Crete is one of my favourite places in Greece, and to me it will always feel like home after living in Agios Nikolaos for many years as a child. Unlike many Greek islands that are best explored by hopping between beaches, Crete offers a wonderful mix of beautiful coastal towns, fascinating history, incredible food and a relaxed pace of life.
Practical tips
The easiest way to reach eastern Crete is by flying into Heraklion Airport. From there, Agios Nikolaos is around an hour's drive by taxi, transfer or hire car.
If you're planning a relaxing holiday, I'd strongly recommend basing yourself in Agios Nikolaos. It's one of the prettiest towns on the island, with a beautiful harbour, excellent restaurants and everything within easy reach.
Accommodation is available for every budget. For a luxury stay, Miramare resort and spa, Minos Palace Resort or St. Nicolas Bay Resort are fantastic choices. If you're looking for something more affordable, there are many smaller hotels and apartments, my top tip would be to choose one with air conditioning, sea views and a swimming pool.
The best time to visit is late April to early June when temperatures are warm but far more comfortable than the peak summer heat. I see a lot of advice recommending late September/early October and I do not generally recommend people to go at that time of year; whilst the temperatures are good, the locals are coming to the end of a long hot summer and are ready for a winter of rest.
Where to eat in Agios Nikolaos
One of the highlights of any visit to Crete is the food.
In the evenings, make your way to Lake Voulismeni, known locally as the Bottomless Lake. The restaurants surrounding the lake offer beautiful views across the water, with colourful fishing boats creating a postcard-perfect setting.
One of my favourite recommendations is Du Lac. The staff are incredibly friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed and the food is excellent. It's the perfect place to enjoy a long evening meal while watching the sun begin to set over the harbour.
While you're in Crete, make sure you try some authentic local dishes.
Spanakopita is a traditional savoury pastry made with layers of crisp filo pastry filled with spinach, herbs and creamy feta cheese. It's simple but incredibly flavourful and makes an excellent lunch or snack.
For dessert, don't miss baklava. This rich, sweet pastry is made from delicate layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and soaked in fragrant honey syrup. It's a true Greek classic.
Before heading home, visit one of the local shops selling Cretan olive oil products. The island is famous for producing some of the finest olive oil in Greece, and you'll find everything from premium extra virgin olive oil to handmade soaps, natural cosmetics and locally produced honey - perfect souvenirs to take home.
Take a day trip to Elounda and Spinalonga
No visit to eastern Crete is complete without spending a day in Elounda.
This elegant seaside village is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront before taking a boat across to the island of Spinalonga.
Spinalonga has one of the most fascinating histories in Greece. Originally built as a Venetian fortress, it later became a leper colony where people with Hansen's disease were isolated from the mainland until the 1950s. Walking around the island today is both moving and incredibly interesting, with remarkably well-preserved buildings that tell the story of those who once lived there.
One tip I always recommend is reading The Island by Victoria Hislop before your trip. Although it's a work of fiction, it's beautifully written and inspired by the real history of Spinalonga. It brings the island to life in a way that makes your visit even more meaningful.
After your boat trip, continue to nearby Plaka. This peaceful fishing village is one of the best places on the island to enjoy freshly caught seafood while looking out across the sea towards Spinalonga.
Discover the ancient Palace of Knossos
If you enjoy history, Knossos Palace is an essential day out.
Just outside Heraklion, Knossos was once the centre of the Minoan civilisation, Europe's earliest advanced civilisation dating back more than 3,500 years.
Walking through the ancient palace offers an incredible glimpse into life thousands of years ago, with restored frescoes, impressive architecture and fascinating archaeological remains.
It's best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Escape the heat at Heraklion Archaeological Museum
During the height of summer, a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a fantastic way to escape the midday heat.
The museum houses one of the world's finest collections of Minoan artefacts, including beautiful pottery, jewellery, sculptures and the famous Phaistos Disc.
Why Crete is great for older travellers
Having lived in Agios Nikolaos, I know just how special this part of Crete is.
Life moves at a slower pace here. You can spend mornings wandering along the harbour, afternoons enjoying fresh seafood by the sea and evenings watching the sunset with a glass of local wine.
The island is well suited to older travellers thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, excellent food, comfortable accommodation and wide variety of attractions. You can easily combine relaxing beach days with cultural visits, all without feeling rushed.
Quick Summary
- Fly into Heraklion Airport.
- Stay in Agios Nikolaos for the perfect base.
- Enjoy dinner overlooking Lake Voulismeni.
- Try local favourites including spanakopita and baklava.
- Take home locally produced olive oil and handmade soaps.
- Visit Elounda and take the boat to historic Spinalonga.
- Read The Island by Victoria Hislop before your trip.
- Enjoy fresh seafood in Plaka.
- Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos.
- Cool off inside the Heraklion Archaeological Museum during hot afternoons.
- Relax and experience authentic Cretan hospitality at your own pace.
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