Agios Nikolaos. Crete's most atypical city

Details Lassithi (East Crete) Towns, villages and resorts of the Lassithi region Updated: 15 June 2019

Agios Nikolaos (Άγιος Νικόλαος, Agios Nikolaos) - a city located in the eastern region of Crete - Lassithi, and at the same time being its capital. It is located about 62 km east of Heraklion in the western part of the Mirabello Bay. Agios Nikolaos is a very picturesque town that attracts with its architecture, cozy streets with endless staircases going straight "to the sky" and the special atmosphere of eastern Crete.

For its flavor and uniqueness, Agios Nikolaos is called the Cretan Saint Tropez. The population of the city is mainly engaged in tourism and agriculture, and one of the main attractions is Lake Vulizmeni, located almost in the center of the city, with a depth of 64 meters. Not so long ago, the lake was considered bottomless. And during the Turkish rule in the period 1867-1871. a channel was dug connecting Woolismeni with the sea.

lake Voulismeni

But despite this, the lake remains freshwater. There is an assumption that water does not mix with sea water due to the fact that Woolizmeni is fed by underground sources.

There is literally everything here to spend an unforgettable vacation at the sea: large hotels and cozy apartments; several city beaches, annually receiving the Blue Flag award for high quality services and clean coastline and water; a wide range of tourist services, shops, cafes, bars and restaurants; nearby interesting sights.

Agios Nikolaos promenade

It will be a great pleasure to walk along the promenade with stunning views of the Mirabello Bay or just spend time in a cafe on the shores of Lake Voulismeni.

We love to walk along this embankment in the morning, when the air is filled with the unique aroma of the sea, playing with the brightest colors when the sun still casts long shadows from tamarisks. We love even more to walk along the promenade of Agios Nikolaos in the evening, after intense trips around the island, when everything here really comes to life, when locals and guests of the city go out to Volta - an evening walk, and the city is filled with a special and indescribable atmosphere of relaxation. In fact, it is simply impossible to convey all these feelings in words!

Speaking of island exploration, Agios Nikolaos is considered an excellent starting point for exploring the eastern and central parts of Crete. Famous neighboring resortElounda and Spinalonga Island with the fortress are located just 8 km north in the Mirabello Bay. To the east is a very picturesque seaside townSitia.

Agios Nikolaos promenade

In the very east of the island is the famous palm beach of Vai. South of Agios Nikolaos is the southernmost city in Europe - Ierapetra. To the west, you can visit the Lassithi plateau. These are not all the sights that are located at a slight distance from the city of Agios Nikolaos. In addition, many attractions are accessible by bus from Agios Nikolaos. Fortunately, the bus network on the island of Crete is very well developed.

Bus station in Agios Nikolaos

The most interesting and romantic excursions can be made from the small seaport of Agios Nikolaos, located immediately after the artificial canal from Lake Voulizmeni on the Kunduru embankment. From here, pleasure boats depart, conducting excursions along the Mirabello Bay with its attractions. And in the evening ships departing from the port, making a night walk. Parties with music and dancing are held on board. The views from the ship to Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and Mirabello Bay at night are mesmerizing and will forever remain in your memory.

Excursions from Agios Nikolaos

History of Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos was built on the site of two cities: Lato Hetera - once the largest city of the Hellenistic period and its port Lato Pros Kamara, which in the III century. united. During the Roman period, the city of Lato Pros Camara flourished, as evidenced by a variety of finds, including statues and rich funerary gifts, as well as the city's own coins printed. In the VI century. the city becomes the center of the bishopric of Kamara. And Agios Nikolaos got its name in the IX century. from the one-nave church of St. Nicholas, built here by the Venetians. In 1206, the Genoese erected the Mirabello fortress (Castel Mirabello - Fortress with a beautiful view). At the same time, in fact, the name was given to the bay itself for its "beautiful view" - Mirabello. It is assumed that the fortress was built under Enrique Pescator. Under the Venetians, the fortress was reconstructed.Later, the Mirabello fortress was attacked by Turkish invaders and was eventually destroyed by earthquakes and by the Venetians themselves, who were trying to regain the territories seized by the Turks. From that time on, the city began to decline.

Only in 1870, by the forces of the inhabitants of Crete, who fled from Turkish persecution to the east of the island, the revival of the city of Agios Nikolaos began. At the same time, the modern appearance of the city is gradually born, which we have the opportunity to admire.

The population of Agios Nikolaos is gradually increasing, and in 1905 it becomes the center of the Lassithi region. In the 60s of the XX century, it was Agios Nikolaos that became the city in which the Cretan tourism originated, which later spread throughout the island. Interestingly, the tourist boom began after Walt Disney, Jules Dassin and other celebrities visited the city.

Modern Agios Nikolaos

It again acquired the status of the most important port city for the island of Crete, from where there is a sea connection with the major cities of Greece. Life in the seaport does not stop for a minute. Ferries, yachts and even large cruise liners enter the port, and on the embankment, fishermen repair their tackle and shift their catch.

Modern Agios Nikolaos is also unique in that it has not one tourist center, as it often happens, but two.

The first such center is located around Lake Vulismeni, and the second favorite place for tourists is the city's embankment, where there are also numerous cafes and taverns.

But in order to get better acquainted with the city and its beauty, it is worth taking a walk along the local streets. One of the most beautiful streets is st. 28th October.

Here and on the parallel street of Russu Kunduru, the largest number of shops is concentrated, where you can buy both simple souvenirs to remember the rest and goods of famous world brands.

Each season, Agios Nikolaos hosts festivals, concerts, theatrical performances and exhibitions. And the evening Agios Nikolaos comes to life with renewed vigor. Nightclubs, bars, restaurants and discos open here. The fun continues until the morning. Thus, life in Agios Nikolaos does not stop for a minute.

Among the attractions of Agios Nikolaos, it is worth visiting the Ethnographic Museum, which displays national Cretan costumes and tools. Of particular interest is the Archaeological Museum, which has one of the most significant collections of finds on the island. The museum displays exhibits from the Neolithic to the Late Roman period. Among the exhibits stand out: an early Minoan figurine of a phallic shape, burial gifts from early Minoan cities, a vase with the name "Goddess of Myrtos", a figurine of a believer from Mirsini, a vessel in the form of a bird from Agia Fotia, figurines dating from the 7th BC. But the most impressive piece of the archaeological museum is a skull with a golden wreath of olive leaves found in a nearby Roman cemetery. In the mouth of the deceased was found a silver coin from Polyrinia, which dates from the 1st century. AD It is assumed that this coin, according to the Roman faith, was intended as a payment to a boatman who was supposed to ferry the deceased across the river Styx to the underworld. In hall 5 there is a clay head, which harbors the famous archaic smile. Also on display are Linear A plaques. Most of the exhibits were found on the territory of Lassithi. The entrance to the Archaeological Museum is paid. It is better to check the work schedule in advance. There is also a Maritime Museum in Agios Nikolaos, which displays exhibits on the history of Cretan seafaring.

Agios Nikolaos beaches

The beaches in the area of \u200b\u200bAgios Nikolaos are well equipped, with all kinds of water activities on offer everywhere - from scuba diving to water skiing. There is a beach with a children's pool and a playground. All the beaches of Agios Nikolaos are surrounded by cafes, restaurants and hotels, which is very convenient for a comfortable stay: you don't need to go anywhere for breakfast, left the hotel and immediately sunbathe on the beach.

In general, these places are famous not only for their wonderful beaches and entertainment. It is believed that the resorts of eastern Crete are visited by people with excellent taste.

It has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation, but the main thing is the atmosphere that prevails here.

Every year thousands of people return to Agios Nikolaos again and again - a city that gives stunning views to photographers, inspiration for artists and poets, a city where history and modernity coexist perfectly, where the tranquility of the streets is closely intertwined with the rhythm of a modern resort city. Agios Nikolaos is a city worth visiting, getting to know the local customs, the friendly people and the incomparable charm of eastern Crete.

reference Information

1. Where is? Agios Nikolaos is located on the northern coast of Crete, 65 km east of Heraklion, 30 km north of Ierapetra and 67 km west of Sitia.
2. Coordinates of the city of Agios Nikolaos: DD 35.192533

Among the many popular sights of Crete, Agios Nikolaos deserves a separate mention - a small, cozy and very colorful town in the eastern part of the island, loved by tourists from all over the world, thanks to its beautiful views and the amazing atmosphere of a real Mediterranean resort.

The name of the city reflects the name of its patron Saint Nicholas - the protector of sailors and all Greece.

In this former fishing village, fresh and salt water of two bodies of water merge - Lake Voulismeni and the sea bay with the beautiful Italian name Mirabello.

History and legends of the Greek pearl of Agios Nikolaos

In this city of Crete, not only two reservoirs are connected, its whole history serves as a symbol of unification - first two Greek villages Lato Pros Camara and Lato Getera in the distant III century, and then two cultures - Greek and Italian.

After all, it was the Byzantines who laid the foundation for the rapid development of Agios Nikolaos, building their strategic fortress here in 1206 and giving the city its current name.

The fortress was later destroyed by the Turkish conquerors and earthquakes, but the town continued to grow and flourish, becoming a favorite holiday destination in Crete.

Many legends and myths of Ancient Greece are associated with the island of Crete, and it is the area in the region of Agios Nikolaos that is most interesting for keen tourists, since every stone here breathes mythology.

It is worth mentioning at least the Lassithi plateau located near the city, where you can still visit the cave in which, according to legend, the supreme ancient Greek God Zeus was born.

And in the crystal clear waters of Lake Voulismeni, the Goddess of the Hunt Artemis and the formidable Athena loved to take a bath.

How to get to Agios Nikolaos

You can get to Crete in two ways - by plane or by ferry.

In any case, you will most likely find yourself in the capital city of Heraklion, which has a major international airport and a major seaport.

Agios Nikolaos is only about 60 km from here, it will take a little over an hour to get there.

You can get there by a regular bus that leaves from the Heraklion bus station located very close to the port, and also makes a stop at the Nikos Kazantzakis airport.

Buses in Crete are comfortable and air-conditioned, they run on schedule and quite often, but on the way they call in all small villages and towns.

On the one hand, such a road can be a little tiring, but it will provide an excellent opportunity to see the northeastern coast of Crete and even get acquainted with its serpentines.

Often rental offices do not even require any guarantees and additional insurance - after all, you are on the island, where will you go from it?

Traveling by car, you can not only quickly get to Agios Nikolaos, but also drive around Crete from east to west and back. After all, the main roads here are in very good condition and you should only be afraid of winding mountain serpentines and hot Greek drivers flying through turns at maximum speed.

You can rent a car right at the airport in large network rental companies or pay attention to small local rent-a-car, significantly saving on rental costs.

On the way from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, you will have the opportunity to see such nice famous tourist towns as Malia and Hersonissos, as well as stop by a picturesque village in the mountains with the Italian name of Neapoli.

What to see in Agios Nikolaos: main attractions

Panorama of the city and the Mirabello bay



Coming to Agios Nikolaos along the main road from Heraklion, you find yourself in the upper part of the city, located on high hills.

These are residential areas with small, standard for Greece, cubes of private cottages. Here you will not see tourist attractions, but you can fully immerse yourself in the local flavor by taking a short walk from the bus station to the old city.

It is also worth leaving a rented car in the parking lot, because driving along the narrow and steep descents and ascents of Agios Nikolaos, and, even more so, parking close to the walls of houses at an angle of 45 degrees will be an unforgettable experience for an untrained driver.

There is another reason why it is worth approaching the old town on foot - it is a colorful panorama, familiar from many postcards from Crete, which can be seen from the observation deck from a high point of the city.

A picturesque lake with many colorful fishing boats, surrounded by traditional Greek houses with bright window frames and roofs, and on the horizon, as far as the eye can see, the endless seascape of the Mirabello Bay, even the name of which translates as "beautiful view".

This amazing picture will remain in your photos, reminding you of the extraordinary old town on the Cretan coast.

Lake Voulismeni



This freshwater lake with water of amazing bright blue color is a real landmark of Agios Nikolaos and the whole island of Crete.

It is believed that it is of volcanic origin and was formed as a result of subsidence of the bottom of the crater to a great depth. Almost perfectly round in shape, it is surrounded by high cliffs on one side and pretty colorful fishing houses on the other. The lake was once considered bottomless and, according to legend, served as a font for the Greek goddesses.

Now the lake is connected to the sea by a narrow channel, so the water in it mixes, remaining fresh only at a very great depth, where the bottom of the lake forms a kind of funnel.

A picturesque bridge has been thrown across the canal, and there are many cozy Greek taverns scattered around Lake Voulismeni, where you can taste excellent dishes of authentic Greek cuisine while enjoying a beautiful view.

Moreover, taverns buy fresh fish and seafood right before your eyes from fishing boats mooring to the shores of the lake.

Promenade and marina





From the sea side, the embankment of the town is no less interesting.

A comfortable promenade has been built here, where it is so pleasant to walk to the cry of seagulls and sit under the shade of tropical trees on a hot day, enjoying the smell of many flowers.

Popular restaurants with traditional Greek and European cuisine and cozy terraces overlooking the sea and the port are also located on the waterfront.

The marina of Agios Nikolaos is also a stand-alone attraction, as it is home to both the latest luxury yachts and fishing boats whose age is simply unimaginable.

It is always interesting to watch how fishermen from arriving ships throw small fish into the sea, gathering around them whole flocks of greedy crying gulls.

Church of St. Nicholas



A tiny church is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, St. Nicholas in Agios Nikolaos, which can be found in the upper part of the city, in the main square, named after the Greek politician Eleftherios Venizelos.

But don't be fooled by its unremarkable appearance - this particular church was one of the most important in Crete, and it was in her honor that the whole city was named.

In addition, according to historians, this church, built in the 8th century, is one of the best preserved churches of the Byzantine period and serves as a worthy example of ancient architecture. For many years, it has not been rebuilt or modified, but inside there are frescoes dating from the 8th, 9th and 10th centuries.

The painting of the church was partially renewed in 1980, but the painters strictly adhered to the Byzantine style and preserved its identity.

Archaeological Museum



For tourists interested in ancient Greek culture and history, be sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos, which contains unique exhibits from all over eastern Crete. The collection is presented in 6 rooms and contains over 6 thousand exhibits.

Beaches in and around town



In the town of Agios Nikolaos itself, there are beaches, but they are not of particular interest, since on them you will not be able to see the combination of sky-blue water and white sea sand or pebbles, famous for Greece.

Although in order to quickly swim or, for example, to do water sports, these beaches are suitable.

In the very center of the city, away from the embankment, the cozy Kitroplatya beach is hidden, and a little further there are the comfortable city beaches of Amoudi and Ammos.

However, if you want to appreciate the quality of the Greek beaches, having visited the best of them, awarded the Blue Flag, go to the vicinity of Agios Nikolaos.

Just 2 km from the city are the famous beaches with crystal water - Almiros and Havania, and a little further in the village of Ammoudara - a small beach of the same name of incredible beauty.

Most Popular Agios Nikolaos Hotels





The central coastal part of the city resembles an old fishing village with characteristic low, unpretentious houses, so you will not find fashionable hotel complexes here.

However, if you still want to stay in the old town and experience its unique romantic atmosphere, small cozy guesthouses or 3-star hotels are at your disposal.

For example, such as Pergola hotel, Mantraki Hotel Apartments, Palazzo apart-hotel. Most often, these small hotels are run by local families, so you will find yourself in a homely atmosphere of comfort and care.

For the discerning tourist, Agios Nikolaos also has a lot to offer. Just a couple of kilometers from the city center, or further away if you are looking for peace and tranquility, you can find stunning luxury hotels with a full range of luxury services, the most popular of which are:

• St. Nikolas Bay Resort and Villas- a luxurious luxury complex 1.5 km from the city center, with a private beach, 6 swimming pools and a huge range of spa services and thalassotherapy.

• Iberostar Mirabello beach hotel & villas - a large hotel complex popular among Russian tourists with the entire range of services and entertainment and excellent 5-star service.

• Blue Marine Resort and Spa Hotel- a cozy spa hotel on the beach of Ammoudara, 6 km from Agios Nikolaos, offering a magical view of the Mirabello Bay, luxury accommodation and an excellent spa complex.

In addition, in the immediate vicinity of the city, you can also stay in good 4-star hotels, among which, for example, Iberostar Hermes, Miramare, Faedra beach other.

Life in the resort of Agios Nikolaos continues around the clock. During the day, it seems to be shrouded in calmness and regularity, tourists bask on the beaches, go diving or just relax in the shade of trees. Towards evening, when the sun is about to disappear behind the horizon, Agios Nikolaos seems to wake up - literally before our eyes. The lights of numerous cafes and restaurants, discos and nightclubs, where many visitors always gather, are flashing. It is possible that at one of the parties you will unexpectedly meet a world celebrity: movie and show business stars love to relax here.

Meanwhile, a long time ago, when the settlement was just founded, it became a saving haven for the Cretans who were looking for shelter from the oppression of the Ottoman rulers. For a long time, an atmosphere of tension and fear reigned here. But who said that Greeks can constantly be in a bad mood and be afraid of something? Cheerfulness and fun of this temperamental southern people in the soul, for which they love him all over the world! Over time, the city-fortress turned into a resort city, a fairy-tale city, equipped with magnificent places for beach recreation and organizing full-fledged leisure.

Numerous travelers set foot on the blessed ancient land of Agios Nikolaos, not only to sunbathe in the local sun or visit entertainment venues. The city attracts with its frequent holidays and festivals, which are regular during the tourist season, as well as its architecture, unique sights, very special streets that you will not see anywhere else, and a special atmosphere inherent only in Crete. And when we say: "Welcome to Agios Nikolaos!" We mean: "Welcome to paradise!"

From the history of the city

The history of the 19 thousandth resort town, which the townspeople themselves sometimes call Agios Nikolaos, dates back to ancient times. Then it was a small settlement, founded in the place where the port of the ancient Dorian town of Lato once stood (the ruins of the latter are located about 3 km from the village of Kritsa). These, as they would say now, municipalities were subsequently united into a common administrative unit. Their population worshiped the same goddess - Ilithia, who was considered the patroness of women in labor.

The monetary unit was a coin common to the two cities. On one side, the image of Ilithia was minted, on the other, the god Hermes, who patronized trade, dexterity and eloquence. Despite the same starting conditions, the city of Lato and its port developed unevenly. The latter eventually grew into a large settlement, a real economic center, which in the 4th century became the capital of the Kamara bishopric. Well, Lato himself gradually fell into desolation.

Agios Nikolaos, known in ancient times as Mandraki, got its current name in the 9th century in honor of the local church, which bears the name of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. At the beginning of the XIII century, the ubiquitous Genoese, who conquered almost all the seas in the area, founded the Mirabello fortress here. The bay got the same name. However, the fortress did not justify the tasks assigned to it. At first it was besieged by Turkish invaders, and then it suffered from an earthquake. From that moment on, the once prosperous city also began to fade.

Agios Nikolaos found its second life in the second half of the 19th century, when its history as a popular resort began. The time of its revival fell on the period when Crete gained independence in 1866. At the origins of the modern settlement were immigrants from Sfakia and Kritsa. The ruins of the destroyed fortress were consumed, they were used for the construction of new buildings. The city grew rapidly, its population increased. The look that we see today, Agios Nikolaos received at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1900 it became the center of the dima (municipality) of Kritsa, in 1904 its political and administrative status increased even more - to the capital of the Lasithi region.

Did you know that Agios Nikolaos turns out to be the birthplace of the Olympic god Zeus, the thunderer? According to myths, it is in this city that the cave is located, where the main deity of Ancient Hellas was born. And this is not the only legend associated with the wonderful resort. Here, according to legends, the goddess Aphrodite, the recognized patroness of love and beauty, and the goddess Artemis, who "answered" in the ideas of the ancient Greeks, for female chastity, hunting and fertility, loved to visit. According to the legend, they really liked to plunge into the crystal water of Lake Voulismeni, around which the city grew up.

Climate and nature

The very fact that Agios Nikolaos is a popular resort speaks for itself. Summers are hot here, but you can't call it overly sultry. And the winter is calm and windless here. The climate in this area is characterized by rainy seasons that begin in December. The sky is overcast with clouds, and then you will have to forget about sunny days for a while.

The climate of Agios Nikolaos is most favorably influenced by the mountain peaks, behind which the city is literally like a stone wall. They protect it from cold winds.

Due to the low height, the waves of the Cretan Sea do not rage - to the delight of those who cannot swim, of whom, surprisingly, there are also many among the guests of the resort. They enjoy basking on the shore, are not afraid of the blows of the waves, and that they can carry with them personal belongings or, God forbid, a child serenely frolicking on the edge of the shore.

The peculiarities inherent in the climate of this region are favorable for the flourishing of the local fauna. The vegetation of Agios Nikolaos is incredibly diverse. In addition to the well-known daisies, tulips, daisies, irises, cornflowers, orchids and bells, large trees grow here - sycamore and cypress and, again, ate and chestnuts familiar to Russians. It doesn't take a lot of imagination to see this lush vegetation blooming on the island coastline in lush bloom in spring.

The Cretan wildcat, local marten and badger, and the barbed rat are typical inhabitants of the local fauna. Among the aquatic inhabitants of Agios Nikolaos are freshwater crab and snail, cuttlefish and sea urchin, sperm whale and shrimp and even an incredibly beautiful striped dolphin.

sights

The main attraction and visiting card of Agios Nikolaos is the freshwater lake Voulismeni, which locals call simply a lake. A small reservoir is located in the very center of the city and looks like a lagoon, distinguished by its regular round shape, as if someone had specially drawn them. Its diameter is 137 meters.

Several myths are associated with Lake Voulismeni. According to one of them, it has no bottom. However, in the middle of the last century, this fact was refuted in a fairly simple way. The townspeople threw into the water military equipment left over from the Second World War. Subsequently, it - and at the same time the bottom - was discovered by underwater researchers.

According to the second legend, the lake is connected to a volcano on the island of Santorini in the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades archipelago. The reason to think so appeared after one of the eruptions on this island, to which the waters of Voulismeni reacted. Having seized, they flooded the buildings located on the coast.

In the 19th century, a canal was dug here, which connected the main "water" attraction with the sea. Because of this, the 30-meter upper layer of the reservoir acquired salinity, but the lower 34 meters remained fresh.

The Byzantine Church of St. Nicholas, after which the city is named, is located on a small hill in the northern part of it. It was built in the second half of the 9th century. Once inside, you will see fragments of murals dating back to the 14th century. The Orthodox church is often visited by both locals and tourists. It is especially crowded here in December, when the Day of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is celebrated throughout Greece.

On a fine sunny day, you can walk in the park with pine trees and tamarisks, which offers a great view of Agios Nikolaos. A stone path starts in this picturesque place: it "makes its way" between the trees and goes to the northern side of the lake, where fishing boats are usually moored.

To the north of Voulismeni, on Palaiologou street, 74, there is another famous landmark of the city - the Archaeological Museum. It was founded relatively recently, in 1970 and has eight halls, which contain the richest collection of artifacts obtained as a result of excavations in the eastern part of the island of Crete. The museum collection covers a large period, from the Neolithic to the Minoan era and the civilization of Ancient Rome. A separate room is dedicated to the finds discovered at Agia Fotia, the largest Minoan burial on the island. The most notable exhibit is the skull of a young male athlete topped with a golden laurel wreath that holds a silver coin in its mouth. This was, according to ancient tradition, a payment to the god Charon, who accompanied the dead to the Kingdom of the Dead.

On the same street there is another museum of Agios Nikolaos - Ethnographic. It is small, there are only three rooms, and they are located on the first floor of the local port administration. The direction of the presented collections is mostly folklore. National Greek costumes, samples of embroidery by folk craftsmen, fabrics, household utensils are on display for visitors. Of equal interest, especially among visitors, is the model of the estate, made in the traditional Greek style.

Another visiting card of Agios Nikolaos is Citrus Square or, as it is called in the local manner, Kitroplatia. The square, which even has a small beach, got its name several centuries ago, when there was a brisk trade in citrus fruits. The mentioned beach is notable for its deep sea depth. Even before the port was built here, merchant ships loaded with lemons, oranges, tangerines for export came here.

Let's go back to the city of Lato. More precisely, to its ruins. They are also a popular attraction in Agios Nikolaos, although they are 15 kilometers away. We add that this is a Dorian settlement - the small homeland of Nearchus, a close associate and personal friend of Alexander the Great himself. Archaeological excavations started here in 1899, led by French scientists. They found fragments of the gate, as well as the remains of stone buildings, through which they were able to restore the plan of the settlement sunk into oblivion.

20 km from the city there is a unique architectural monument of the Byzantine era - the Church of Panagia Kera, located in a luxurious olive grove and is the most famous church of the indicated historical period on the entire island. It was built in the XI-XIV centuries and was dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos, her mother Anna and Saint Anthony.

Agios Nikolaos beaches

Crystal clear water, refreshing sea breeze, gentle hot sand, snow-white yachts in magnificent bays, tanned guys and girls playing volleyball - all these are the world famous beaches of Agios Nikolaos. There are a lot of them here, some of them are adjacent to hotels. Here no one "fights" for a place in the sun - there are usually free sun loungers and umbrellas available. Also nearby, literally at hand, there are cafes and bars, and it is not difficult for a vacationer to quickly go for a cocktail or cool juice.

Many beaches have tall trees and reeds, and reeds. Some travelers like to relax in the shade with the whole family, others, in search of thrills, gladly climb the nearest tree and "fly" from it into the water. There is no limit to delight, and therefore the jumps are repeated again and again!

Ammoudara Beach is located just a kilometer north of Agios Nikolaos. It has a well-developed infrastructure and is well protected from the wind. However, due to its location on the main road leading from the village in the direction of Ierapetra, the beach is one of the most accessible and therefore always crowded with vacationers.

Ammos beach is located one and a half kilometers south of the city center. It starts at the Marina and extends south to the municipal beach in the city. Showers are equipped here, there are paid sun loungers with umbrellas, shops, taverns, hotels are just a few steps away. The sea in this place is usually calm. As for the municipal beach of Agios Nikolaos, it belongs to pebble beaches. Most of it is a grassy lawn with trees and sun loungers, and there are also an adult and children's pool.

The long sandy beach of Almiros is famous for its convenient entrance and shallow waters. Due to the fact that it is located at the outlet of the river with the same name, in warm water, no, no, and you will come across cold currents. For vacationers there is a good infrastructure, there are sun loungers and umbrellas and, importantly, there are excellent opportunities for water sports lovers. From the city to this beach 2.5 km. You can get to it by car or on foot along the road that runs parallel to the rocky coast: you should move in a northern direction.

Cuisine and restaurants

Special mention should be made of local restaurants and national cuisine. Firstly, the restaurants in Agios Nikolaos offer great views of the city and Lake Voulismeni, which is not bad in itself. Secondly, the menu is based on seafood, meat and vegetable dishes, from which adherents of a healthy diet are especially delighted. What is noteworthy is that frozen food is by no means used for cooking: meat, fish, and vegetables are supplied here exclusively fresh. There is also an unspoken cooking taboo on the use of animal fats, instead of high-quality local olive oil. And very rarely you will see a salt shaker so familiar to Russians on the table. Table salt is not held in high esteem here, it is replaced with olives or feta cheese.

One of the most popular dishes is souvlaki, small pork skewers on wooden skewers. It is also worth trying gyros, which resembles Turkish doner kebab or Arabian shawarma. The difference is that fried potatoes, which resemble french fries, are added to this fast food as a side dish.

Among the most famous vegetable dishes of Agios Nikolaos, we can name moussaka: it perfectly combines eggplant, potatoes and cheese. You will also love the delicate yogurt with a slightly Japanese name, tzatziki. Only he has purely local roots and has nothing to do with the Land of the Rising Sun. This seasoning, which is mixed with finely chopped garlic and cucumber, goes well with both fish and meat dishes.

Just want an easy snack? Then go to small restaurants or local cafes. Slices of crispy homemade bread with feta cheese - dakos are a great snack. It is also very healthy: it is served with olive oil.

Although the culinary traditions of Agios Nikolaos prioritize healthy eating, there are still very few adherents of vegetarianism here, so in any institution there are either various cuts or cold cuts on the menu. But our popular desserts, with an abundance of sugar and creams, are not particularly favored here. Instead of a cake, the townspeople eat fruit or have a cup of coffee. However, they do not forget about their tourist status, to many obligations, therefore local preferences do not impose on anyone. If you are a lover of homemade pastries, there is always one in the assortment of local cafes, it is usually served with honey. Also in the cafe you can buy baklava and other delicious Cretan desserts, which, however, should not be abused if you value your figure.

Shopping

Most of the local shops are concentrated in the Lake Voulismeni area, and they are literally heaped with souvenirs for every taste and budget. In Agios Nikolaos, tourists willingly buy local textiles, decorated with hand embroidery, clay crafts, mini-copies of famous exhibits of city museums. Books on the history of Crete and its settlements, memorable literature about holidays on the island, and various magnets are also well sold.

The Kundouros promenade and the 28 October pedestrian street are home to local fashion shops and boutiques. The latter is very beautiful in itself, the local elite loves it, here in the restaurants there is an excellent menu. The street stretches from the port to the main town square. The stores offer clothes of world brands, there are many shops selling jewelry, which are usually "pecked" by tourists, including those from Russia. Jewelry shops value their reputation, so no one will offer you fakes.

Agios Nikolaos is a warm, sunny city, but one of the hottest goods here is ... fur coats, as well as designer leather goods, which are sold in special atelier shops. The prices are quite affordable. On the last day of the week, tourists, together with the local population, amicably visit the Sunday market. The choice of goods here is rich and, remarkably, at very low prices.

Let us single out olive oil from the delicious attractions of the resort town. When buying, make sure it is Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a cold-pressed product produced in Crete. If you find an oil called Organic Product, take it too, without hesitation, and you will not regret it.

Hotels and accommodation

The city of Agios Nikolaos is often called the Cretan Saint-Tropez, and this is really so: on the whole island it is difficult to find a resort that is more comfortable and demanded by vacationers than this one. And as you understand, there are no and cannot be problems with hotels by definition. Otherwise, the city would immediately lose its status as one of the most respectable.

Hotels of any class and at any price are presented to your taste and choice. The oldest hotels are located in Eleftheria Square, while the more modern ones are located along the coastline, in the central part of Agios Nikolaos. Local hotels offer good service and service to holidaymakers. It cannot be otherwise in a resort town. You will find everything you need in the rooms, and as a pleasant bonus, almost every apartment offers a beautiful panorama of the city, Lake Voulismeni or luxurious beaches.

Note for tourists

• Many streets of Agios Nikolaos have the same name. In order not to get confused and not to get lost, purchase a map or use a navigator.
• There are no private beaches in the city, all are state-owned. The fee is charged only for the rental of umbrellas and sun loungers.
• The statistics of accidents on the streets are quite high, so motorists should be extremely careful.
• Don't put off shopping and supermarkets until Sunday. Most outlets are closed on this day.
• You can bargain in stores. But only if you pay in cash. Paying by credit card excludes this possibility, so a little money with you will not hurt.
• Most bars and restaurants are smoking friendly. There are separate rooms for non-smokers.
• The coastal area, especially in the area of \u200b\u200bremote nudist beaches, is popular with sea urchins, so special beach shoes will be useful.
• In local establishments, as well as taxi drivers, it is customary to tip. In restaurants, they usually make up 10 to 15% of the bill.

How to get there

Agios Nikolaos does not have its own airport, you can get to it from Heraklion: the capital of Crete has its own air harbor, it bears the name of Nikos Kazantzakis. The distance between the cities is 65 km.

Ordering a transfer to the hotel will cost you 100 euros and more. It costs the same to call a taxi, but there are compliant taxi drivers with whom you can bargain. In this sense, a checkered car is a relatively convenient form of transport.

Want to save some more? Then take the bus. The distance from the airport to the Heraklion bus station is only 5 km, the fare is 1.8 euros. Travel time by bus to Agios Nikolaos is 1.5 hours, the ticket will cost 1.7 €.

Alternatively, you can fly first to Athens, the capital of Greece, then take a ferry from the cruise port of Piraeus, which runs regularly to this popular resort.

Tatiana Solomatina

Paradise resort of Agios Nikolaos in Crete

Hello dear readers!

One of the most popular resorts in Greece has long been the picturesque corner of Agios Nikolaos (Crete). Its history began with the tragic events that forced the Greeks to flee from the Ottoman invaders. And so the city was founded, seized in those distant days by fear. Over the centuries, it has become the Cretan capital of joy and fun!

In the article I will tell you how to get to the resort, its features, infrastructure, beaches and attractions. Perhaps this is where you want to spend your vacation.

You can get to Agios Nikolaos from Heraklion, where most of the Russian tourists arrive. It will take an hour or an hour and a half to get from the largest island airport. Along the way, you will admire the picturesque mountains with monasteries nestled on the peaks and vast olive plantations. Transfer from Chania airport will take much longer. Therefore, if there is an opportunity to choose a flight, then it is better to focus on the first option.

Agios Nikolaos - infrastructure

Agios Nikolaos would never have become a popular resort if there were not many hotels here. On the coast, there are both luxurious fives and more modest threes and fours. They are all comfortable and cozy. Most of the buildings are in a typical Greek style, which means a low-rise building with a predominance of blue and white colors in the decoration of the facades and rooms.

There are many all inclusive hotels in the town of Agios Nikolaos. Animation is present almost everywhere. There are more and more Russian-speaking animators, since the demand for tours to this city among travelers from Russia is very high.

Most of the local hotels cannot boast of such huge territories as Turkish or Egyptian hotels, but this is not necessary here. Walking around the city is very pleasant and completely safe; it makes no sense to sit on the territory. Even the smallest hostels will delight you with the level of service. Greece is Europe, that is, literally everything is provided here, even in triplets it is difficult to "run into" something terrible.

Lovers of active recreation are very attracted to Crete. Agios Nikolaos is famous for its nightlife. If during the day it is rather quiet here, then in the evenings numerous cafes, restaurants and clubs begin to work. Tourists of any age will be able to find leisure activities at this resort to their taste and wallet. Institutions menu offers traditional salads and seafood dishes. There is no doubt that all of them will be pretty flavored with the olive oil produced in these places.

There are many shops along the central pedestrian streets of the resort. They offer to buy both souvenirs and useful, sometimes even very valuable things. There are brand boutiques and tiny shops selling exclusively magnets, key chains and simple jewelry. Local sellers won't chase you across the street to get you to buy a product. Bargaining is not appropriate here, all prices are fixed and indicated in advance.

Agios Nikolaos - city beaches

The entire coast of Greece is considered state property, so hotels cannot boast of private beaches. But there are exceptions to any rule. Some hotels in Agios Nikolaos, mostly five, have such a good location that no one will specially get to their beaches. They are located near the slopes of cliffs or in small coves, and not in the city center, where tourists and locals spend their leisure time. This circumstance can be either a plus for those who love silence and solitude, or a minus for party-goers.

The beaches at the resort are equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas. But for the pleasure you have to pay separately. Showers and toilets are everywhere. Most of the large beach areas have small playgrounds with swings, sandpits, and other children's pleasures.

Near the sea you can find tennis courts, volleyball nets and ping-pong tables. Water sports are widely represented in Crete. Agios Nikolaos is one of the best diving spots in Greece. Quite a lot of fish species are found in its vicinity, which tourists who do not want to dive with scuba diving can see by taking a ride on a seven-submarine, which sailed from the city port several times a day.

Agios Nikolaos travel guide

The main attraction of the town is Lake Voulismeni, which has a volcanic origin. In this regard, it is very deep, especially given the small diameter. The reservoir is located right in the city center. On one side of it there is a picturesque rock, and on the other three, the natural landmark is surrounded by cafes, restaurants and clubs.

There are numerous boats along the water's edge. The view is romantic, especially at night. There is only one "but" that makes parents of young children tense up. Entry into the "bottomless" reservoir is not limited by anything, and the embankment pavement is an inclined surface. As a result, babies will have to be watched very carefully!

Having chosen Agios Nikolaos for rest in Crete, you should definitely visit another local attraction - the Archaeological Museum, which is considered the second largest on the island. Here you can see antique jewelry, vases and bowls. The most unique exhibit is considered to be a real skull with a gold coin in its mouth and a laurel wreath on top of its head.

Of course, every tourist who finds himself in these parts should see the numerous pedestrian districts in the center, walk along the streets of Joseph Kundouros and March 25, reach the pier where charming yachts with snow-white sails are parked, visit the port, from where it is really possible to go on a boat trip.

From year to year, tourists increasingly travel to Crete. Agios Nikolaos can be safely called the ideal resort located on the island. People who decide to spend their holidays in this picturesque corner of beautiful Greece will never forget the positive and friendly atmosphere with which guests from all over the world are welcomed here!

Recently I reviewed several hotels, perhaps this information will interest you: Rhodes - and, Kassandra -. I wrote about the beaches of Corfu.

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On this I say goodbye.

Tatiana Solomatina