Agios Nikolaos Town holidays

How to reach Agios Nikolaos

Flight time: Flights to Heraklion, the main hub for direct flights from major European airports, take around 4 hours from London and other UK cities.

Transfer time: Once you land at Heraklion International Airport, you can reach Agios Nikolaos in about an hour by car or taxi. Making the journey by public bus is a little more awkward; you’ll need to catch a bus from the main road to Heraklion, a 15-minute ride away, and change to a service to Agios Nikolaos. The Agios Nikolaos leg of the journey takes 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.

Price: Taxiing from the airport to Agios Nikolaos costs around €80–€90. Travelling by bus should cost around €10 all in.

Best time to visit Agios Nikolaos

The best time for your holidays to Agios Nikolaos depends on what you want to do and see.

April to June is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, with average temperatures ranging from 17 to 24°C, minimal rainfall and 9 to 12 hours of sunshine. For swimming, the sea will be a comfortable 22°C by May.

July to August brings dry, hot, sunny weather (26°C on average, with mirroring sea temperatures) and beach-loving crowds.

September and October are ideal months if you like it less hot, with average temperatures ranging from 24 to 20°C. The sea is still warm, while the crowds have thinned, making it a great time for enjoying both the beaches and cultural sites.

November to March is mild, wet and breezy. Temperatures drop from 17°C in November to 12°C by February before nudging to 14°C in March. These months are best suited for those who prefer a quieter experience, with the added benefit of lower prices and fewer tourists. On the downside, some attractions and restaurants may be closed.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Agios Nikolaos.

• Currency: Greece uses the euro (€).

• Getting around: Agios Nikolaos is well-connected by public buses, making it easy to explore nearby towns and beaches. A single bus ticket within the town costs around €1.80. Taxis are also available, and for a more flexible option, car hire is popular, especially if you plan to explore more remote areas.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V 50 Hz. Plugs are two-pin Type C and F.

• Time zone: Greece runs on Eastern European Time, 2 hours ahead of GMT (3 hours ahead during Daylight Saving Time).

Best things to do in Agios Nikolaos

Nestled along Crete's east coast, Agios Nikolaos offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture and adventure. Whether you're wandering the town’s picturesque streets, soaking in the views over the Mirabello Bay or venturing out on day trips, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Lake Voulismeni: Agios Nikolaos’ centrepiece. The views across the lake are particularly stunning at sunset when the surrounding cliffs and town are bathed in golden light.

• Kritsa Village: Just a short drive from the town, this traditional village offers panoramic views over the surrounding olive groves and the sea beyond.

The best districts

• The Harbour Area: The town's vibrant hub, where you can watch fishing boats bobbing in the water, explore boutique shops or enjoy a meal at one of the many waterfront tavernas.

• Kitroplatia: This district is home to one of the town's best-known beaches and is a fantastic area to relax by the sea while still being close to excellent dining options and shops.

Parks and gardens

• Kroustas Pine Bee Forest: High in the hills, some 20-odd km from town, this is the perfect place to lose yourself for a few hours. Laced with hiking trails and places of interest (look for the information stand at the entrance), the phenomenal views of Mirabello Bay are the icing on the cake.

Museums

• Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos: Small but well-curated, this museum offers a deep dive into Cretan history, with artefacts dating from the Neolithic period up to Roman times. Highlights include grave goods from the Minoan cemetery of Agia Fotia and finds from the Palace of Malia.

• Cretan Olive Oil Farm: A working-farm-cum-living-history-museum, there’s no better place to learn about rural Cretan life, anything and everything from olive oil production to beekeeping and traditional cheese making.

Historical monuments

• Ancient Naxos: Set atop Mount Oxa, a half-hour drive from Agios Nikolaos, the panoramic views alone reward the hike up, which is just as well as little remains of the ancient fortified settlement itself beyond some walls and cisterns.

• Ancient Lato: Set in the saddle of the hills north of Kritsa, this is one of the best-preserved non-Minoan sites in Crete. Founded in the 7th century BC by the Dorians and abandoned around the 2nd century AD, in its heyday Lato was one of the most important city-states and has the monumental ruins to prove it.

Day trips in the area

• Spinalonga Island: Lying just off the coast near Elounda, the island has served as a Venetian fortress, an Ottoman stronghold and a leper colony. It has old fortifications and abandoned homes, not to mention spectacular views back towards the mainland.

• Dikteon Cave: Illuminated by an otherworldly green glow, with ominously dangling stalactites and reaching stalagmites and its small lake, it seems less of a stretch to buy into the legend that the cave was the birthplace of the god Zeus.

Activities for families in Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is a family-friendly destination with plenty to keep children and adults entertained.

• Family-friendly beaches: Beautiful, sandy Almyros Beach, with its shallow waters, is perfect for families with young children. There’s plenty of space to play, build sandcastles and relax under the sun.

• Playgrounds: Brightly coloured Ormos Playground is popular with local families in the evenings.

• Aquariums and zoos: Roughly a 25-minute drive away, Amazona Park will appeal to animal lovers. The nature park is home to a variety of South American animals.

• Water parks: A 40-odd-minute drive from Agios Nikolaos, Water City offers numerous slides, lazy rivers and pools, making it a fantastic day out for the whole family.

Free things to do in Agios Nikolaos

Whether you prefer nature, culture or simply soaking up the atmosphere or sun, there are some great free things to do on holidays to Agios Nikolaos.

• Beaches: From Kitroplatia to Ammoudi, Agios Nikolaos has several beautiful beaches that are free to access.

• Free events and annual festivals: Festivals and events are regularly staged across the municipality, from honey and almond festivals to live music performances.

• Free museums: Admission to state-owned museums and archeological sites is waived on the 6th March, 18th April, 18th May, the last weekend of September, 28th October and every first Sunday of the month from 1st November until 31st March.

• Churches: Agios Nikolaos has several small churches, such as the Church of Agios Nikolaos, after which the town is named. These buildings are open to the public and offer a peaceful retreat as well as insight into local religious practices, not to mention wonderful artworks.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: A 20-minute drive south of Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa Gorge is prime hiking territory with stunning rock formations.

• Snorkelling and diving: Boasting crystal-clear water (visibility over 30m), colourful fish, wrecks and underwater caverns, the Bay of Mirabello is popular with diving aficionados. Local dive centres offer equipment hire and guided tours.

• SUP: Wind protected, the Bay of Mirabello is also a good spot for paddleboarding.

• Road and mountain biking: Whatever your preference, you’ll find a trail to suit, whether it’s the paved route to Kritsa or a cross-country ride around the bay.

Beaches in Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, stunning scenery, and plenty of activities. Whether you prefer sandy shores or secluded coves, you’ll find a variety of options to enjoy during your stay. Here’s a look at some of the top beaches in the area:

Almyros Beach

Almyros Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Agios Nikolaos. Known for its soft golden sands and shallow waters, it’s an ideal spot for families and sunbathers. The beach is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, along with beach bars serving refreshing drinks and snacks.

• Highlights:

  • Family-friendly with safe swimming conditions

  • Facilities include showers and sunbeds

Voulisma Beach

Often referred to as one of the best beaches in Crete, Voulisma Beach features stunning turquoise waters framed by lush greenery. The soft sand and calm waters make it perfect for swimming, while the picturesque surroundings offer a great spot for relaxation and picnics.

• Features:

  • Crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling

  • Less crowded, providing a more tranquil atmosphere

Plaka Beach

Just a short drive from Agios Nikolaos, Plaka Beach is known for its beautiful setting and stunning views of Spinalonga Island. This small beach offers a peaceful escape, with plenty of shaded areas for relaxation. Enjoy a swim in the clear waters or explore the nearby tavernas for a taste of local cuisine.

• Highlights:

  • Scenic views of Spinalonga Island

  • Quiet and less touristy, perfect for a relaxing day

Kitroplateia Beach

Located right in the heart of Agios Nikolaos, Kitroplateia Beach offers easy access for those staying in the town. This sandy beach features a lively atmosphere, with plenty of nearby cafes and shops. It’s a great spot for people-watching and enjoying the local vibe.

• Features:

  • Vibrant atmosphere with beachside amenities

  • Convenient for a quick beach day after exploring the town

Ammoudi Beach

Ammoudi Beach is a charming little cove that provides a perfect getaway from the busier beaches. With its clear waters and picturesque surroundings, it’s a great place to relax and unwind. The beach is well-maintained, and there are plenty of spots to lay down a towel and enjoy the sun.

• Highlights:

  • Serene and scenic environment

  • Ideal for swimming and relaxation

Agios Nikolaos offers a wonderful selection of beaches that cater to all tastes, ensuring that every visitor can find their ideal spot by the sea. Whether you're lounging on the soft sands, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoying delicious local food at beachside tavernas, the beaches in this charming town promise a memorable holiday experience.

Local dishes in Agios Nikolaos

One of the joys of Agios Nikolaos holidays is indulging in Cretan cuisine, where fresh, local ingredients take centre stage.

Some typical dishes

• Staka Me Ayga: Just the thing for breakfast, poached or fried eggs served on top of Staka (a sort of buttery cream mixed with flour).

• Horta: Wild greens, often foraged from the countryside, boiled and served with a generous splash of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

Meze dishes

• Dakos: A traditional Cretan dish made with barley rusk (Paximadi) topped with chopped tomatoes, crumbled feta or mizithra cheese, fresh oregano and a dash of olive oil.

• Kohli Bourbouristi: This Cretan delicacy should appeal to adventurous eaters – pan-fried snails in their shells.

Meat dishes

• Paidakia: Grilled lamb chops (usually ribs cut from the rack) with lemon, oregano and olive oil.

• Biftekia: Landing somewhere between a burger and a meatball, Biftekia are made from ground pork, beef or lamb mixed with onions, breadcrumbs, eggs and herbs.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Psari Plaki: Firm white fish baked in the oven with olive oil, vegetables and herbs.

• Soupies Me Risi: Cuttlefish cooked in a tomato sauce with rice.

Street food

• Kalitsounia: Made from unleavened pastry filled with soft mizithra cheese, Kalitsounia can be sweet (with cinnamon, lemon zest and a drizzle of thyme honey) or savoury (with spinach).

• Gyros: Pitta bread loaded with grilled meat, red onions, tomatoes, lettuce and a generous dollop of yoghurt or Tzatziki.

Sweets and desserts

• Portokalopita: In a nutshell, syrup-drenched orange cake.

• Patouda: Crisp pastries filled with a mix of honey, nuts, dates, seeds and spices.

Local drinks

• Tsikoudia: A cousin to Tsipouro, Tsikoudia is a clear, colourless beverage distilled from grape pomace.

• Mournoraki: Distilled from black mulberries, Mournoraki is rarer than hen’s teeth, so well worth trying if you manage to come across it.