Places to visit

The palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and probably the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization and cultureand, Chrissi island with its white beaches and emerald waters,beaches of Matala,Ierapetra, Agia Fotia, are only a few amongst the countless places of historical interest or natural beauty that a visitor can explore on the eastern region of Crete.

Spinalonga island with its medieval castle is a place not to be missed by historians and the curious alike – it was once a leper colony, and still has the original small houses in which 200 lepers lived their isolated lives.The island is situated oposite to the most famous luxury resort village of Elounda.

The unique Vai palm-forest lies 92 km east of Agios Nikolaos and occupies an area of 25 square km. It is a tropical landscape which is an exception in Greece. Its unique beauty is reminiscent of tropical locations, as 5,000 palm-trees extend for two miles and reach the beautiful golden beach which attracts scores of swimmers in summer. It is the largest known palm-tree forest throughout Europe.

Agios Nikolaos is one of the most highly developed tourist towns in Greece. The surrounding area of the city is noted for its sandy beaches and beautiful bays. The landmark of the city is a small lake, known as "Voulismeni" that is located in the center of the city.

The lovers of nature can also visit the gorge of Kato Zakros,gorge of Rouvas, gorge of Agiofarago, the canyon of Preveli, Melidoni cave, Sfendoni cave and Milatos cave.