2 Days in Agios Nikolaos: Ideal 2-Day Itinerary to See the Best of Agios, Crete!

2 Days in Agios Nikolaos Crete, A Great City Break

The east of Crete is a somewhat undervalued region that many tourists overlook when planning their itinerary on the island. And still, it guards unique secret places and uncountable homegrown Cretan traditions.

My suggestion? Devote some time to see this region! And if you’re visiting with an organized tour, try to have some extra hours to spend in Agios Nikolaos, you won’t regret it! Let’s check this short itinerary and discover what you can do with just a few hours in Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi’s main town.

Spending a couple of days in Agios Nikolaos is not a bad idea when devoting one or two weeks to the entire island. Even just a weekend in the small town of Agios (as locals call it) would allow you to explore beyond the city boundaries to venture into the mountains or discover the gorgeous seaside villages in the region. 

Starting from Agios Nikolaos, there’s no way you miss a stroll in the area of Lake Voulismeni, a central point in town. The curious lake is connected to the Sea of Crete through a narrow passage.

Day 1 in Agios Nikolaos

Morning: City Center and Lake Voulismeni

Considered the beating heart of Agios, Lake Voulismeni is the place where both locals and visitors gather at any time of the day. Choose a traditional bar or a trendy café by the lake and enjoy a few hours relaxing and soaking in the city views.

Then, take a stroll along the pedestrian roads of Agios Nikolaos, listen to street musicians, or shop for souvenirs and local crafts.

Afternoon: Elounda & Spinalonga

Moving away from the center of Agios, you can discover some of the local beaches, but also the international nearby resort of Elounda. You can also make some time to visit Plaka, a small fishing village just a short ride from Elounda.

So get in your car (or hop on the city bus) and head to Elounda. It will take you no more than 20 minutes to reach one of the most exclusive resorts on the island. The village is in a privileged position, facing the tranquil Bay of Mirabello, where waters tend to be so calm and quiet that it is often compared to a lake. 

Once in Elounda, you can discover the nearby Sunken City of Olous. This was an ancient Dorian city that today lies underwater. It’s visible on both sides of the isthmus connecting the peninsula of Spinalonga to the mainland in Elounda. 

🗺️ CONSIDER BOOKING A GUIDED TOUR
→ Fun boat ride around around Elounda Bay

According to different studies, the city might have sunk due to a shift caused by an earthquake during the second century AD. Underwater research has revealed the rest of the submerged linear buildings and roads. Other studies have revealed the remains of a Hellenistic defensive wall and tower, probably a fortification. Ancient texts found within the ruins link Olous with the ancient cities of Knossos and even with the island of Rhodes.

During the Venetian period, there used to be a large salt pan complex in the area of Olous, however, most of the materials from the ancient city were reused during the construction of the fortress in Spinalonga.

Later on, I suggest boarding a boat to check the former leper colony of Spinalonga, one of the most stunning archaeological sites and historic places to see in East Crete.

This famous landmark in Crete is an important archaeological site as well as the last standing leper colony in the country, active until the 1950s.

🗺️ CONSIDER BOOKING A GUIDED TOUR
→ Tour with access to Spinalonga Island

Quick facts about Spinalonga:

• Spinalonga is a small island located on the northeastern coast of Crete, right in front of Elounda. The island’s tragic past and rich history fascinate everyone who visits.
• Spinalonga inspired author Victoria Hislop to write The Island, a best-seller since its publication, which also transformed into a TV series, the most successful one even aired on Greek TV.
• The islet is 67 km from Heraklion, 15,5 km from Agios Nikolaos, 4,8 km from Elounda, and 800 m (5 to 10-minute boat trip) from Plaka.
• The official name of the island is not Spinalonga, but Kalydon.
• Spinalonga is a fortified island that you can visit in about one hour.
• The islet was probably an area protecting the port of the ancient city of Olous also known as Olounda (modern Elounda).
• The bastion of Spinalonga dates from 1579, it was built by the Venetians.

The best-known part of the history of the island starts back in 1903, with the establishment of a leper colony which was active until 1957. Since a cure for leprosy had not been found, the affected ones were sent to live on the islet, thus cutting off any contact with the rest of the world.

Initially, patients arrived from Crete, but after the unification with Greece (1913), the island also received patients from the mainland. Later on, Spinalonga was classified as an International Hospital for Leprosy.

Back in Agios, I eagerly suggest heading to the seaside area to witness the sunset with a gorgeous view of the lake. Afterwards, pick a place to eat near Lake Voulismeni, Karnagio and Migomis are two safe bets!

😉 RELATED ARTICLE
→ Fantastic Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos That You Will Enjoy!

Day 2 in Agios Nikolaos

Morning: Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos

The Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos hosts archaeological objects from Lasithi that belong to different Minoan periods. Among the findings are objects from the seaside cemetery of Agia Fotia (close to Ierapetra) and a remarkable skull of an athlete with a gold wreath and a coin from Polyrrinia in his mouth.

This exhibit comes from an Ancient cemetery in Lato, the best-preserved town from the Hellenistic period.

ℹ️ USEFUL INFO
→ If you plan to visit, check the official website periodically for updated information.

Afternoon: Kritsa Village and Panagia Kera

If you’re up for a short road trip just outside of Agios, I suggest getting on your car and driving to the nearby mountain village of Kritsa (buses to Kritsa leave from the main bus station too). Kritsa is a traditional village about 10 kilometers southwest of Agios Nikolaos.

The village features narrow streets lined with picturesque houses with small courtyards, trees, and colorful bougainvillea climbing up the walls and offers offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys due to its location on the slopes of a hill.

On your way to Kritsa, I suggest stopping for a visit to Panagia Kera, one of the most important Byzantine churches on the island. The church, at the entrance of the village, is known for its beautiful frescoes dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, which .depict scenes from the life of Christ and saints, making it a popular destination for art enthusiasts. 

Kritsa is the perfect place for those interested in life in a traditional Cretan village, where time seems to move at a slower pace. During your stay in Kritsa, you will certainly want to take more than just one leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and immerse yourself in its traditional charm.

Along the way, discover the traits of local architecture. Admire the little stone houses with colorful flowers, decorated gardens, and small courtyards.

Check out some of the local small chapels and be amazed at the picturesque hidden corners that offer stunning opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

In Kritsa, you can also visitthe Krisotopoula Museum, museum, one of the most important exhibitions in the Lasithi region, is dedicated to the local heroine, Rodanthi. She was a village resident who killed a Turk politician during the Greek uprising in 1817 and joined the rebel group of Lasithi Plateau dressed as a man.

According to history, she was a martyr in the hands of the Turkish during the Ottoman period and one of the many heroes who fought for Crete’s independence.

Afternoon: Back in Agios Nikolaos, Folklore Museum

You can go for a walk in the pedestrian roads of Agios, hit Kitroplateia Beach or go shopping for souvenirs. Later on, pay a visit to the small but interesting Folklore Museum, right by the lake. Here you can explore a collection that features authentic items of Cretan art, reflecting the island’s old traditional life.

Dinner in town

Head back to Agios Nikolaos for a succulent dinner, after all, you must be starving after all the exploring! These are my top recommendations for dinner in town:

• Karnagio (Kon/nou Paleologou 24, Ag. Nikolaos) – My favorite restaurant in town, it’s located right next to the lake and it’s a good idea to reserve a table in advance as it’s always packed full.
• Piato (Minoos 5, Ag. Nikolaos) – Traditional Cretan cuisine featuring also international dishes. The placce is also good for families.
• Pelagos (Stratigou Koraka 11, Ag. Nikolaos) – More refined and ideal for a special evening on the outdoor area. Fresh fish and seafood are a must.

Where to Stay in Agios Nikolaos

• Do you want to drive around and be free to explore more? Check this step-by-step guide to driving in Crete.
• Fancy a good night’s sleep after a tiring day in town? Check top-rated accommodation in Lasithi and book the perfect place to stay.

Extra Time in Agios

If you find yourself with extra time in this region, it will be hard to choose what to do. I suggest exploring the area with a more relaxed pace to discover nearby villages and gorgeous beaches

In Town

It’s a good idea to start the day with a Cretan breakfast at Kimzu Sea Lounge (44 Anapafseos St).

Then, walk towards the center of town and explore the amazing street art that decorates some of the stairs that populate Agios Nikolaos. In the afternoon, check out the nearby Almyros Beach, a wide golden shore 2,5 km east of Agios Nikolaos. This area is fairly easy to reach if you have your car (public transport from Agios Nikolaos is also available).

Late in the evening, you can enjoy a walk back to town and stop for a cocktail at Peripou, right on Agios’ main street.

For Foodies

I suggest paying a visit to a nearby Olive Oil production center. Vassilakis Estate is a family-owned factory that produces high-quality olive oil. They are very passionate about what they do and always welcome visitors willing to get familiar with olive oil making.

Their Friendly Olive Tour will take you on a one-hour journey to learn the secrets of processing olives. By the end of the tour, you’ll also sample the exquisite extra virgin olive oil they produce. They are located in Neapolis Gerania, Neapoli (Lasithi).

For lunch, I recommend exploring the nearby village of Krousta, a short 15-minute car ride from Agios, where you will find traditional Cretan tavernas and wonderful grilled meat. In the evening, instead, head to the nearby village of Latsida to have dinner at Miliaras Taverna (Agios Antonios Road, Latsidas-Lasithi).

According to the legend, there is a taverna in town serving one of the best souvlaki on the island! I’ve tried them, and they are quite good. The place is quite affordable too and the portions are huge!

Beaches in Agios

If you enjoy visiting the beaches, it’s a good idea to drive along the northern road, facing the Mirabello Bay. Leave Agios and head east to each the nearby Kalo Chorio. Once in the village, you can explore one of the most beautiful beaches in Lasithi, Voulisma Beach, where you can spend either the morning or the whole day.

😉 RELATED ARTICLE
→ Best Beaches in Lasithi (East Crete)

It’s not impossible to squeeze in another great beach today, and this one is Tholos. Located about 20 minutes from Voulisma, this is a solitary shore with a few tamarisks providing shade and a cozy beach tavern for drinks and snacks.

The sea is incredibly clear, and you will certainly spend a very relaxing time.

Not far from Tholos, you can also explore the ancient olive tree in Kavousi, and then get back on the road to Agios

Mountains in Lasithi

Drive all the way to the starting point of the Lasithi Plateau and spend a day driving along this unique circuit with incredible landscapes. Along the way, you can stop and explore small mountain villages, eat traditional food, and even pick from apple and pear trees.

For a more exciting experience, make a stop at the Psychro village to access the imposing Dikteon Andron, known also as the Cave of Zeus.

Alternatively, If you want to avoid the mountains and prefer to drive along the coastal road, set up early from Agios towards the east, driving on the Agios Nikolaos-Lasithi road.

It will take you about an hour and 15 minutes to reach the village of Exo Mouliana, where you will find the entrance to Richtis Gorge. Exploring the gorge is really rewarding, the hike can take from 2 to 4 hours. At the end of the path, you will find a waterfall as well as a solitary beach to take a refreshing swim after the hike.

⛰️ CONSIDER BOOKING A GUIDED TOUR
→ Richtis Gorge tour

Agios for Families

You can devote a day to the whole family by starting quite early in the morning. Drive to Sitia, the easternmost city on the island. Once in the area, drive a bit more towards the south to visit Zakros.

If you have small kids in tow, the earlier you arrive the better if you want to avoid extreme temperatures. Here all the family can explore the Minoan Site of Zakros, one of the four Minoan palaces in Crete. Right after, you can have a fresh lunch at a seaside taverna, or drive back north to visit another great Lasithi beach…

Kids love archaeological sites but they also love to swim and play with the sand. About 35 km from Zakros (towards the northern coast), it’s possible to spend the afternoon on one of the most popular beaches in Crete, Vai Beach. Other than being safe and wide, the beach hosts the most important palm grove in Europe, so finding protection against the Cretan sun won’t be a problem.

Drive back to Agios early as the trip can be long and tiring. Once in town, check out one of the many restaurants by the lake or enjoy an ice cream cone or a delicious chocolate crepe at O Crepas (Akti Stilianou, Agios Nikolaos).

😉 RELATED ARTICLE
→ Best Day Trips from Agios Nikolaos

Practical Details & Info to Spend Two Days in Agios

Where to stay

I have two favorite hotels in Lasithi, St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas is one of them, the other one is Minos Beach Art Hotel.

You can also read this guide about accommodation in Lasithi if you’re still uncertain about where to stay on the island (the guide comes with a bonus 2-week itinerary too!).

Renting a car and driving in Crete

I always recommend companies that I personally use and hotels that I know either due to my job on the island or because I’ve personally stayed there.

When it comes to car rental, I’ve many times recommended local companies since they offer good value for money. They have great prices, crystal clear conditions, and brand-new cars.

How to reach Agios Nikolaos from Heraklion Airport

There is no airport in Agios Nikolaos, chances are that you will be arriving in Heraklion.

The airport of Heraklion is 59.8 km from Agios Nikolaos, which means that a trip from Heraklion Airport to Agios is about an hour. The local city bus company of Heraklion (KTEL) connects both towns with a regular bus service.

Arriving or departing by sea: The port of Heraklion

The Port of Heraklion serves not only the capital of Crete but also different nearby towns, Agios Nikolaos is one of them.

The port receives daily arrivals from Athens and other islands. If you’re on a cruise ship, it’s good to know that a few of these massive ships dock at the port of Agios Nikolaos during the high season. Plan in advance to make the most of your day and calculate road times too.

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