma, for swimming and sunbathing.
- Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and dining scene around the lake and harbor.
Getting There
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Walking
The center of Agios Nikolaos, including Lake Voulismeni and the harbor, is easily walkable. From the main bus station, head towards the coast and follow the signs to the lake. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. The main shopping streets are also located within easy walking distance of the lake.
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Public Transport
Local buses connect Agios Nikolaos with nearby towns and beaches. From Heraklion, take the KTEL bus to Agios Nikolaos. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. A one-way ticket costs around €6-8. Once in Agios Nikolaos, the local bus service can be used to reach beaches like Almyros or Ammoudara; a single ticket costs €1.50.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Agios Nikolaos, especially near Lake Voulismeni. A short taxi ride within the town costs approximately €5-€10. Taxis can also be used to reach nearby attractions such as Spinalonga (via Elounda or Plaka) or the Lassithi Plateau. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
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Parking
Parking in Agios Nikolaos can be challenging, especially during peak season. Some of the easiest spots to park are near the Marina of Agios Nikolaos and the Manolis Parking Lot. There is also street parking available for a limited time using special cards purchased from nearby kiosks, costing approximately €1 per hour. The Marina Parking Lot charges around €3 per day. A free, spacious parking area with sea views is located a 5-minute walk from the lake.
Discover more about Agios Nikolaos
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Agios Nikolaos
0.0 km
Discover Agios Nikolaos: a blend of ancient history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture on Crete's mesmerizing Mirabello Bay coastline.
Souda Venetian Fortress
17.0 km
Explore the historic Souda Venetian Fortress in Crete, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island's rich past.
Παλαιό Φουγάρο
18.3 km
Explore the historic Palaiokastro Fortress in Rethymno, Greece, a captivating landmark with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Ancient Venetian Shipyard
18.6 km
Explore the remnants of Rethymno's Venetian-era shipyards, a window into the island's maritime past and a reminder of Venice's influence.
Globe
18.6 km
Discover the Globe in Rethymno: A modern landmark offering cultural insights and scenic views of Crete's captivating landscapes.
Iroon Politechniou Square
18.7 km
Discover Iroon Politechniou Square in Rethymno: A blend of neoclassical charm, local culture, and tranquil relaxation in the heart of Crete.
Ηρώο, Εθνικής Αντίστασης
18.7 km
A solemn memorial in Rethymno honoring the brave men and women of the Greek National Resistance during World War II.
Hellenic Australian Memorial
18.7 km
A serene memorial in Rethymno honoring the bond between Greece and Australia during WWII, offering a space for reflection and historical insight.
Pyritidapothḗkē
18.8 km
Discover Rethymno's historical charm at Pyritidapothḗkē, a landmark showcasing unique architecture and cultural significance in a tranquil setting.
Venetian Fortezza Castle
18.8 km
Explore Rethymno's Venetian Fortezza: a historic fortress with panoramic views, Ottoman influences, and echoes of Crete's past.
Central Gate of the Fortress of Rethymnon
18.9 km
Step through history at the Central Gate, the grand entrance to Rethymno's Fortezza, a Venetian-era fortress with stunning views.
Church of Our Lady of the Angels
19.0 km
Explore a historic Rethymno church, once a Venetian sanctuary and Ottoman mosque, now a serene Orthodox worship place with stunning art.
Rethymnon Municipal Garden
19.0 km
Escape to Rethymno's green heart: A vibrant garden oasis with diverse flora, cultural events, and tranquil spaces for all ages.
Ali Vafi's garden
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Folk Museum
19.0 km
Discover traditional Cretan life through textiles, tools, and historical artifacts in a 17th-century Venetian mansion in Rethymno's charming Old Town.
Unmissable attractions to see
GEORGIOUPOLIS SAFARI JEEP - QUAD - BOAT
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Crete with Georgioupolis Safari, where adventure meets breathtaking landscapes in unforgettable jeep, quad, and boat tours.
Georgioupoli
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Georgioupoli, a stunning seaside village in Crete, where beautiful beaches meet rich history and unique local culture.
Paralia Kourna
2.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Paralia Kourna, a pristine beach in Crete known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural landscapes, perfect for relaxation.
Lake Kournas Souvenir
4.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Lake Kournas, Crete's only freshwater lake, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and serene nature walks.
Lake Kournas
4.1 km
Discover the tranquility and natural beauty of Lake Kournas, Crete's only freshwater lake, surrounded by stunning landscapes and local flavors.
Dourakis Winery
5.8 km
Explore Dourakis Winery in Crete for exquisite wines, authentic cuisine, and stunning vineyard views that showcase the heart of Cretan culture.
Monastery Agios Georgios, Karydi - the ancient olive mill with the 12 arches
6.1 km
Discover the serenity and historical richness of Monastery Agios Georgios in Karydi, featuring an ancient olive mill and stunning architecture.
Saint George Monastery
6.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual tranquility of Saint George Monastery, a hidden gem in the mountains of Greece, surrounded by olive groves.
Venetian Mansion St. George
6.2 km
Explore the Venetian Mansion St. George in Vamos, a historical gem in Crete showcasing exquisite architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Kournas
6.4 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Kournas, Crete's hidden gem with its enchanting lake, lush landscapes, and authentic Cretan culture.
Omprogialos
6.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Omprogialos Beach in Vamos, Crete, where pristine sands and azure waters create a perfect escape.
Alidakis Chateau
7.3 km
Discover Alidakis Chateau in Crete, a stunning fortress rich in history with breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere perfect for exploration.
square Vamos
7.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Square Vamos, a serene park in the heart of Crete, perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.
Pitsikounis square
7.7 km
Discover the charm of Pitsikounis Square, a historical landmark in Vamos, Crete, where culture, community, and local flavors come together.
Folklore Museum of Gavalochori
8.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Georgia's Traditional Taverna
3.8 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors at Georgia's Traditional Taverna in Kournas - a culinary haven amidst Crete’s stunning landscapes.
CAVO Rethymnon Restaurant
17.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at CAVO Rethymnon Restaurant—where traditional Cretan flavors meet modern gastronomy in a stunning coastal setting.
Prima Plora Οrganic Restaurant & Wine Bar
17.3 km
Experience authentic Cretan flavors at Prima Plora Organic Restaurant & Wine Bar in Rethymno—where every meal tells a story.
7 Thalasses Rethymno Restaurant
17.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at 7 Thalasses in Rethymno – where Mediterranean flavors meet exceptional service.
ΘΕΑ ΘΑΛΑΣΣΑ/ THEA THALASSA
18.7 km
Discover exquisite seafood and authentic Greek flavors at Thea Thalassa in Rethymno—where every meal comes with breathtaking sea views.
Elaia Restaurant
19.1 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Elaia Restaurant in Rethymno - where tradition meets flavor in an inviting atmosphere.
Castelo Restaurant
19.1 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Castelo Restaurant in Rethymno—where every dish tells a story of tradition and culinary excellence.
Avli rustic fine dining restaurant
19.1 km
Experience exquisite Greek cuisine at Avli rustic fine dining restaurant in Rethymno - where tradition meets culinary artistry.
Kapilio
19.1 km
Savor authentic Greek cuisine at Kapilio in Rethymno—where tradition meets taste in every dish.
To Pigadi Restaurant
19.1 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at To Pigadi Restaurant in Rethymno – where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors.
Asikiko
19.1 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors at Asikiko in Rethymno – a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
Lemonokipos Restaurant
19.1 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Lemonokipos Restaurant in Rethymno, where delightful flavors meet a picturesque ambiance under lemon trees.
To Parastratima
19.2 km
Experience authentic Cretan flavors at To Parastratima, Rethymno's favorite small plates restaurant offering fresh ingredients and vibrant atmosphere.
Alana Restaurant
19.2 km
Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at Alana Restaurant in Rethymno - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Stella's Kitchen
19.2 km
Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at Stella's Kitchen in Rethymno - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mera
8.2 km
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White Cheese
10.9 km
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Supermaket Entrée Ou Sortie Village
18.6 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Supermarket Entrée Ou Sortie Village in Hora Sfakion, the perfect stop for every traveler.
Cretan Lyra workshop - Stagakis museum - Traditional instruments
18.9 km
Explore the heart of Cretan music at the Cretan Lyra workshop, where tradition and craftsmanship converge in Rethymno.
Fortezza gift shop
18.9 km
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Souvenir Store Rethymno Shopping 2
19.0 km
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Hand Made Leather Goods
19.0 km
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MELITAKAS Greek handmade art
19.0 km
Explore MELITAKAS, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary art in the heart of Rethymno, Greece.
Atofio store
19.0 km
Explore Atofio Store in Rethymno for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the spirit of Crete.
Souvenirs Store Rethymno Shopping
19.0 km
Explore the Souvenirs Store in Rethymno for unique gifts, local crafts, and traditional musical instruments that embody the spirit of Crete.
ANTIQUE - CRETE
19.0 km
Uncover unique antiques and cultural treasures at Antique - Crete, a must-visit store in Rethymno for history enthusiasts and collectors.
GREEK SHOP
19.1 km
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E-shop point Ρέθυμνο
19.1 km
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Thursday market
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Greek Unique Concept Gift Store
19.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Antika Irish Bar
19.1 km
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Monitor Art Café
19.1 km
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Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar
19.1 km
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Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar
19.1 km
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Cul de Sac - Cafe - Bar - Restaurant
19.1 km
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Rewine
19.2 km
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Metropolis Society Bar
19.3 km
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Fraoules
19.3 km
Experience the vibrant café culture of Rethymno at Fraoules, where delightful drinks and delicious bites await in a cozy atmosphere.
DRINK N ROLL
19.3 km
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Chaplins
19.3 km
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Bonobo Bar
19.3 km
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Queens Room Club Restaurant
19.5 km
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LivingRoom GastroBar Rethymnon
19.6 km
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Ananas Cocktail Bar
20.7 km
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Ηunkyfunkybar cocktail bar
20.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Ηunkyfunkybar, Rethymno's premier wine bar, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.