Agios Nikolaos: The Cosmopolitan Charm of Lasithi
Agios Nikolaos is an island-like town of effortless style and natural beauty. Built around a bottomless lake that connects to the sea, it is the sophisticated capital of the Lasithi region. In 2026, Agios Nikolaos remains a premier destination for those who want a blend of high-end luxury, traditional Cretan life, and access to the island’s most exotic eastern landscapes. From the glamour of Elounda to the mysterious history of Spinalonga, this is where the turquoise of the Mirabello Bay meets the warmth of the eastern sun.
Things to know about Agios Nikolaos
Geographically, Agios Nikolaos is located in eastern Crete on the shores of the Mirabello Bay. Historically, it was built over the ancient city of Lato pros Kamara. An ideal trip length is 5-6 days to explore the plateau of Lasithi and the eastern coast. It is famous for Lake Voulismeni, the luxury resorts of Elounda, and being the gateway to the haunting island of Spinalonga. The region is known for its slower pace of life and its exceptional honey and aromatic herbs.
Top attractions in Agios Nikolaos
Lake Voulismeni
The centerpiece of the town, this circular lake is surrounded by red rocks and dozens of cafes and restaurants. Legend says Athena and Artemis used to bathe here. A small channel connects it to the harbor, and it remains the most iconic and social spot in the city.
Spinalonga Island
A short boat ride from Plaka or Elounda, Spinalonga is a site of immense emotional weight. Originally a Venetian fortress, it later served as one of the last leper colonies in Europe. Walking through the abandoned streets and looking at the ruined houses is a powerful, haunting experience.
Elounda and the Gulf of Mirabello
Elounda is the epitome of luxury in Greece, home to several world-famous five-star resorts. The bay is a paradise of turquoise water and small islets. You can visit the sunken ancient city of Olous, where ruins are visible just below the surface on a calm day.
The Vai Palm Forest
Located on the far eastern tip of Crete, Vai is the largest natural palm forest in Europe. The 5,000 Theophrastus palm trees reach the shoreline of a beautiful sandy beach, creating a tropical landscape that is unique in the Mediterranean.
The Lasithi Plateau
A high-altitude fertile plain surrounded by mountains, famous for its thousands of white-sailed windmills that were traditionally used for irrigation. It is home to the Psychro Cave (Dictean Cave), where mythology says Zeus was born.
Ancient Lato
One of the best-preserved non-Minoan ancient cities in Crete. Perched between two hills, it offers a stunning view of the Mirabello Bay. You can see the ruins of the Agora, the theater, and the temples of this Dorian city-state.
Kritsa Village and Panagia Kera
Kritsa is one of the most traditional villages in Crete, known for its weaving and local products. Nearby is the Church of Panagia Kera, famous for having the best-preserved Byzantine frescoes on the island, dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries.
Plaka Village
A charming fishing village directly opposite Spinalonga. It is known for its high-quality seafood taverns and its pebble beach with crystal-clear water. It is the most authentic place to enjoy a meal after visiting the island fortress.
Voulisma Beach (Istron)
Often called ‘Golden Beach,’ Voulisma features white sand and bright turquoise water. It is one of the most beautiful and photographed beaches in eastern Crete, surrounded by lush green hills and offering a tropical vibe.
The Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos
Though small, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Minoan, Daedalic, and Roman periods found in eastern Crete. The ‘Goddess of Myrtos’—a unique libation vessel—is the museum’s most famous exhibit.
Island-hopping from Agios Nikolaos
The nearby port of Sitia (1 hour away) connects eastern Crete to the Dodecanese (Rhodes, Karpathos, Kasos). From Agios Nikolaos itself, there are daily excursion boats to Spinalonga and the Kolokytha peninsula. Most long-distance travelers arrive via Heraklion (1 hour west). It is the perfect base for exploring the wilder, less-visited east of the island.
