Agios Nikolaos, Sights, Tourist Attractions, Swimming, Monuments & More

The highlights of the amazing Agios Nikolaos and it's surrounding areas for that perfect photo!

Some say that Agios Nikolaos is the Venice of Crete...

What to see:

Archaeological Museum
Address: K. Paleologou 41
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Keras Amaltheias
A modern sculpture by the coast side of town, a tribute to Amaltheia, the nurse of the mythical God of Zeus.
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Spinaloga Island
The famous island (called Kalydon in ancient times) used to be a leper colony in the early 20th century. Directly across Plaka village, a few kilometers from Agios. Daily trips by boat in the summer period from Plaka as well as Agios Nikolaos.
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Spinaloga entered the UNESCO world heritage list in the 16th of January 2014.

Pine Park
The perfect photo opportunity place, a small park full of pines right above the lake, offering breathtaking views of the town.
Directions

"Abduction Of Europe" Monument
A 4m tall statue (courtesy of artist Mr. Nikos Koundouros), depicts an ancient story, where Zeus fell in love with Europe (daughter of Kadmos, founder of Theva) and transformed himself into a bull in order to steal her.
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Kitroplatia
Close to the heart of Agios Nikolaos, a place where you can take long walks on the coast line, enjoy a big variety of cafeterias and restaurants. Comes with a children's playground for the toddlers.
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The Lake
The lake "Voulismeni", 137m in diameter is the trademark of the town and it is located right in the center. Legend says that it is bottomless and what is more, that it is connected via underwater currents with the volcanic island of Santorini.
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Panagia Kera Byzantine Church
Located in Kritsa (10km West of town), one of the most picturesque villages in Crete. The church was built in the 12th century and is a must-see for history fans.
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Where to swim...

Greece is in the 2nd place world wide in Blue Flags (certified beaches and marinas). In Crete, 97 beaches have been awarded, most of the in Lasithi Prefecture and of course Agios Nikolaos town.
Blue Flag Organization

Almiros Beach
Located approximately 2km East of the town, a wonderful sandy beach, with shallow waters. The beach is well organized and offers sunbeds and umbrellas (with extra charge). In the summer period there is a cantina with refreshments. It's an everyday summer go-to for youngsters.
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Ammoudara Beach
3km from Agios Nikolaos is Ammoudara beach. Well organized, sandy, with tavernas all around.
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Marina Beach
Very close to the town center, a beautiful sandy beach, organized, surrounded by cafes and tavernas.
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Ammoudi Beach
A very well organized sandy beach near the edge of town, about 1km from the center. Offers sunbeds and umbrellas (with charge) as well as water sports.
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Gargadoros Beach
Less than 1km from the town center, a small pebble beach. A natural escape with clear blue waters.
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Havania Beach
Approximately 1.5Km from the city center, this pebbly beach is a natural and untouched place. No sunbeds.
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Did you know?
Agios Nikolaos, in the very old days, was used to be called "Mandraki" (meaning "fenced area", where animals reside) due to the fact that the area was full of goats. It is a town built on 7 hills, in the general ancient area of "Lato".