Gids van Hinda
City/town information
With around 16,000 inhabitants, Ierapetra is the largest city on the south coast of Crete as well as the southernmost city in Europe.
Ierapetra is located at the narrowest part of Crete, which is only about fifteen kilometres from the south to the north coast. Due to its proximity to Libya and Egypt, the climate here is African. The average annual temperature is twenty degrees.
It is most definitely worth going on a walk along its fishing port where the fishing nets dry on the stairs and the small kafenions and bars invite you to rest and have a refreshing drink. The pretty old town with narrow streets lies around the fishing port with the clock tower, the port’s fort and small churches.
From the old town it is only a few more steps until you reach the long promenade along the waterfront, abundant in its cafes, tavernas and ice cream parlours. Besides some older parts Ierapetra is dominated almost exclusively by modern buildings.
The surrounding area is used for growing vegetables and fruit in greenhouses as this is the main occupation of its residents. Particularly tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and eggplants are grown here. In combination with its income thanks to tourism, the region has become one of the most prosperous on the island.
68 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Ierapetra
With around 16,000 inhabitants, Ierapetra is the largest city on the south coast of Crete as well as the southernmost city in Europe.
Ierapetra is located at the narrowest part of Crete, which is only about fifteen kilometres from the south to the north coast. Due to its proximity to Libya and Egypt, the climate here is African. The average annual temperature is twenty degrees.
It is most definitely worth going on a walk along its fishing port where the fishing nets dry on the stairs and the small kafenions and bars invite you to rest and have a refreshing drink. The pretty old town with narrow streets lies around the fishing port with the clock tower, the port’s fort and small churches.
From the old town it is only a few more steps until you reach the long promenade along the waterfront, abundant in its cafes, tavernas and ice cream parlours. Besides some older parts Ierapetra is dominated almost exclusively by modern buildings.
The surrounding area is used for growing vegetables and fruit in greenhouses as this is the main occupation of its residents. Particularly tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and eggplants are grown here. In combination with its income thanks to tourism, the region has become one of the most prosperous on the island.
With around 12,000 inhabitants, Agios Nikolaos is the fourth largest city in Crete. It is located in the beautiful Mirabello Bay, about 47 km east of the capital Heraklion and about 30 km west of the town of Sitia. The town owes its name to the small domed church “Agios Nikolaos” from the 10th century.
Rather than the typical fishing boats, the port mainly accommodates for ferries going to Athens, the Dodecanese islands and the Cyclades. In addition to that, cruise ships also anchor here.
The freshwater lake “Voulismeni”, which is connected to the sea by a canal and is located in the middle of the city, gives the city a very special flair. The lake is surrounded by the rocks on which the town of Agios Nikolaos is built. Above these rocks you will find panorama restaurants and cafes, but also directly on the lake cosy restaurants and bars invite you to enjoy a typical meal or a drink.
The central shopping mile attracts many tourists with not only its tasteful arts and crafts shops, but also fashion boutiques and shops with natural Cretan products. In the town’s folklore museum you can admire the Cretan costumes.
140 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Agios Nikolaos
With around 12,000 inhabitants, Agios Nikolaos is the fourth largest city in Crete. It is located in the beautiful Mirabello Bay, about 47 km east of the capital Heraklion and about 30 km west of the town of Sitia. The town owes its name to the small domed church “Agios Nikolaos” from the 10th century.
Rather than the typical fishing boats, the port mainly accommodates for ferries going to Athens, the Dodecanese islands and the Cyclades. In addition to that, cruise ships also anchor here.
The freshwater lake “Voulismeni”, which is connected to the sea by a canal and is located in the middle of the city, gives the city a very special flair. The lake is surrounded by the rocks on which the town of Agios Nikolaos is built. Above these rocks you will find panorama restaurants and cafes, but also directly on the lake cosy restaurants and bars invite you to enjoy a typical meal or a drink.
The central shopping mile attracts many tourists with not only its tasteful arts and crafts shops, but also fashion boutiques and shops with natural Cretan products. In the town’s folklore museum you can admire the Cretan costumes.
The small coastal town of Elounda on the turquoise shimmering Gulf of Mirabello has long been considered a jewel among tourist centres. Long a favourite of Hollywood celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Lady Gaga, this quaint fishing village is home to both unspoilt, traditional areas and luxurious vacation castles that will take your breath away. Sophisticated luxury and authentic Greek living are just a few hundred meters apart, giving Elounda the atmosphere to suit every traveller.
Elounda has some of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, which means that when you visit you should find time to enjoy at least one, for example on the Kolokytha peninsula with its unique scenery.
Here the sea shines like a sapphire under the azure light of the sky, pink on summer afternoons, silvered on moonlit nights. It is a sea of which the light penetrates you gently but quickly and has the power to touch you emotionally. Here lovers of film art, graphics, music and poetry will find an extraordinary sight and lasting inspiration.
72 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Elounda
The small coastal town of Elounda on the turquoise shimmering Gulf of Mirabello has long been considered a jewel among tourist centres. Long a favourite of Hollywood celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Lady Gaga, this quaint fishing village is home to both unspoilt, traditional areas and luxurious vacation castles that will take your breath away. Sophisticated luxury and authentic Greek living are just a few hundred meters apart, giving Elounda the atmosphere to suit every traveller.
Elounda has some of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, which means that when you visit you should find time to enjoy at least one, for example on the Kolokytha peninsula with its unique scenery.
Here the sea shines like a sapphire under the azure light of the sky, pink on summer afternoons, silvered on moonlit nights. It is a sea of which the light penetrates you gently but quickly and has the power to touch you emotionally. Here lovers of film art, graphics, music and poetry will find an extraordinary sight and lasting inspiration.
In Minoan times, around 3500 years ago, Heraklion was the port of the Minoan palace settlement of Knossos. Centuries later the Greeks gave the city its current name which is derived from the mythical hero Heracles (Hercules). In Venetian times the city was called Candia and was the administrative centre of the Serenissima. Between 1851 and 1971 it had to cede its function as the capital to Chania, but today it is once again the administrative and economic centre of the island. It houses the most important airport and port on the island as the latter has many international cruise ships docked there.
Heraklion’s historic centre is particularly worth visiting. The famous Lion’s Fountain of Venetian heritage, the Loggia and the churches of Agios Minas and Agios Titus are among the most magnificent buildings. All of these are within easy distance of each other by foot since many previously busy streets have been turned into pedestrian zones.
On your way throughout the city numerous (partly international) shops invite you for a stroll, and of course nothing can be better than having a rest in one of the small tavernas or cafés and watching the hustle and bustle in peace.
132 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Heraklion
In Minoan times, around 3500 years ago, Heraklion was the port of the Minoan palace settlement of Knossos. Centuries later the Greeks gave the city its current name which is derived from the mythical hero Heracles (Hercules). In Venetian times the city was called Candia and was the administrative centre of the Serenissima. Between 1851 and 1971 it had to cede its function as the capital to Chania, but today it is once again the administrative and economic centre of the island. It houses the most important airport and port on the island as the latter has many international cruise ships docked there.
Heraklion’s historic centre is particularly worth visiting. The famous Lion’s Fountain of Venetian heritage, the Loggia and the churches of Agios Minas and Agios Titus are among the most magnificent buildings. All of these are within easy distance of each other by foot since many previously busy streets have been turned into pedestrian zones.
On your way throughout the city numerous (partly international) shops invite you for a stroll, and of course nothing can be better than having a rest in one of the small tavernas or cafés and watching the hustle and bustle in peace.
At one of the last large bays of the north coast and in the far east of the island, the town and port of Sitia is located. The narrow streets and houses spread like terraces overlooking the fishing port where colourful ‘Kaikia’, the local fishing boats, smoothly rock on the waves.
The palm-lined promenade, the fishing port and the old town invite you to take a stroll through the city. Narrow alleys lead through the centre, crossing bigger roads and ending up at the Venetian castle ‘Kasarma’ (Casa di Arma). For those interested in history there is also an archaeological and a folklore museum.
If you decide to rest in one of the small tavernas, you will experience the famous Cretan hospitality from up close.
A national airport is located on a plateau near the town and the port houses ferries which offer connections to Heraklion, Kassos and Karpathos.
71 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Sitia
At one of the last large bays of the north coast and in the far east of the island, the town and port of Sitia is located. The narrow streets and houses spread like terraces overlooking the fishing port where colourful ‘Kaikia’, the local fishing boats, smoothly rock on the waves.
The palm-lined promenade, the fishing port and the old town invite you to take a stroll through the city. Narrow alleys lead through the centre, crossing bigger roads and ending up at the Venetian castle ‘Kasarma’ (Casa di Arma). For those interested in history there is also an archaeological and a folklore museum.
If you decide to rest in one of the small tavernas, you will experience the famous Cretan hospitality from up close.
A national airport is located on a plateau near the town and the port houses ferries which offer connections to Heraklion, Kassos and Karpathos.
The fishing village of Mochlos is located on a spit of land in the east of the Gulf of Mirabello, on the north-eastern coast of Crete.
At first glance, one notices that there is not a lot going on in Mochlos, but that is actually the main reason guests come. Mochlos lures you in with its relaxed Cretan atmosphere: any hecticness is unknown here.
Another reason for this calm and peace is the lack of tourist-laden sandy beaches in and around Mochlos. This allows for the more reserved snorkelling fans to have a lot of fun exploring the many rocky reefs around the place. In addition to that, the area is ideal for anyone who loves going on a hike.
In ancient times, Mochlos was a port city. At that time, paths were laid to connect the villages with the coastal town. Opposite the village is an island with the ruins of a Minoan settlement, so if history is of interest to you, it would definitely be worth it to have a look into taking a boat trip to the offshore island.
In Mochlos people are dedicated to guests. There are seaside tavernas which are run by the local fishermen and thus offer you the freshest seafood you could wish for. You will find that in Mochlos, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
18 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Mochlos
The fishing village of Mochlos is located on a spit of land in the east of the Gulf of Mirabello, on the north-eastern coast of Crete.
At first glance, one notices that there is not a lot going on in Mochlos, but that is actually the main reason guests come. Mochlos lures you in with its relaxed Cretan atmosphere: any hecticness is unknown here.
Another reason for this calm and peace is the lack of tourist-laden sandy beaches in and around Mochlos. This allows for the more reserved snorkelling fans to have a lot of fun exploring the many rocky reefs around the place. In addition to that, the area is ideal for anyone who loves going on a hike.
In ancient times, Mochlos was a port city. At that time, paths were laid to connect the villages with the coastal town. Opposite the village is an island with the ruins of a Minoan settlement, so if history is of interest to you, it would definitely be worth it to have a look into taking a boat trip to the offshore island.
In Mochlos people are dedicated to guests. There are seaside tavernas which are run by the local fishermen and thus offer you the freshest seafood you could wish for. You will find that in Mochlos, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
Malia is one of the major tourist centres of Crete, located about 35 km east of Heraklion. The fertile plain in which the town is situated is famous for its delicious small bananas, which are grown in the greenhouses in the area. The valley used to have many springs and windmills which were used to water the local potato crops.
The long and gently sloping sandy beach is legendary and produces a very lively nightlife. The early morning is known for bringing to light many youngsters, strolling out of the numerous clubs either to their hotel or directly to the beach.
Apart from the wild nightlife, Malia is famous for the archaeological site of the third largest Minoan Palace in Crete, which is located at the east end of the town. This palace belonged to Sarpedon, brother of the legendary King Minos.
In addition to that, the old village of Malia (next to the church of St. Nektarios) is the ideal place for a stroll in the narrow traditional streets or a visit to one of the small traditional tavernas.
41 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Malia, Crete
Malia is one of the major tourist centres of Crete, located about 35 km east of Heraklion. The fertile plain in which the town is situated is famous for its delicious small bananas, which are grown in the greenhouses in the area. The valley used to have many springs and windmills which were used to water the local potato crops.
The long and gently sloping sandy beach is legendary and produces a very lively nightlife. The early morning is known for bringing to light many youngsters, strolling out of the numerous clubs either to their hotel or directly to the beach.
Apart from the wild nightlife, Malia is famous for the archaeological site of the third largest Minoan Palace in Crete, which is located at the east end of the town. This palace belonged to Sarpedon, brother of the legendary King Minos.
In addition to that, the old village of Malia (next to the church of St. Nektarios) is the ideal place for a stroll in the narrow traditional streets or a visit to one of the small traditional tavernas.
Located in western Crete, Chania is the second largest city in Crete and the official beauty of the island. Between the winding streets of the old town and the picturesque Venetian harbour you will discover shops, restaurants and cafés during the day and a vibrant nightlife in the evening. Chania was Crete’s capital from 1841 to 1971, when it was replaced by Heraklion, but for insiders, Chania remains the number one.
Chania’s old town is one of the most beautiful in all of Greece. In narrow streets, houses in warm colours are lined up, all decorated with flowers, whether they are tavernas, cafés or shops. Many of the buildings are reminiscent of the Venetian and Turkish occupations.
In addition to typical souvenirs, you can also buy handicrafts, jewellery, clothes and Cretan specialties. A highlight is the leather street, where there is constantly one leather shop after the other.
Another highlight is the market hall which offers everything the island has to offer on 4000 m²: the best specialties of the island, fish, meat, fruit, vegetables, cheese, herbs, olive oil or wine. If you have more time, you should stop at one of the restaurants and cafés and enjoy the hustle and bustle around you.
319 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Chania
Located in western Crete, Chania is the second largest city in Crete and the official beauty of the island. Between the winding streets of the old town and the picturesque Venetian harbour you will discover shops, restaurants and cafés during the day and a vibrant nightlife in the evening. Chania was Crete’s capital from 1841 to 1971, when it was replaced by Heraklion, but for insiders, Chania remains the number one.
Chania’s old town is one of the most beautiful in all of Greece. In narrow streets, houses in warm colours are lined up, all decorated with flowers, whether they are tavernas, cafés or shops. Many of the buildings are reminiscent of the Venetian and Turkish occupations.
In addition to typical souvenirs, you can also buy handicrafts, jewellery, clothes and Cretan specialties. A highlight is the leather street, where there is constantly one leather shop after the other.
Another highlight is the market hall which offers everything the island has to offer on 4000 m²: the best specialties of the island, fish, meat, fruit, vegetables, cheese, herbs, olive oil or wine. If you have more time, you should stop at one of the restaurants and cafés and enjoy the hustle and bustle around you.
Bezienswaardigheden
The island of Koufonisi is located in the Libyan Sea, southeast of Crete, about 3.5 nautical miles southeast of Cape Goudoura and 10 nautical miles southeast of Makri Gialos. The boat therefore also departs from Makri Gialos. The sight of the turquoise and crystal clear sea alone is worth the boat trip. The ship then anchors off the island’s coast, giving you the chance to swim in these wonderfully silky waters.
As the ship approaches the island you will have a view of the pristine beaches, the impressive caves and the magical bays with rock formations formed by the sea water over the centuries.
The ship docks on a wind-protected beach. Enjoy the time in this untouched nature. If you choose to hike, be aware that not all areas are accessible. The last beach paradises of Crete are protected and should thus be respected accordingly.
13 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Koufonisi
The island of Koufonisi is located in the Libyan Sea, southeast of Crete, about 3.5 nautical miles southeast of Cape Goudoura and 10 nautical miles southeast of Makri Gialos. The boat therefore also departs from Makri Gialos. The sight of the turquoise and crystal clear sea alone is worth the boat trip. The ship then anchors off the island’s coast, giving you the chance to swim in these wonderfully silky waters.
As the ship approaches the island you will have a view of the pristine beaches, the impressive caves and the magical bays with rock formations formed by the sea water over the centuries.
The ship docks on a wind-protected beach. Enjoy the time in this untouched nature. If you choose to hike, be aware that not all areas are accessible. The last beach paradises of Crete are protected and should thus be respected accordingly.
The monastery of Moni Kapsa is situated on a bluff above the sea. As if it were a fortress, the monastery sits on a hillside overlooking the Libyan Sea and the island of Koufonisi. The view of the sea is unique and endless, as it is about 400 km to Africa. The monastery is an oasis of tranquillity on Crete’s southern coast and thus, truly an experience not to be missed if you are in the area.
The monastery was destroyed by the Ottomans towards the end of the 18th century and was rebuilt in the mid-19th century. Today it still houses a valuable icon and various relics. The church is dedicated to St. John and the Trinity.
The road which leads to the entrance of the monastery is better known by its full name as: Timiou Prodromou Kapsa. A staircase then leads you from the entrance up to the monastery courtyard.
Appropriate clothing is desired.
12 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Moni Kapsa
The monastery of Moni Kapsa is situated on a bluff above the sea. As if it were a fortress, the monastery sits on a hillside overlooking the Libyan Sea and the island of Koufonisi. The view of the sea is unique and endless, as it is about 400 km to Africa. The monastery is an oasis of tranquillity on Crete’s southern coast and thus, truly an experience not to be missed if you are in the area.
The monastery was destroyed by the Ottomans towards the end of the 18th century and was rebuilt in the mid-19th century. Today it still houses a valuable icon and various relics. The church is dedicated to St. John and the Trinity.
The road which leads to the entrance of the monastery is better known by its full name as: Timiou Prodromou Kapsa. A staircase then leads you from the entrance up to the monastery courtyard.
Appropriate clothing is desired.
On the way from Agios Nikolaos to Sitia and near the village of Exo Mouliana, a deep ditch stretches from the mountains to the sea. Richtis Gorge is considered good practise for non-experienced climbers. With a hiking time of 4-5 hours for the round trip and approx. 4 km one way, an altitude difference of approx. 350 meters is mastered. The absolute highlight is the approximately 20 meter high waterfall in the middle of the gorge, where fresh spring water and a small bathing pond provide badly needed cooling – a phenomenal sight.
You can either start hiking from the parking located near the entrance of the gorge in Exo Mouliana village and return there, or you can drive from the village down to the beach and hike up to the waterfall and back again, which is less exhausting.
The trail is hard to miss, but sturdy shoes are recommended as you will be forced to climb over rocks, cross a creek, or climb rusty stairs from time to time.
63 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Richtis Gorge
On the way from Agios Nikolaos to Sitia and near the village of Exo Mouliana, a deep ditch stretches from the mountains to the sea. Richtis Gorge is considered good practise for non-experienced climbers. With a hiking time of 4-5 hours for the round trip and approx. 4 km one way, an altitude difference of approx. 350 meters is mastered. The absolute highlight is the approximately 20 meter high waterfall in the middle of the gorge, where fresh spring water and a small bathing pond provide badly needed cooling – a phenomenal sight.
You can either start hiking from the parking located near the entrance of the gorge in Exo Mouliana village and return there, or you can drive from the village down to the beach and hike up to the waterfall and back again, which is less exhausting.
The trail is hard to miss, but sturdy shoes are recommended as you will be forced to climb over rocks, cross a creek, or climb rusty stairs from time to time.
Olous is the ancient name of “Elounda” and was a Minoan city consisting of 40.000 inhabitants. Due to the volcano eruption on Santorini and the gradual sinking of the East-Cretan soil, this city sunk for the most part under water. Archaeologists have found statues, vases and coins on which the name “Olous” has been engraved, just like the ancient texts which connect Knossos to the Island of Rhodos. The city is to be admired from the country-side by swimming or snorkelling.
Olous
Olous is the ancient name of “Elounda” and was a Minoan city consisting of 40.000 inhabitants. Due to the volcano eruption on Santorini and the gradual sinking of the East-Cretan soil, this city sunk for the most part under water. Archaeologists have found statues, vases and coins on which the name “Olous” has been engraved, just like the ancient texts which connect Knossos to the Island of Rhodos. The city is to be admired from the country-side by swimming or snorkelling.
You will find the monastery of Toplou about 15 km east from Sitia. The monastery lies on a plateau and can be seen from afar: a fortress amidst the Cretan landscape. It’s fortified appearance also gave the monastery its name ‘Toplou’: derived from ‘top’, the Turkish word for canon.
The monastery of Toplou was founded in the 14th century, but had been destroyed and rebuilt several times during the past. In the fight against the Ottomans and later in World War II, the monastery served as a shelter for the Greek resistance fighters. However, today the monastery presents itself to the visitor in renovated splendour.
In the monastery church, which is dedicated to Panagia Akrotiriani (Virgin Mary from the Cape of Rock), you can still admire frescoes from the 14th century. Moni Toplou’s greatest treasure is the great icon ‘Megas ei Kyrie’ (You are almighty, o Lord), by Ioannis Kornaros in 1770. The monastery museum shows more icons, manuscripts, church utensils and vestments. Products such as organic wine, olive oil, honey, soap and raki of their own making are sold in the monastery shop.
61 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Monasterio de Toplou
You will find the monastery of Toplou about 15 km east from Sitia. The monastery lies on a plateau and can be seen from afar: a fortress amidst the Cretan landscape. It’s fortified appearance also gave the monastery its name ‘Toplou’: derived from ‘top’, the Turkish word for canon.
The monastery of Toplou was founded in the 14th century, but had been destroyed and rebuilt several times during the past. In the fight against the Ottomans and later in World War II, the monastery served as a shelter for the Greek resistance fighters. However, today the monastery presents itself to the visitor in renovated splendour.
In the monastery church, which is dedicated to Panagia Akrotiriani (Virgin Mary from the Cape of Rock), you can still admire frescoes from the 14th century. Moni Toplou’s greatest treasure is the great icon ‘Megas ei Kyrie’ (You are almighty, o Lord), by Ioannis Kornaros in 1770. The monastery museum shows more icons, manuscripts, church utensils and vestments. Products such as organic wine, olive oil, honey, soap and raki of their own making are sold in the monastery shop.
The aquarium in Crete is situated in the place now called Thalassocosmos and it is a place where science, discovery and recreation meet.
Up to four thousand marine organisms were introduced into the aquarium where they will spend their lives within specially designed and constructed tanks containing 1.6 million litres of seawater, visible to the public through 300 m2 of glass and transparent acrylic materials. Some very small organisms, such as phytoplankton, zooplankton, eggs and larvae are visible by means of gigantic screens which the visitor can handle without difficulty. Since the opening of the aquarium in December 2005, there have been more than 100,000 visitors.
There are coffee shops at both the entrance and exit of the aquarium.
445 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Cretaquarium - Thalassocosmos
The aquarium in Crete is situated in the place now called Thalassocosmos and it is a place where science, discovery and recreation meet.
Up to four thousand marine organisms were introduced into the aquarium where they will spend their lives within specially designed and constructed tanks containing 1.6 million litres of seawater, visible to the public through 300 m2 of glass and transparent acrylic materials. Some very small organisms, such as phytoplankton, zooplankton, eggs and larvae are visible by means of gigantic screens which the visitor can handle without difficulty. Since the opening of the aquarium in December 2005, there have been more than 100,000 visitors.
There are coffee shops at both the entrance and exit of the aquarium.
The Palace of Knossos was built between 2100 and 1800 BC and destroyed (most likely due to an earthquake) around 1700 BC. Hereafter, it was rebuilt as a larger and more magnificent complex. The ruins which can still be visited today are from this “new” palace.
The oldest European civilization, the Minoans, were the engineers behind this great work which expressed their strength as an important sea power in splendour and wealth.
In Antiquity, this palace could only be described in superlatives. The Palace of Knossos had an estimated 1300 rooms and up to 5 floors. The converted area was approximately 21,000 square meters. It is particularly noteworthy that the palace is said to have had running water: an astonishing piece of engineering for its time. Living rooms were heated by hot water heating and bathrooms had hip baths and flush toilets installed. Every drop of rain was caught and collected in cisterns.
The court’s tax receipts were also kept in the palace. Knossos was comparatively wealthy, so there was no shortage of honey, olive oil and grain, which were collected in ancient clay jars in the palace pantries.
It is recommended to combine the palace with a visit to the Archaeological Museum, which houses a model of the palace as well as numerous artefacts.
Opening hours:
November to March: 08:00 – 15:00
April: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m
May to October: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m
Entrance fee: 15 euros
407 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Knossos
The Palace of Knossos was built between 2100 and 1800 BC and destroyed (most likely due to an earthquake) around 1700 BC. Hereafter, it was rebuilt as a larger and more magnificent complex. The ruins which can still be visited today are from this “new” palace.
The oldest European civilization, the Minoans, were the engineers behind this great work which expressed their strength as an important sea power in splendour and wealth.
In Antiquity, this palace could only be described in superlatives. The Palace of Knossos had an estimated 1300 rooms and up to 5 floors. The converted area was approximately 21,000 square meters. It is particularly noteworthy that the palace is said to have had running water: an astonishing piece of engineering for its time. Living rooms were heated by hot water heating and bathrooms had hip baths and flush toilets installed. Every drop of rain was caught and collected in cisterns.
The court’s tax receipts were also kept in the palace. Knossos was comparatively wealthy, so there was no shortage of honey, olive oil and grain, which were collected in ancient clay jars in the palace pantries.
It is recommended to combine the palace with a visit to the Archaeological Museum, which houses a model of the palace as well as numerous artefacts.
Opening hours:
November to March: 08:00 – 15:00
April: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m
May to October: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m
Entrance fee: 15 euros
To protect the port of Spinalonga, the Venetians built a powerful fortress in the late 16th century. Its massive walls still rise from the rocks, against which the water of the Aegean Sea crashes, sometimes smoothly, sometimes with tremendous force. At the beginning of the 18th century the castle was ceded to the Ottomans and by the end of the 19th century Spinalonga had over 1,100 Muslim inhabitants. However, when Crete declared its independence in 1903, the inhabitants had to leave the island.
At the end of the 19th century, the Cretan government decided to set up an isolated leper colony on the island, which brought Spinalonga a macabre notoriety. From its dissolution in 1957 to this day, visitors have flocked to the island for a glimpse of island life.
While many of the sick had to live as outcasts far from the settlements, they received treatment here and a roof over their heads among like-minded people. Medicine, mail and groceries were brought from Crete to the island every day and despite the illness, the islanders were able to create a normal life for themselves in a village with infrastructure. The lepers lived on the island for many years without ever being allowed to go to the nearby mainland, until 1953, when the first effective drugs against leprosy were used.
Countless excursion boats commute every day between the island and the towns of Elounda, Agios Nikolaos and Plaka.
99 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Nisida Spinalonga
To protect the port of Spinalonga, the Venetians built a powerful fortress in the late 16th century. Its massive walls still rise from the rocks, against which the water of the Aegean Sea crashes, sometimes smoothly, sometimes with tremendous force. At the beginning of the 18th century the castle was ceded to the Ottomans and by the end of the 19th century Spinalonga had over 1,100 Muslim inhabitants. However, when Crete declared its independence in 1903, the inhabitants had to leave the island.
At the end of the 19th century, the Cretan government decided to set up an isolated leper colony on the island, which brought Spinalonga a macabre notoriety. From its dissolution in 1957 to this day, visitors have flocked to the island for a glimpse of island life.
While many of the sick had to live as outcasts far from the settlements, they received treatment here and a roof over their heads among like-minded people. Medicine, mail and groceries were brought from Crete to the island every day and despite the illness, the islanders were able to create a normal life for themselves in a village with infrastructure. The lepers lived on the island for many years without ever being allowed to go to the nearby mainland, until 1953, when the first effective drugs against leprosy were used.
Countless excursion boats commute every day between the island and the towns of Elounda, Agios Nikolaos and Plaka.
Buurten
In Agios Nikolaos, you will find the marvelous shop that is Talos. Here, the lovely Gregoris and Ritsa are at your service to provide you with the most beautiful minerals and crystals Crete has to offer. If you are passing through Agios Nikolaos, this is a must-see stop on your wandering through the city!
Ρούσσου Κουνδούρου 11 και 28 ης Οκτωβρίου 10
Άγιος Νικόλαος, Τ.Κ. 72100
Κρήτη, Ελλάδα
140 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Agios Nikolaos
In Agios Nikolaos, you will find the marvelous shop that is Talos. Here, the lovely Gregoris and Ritsa are at your service to provide you with the most beautiful minerals and crystals Crete has to offer. If you are passing through Agios Nikolaos, this is a must-see stop on your wandering through the city!
Ρούσσου Κουνδούρου 11 και 28 ης Οκτωβρίου 10
Άγιος Νικόλαος, Τ.Κ. 72100
Κρήτη, Ελλάδα
Recommended Tavernas and Restaurants in Makry Gialos:
Gusto Restaurant is located right next to the sea and provides you with a unique menu of dishes using fresh local ingredients, cooked in their olive wood oven. A variety of vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian and meat dishes are available for all to enjoy.
(Makry Gialos 720 55)
Robinson Taverna offers you the closest experience to nature you can dream of. Not only is the taverna located right next to the sea, you dine on the actual sand of the beach! Combined with a lovely glass of wine or a pint of beer, the food there makes for an unforgettable evening.
(Koutsouras 720 55)
Makis Grillhouse is worthy of a visit for any Gyros-loving visitor of Crete. With their amazing delivery service, there is no need to even leave the villa. For the perfect take-away experience in Crete, there is no better address.
(Epar.Od. Ierapetras - Sitias 21, Makrygialos 720 55) (phone number and further details will be available at the villa)
Kalliotzina Restaurant puts their guests in between trees, on the beach, right next to the sea for an amazing culinary experience. If you find yourself wanting for a cosy way to end the day and nourish your hunger, the address is: (Κουτσουρᾶς, Stavrochori 720 55)
Recommended Super Market:
Tito's Supermarket is hosted by Tito and his family. In addition to their all-you-need food market, they also provide their customers with ample opportunity to buy gear for watersports, a day in the pool and more entertainment! In addition to that, they also offer a delivery service to the villa.
(Makry Gialos 720 55) (phone number and further details will be available at the villa)
30 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Makry Gialos
Recommended Tavernas and Restaurants in Makry Gialos:
Gusto Restaurant is located right next to the sea and provides you with a unique menu of dishes using fresh local ingredients, cooked in their olive wood oven. A variety of vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian and meat dishes are available for all to enjoy.
(Makry Gialos 720 55)
Robinson Taverna offers you the closest experience to nature you can dream of. Not only is the taverna located right next to the sea, you dine on the actual sand of the beach! Combined with a lovely glass of wine or a pint of beer, the food there makes for an unforgettable evening.
(Koutsouras 720 55)
Makis Grillhouse is worthy of a visit for any Gyros-loving visitor of Crete. With their amazing delivery service, there is no need to even leave the villa. For the perfect take-away experience in Crete, there is no better address.
(Epar.Od. Ierapetras - Sitias 21, Makrygialos 720 55) (phone number and further details will be available at the villa)
Kalliotzina Restaurant puts their guests in between trees, on the beach, right next to the sea for an amazing culinary experience. If you find yourself wanting for a cosy way to end the day and nourish your hunger, the address is: (Κουτσουρᾶς, Stavrochori 720 55)
Recommended Super Market:
Tito's Supermarket is hosted by Tito and his family. In addition to their all-you-need food market, they also provide their customers with ample opportunity to buy gear for watersports, a day in the pool and more entertainment! In addition to that, they also offer a delivery service to the villa.
(Makry Gialos 720 55) (phone number and further details will be available at the villa)