Agios Nikolaos on the lacy northeastern shores of Crete is a picturesque coastal town where you can experience authentic Cretan hospitality. Nestled away from the noise and massive tourism, Agios Nikolaos combines relaxation and pure Cretan experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Crete.
Take the time for a stroll around the famous Lake Voulismeni, satisfy your palate with authentic Cretan culinary delights at the local tavernas, and explore the nearby beaches for summer vacations you’ll carry with you long after your footprints have faded from its shores.
A Town with Real Character
The heart of Agios Nikolaos beats around Lake Voulismeni. Legend speaks of goddesses Athena and Artemis bathing in its mysterious, depthless waters under the moonlight, away from mortal eyes.
Today, Lake Voulismeni is surrounded by many cozy cafes and traditional tavernas offering some of the most delicious Cretan dishes you definitely need to try. Families and friends gather regularly—especially during weekends—to unwind in the sunshine-filled square. Enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere and experience this wonderful community tradition yourself.
Unforgettable Sun-Kissed Beaches
While Crete is worldwide famous for its stunning beaches, the shores of Agios Nikolaos stand distinctly apart.
Voulisma Beach (Golden Beach)
Voulisma Beach with its tranquil atmosphere and crystal clear turquoise waters is a stunning setting, worth visiting. Here the water is splendid and the sand is one of the cleanest and softest you will ever see. If the are no winds, the place is perfect for adults and children alike to snorkel or try other sports activities.
Almyros Beach
This lovely, tranquil beach is ideal for families, especially those with young children. Awarded a Blue Flag for cleanliness, Almyros offers safe, shallow waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. With convenient parking and ample space to spread out, visitors can also explore the nearby hill offering picturesque views. Its calm atmosphere and beautiful coves make it equally appealing for couples seeking a peaceful retreat.
Ammoudi Beach
Set slightly away from the main town yet within an easy walk from most places, Ammoudi Beach is an exceptional choice with its beautiful sands and crystal-clear waters. Relax either on the beach or from the rocky promontories accessible via metal steps along the promenade. The inviting water and scenic backdrop make this beach ideal for sunbathing, enjoying cocktails, or having brunch while gazing at the picturesque view of the city. Despite its compact size, at Ammoudi you will be treated with excellent services, including many dining and drink options.
Mouthwatering Food That Locals Actually Eat
Crete is a food lover’s paradise—from fresh, seasonal fruits and sun-ripened vegetables to mouthwatering salads, juicy grilled meats, traditional cheeses and dishes passed down through generations. Here are some of the must-try dishes when you find yourself here:
Dakos: Tastyness lies in simple things — Dakos is crispy Cretan rusks topped with juicy tomatoes, creamy mizithra cheese, aromatic herbs, and the region’s famous olive oil, making it both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Gamopilafo: Traditionally prepared for special celebrations such as weddings and christenings, gamopilafo is cooked in a rich broth of lamb or chicken, symbolizing the warmth and hospitality of Crete.
Mediterranean Seafood: Agios Nikolaos excels in fresh seafood dishes; savor juicy grilled octopus, flavorful shrimp saganaki, and freshly caught fish. Complement these delicacies with local wines or the island’s famous raki for an authentic dining experience.
Cretan Cheese and Honey: Complete your meal with locally produced cheeses such as graviera, kefalotyri, mizithra, and anthotyro (the last one is a perfect match for pasta!), drizzled with pure, golden Cretan honey.
Nerati: Α renowned traditional mizithropita pie. This famous pie is made out of a soft dough stuffed with xinomizithra cheese, a type of whey cheese. This soft delicious dough is spread in a pan and skillfully opened with fingers dipped in water. Nerati pie is especially celebrated during local festivals, such as the annual Festival of Myzithropita in the nearby village of Kritsa, where visitors can witness its preparation and enjoy live Cretan music performances.
Day Trips You’ll Wish You Did Sooner
Agios Nikolaos is set in the perfect location for exploring the surrounding gems of Eastern Crete, and the explorations are as rich as they are varied:
Elounda and Spinalonga Island: Just 15 minutes from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda is your starting point for exploring one of Crete’s most popular sites. Skip the standard massive tour groups and treat yourself to a bespoke experience with a private catamaran cruise by Ocean Spirit. Sail across the crystal-clear waters of Mirabello Bay and visit the historic island of Spinalonga, once a Venetian fortress and later a leper colony with a fascinating history.
Kritsa Village & Panagia Kera Church: Only 10 km inland, Kritsa is a small mountain village with friendly and warm-hearted locals. Filled with traditional craft shops, lots of narrow winding paths, and inviting tavernas, your strolling here will be a real pleasure. Nearby, visit the 13th-century Panagia Kera Church, known for its stunning and remarkably preserved Byzantine frescoes—some of the finest in Crete.
Lassithi Plateau & Dikteon Cave: Hop on your car and drive through olive groves and fertile valleys to reach the Lassithi Plateau, an 800 m. altitude wonderland dotted with windmills and traditional villages. Here lies Dikteon Cave, a mythological treasure that legend speaks to be the birthplace of Zeus. Hiking up to the cave offers both adventure and reward with breathtaking views of the plateau below.
Kroustas Village: Just 20 minutes away from Agios Nikolaos, Kroustas is a distinct traditional Cretan Village. It is known for its delicious cuisine and festive ambiance. Here, the Almond Feast and the Eftazymo Feast take place annually and are directly linked to the village’s gastronomic character.
Plaka Village: The coastal village of Plaka became known worldwide thanks to its appearance in The Island, the bestselling novel by Victoria Hislop. Just across the bay from Spinalonga, Plaka is a quiet, atmospheric fishing village, perfect for a relaxed stroll, a seaside meal, or exciting watersports activities.