Free Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi That You’ll Love!

If you’re traveling to Crete on a budget, please keep this guide to free things to do in Agios Nikolaos and the rest of the Lasithi region for reference. It is full of free or nearly-free activities and things to do.

Loved by locals and tourists alike, the city offers plenty of opportunities for those traveling on a budget. Agios Nikolaos, the capital of the region of Lasithi, in Crete, is a gorgeous town full of great things to do. And… do believe me when I say that there are so many free things to do in the city and around, that you can easily spend your vacation here on a budget!

You will also find stunning free activities, fantastic villages to visit, and many more free things to do in the rest of Lasithi, so read on to learn and seize every opportunity!

Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos for Free

Here is the list of my favorite free things to do in Agios Nikolaos and around. Check these places and activities in the capital of Lasithi that are completely free to discover…

Lake Voulismeni

Yes, it might sound like an obvious thing to do, but taking a walk in the lake area of Agios Nikolaos is nothing but a must. And of course, it is free. There are many lovely spots for great pictures, starting with the Fishermen’s Crypt.

Stairs in Town

Also, don’t forget to explore the small alleys with the stairs leading uphill for even more breathtaking views of the lake and the sea.

In the surrounding area, there are a few monuments, worth passing by, for example, the statues dedicated to Eleftherios Venizelos and the one honoring Kritsotopoula, the heroine of the small village of Kritsa. 

You can also extend your walk by strolling along the seaside. Here take some time to discover the famous sculptures of the Abduction of Europe and the Horn of Almathea.

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Folklore Museum of Agios Nikolaos

The Folk Art Museum of Agios Nikolaos is easy to access since it’s right in front of the lake, next to the Tourist Information Bureau. While walking near Lake Voulismeni, don’t miss the chance to visit the Folklore Museum.

It houses a beautiful collection of traditional handmade items, from ornamented plates and embroidered carpets to wooden icons and precious manuscripts. 

It is a perfect opportunity to get familiar with the local everyday life of the past centuries. The entrance to the museum is free, but donations are highly appreciated.

Bioaroma Experience Shop

Once you step into this perfectly designed space you will feel a communion with nature. This is what Bioaroma is all about.

This organic cosmetics and perfumes company created an exceptional experience shop where you can sample their products absolutely for free. Moreover, there is a small museum section to learn about the role of herbs and essential oils in the Minoan times.

The welcoming staff is always ready to assist you and to share their knowledge about each product or its natural ingredients. To be honest, this is one of the most entertaining things to do in Agios Nikolaos for free!

I can’t guarantee that you will get out of Bioaroma without buying anything, but the whole experience can be absolutely free. The flagship store is located opposite the lake, more info here.

Neapoli Village

This lovely little village is located 15 km west of Agios Nikolaos, on the way to Heraklion. It’s a picturesque settlement and I recommend spending a few hours there to feel some real Cretan vibes.

Also in Neapoli, it’s possible to find things to do without spending a cent!

Folklore Museum of Neapoli

The Folklore Museum of Neapoli is a small but very informative museum where you can learn a lot about history and everyday life.

The museum houses a collection of everyday items, handmade textiles, wooden carvings, household utensils, and objects that were used in carpentry, tailor, or shoemaker’s workshops.

They’re mostly 19th-century objects which have been collected from the Mirabello area. The entrance to the museum is free, although you can donate before you leave.

Vassilakis Estate

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. The visit is free (tours have a fee). After tasting such a top-quality oil, I doubt you can leave without buying a bottle or two!

Virgin Mary, Neapoli Cathedral

A small but very beautiful from the inside, this Cathedral is a perfect place to spend a few peaceful moments. All the walls and the ceiling are covered with holy paintings. The main chandelier is also impressive and the wooden center piece is masterly carved.

Once you have explored the Cathedral, you can drive for a few minutes to visit the beautiful Kremasta Monastery or simply stop for a cup of Greek coffee at any of the local kafenia in the village.

Traditional Village of Kritsa

Kritsa is one of the oldest villages in Crete and one of the most scenic ones. It’s amphitheatrically built on the rocky hills and it’s surrounded by olive groves.

If you are planning a small getaway then this village is worth the experience! Over here, you can take a close-up look at the ancient textile crafts that are still produced in the area, witness women work on embroidery and purchase authentic (and affordable) souvenirs.

Rodanthi Museum

This unique museum is a result of many years of work by its owner, Mr. Giorgos! The museum houses an incredible collection of dried plants and fossils. And each of them was collected by the owner himself.

You will get in touch with rare plant spices that can be found only on Crete and learn the process of sun-drying herbs. Mr. Giorgos is always happy to share his knowledge and will provide all the details about each specimen.

His lovely wife always treats guests with tasty herbal tea. Remember to check the view from the back terrace overlooking the village, it’s simply breathtaking. There is no admission fee, but if you want you can make a donation.

Kritsotopoula Museum

This museum is dedicated to a well-known Cretan heroine – a girl named Rodanthe. The museum stands in the original house of Rodanthe’ which has been restored to the tiniest detail. When you visit, you’ll learn about this incredibly brave girl who took part in the Cretan Resistance.

Maria, the guide in the museum, is a descendant of Rodanthe’s family and will passionately share the story about the Girl of Kritsa and other interesting facts that only her family knows about. Entrance to the museum is free, but donations are welcome.

Hike the Gorge of Kritsa

Just outside the village of Kritsa, there’s a beautiful gorge to explore. During summer, the bed of the river is completely dry and this lets you explore in even deeper detail.

The hike is easy with some moderate climbing. It’s not long, so you can cover it in just a few hours. Kritsa Gorge is also a great place for children as they would love such an adventure. Most of the hiking path is shady, which makes it an ideal afternoon escape from the hot summer sun of the island.

More Free Things to Do in Lasithi

Lasithi is a rich region full of amazing landscapes to discover, these are some of the great places you can discover in the area without breaking the bank!

Timios Stavros Chapel

The small chapel of Timios Stavros is situated on the top of a hill above the village of Kalamafka, just 25 kilometers south of Agios Nikolaos. To reach the church you need to take a staired path from the village.

The walk is not as hard as it sounds, and it takes approximately 10 minutes. As you reach the chapel you can get great views from the top of the hill not just from Kalamafka but also from the surrounding mountains. 

Learn about Crete’s Flora at Votania Herbs Farm

Votania Herbs is a unique family-owned herb farm that was born to cultivate and preserve a variety of herbs, some of which can only be found on Crete. This place offers free guided meditations every week.

Just picture yourself in this serene space surrounded by herbs, lemon, and olive trees with a breathtaking view over the Sea of Crete… The pleasant smell of herbs heated under the sun finishes this relaxing atmosphere with a magic touch.

Votania is the setting to spend some quality time with your inner self and in contact with nature.

Hike Richtis Gorge

Richtis Gorge can easily be described as one of the most beautiful gorges in Crete. And no wonder… Once you step under the shade of lush planes and walnut trees, you’ll be overwhelmed by the incredible beauty of the island’s nature.

Hike following the river, to be rewarded with the views of a scenic waterfall. If time allows, spend some time in this amazing spot and indulge in a swim in its refreshing waters.

End your walk at the beautiful secluded beach located at the end of the gorge, and enjoy some time by the crystal clear sea.

>> RELATED ARTICLES
– Beautiful Waterfalls in Crete That You Must See!
– Why You Will Love Doing the Richtis Gorge Hike in Lasithi (East Crete)

Visit the Lasithi Plateau

Drive from Agios Nikolaos to the entrance of the plateau and then follow the road around it to discover one of the most important groups of mountain settlements in Crete.

The area is quiet and peaceful, surrounded by the imposing heights of the Dikti Mountains.

Head Further East: Toplou Monastery & Vai Beach

If you’re into wine tasting, isolated places, and beautiful landscapes, then embark on a road trip to the easternmost city of Sitia.

And from there, take the mountain road to reach the imposing premises of Toplou Monastery.

Since it’s in an isolated and rather vulnerable position, the monastery, which played a key role in the different fight of Crete for independence, stands behind solid fortification walls about 10 meters high.

Toplou Monastery is not as big as other Cretan monasteries, but it’s probably one of the most beautiful of all. With a very small fee you can even visit the museum or, if you prefer, go wine tasting in the cellars of the nearby winery managed by the monks.

If, instead, you’re more of a beach-type kind of person, drive to the coast to discover one of Crete’s most beautiful beaches. Vai Beach is surrounded by the biggest palm tree forest in Europe and it’s a gem you can’t miss when visiting East Crete.

>> Check out other Cretan monasteries in Lasithi here.

Visit the Southern Town of Ierapetra

Ierapetra is a quiet but fairly big seaside town located in the south of the region of Lasithi. A visit to Ierapetra is a perfect option for a half-day trip from Agios Nikolaos.

You can easily explore the town on foot, walk along the seaside or check their ancient buildings, including the Venetian Fortress or Kales which you can access for free.

When you head to the main square of Ierapetra, check out the gorgeous Turkish Mosque and the fountain in the front yard, or get lost in the small alleys of the city to spot the abandoned House of Napoleon.

It’s not really impressive but you can include it in your Ierapetra walking itinerary. Finally, make a stop at the lovely church of Afendis Christos. And, of course, stroll along the seaside promenade where you can sit at the café right next to the water.

Aren’t you surprised at the many exciting things you can do in Agios Nikolaos and the whole Lasithi region for free (or next to free)?

Trust me, East Crete is one of the most beautiful areas on the island and you don’t need to spend a lot to see the best of it. It’ll be just awesome to discover all of its secrets with a reduced budget.

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Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos and Lasithi for Free

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