Introduction
Lassithi is one of the four superb prefectures that compose the renowned island of Crete (Southern Greece). Located on the eastern part of the island, being the fourth consecutive prefecture, Lassithi borders with the prefecture of Heraklion. Lassithi comprises of the following four counties: Mirabello, Lassithi, Ierapetra and Sitia. The prefecture of Lassithi is famous for its wild beauty as well as remarkable historical and archaeological monuments. Traditional settlements are scattered all over the prefecture. The inhabitants are very hospitable, making visitors feel right at home. Lassithi Crete has a unique morphology, combining long coasts, fertile plains, and rough mountainous terrain. Most people visit the island of Crete during the summer months, which are the high tourist season, since the area is celebrated for its unique coasts. The excellent climate and the mild weather of Lassithi, make it a great holiday destination all year long.

Lassithi Crete Greece Area / Population / Capital:
The prefecture of Lassithi Crete Greece occupies an area of 1,818 sq. km, it has 71,000 inhabitants and its capital is the beautiful Agios Nikolaos.

Attractions & Sightseeing in Lassithi Crete

Museums in Lassithi Crete:
During your stay, visit some of the museums in Lassithi, such as:

• The Archaeological and Folklore Museums in Agios Nikolaos.
• The Archaeological Collection in Ierapetra.
• The Archaeological Collection and Folklore Museum in Neapolis.
• The Archaeological Museum in Sitia.

Natural Sites in Lassithi Crete:
Nature lovers will not be disappointed in Lassithi, as they can visit:

• The lake in the center of Agios Nikolaos
• The unique palm tree forest in Vai, the only one of its kind in Europe
• The cave in Trapeza (Kronion), Dikteon Cave and Chavgas Canyon in Tzermiado
• The picturesque port in Sitia
• The coast of Lassithi is lined with sandy and pebbly beaches, small coves, and rocky bays

Sports / Recreation in Lassithi Crete
If you have a boat, you can dock and refuel it in the ports and marinas in Agios Nikolaos, Sitia and Ierapetra.

Entertainment in Lassithi Crete

All the settlements in Lassithi offer traditional tavernas and cafés, while there are lively bars and clubs in Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Ierapetra and Sitia, to party until late.

Local Events in Lassithi Crete:

• The “Lato” summer cultural events, the festival of Agios Nikolaos on December 6, as well as the Resurrection and the burning of Judas on a stage in the center of the lake in Agios Nikolaos
• The Resurrection at Toplou Monastery in Vai
• The summer cultural events and the Free - Fish Night in October in Elounda
• The festival of Metamorphosis on August 6 in Zakros
• The cultural events “Kirbia” in July or August, and the traditional festivals on August 15 in Ierapetra
• Three-day cultural events in August, the liturgy at the church of Kera on August 15, and the festival of Metamorphosis on August 6 in Kritsa
• The festival of Panagia on August 15 in Neapolis
• The cultural association of Tzermiado organizes cultural events throughout the summer season
• The “Kornaria” cultural events in July or August, the festival of “Soultanina” in August and the festival of Prophet Elias on July 20 in Sitia

Local Products of Lassithi Crete:
All over the prefecture of Lassithi there are quaint shops that sell famous Cretan art replicas. Agia Fotia is well-known for its honey, while Kritsa is the place to find fine embroideries, weavings, tapestries, and fretwork.

Major Towns / Cities / Villages in Lassithi Crete

Agios Nikolaos, Lassithi Crete
Situated on the northwestern coast of the picturesque gulf of Mirabello is Agios Nikolaos, the capital of the prefecture of Lassithi. It is a cosmopolitan town, with lots of charm, making it a popular tourist center, ideal enjoyable holidays.

Vai, Lassithi Crete
Vai is an idyllic settlement, with 5.000 palm trees. The extraordinary palm tree forest is a revitalizing site that enchants everyone who lays eyes on it and it is right off a wonderful beach.

Ierapetra, Lassithi Crete
Ierapetra is a city that combines modern lifestyle with traditional features. Sightseeing in Ierapetra is excellent and can be combined with swimming in one of the nearby Lassithi beaches.

Sitia, Lassithi Crete
Amphitheatrically built above a cove and on a hillside, Sitia, the most eastern city of Crete is an attractive summer resort, you best bet if you enjoy swimming, sunbathing and exciting nights-out.

Zakros, Lassithi Crete
Zakros is one of the quaintest villages in Crete, built on two verdant hills, full of olive groves and fruit-bearing trees. The Minoan Palace is the gem of the town.

Elounda, Lassithi Crete
The picturesque settlement of Elounda, with beautiful beaches and verdant landscape, is the ideal resort for relaxing holidays, often than not a retreat for the rich and famous.

ALSO:
The island of Spinaloga
Spinaloga is a small island located at the northeastern part of the Elounda Bay. Surrounded by a Venetian Fortress that was built in 1584, Spinaloga is an interesting site, as it used to be a place of exile. You can reach the islet by trawler from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka.

Transportation in Lassithi Crete Greece:
By Ferry Boat:
From Piraeus Port, ferries depart for Lassithi Crete Greece, to the ports of Agios Nikolaos and Sitia throughout the year, but more frequently during the summer. The voyage from Piraeus Port to Agios Nikolaos Port takes 12 hours, and to Sitia Port 14 hours. Agios Nikolaos and Sitia are also connected to the Dodecanese Islands and the Cyclades Islands.

Lassithi Crete Sea Travel Information:

• Piraeus Port: +30 210 422-6000 to 03
• Agios Nikolaos Port: +30 28410 22312
• Sitia Port: +30 28430 22310

By Airplane:
From the Athens Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” in Spata, there are flights to the Sitia Airport all year round. The flight lasts approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. The Sitia Airport is located 2 km from Sitia Town.

Lassithi Crete Air Travel Information:

• Sitia Airport: +30 28430 24666
• Olympic Airways in Athens: +30 210 966-6666
• Olympic Airways in Sitia: +30 28430 22270

By Bus:
From Thessaloniki, buses depart for Pireaus to board a ferry boat to Agios Nikolaos or Sitia Crete. Lassithi is also connected by bus to the other prefectures of Crete Greece.

Lassithi Crete Bus Information:

• Thessaloniki Bus station for buses to Lassithi Crete: +30 2310 595-424