Holiday in Agios Nikolaos

What makes Agios Nikolaos special as a destination?

Agios Nikolaos is the glamorous heart of East Crete and a coastal town that delights with its famous Voulismeni Lake, elegant boutiques, and a relaxed, almost South French atmosphere. The capital of the Lasithi Prefecture is located on Mirabello Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the entire Mediterranean, and has transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a popular holiday destination with an international flair, all while retaining its Greek charm. The absolute landmark of the town is Voulismeni Lake - a round, allegedly bottomless freshwater basin in the city center, connected to the sea by a narrow canal. Cafes and restaurants are arranged around the lake on several levels, and the steep rock walls framing the lake give the place an almost magical atmosphere. According to legend, the goddesses Athena and Artemis bathed here. The town itself impresses with its hilly topography featuring picturesque stairs, winding alleys, and viewpoints from which new perspectives on the lake, the harbor, and the bay can be discovered. The marina with its elegant boats, the palm-lined promenade, and the small city beaches Kitroplateia and Ammos invite you to linger. The surroundings of Agios Nikolaos offer some of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, including the famous Vai palm beach and the island of Spinalonga with its moving history as a former leper colony. From Germany, Agios Nikolaos can be reached via Heraklion Airport in about an hour's drive. The connection is excellent, as Heraklion is directly served by numerous German airports. The best travel time is from May to October, with autumn being particularly mild and calm. Agios Nikolaos is an excellent starting point for exploring the wild East Crete with its gorges, high plateaus, and authentic mountain villages.