Agios Nikolaos - Discovering Greece

Travelling to Agios Nikolaos

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Agios Nikolaos, a pretty good destination in Greece (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Agios Nikolaos and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Agios Nikolaos, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Greece, here's everything to know about Agios Nikolaos for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is a coastal town located in eastern Crete, Greece. It is the capital of the Lassithi region and has a population of approximately 14,000 people. The town is known for its picturesque harbor, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Agios Nikolaos is also a popular destination for tourists, thanks to its many shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as boating, snorkeling, and hiking, as well as exploring the numerous archaeological sites in the surrounding area.

What to visit in Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is a coastal town in the eastern part of the Greek island of Crete. Some of the top tourist attractions in Agios Nikolaos, along with some information about each, are: 1. Lake Voulismeni: This small lake in the center of Agios Nikolaos is a scenic spot with turquoise waters surrounded by cliffs. The lake is connected to the sea by a narrow channel and has great views from the surrounding cafes and tavernas.
2. Spinalonga Island: This small island is located just off the coast of Crete and was used as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction with a fascinating history and beautiful scenery.
3. Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Minoan, Roman and Byzantine periods and provides a great insight into the history of the town and the surrounding area.
4. Kitroplatia Beach: This sandy beach is located in the heart of Agios Nikolaos and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. It is well-maintained and has many restaurants and cafes nearby.
5. Byzantine Church of Panagia Kera: This 13th-century church is located on a hillside overlooking the town and is famous for its well-preserved frescoes and beautiful architecture.
6. Folklore Museum of Agios Nikolaos: This museum is dedicated to the traditional way of life in Crete and displays tools, costumes, and artifacts that were used by locals in the past.
7. Monastery of Toplou: This 15th-century monastery is located near the town of Sitia, about an hour's drive from Agios Nikolaos. It has impressive architecture and houses a collection of religious artifacts and icons.
8. Gournia Archaeological Site: This Minoan archeological site is located on the coast, about a 30-minute drive from Agios Nikolaos. The site dates back to around 1600 BC and provides insights into the Minoan civilization.
9. Elounda: This neighboring seaside village to Agios Nikolaos is home to some of the most upscale resorts on the island and is a great place to enjoy the beach, sea and some luxurious pampering.
10. Lato: This ancient hilltop city is approximately 5 km away from Agios Nikolaos, and it was once a significant Larisa settlement. It has excellent views, and a small museum displaying artifacts discovered on-site in the area.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Greece, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Agios Nikolaos

The best time to visit Agios Nikolaos (Greece) is during the months of May, June, July, August, September, and October. In these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 25-30°C. During the peak summer months of July and August, the city can become crowded with tourists, so it may be best to visit in May, June, or September for a quieter and more peaceful holiday. Overall, Agios Nikolaos is a great destination to visit all year round due to its mild Mediterranean climate.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is a beautiful coastal town located in the eastern part of the island of Crete, Greece. The most convenient way to get to Agios Nikolaos is by flying into the nearby airport of Heraklion International Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis" (HER). From there, you can take a bus, a taxi, or rent a car to reach Agios Nikolaos.
- By Bus: There is a regular bus service from the airport to Agios Nikolaos. The bus ride takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the traffic and the number of stops along the way. You can check the bus schedule and buy tickets from the KTEL website or at the airport bus station.
- By Taxi: You can also take a taxi from the airport to Agios Nikolaos, which will take around 1 hour. The taxi fare is around 70-80 euros, depending on the time of day and the number of passengers.
- By Car: If you prefer to explore the island on your own, you can rent a car from the numerous car rental agencies available at the airport. The drive from the airport to Agios Nikolaos takes around 1 hour, and the road is well-signposted.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Agios Nikolaos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Agios Nikolaos

Sure, here are some typical foods of Agios Nikolaos, Greece: 1. Dakos: A Cretan meze consisting of a thick slice of toasted bread, topped with fresh tomato, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, and oregano.
2. Souvlaki: A traditional Greek dish, consisting of marinated meat (usually pork or chicken) skewered and grilled, served with pita bread and often topped with onions, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce.
3. Greek Salad: A simple but delicious salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, green bell peppers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, all tossed with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
4. Dolmades: Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat, then cooked slowly in a lemony broth.
5. Moussaka: A hearty casserole dish made with layers of sautéed eggplant, spiced ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce, then baked until golden brown.
6. Tzatziki: A classic Greek dip made with strained yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, and dill. Perfect for dipping bread, vegetables, or even meat.
7. Saganaki: A small, fried cheese dish (often made with feta or kefalograviera cheese) that is crispy on the outside and soft and melty on the inside. Often served with lemon wedges.
Enjoy sampling all of these delicious foods during your trip to Agios Nikolaos!
You can find general info about typical foods in Greece here.

Is Agios Nikolaos an expensive destination for tourists?

Agios Nikolaos is a popular tourist destination in Greece, and prices for activities, accommodations, and dining can vary depending on the season and location. Generally, it is considered a more upscale destination with higher prices compared to some other parts of Greece, especially during peak tourist season. However, there are still affordable options available, especially if you plan ahead and research your options thoroughly. It's also important to note that prices for accommodations and activities may be negotiable, so it's worth trying to haggle if you're on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is a popular tourist destination in Greece, known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque harbor, and vibrant nightlife. The best areas to find accommodation for your trip to Agios Nikolaos include the following: 1. Agios Nikolaos Town: This is the heart of the city and the most popular area for tourists, offering a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants, bars, and shops.
2. Elounda: This is a luxurious and upscale area located about 10 km from Agios Nikolaos, with high-end hotels and resorts, as well as spectacular views of the sea and the nearby islands.
3. Ammoudi: This is a quiet and peaceful area that is ideal for those who prefer a more relaxing and laid-back atmosphere, with several beaches and seaside tavernas.
4. Havania: This area is located just outside the town of Agios Nikolaos and offers a more peaceful and residential atmosphere, with several small hotels and apartments for rent.
Overall, the best area to stay in Agios Nikolaos will depend on your budget, preferences, and travel plans.
You can check hotel prices at Agios Nikolaos here:
Booking.com

Is Agios Nikolaos a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Agios Nikolaos is considered a safe place for tourists. As with any tourist destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in crowded areas. However, overall, the crime rate in Agios Nikolaos is low, and tourists can generally feel safe during their visit. It is always advisable to take basic safety precautions such as not leaving personal belongings unattended and being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Greece here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Agios Nikolaos.

What type of travelers will enjoy Agios Nikolaos the most?

Agios Nikolaos, Greece can be an excellent destination for a variety of travelers. Here are a few examples: - Couples: Agios Nikolaos has a romantic aura that makes it an ideal destination for couples. With stunning sunsets, beaches, and scenic views, couples will enjoy the beautiful surroundings and ambience. Moreover, there are cute cafes, bars, and restaurants that are perfect for a date night.
- Families: The city is a great place for families to have a fun-filled vacation. The beaches are child-friendly, and there are good accommodations with kid-friendly amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and even babysitting services. Families can also explore the local aquarium, go on boat rides around the islets nearby, and visit cultural attractions like museums.
- Young People: Despite being a quiet city, Agios Nikolaos also has its fair share of nightlife. There are a few bars and nightclubs that are ideal for young people looking for entertainment. Additionally, the fact that the city is home to a university means that there is an energetic vibe. Overall, Agios Nikolaos caters to a variety of travelers, so there's something for everyone.

How to get around Agios Nikolaos

In Agios Nikolaos, you can move around by foot, bike, car, taxi, or local bus. The town center is compact enough to easily walk around and explore, while renting a bike can also be a great way to get around and see more of the surrounding areas. Taxis are widely available, and car rentals can be helpful if you want to explore beyond the town’s immediate vicinity. Local buses also run frequently to and from destinations all around the area.

What to see around Agios Nikolaos

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Agios Nikolaos: 1. Spinalonga Island: This small island located in the Gulf of Elounda is known for its historical significance as a leper colony. The island is just a short boat ride away from Agios Nikolaos.
2. Elounda: A charming fishing village located just a few kilometers from Agios Nikolaos that has stunning views of the Mirabello Bay. It's a great place to visit for a relaxing day at the beach.
3. Lato: This well-preserved ancient city is perched high above Agios Nikolaos and boasts incredible views of the surrounding area. Its ruins include houses, temples, a theater and a market.
4. Kritsa: A traditional mountain village located 11 kilometers west of Agios Nikolaos, known for its excellent handmade embroidery and lace.
5. Ierapetra: A picturesque coastal town located on the southeastern coast of Crete, about 32 kilometers from Agios Nikolaos. Ierapetra has beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a lively nightlife scene.
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