Eastern Crete

A travel guide from Agios Nikolaos to Zakros – for those seeking peace and quiet, culture lovers and adventurers

Eastern Crete is the unspoilt, wild and quiet part of the island. If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle and crowds and are instead looking for authentic villages, secluded beaches and archaeological treasures, this is the place for you. In this guide, we take you from Agios Nikolaos via Sitia to the far east of Zakros – with lots of insider tips and inspiration for explorers.

Agios Nikolaos – a stylish starting point

The capital of the Lassithi region is picturesquely situated on Lake Voulismeni, which is said to be bottomless. Agios Nikolaos is the ideal starting point for exploring the east and offers urban flair without losing its serenity.

Highlights:

• Walk around the lake with views of cafés and fishing boats
• Archaeological museum with finds from eastern Crete
• Shopping in small boutiques and craft shops
• Boat trip to the island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony

Tip: Go for a swim early in the morning at Kitroplatia beach and then enjoy a Greek coffee with a view.

Elounda & Plaka – Luxury meets authenticity

These two places are located just a few kilometres north of Agios Nikolaos:

• Elounda: Known for its upscale resorts and well-kept bays.
• Plaka: An authentic fishing village with taverns right on the waterfront.

From here, you can reach the famous island of Spinalonga, which became known worldwide through Victoria Hislop's novel ‘The Island’.

Lassithi Plateau – Myth & Nature

A trip to the green heart of the region takes you to the Lassithi Plateau, known for:

• Windmills with white sails
• The Dikteon Andron, a stalactite cave where, according to myth, Zeus was born
• Small villages such as Tzermiado with traditional taverns

Here you will find peace and quiet, spectacular views and authentic Cretan country life

Sitia – The forgotten east

Sitia is a charming, less touristy port town with an authentic atmosphere. It is ideal as a stopover on the way to Zakros or Xerokambos.

What you can experience:

• Walks along the promenade with views of fishing boats
• Visit the Venetian fortress Kazarma
• Wineries such as Toplou Monastery Winery
• Sandy beach right in the centre – quiet & clean

Culinary tip: Be sure to try Xerotigana – fried dough rolls with honey and sesame seeds.

Beach paradises in the east

Vai – The palm beach

Europe's only natural palm forest meets turquoise sea and fine sand. Yes, Vai is touristy – but rightly so. If you arrive early (before 10 a.m.) or travel in October, you can experience paradise almost alone.

Xerokambos

A secret coastal dream: wide bays, shallow turquoise blue water, hardly any hotels. Perfect for individualists and nature lovers. A place to stay, not just pass through.

Zakros – archaeology at the end of the world

Kato Zakros is secluded on the east coast – and home to one of the most important Minoan palaces in Crete. The atmosphere here is mystical, peaceful and special.

Highlights:

• Minoan Palace of Zakros – still partly unexplored
• Hike through the Gorge of the Dead – impressive nature & burial caves
• Swimming in the quiet bay with taverns right on the waterfront

Tip: It's worth staying overnight here – there are family-run guesthouses and pure tranquillity under the starry sky.