Last Updated: January 3, 2024
Agios Nikolaos is the kind of town where you need to spend at least 2 days in order to fully appreciate it. Most people underestimate it and spend only a couple of hours exploring the most popular attractions. Then, they simply move on to the next town. We’re here to convince you otherwise by introducing you to some of the best things to do in Agios Nikolaos, Crete.
We spent 3 wonderful days here and I couldn’t wait to share with you the best things to do in Agios Nikolaos, Crete. We will explore not only all the amazing things that this picturesque coastal town has to offer but also awesome places that are located nearby and which you absolutely should NOT MISS.
Continue reading to find out which are some of the best things to do in Agios Nikolaos, Crete. Be prepared to get inspired!
10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS, CRETE
1. Visit Spinalonga
For roughly 50 years, Spinalonga island served as a place where people with leprosy were sent to quarantine. Throughout these years, these people created a community and built houses, a church, kafeneio, and other stores. The history of Spinalonga is quite overwhelming and the struggles that these people encountered during those years are still apparent all across the island. A visit to Spinalonga island is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Agios Nikolaos.
2. Enjoy a casual stroll by Lake Voulismeni
Lake Voulismeni is the crowning jewel of Agios Nikolaos and quite frankly the most picturesque location in town. Our advice, choose one of the bustling tavernas that are located along the lake to have lunch. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch and they serve great food too.
READ ALSO: 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN CHANIA, CRETE
3. Eat at a local taverna
It goes without saying that Cretan cuisine is absolutely sensational. We always recommend that you choose a traditional restaurant if you want to savor the local cuisine; regardless of the country, you’re in. In Crete, the same rule applies. Pick a restaurant where you see mainly locals eating and go for it. We promise you, you won’t regret it!
You’re not sure what to choose for the menu? We’ve got you covered in this article.
4. Go on a boat trip
Boat trips are a fantastic way to explore hidden, paradisal beaches in Crete. Choose a boat tour that suits you best and let everything else in their capable hands. There’s something magical and liberating about being at the open sea. What’s best, you’ll get the chance to swim at secluded beaches with azure waters and have them all to yourself! Do you really need more convincing?
READ ALSO: ZAROS, CRETE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AND THINGS TO DO
5. Go shopping
Just a few meters from the lake, you’ll find an abundance of local boutiques, selling anything from souvenirs to local products and from tacky touristy items to handmade unique accessories and clothes.
A little insider tip: make your way all the way to the El. Venizelou square where you’ll find a wide selection of stores where the most locals shop.
6. Relax by the beach
Let’s face it, one of the best things to do in Agios Nikolaos and the entire island is to enjoy its splendid beaches. There are so many of them on offer and within walking distance from the center of Agios Nikolaos. Don’t miss out on those located within close proximity to the town too. Here are some of our favorites:
- Minos Beach
- Ammoudi Beach
- Paralia Kitroplakia
- Paralia Gargadoros
- Almiros Beach
7. Explore Elounda
Elounda is the ultimate place to be if you’re looking to spoil yourself for a luxury getaway. The high-end resorts located here are some of the best in Greece. The dining scene it’s also something you don’t wanna miss out on. It is a lovely location to base yourself during your visit to Agios Nikolaos – if of course budget is not a problem. Alternatively, you can spend a few hours exploring it and then sit at one of the tavernas located by its tiny harbor and enjoy a scrumptious dinner. Be sure to try the fresh fish and the seafood, it’s exceptional!
READ ALSO: Arolithos Village: A Must-Visit Destination in Crete for Authentic Culture
8. Spend a day in Plaka, Crete
During our visit to this part of Crete, we split our time between Agios Nikolaos and Plaka, Crete. We do enjoy bustling towns because they usually pack a lot to do. We believe that balance is the key and so we always make it a point to spend at least 1-2 days at a relaxing location and unwind. In this case, Plaka offered just that and for this reason, we can’t recommend it enough as one of the best things to do in Agios Nikolaos. It is a quaint village, located 30-minutes from Agios Nikolaos. Life here happens at a very slow pace, so set your phone on DND, grab your favorite book, and enjoy total relaxation in this idyllic village.
9. Learn more about the local cuisine and Cretan traditional products at the Cretan Olive Oil Farm
As we mentioned above, Cretan cuisine has been voted as one of the healthiest in the world. If you’re interested in learning more about the local products such as olive oil, wine, and cheese amongst others, then be sure to book a tour at Cretan Olive Oil Farm. The expert staff will walk you through the history of the most popular Cretan recipes. You will also get the chance to learn the secrets to cheese-making and olive oil-making. It’s truly an incredible and unique experience and we honestly believe that it is one of the best things to do in Agios Nikolaos.
10. Visit Kritsa, one of the most picturesque villages in Crete
If I’m being honest, although I grew up in Crete, I had never visited Kritsa village before. It was recommended by a good friend of ours who said, quote: “it is one of the most picturesque villages in Crete, so you simply MUST visit”. The curiosity got the best of me so I obeyed, and boy am I glad I did! We spend a good few hours strolling around and getting lost in its winding alleys. Parts of the village resemble the Cycladic islands; whitewashed houses with colorful bougainvilleas decorating their exteriors. Like with most Greek villages, the kafeneio was where most locals had gathered, sipping slowly their Greek coffee and watching the passers-by. Kritsa is located a short 15-minute drive from Agios Nikolaos. We enjoyed it so much, that we couldn’t help but include it in this list of the best things to do in Agios Nikolaos.
WHERE TO STAY IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS
If you’re looking for a place that’s got it all, then look no further than Minos Palace hotel & suites. It’s a haven tucked away in a private peninsula where you can enjoy ultimate relaxation at one of the best hotels in Crete! Take our advice and book one of their suites which comes with a private pool. We have a feeling you won’t want to leave your room!
Here are a few other amazing places you can stay:
- Plaka – Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa. Perfect for couples
- Agios Nikolaos – Meliti Hotel. An excellent budget option
- Elounda – Elounda Mare Hotel. Your luxury getaway
IS AGIOS NIKOLAOS, CRETE WORTH VISITING?
Absolutely! Agios Nikolaos kept on surprising us and we had the most amazing time ever. The secret to enjoying this beautiful coastal town is by allowing enough time to explore the center but also enough time to venture outside the town’s limits. You’ll be surprised at how many interesting things there are to do in Agios Nikolaos. We made memories that we will cherish forever and we hope that this list of the best things to do in Agios Nikolaos will help you plan the perfect holiday to Crete and have the absolute best time.
