|
Aghios Nikolaos is the capital of the prefecture
of Lasithi and with around 7000 inhabitants the largest town of eastern
Crete. It is a modern
town built on the north western point of the beautiful Mirabello
bay and attracts many tourists because of its picturesque harbour
and the many interesting sites of the surrounding area. The "trademark" of
Aghios Nikolaos is the Voulismeni lake in its middle, which is linked
to the sea by a canal. This is a particularly scenic part of
the town, with many outdoor coffee shops and restaurants.
Getting there: An excellent network
of roads and public transport links Agios Nikolaos to all parts
of the island.
Atmosphere: Agios Nikolaos is a real
modern Cretan town with an upmarket feel. Very different from
say, Malia, which only exists to cater to tourists and is more
or less dead in the winter months. 'Ag Nik' (as the Brits call
it) is a very touristic town and it has brought a lot of affluence
for many Cretans who live and work here.
Accommodation: It has many high quality
hotels and rooms, of every kind and in a wide price range. In the
peak season it can be difficult finding accommodation.
Restaurants: A lot of restaurants catering
essentially for the tourists. Most of them are located near the harbour
and around the lake.
Shopping: the best that you'll get on
this side of the island
Nightlife: The town gets really busy at
night and has many bars and discos.
Beaches: Three small beaches (Kitroplatia,
Ammoudi and Ammos) that are nothing special and pretty busy. If you
want to go to the beach it is best to leave the town, either towards
the North (Havania beach) or on the road to Sitia (Ammoudara, Kalo
Horio, Istro)
On the web Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos
|