A MAGIC PLACE SITIA
Top Sitia Restaurants
Home delivery is available/
Local cuisine
A shop worth visiting. Large portions.
Very helpful staff !!!!
Excellent food!!
Οriginal dishes, good prices!!
Κρητικό Σπίτι
Καραμανλή 10, Σητεία, Κρήτη 723 00 Ελλάδα
+30 2843 025133
7 當地人推薦
Κρητικό Σπίτι
10 Kon/nou KaramanliA shop worth visiting. Large portions.
Very helpful staff !!!!
Excellent food!!
Οriginal dishes, good prices!!
Κρητικό Σπίτι
Καραμανλή 10, Σητεία, Κρήτη 723 00 Ελλάδα
+30 2843 025133
Food
Amazing in all of it !! Location, food, prices, service, variety and whatever else you want here you will find it!!!
I highly recommend!!!
Aposperítis
167 Eleftheriou VenizelouFood
Amazing in all of it !! Location, food, prices, service, variety and whatever else you want here you will find it!!!
I highly recommend!!!
THE BEST IN SITIA
The place is very beautiful in front of the port, perfect food and special with careful dishes, reasonable prices, very helpful and polite staff !!! Definitely worth a visit
“Definitely worth a visit”
Το λιμάνι
KazantzakiTHE BEST IN SITIA
The place is very beautiful in front of the port, perfect food and special with careful dishes, reasonable prices, very helpful and polite staff !!! Definitely worth a visit
“Definitely worth a visit”
Only a few meters from the seafront, Inodion welcomes you to enjoy bygone and modern recipes from the heart of Eastern Crete.
Restaurant
The seafront tavernas (rakadika) of Sitia have played a vital role in shaping the towns night-and day-life for the many years. Inodion opened in 2005, a family business ran by Dimitris Garefalakis.
Aiming to uphold and promote the local cooking traditions, it offers authentic dishes from Eastern Crete, brought to life with fresh, local ingredients. The barley rusks are baked in an old wood-fired oven and the dishes are cooked with the famed extra virgin olive oil of Sitia.
Visitors can accompany them with a considerable variety of wines or with a glass of our excellent local tsikoudia (raki).
Our Cuisine
At Inodion we use fresh, local products to revive forgotten dishes from East Crete and create new ones, based on our region’s centuries-old cooking traditions.
Cretan Cuisine
The very essence of Cretan cuisine lies in simplicity and the use of fresh seasonal produce.
The ingredients are combined effortlessly and the result is authentic, imaginative and most of all delicious. At Inodion we use fresh, local products to revive forgotten dishes from East Crete and create new ones, based on our region’s centuries-old cooking traditions.
+30 2843 0 26166
+30 698 2803 179
Eleftheriou Venizelou 157
Sitia Crete, 72300
mixalis_garefalakis@yahoo.gr
ΟΙΝΩΔΕIΟΝ
157 El. VenizelouOnly a few meters from the seafront, Inodion welcomes you to enjoy bygone and modern recipes from the heart of Eastern Crete.
Restaurant
The seafront tavernas (rakadika) of Sitia have played a vital role in shaping the towns night-and day-life for the many years. Inodion opened in 2005, a family business ran by Dimitris Garefalakis.
Aiming to uphold and promote the local cooking traditions, it offers authentic dishes from Eastern Crete, brought to life with fresh, local ingredients. The barley rusks are baked in an old wood-fired oven and the dishes are cooked with the famed extra virgin olive oil of Sitia.
Visitors can accompany them with a considerable variety of wines or with a glass of our excellent local tsikoudia (raki).
Our Cuisine
At Inodion we use fresh, local products to revive forgotten dishes from East Crete and create new ones, based on our region’s centuries-old cooking traditions.
Cretan Cuisine
The very essence of Cretan cuisine lies in simplicity and the use of fresh seasonal produce.
The ingredients are combined effortlessly and the result is authentic, imaginative and most of all delicious. At Inodion we use fresh, local products to revive forgotten dishes from East Crete and create new ones, based on our region’s centuries-old cooking traditions.
+30 2843 0 26166
+30 698 2803 179
Eleftheriou Venizelou 157
Sitia Crete, 72300
mixalis_garefalakis@yahoo.gr
The best of the best when it is about coffee... local "galaktoboureko" and "loukoumades" in Sitia...!!!
If you visit the unique and lovely town of Sitia... it is rather impossible that you will not have the expoerience of this unique place... All the staff is helpfull and friendly
POSSIBILITIES
Packed Food, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Alcohol Serving, Free WiFi, Credit Cards Accepted, Waiters
5 Karamanli Konstadinou, Σητεία, Κρήτη 723 00
+30 2843 022377
6 當地人推薦
Mitsakakis
6 Kon/nou KaramanliThe best of the best when it is about coffee... local "galaktoboureko" and "loukoumades" in Sitia...!!!
If you visit the unique and lovely town of Sitia... it is rather impossible that you will not have the expoerience of this unique place... All the staff is helpfull and friendly
POSSIBILITIES
Packed Food, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Alcohol Serving, Free WiFi, Credit Cards Accepted, Waiters
5 Karamanli Konstadinou, Σητεία, Κρήτη 723 00
+30 2843 022377
Fegaropsaro
20 Kon/nou KaramanliΠολύ καλή επιλογή για ψάρι 🐟🎏
Zorba's Tavern
Hiona Taverna
All things to do
An inspiration for poets, Sitia, in northeastern Crete, boasts the largest palm forest and some of the most exotic beaches in Europe.
In Sitia, apart from swimming in the long beach east of the city, you can stroll in the harbor, enjoy your coffee in the many cafes on the beach road, get lost in the old town with the traditional houses and the picturesque yards, visit the castle Kazarma and the ruins of a Venetian monastery. Moreover, you could visit the Archaeological Museum with exhibits from 3500BC to 500AC, all coming from the wider area of Sitia. A folklore museum exhibition also operates in the town with traditional objects of 19th and 20th century. Sitia area is famous for the kicak production of agricultural products; olive oil, wine and raki. Indeed, the olive oil of Sitia is one of the best in the world, winning several international awards every year.
16 當地人推薦
西蒂亞海灘（ Sitia Beach
In Sitia, apart from swimming in the long beach east of the city, you can stroll in the harbor, enjoy your coffee in the many cafes on the beach road, get lost in the old town with the traditional houses and the picturesque yards, visit the castle Kazarma and the ruins of a Venetian monastery. Moreover, you could visit the Archaeological Museum with exhibits from 3500BC to 500AC, all coming from the wider area of Sitia. A folklore museum exhibition also operates in the town with traditional objects of 19th and 20th century. Sitia area is famous for the kicak production of agricultural products; olive oil, wine and raki. Indeed, the olive oil of Sitia is one of the best in the world, winning several international awards every year.
About
The Erimoupoli beach located 26km east of Sitia , just north of the famous palm forest of Vai . The name takes the ancient city of Itanos , which remains in the area. Next to the archaeological site of Itanos are the three consecutive bays with equal number of Erimoupolis beaches.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
33 當地人推薦
Erimoupolis Beach
About
The Erimoupoli beach located 26km east of Sitia , just north of the famous palm forest of Vai . The name takes the ancient city of Itanos , which remains in the area. Next to the archaeological site of Itanos are the three consecutive bays with equal number of Erimoupolis beaches.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
A two hour walk starting from the Lachanas Bridge near the village Exo Mouliana and ending to a rocky beach, with pure drinking water to refill your bottles and tables and benches to enjoy a lunch if you carry food with you. In the middle of the walk there is the waterfall with the small pond where anyone can dip. Very cold water. Sport shoes are essential. If you just want to go to the waterfall you can also drive about 20 minutes from the village to the beach of Richtis and then walk about 40 minutes to the waterfall. That is the easiest part of the gorge. Although the road you drive is a bit narrow and one needs to be careful. For those start at the Lachanas bridge if they decide to go all the way to the beach, the only way to go back on foot is the same way through the gorge, unless you have a car waiting for you at the beach. Great experience for families also. There is a 3 eur per person entrance fee (for people over 16) and toilets near the beach. During summer after 7 pm it gets dark and during spring and autumn after 4.30pm, so make sure you are back by then.
63 當地人推薦
Richtis Gorge
A two hour walk starting from the Lachanas Bridge near the village Exo Mouliana and ending to a rocky beach, with pure drinking water to refill your bottles and tables and benches to enjoy a lunch if you carry food with you. In the middle of the walk there is the waterfall with the small pond where anyone can dip. Very cold water. Sport shoes are essential. If you just want to go to the waterfall you can also drive about 20 minutes from the village to the beach of Richtis and then walk about 40 minutes to the waterfall. That is the easiest part of the gorge. Although the road you drive is a bit narrow and one needs to be careful. For those start at the Lachanas bridge if they decide to go all the way to the beach, the only way to go back on foot is the same way through the gorge, unless you have a car waiting for you at the beach. Great experience for families also. There is a 3 eur per person entrance fee (for people over 16) and toilets near the beach. During summer after 7 pm it gets dark and during spring and autumn after 4.30pm, so make sure you are back by then.
About
The Chiona is a beautiful, medium-sized beach. Is green and cool waters. It is shallow and suitable for children. From here not leave without combine your swim with one stop in the surrounding taverns. The fish soup with fresh fish specialties is certainly not compared with any other.
Paralia Chionas
About
The Chiona is a beautiful, medium-sized beach. Is green and cool waters. It is shallow and suitable for children. From here not leave without combine your swim with one stop in the surrounding taverns. The fish soup with fresh fish specialties is certainly not compared with any other.
Vai palmgrove
Vai is located 94km east of Agios Nikolaos and 24km east of Sitia. It is the most famous beach in east Crete, as its main feature is the large palm grove with the Cretan Date Palm (Phoenix theophrasti). Its name derives from the word vai, meaning palm in Greek. The palm grove is the largest in Europe with approximately 5000 trees, while there are smaller colonies in other parts of Crete and in Southwest Turkey. According to the legend, the trees have grown from discarded date stones thrown into the sea by Saracen pirates. However, the palm grove is more than 2000 years old and the pirates are more recent. Thus this hypothesis has changed and the Saracens have been replaced with Phoenicians, that governed the Mediterranean Sea 20 centuries ago.
The heavenly palm grove is planted in a wide valley watered by the local river for centuries. An exotic sandy beach with whitish sand is formed near the shore, backed by the edenic palm forest, reminding of African and Caribbean seascapes. The entire region is owned by the powerful Toplou Monastery, which is the largest landowner in eastern Crete. The 15th-century monastery is built like a fortress, and hosts a great collection of Byzantine icons.
Vai was totally unknown until the early 1970s, when a popular commercial for the Bounty chocolate with coconut was filmed here, using the magical background of palm trees. In the advert, coconuts were falling from trees, however Vai palms produce dates. Consequently coconuts had to be falsely hung to create the right impression. The ad made this unknown earthly paradise renowned throughout the world. Thus, hundreds of hippies started to stay here on their holidays. In the 1980s, when hippism faded out, Vai was invaded by backpackers and rapidly degenerated into a rubbish-strewn campground. The palm grove was consequently fenced off and proclaimed a conservation area, being open to public only during the day light.
The beach has whitish sand and flat turquoise waters. In a few places, there are slippery smooth rocks, while on the opposite there are small islets that beautify the landscape. The beach is slightly organized (whatever the protection scheme allows) with umbrellas, showers, water sports and a canteen. The closest rooms to let are located outside the protected area (15'-25 'walk). If you want to stay isolated, there is a lovely sandy beach 5 minutes north of Vai, while another option is the idyllic Psili Ammos beach in the south.
If you come by car then you should leave it in the parking area. There are also buses running from Sitia and all travel agencies in Crete organize daily tours. The only drawback of Vai is that from the first moment you think that someone wants to dip into your pocket. Indeed, prices for parking, umbrellas and the canteen are too high. However, Vai is one of the most special beaches in Crete that surely deserve a visit.
94 當地人推薦
瓦伊海灘
Eparchiaki Odos Monis Toplous - VaiVai palmgrove
Vai is located 94km east of Agios Nikolaos and 24km east of Sitia. It is the most famous beach in east Crete, as its main feature is the large palm grove with the Cretan Date Palm (Phoenix theophrasti). Its name derives from the word vai, meaning palm in Greek. The palm grove is the largest in Europe with approximately 5000 trees, while there are smaller colonies in other parts of Crete and in Southwest Turkey. According to the legend, the trees have grown from discarded date stones thrown into the sea by Saracen pirates. However, the palm grove is more than 2000 years old and the pirates are more recent. Thus this hypothesis has changed and the Saracens have been replaced with Phoenicians, that governed the Mediterranean Sea 20 centuries ago.
The heavenly palm grove is planted in a wide valley watered by the local river for centuries. An exotic sandy beach with whitish sand is formed near the shore, backed by the edenic palm forest, reminding of African and Caribbean seascapes. The entire region is owned by the powerful Toplou Monastery, which is the largest landowner in eastern Crete. The 15th-century monastery is built like a fortress, and hosts a great collection of Byzantine icons.
Vai was totally unknown until the early 1970s, when a popular commercial for the Bounty chocolate with coconut was filmed here, using the magical background of palm trees. In the advert, coconuts were falling from trees, however Vai palms produce dates. Consequently coconuts had to be falsely hung to create the right impression. The ad made this unknown earthly paradise renowned throughout the world. Thus, hundreds of hippies started to stay here on their holidays. In the 1980s, when hippism faded out, Vai was invaded by backpackers and rapidly degenerated into a rubbish-strewn campground. The palm grove was consequently fenced off and proclaimed a conservation area, being open to public only during the day light.
The beach has whitish sand and flat turquoise waters. In a few places, there are slippery smooth rocks, while on the opposite there are small islets that beautify the landscape. The beach is slightly organized (whatever the protection scheme allows) with umbrellas, showers, water sports and a canteen. The closest rooms to let are located outside the protected area (15'-25 'walk). If you want to stay isolated, there is a lovely sandy beach 5 minutes north of Vai, while another option is the idyllic Psili Ammos beach in the south.
If you come by car then you should leave it in the parking area. There are also buses running from Sitia and all travel agencies in Crete organize daily tours. The only drawback of Vai is that from the first moment you think that someone wants to dip into your pocket. Indeed, prices for parking, umbrellas and the canteen are too high. However, Vai is one of the most special beaches in Crete that surely deserve a visit.
Kouremenos Beach
Kouremenos bay, next to Palekastro, is definitely the king of windsurfing resorts in Crete and one of the most famous spots in Greece. Here, lovers of surfing and kite-surf will find all they need; strong winds and equipment to rent. A little northern, at the base of Cape Sidero, you will find the most talented athletes of the sport at the secluded beach of Tenta.
Kouremenos Beach is the perfect location for windsurfing: the perfect wind from flat water to bump and jump conditions. Once you visit Kouremenos, the warm sunny weather, the relaxed family atmosphere and the consistent wind will remain etched in your mind forever.
In Kouremenos you don’t have to worry about the wind forecast, it’s windy almost every day. Kouremenos beach is exposed to ‘Meltemi’ winds that are amplified by the ‘thermal’ effect of the hot summer. It is the perfect spot for beginners to speed and freestyle junkies. There is a place for lone soul surfers as well as families. The bay offers a safe environment, with cross-off wind and flat water, and it is close to other surf spots that provide a variety of conditions, depending on your interests.
Kouremenos is unspoiled by mass tourism; it has untouched natural beauty with characteristic Tamarisk trees and unique landscapes. There are also plenty of restaurants in the area where you can try the authentic Cretan cuisine and drink the infamous raki. Kouremenos is easily accessible; the distance from Palekastro Village is only 1,5 km.
Kouremenos is a quiet and relaxing beach even during the high tourist season. At every point you can find spots with sand and pebble, and everywhere dominates the crystal clear waters all over Kouremenos bay.
The main access to the beach is from the asphalt road that leads to the small harbor, but there are several dirt roads connecting the village and the Hiona beach area to the south, at various points with the wider area of Kouremenos. They are streets that pass through olive groves and other arable land, routes suitable for those who want to enjoy nature and quietness by walking.
On the beach there are several trees that offer natural shade, fresh fish taverns, and there are units of rented accommodation that can meet the needs for a comfortable stay.
22 當地人推薦
科雷門諾斯海灘（ Kouremenos Beach
Kouremenos Beach
Kouremenos bay, next to Palekastro, is definitely the king of windsurfing resorts in Crete and one of the most famous spots in Greece. Here, lovers of surfing and kite-surf will find all they need; strong winds and equipment to rent. A little northern, at the base of Cape Sidero, you will find the most talented athletes of the sport at the secluded beach of Tenta.
Kouremenos Beach is the perfect location for windsurfing: the perfect wind from flat water to bump and jump conditions. Once you visit Kouremenos, the warm sunny weather, the relaxed family atmosphere and the consistent wind will remain etched in your mind forever.
In Kouremenos you don’t have to worry about the wind forecast, it’s windy almost every day. Kouremenos beach is exposed to ‘Meltemi’ winds that are amplified by the ‘thermal’ effect of the hot summer. It is the perfect spot for beginners to speed and freestyle junkies. There is a place for lone soul surfers as well as families. The bay offers a safe environment, with cross-off wind and flat water, and it is close to other surf spots that provide a variety of conditions, depending on your interests.
Kouremenos is unspoiled by mass tourism; it has untouched natural beauty with characteristic Tamarisk trees and unique landscapes. There are also plenty of restaurants in the area where you can try the authentic Cretan cuisine and drink the infamous raki. Kouremenos is easily accessible; the distance from Palekastro Village is only 1,5 km.
Kouremenos is a quiet and relaxing beach even during the high tourist season. At every point you can find spots with sand and pebble, and everywhere dominates the crystal clear waters all over Kouremenos bay.
The main access to the beach is from the asphalt road that leads to the small harbor, but there are several dirt roads connecting the village and the Hiona beach area to the south, at various points with the wider area of Kouremenos. They are streets that pass through olive groves and other arable land, routes suitable for those who want to enjoy nature and quietness by walking.
On the beach there are several trees that offer natural shade, fresh fish taverns, and there are units of rented accommodation that can meet the needs for a comfortable stay.
Paralia Staoysa is located in Sitia. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Paralia Staoysa.
Peaceful and relaxing
Well worth going to this small beach!!! It was fantastic with not a lot of people. Has a small cave which starts from the left end of the beach and heads out to the sea...amazing!!! Not a lot of shade around so take your own ombrela.
The guidebook said drive along the coast road and where you see cars parked look for a beach. That;s what we did. You have to walk down a slope of loose stones, which is not ideal for elderly but otherwise ok. Once there it was our favourite beach in Crete so far. Soft sand, hardly anyone there - a couple of times we had the beach to ourselves! If you have a car it is worth the short drive of a few kilometres to go there and relax in peace or bath in the crystal clear, sun-warmed waters. Perfect.
Recommended duration
2h 30 min
Hours
Open 24 hours everyday
Contact
Stáousa Beach,
720 59,
Greece
7 當地人推薦
Stáousa
Paralia Staoysa is located in Sitia. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Paralia Staoysa.
Peaceful and relaxing
Well worth going to this small beach!!! It was fantastic with not a lot of people. Has a small cave which starts from the left end of the beach and heads out to the sea...amazing!!! Not a lot of shade around so take your own ombrela.
The guidebook said drive along the coast road and where you see cars parked look for a beach. That;s what we did. You have to walk down a slope of loose stones, which is not ideal for elderly but otherwise ok. Once there it was our favourite beach in Crete so far. Soft sand, hardly anyone there - a couple of times we had the beach to ourselves! If you have a car it is worth the short drive of a few kilometres to go there and relax in peace or bath in the crystal clear, sun-warmed waters. Perfect.
Recommended duration
2h 30 min
Hours
Open 24 hours everyday
Contact
Stáousa Beach,
720 59,
Greece
About
In Kato Zakros you will find a large and two smaller spotless beaches with pebbles and sand. Here you will find the peace and relaxation you ask for relaxing and quality vacation!
Located on the East coast of Crete, Kato Zakros is a unique place combining a beach, a gorge (Valley of the Dead) and a Minoan archaeological site.
Unspoilt by mass tourism, the area with orange mountains dropping into the sea is worth the detour.
Below is my guide to help you plan your visit with map, tips and things to do.
Why visit Kato Zakros in Crete?
Zakros has a unique situation in Crete. It is the ultimate combination:
A beach with turquoise water,
Beautiful bare mountains dropping into the sea,
A deep gorge with towering cliffs where you can hike,
The ruins of a Minoan town,
A scenic drive to get there,
It is off the beaten path and not taken over by mass tourism.
What more would you want?
Best things to do in Kato Zakros
Relax at the beach and have lunch
Visit the Minoan Ruins of Zakros
Hike in the Valley of the Dead
Enjoy the drive between Xerokampos and Zakros
Where is Kato Zakros in Crete?
Kato Zakros is the lower village of the Zakros area, by the beach
Located in the middle of the East coast
Sitia to Zakros = 1h
Agios Nikolaos to Zakros = 2h15
Ierapetra to Zakros = 1h45
Heraklion to Zakros = 3h
Kato Zakros Beach
About
In Kato Zakros you will find a large and two smaller spotless beaches with pebbles and sand. Here you will find the peace and relaxation you ask for relaxing and quality vacation!
Located on the East coast of Crete, Kato Zakros is a unique place combining a beach, a gorge (Valley of the Dead) and a Minoan archaeological site.
Unspoilt by mass tourism, the area with orange mountains dropping into the sea is worth the detour.
Below is my guide to help you plan your visit with map, tips and things to do.
Why visit Kato Zakros in Crete?
Zakros has a unique situation in Crete. It is the ultimate combination:
A beach with turquoise water,
Beautiful bare mountains dropping into the sea,
A deep gorge with towering cliffs where you can hike,
The ruins of a Minoan town,
A scenic drive to get there,
It is off the beaten path and not taken over by mass tourism.
What more would you want?
Best things to do in Kato Zakros
Relax at the beach and have lunch
Visit the Minoan Ruins of Zakros
Hike in the Valley of the Dead
Enjoy the drive between Xerokampos and Zakros
Where is Kato Zakros in Crete?
Kato Zakros is the lower village of the Zakros area, by the beach
Located in the middle of the East coast
Sitia to Zakros = 1h
Agios Nikolaos to Zakros = 2h15
Ierapetra to Zakros = 1h45
Heraklion to Zakros = 3h
Happy Home Xalkiadakis
Happy Home Χαλκιαδάκης στη Σητεία!
Το eshop εξυπηρετεί όλες τις παραγγελίες μέσω παραλαβής από ένα κατάστημά μας αλλά διαθέτει υπηρεσία delivery σε συγκεκριμένες περιοχές:
Super Market Xalkiadakis
Το eshop εξυπηρετεί όλες τις παραγγελίες μέσω παραλαβής από ένα κατάστημά μας αλλά διαθέτει υπηρεσία delivery σε συγκεκριμένες περιοχές:
Nouvelle Boutique
161 El. VenizelouMitsakakis
6 Kon/nou KaramanliΥπέροχοι λουκουμάδες💕🫶
托普洛修道院
瓦伊海灘
Eparchiaki Odos Monis Toplous - VaiCity/town information
An inspiration for poets, Sitia, in northeastern Crete, boasts the largest palm forest and some of the most exotic beaches in Europe.
The Cretan sunshine, a sparkling sea, dreamy beaches, epic legends: Everything about Sitia guarantees a great holiday, bringing together the beauty of past and present in this magical corner of Crete. Beyond the beaches, you will enjoy the cafes and savour the local cuisine, washed down with tsikoudia (the schnapps-like firewater of Crete).
The celebrated palm forest in Vai is the backdrop to one of the most exotic swimming spots in Crete. And when it comes to the cultural highlights, you’ll enjoy exploring the Kazarma Fortress and the Archaeological Museum and revisiting the glory days of ancient Itanos. Meanwhile, in the home of Vitsentzos Kornaros (author of the epic poem Erotokritos) you, too, will find your Cretan muse.
What to do in Sitia, Crete
Listen to the tales of the Kazarma Fortress
Kazarma (Casa di arma), the fortress of Sitia’s castle, has a tumultuous history to tell. From the Middle Ages to Byzantium and beyond, it’s been demolished, repaired and rebuilt many times over. Venetians, Ottomans, pirates, earthquakes … all have left their mark on Kazarma. And yet it’s still there, each summer hosting the Kornaria, a series of cultural events.
Take a stroll in town and finish with a swim
Sitia welcomes you with its restaurants, cafes and charming waterfront. It’s an animated scene, with shops, tavernas and bars. Visit the Archaeological and Folklore Museum and then go swimming on the sandy beach next to the town centre.
Head to the beach… there’s plenty of choice
A little further away are Makri Gialos, Kserokampos, Goudoura, Koufonisi … all beautiful beaches where you’ll enjoy swimming, snorkelling and water sports.
Explore the exotic palm forest at Vai
Some 20km west of Sitia is one of the most spectacular sights in Crete: a palm tree forest covering an area of approximately 200,00m2. According to local legend, the forest grew from the stones of dates that were thrown here by Egyptian soldiers, Saracen pirates and King Mithridates’s army. What you’ll know for sure is that you’ve found one of the most beautiful spots in Crete. The rare palm trees (Phoenix Theofrasti), golden sand and blue-green water give Vai an exotic air.
Relive the glory days of Ancient Itanos
Near the beach are remnants of a colony built by the Phoenicians. Ancient Itanos, whose ruins are spread along a sandy hill, acquired its wealth and power by trading Tyrian purple, a rare dye for fabrics. It was prosperous until the Byzantine period, decorating its public buildings and temples with beautiful marble and even having its own currency. The raids of the Saracens in the 9th century signalled the end of its glory days. Today, you’ll see the ruins scattered across the width of the cape.
Hidden gems of Sitia, Crete
The poet of Erotokritos
"In Sitia was he born, in Sitia was he bred. And there he laboured hard to write all these words you’ve read,” wrote Vitsentzos Kornaros, born locally in 1553 and author of the epic Erotokritos. His romantic work, written in rhymed verse around 1600 is a masterpiece of Greek literature.
The fortified Toplou Monastery
About 9.6km west of ancient Itanos, within a lunar landscape of stones and shrubs, you’ll find the Toplou Monastery. A fortified monastery built in the 16th century, the Ottomans named it Toplou after the cannon used to keep pirates at bay (‘top’ meaning cannon in Turkish).
The delicious tastes of Sitia and Crete
The pure products of Sitia’s soil are special: award-winning extra-virgin olive oil, uniquely flavoured thyme-honey, delicious dairy products, excellent tsikoudia, herbs and traditional pastries, many of which you’ll find only here. Try the savoury kalitsounia filled with myzithra (a local cheese), koulourakia (sourdough buns), loukoumades (doughnuts drizzled with thyme honey), and kserotigana (delicately wrapped sweet fritters that are a staple at weddings in Crete).
71 當地人推薦
Sitia
An inspiration for poets, Sitia, in northeastern Crete, boasts the largest palm forest and some of the most exotic beaches in Europe.
The Cretan sunshine, a sparkling sea, dreamy beaches, epic legends: Everything about Sitia guarantees a great holiday, bringing together the beauty of past and present in this magical corner of Crete. Beyond the beaches, you will enjoy the cafes and savour the local cuisine, washed down with tsikoudia (the schnapps-like firewater of Crete).
The celebrated palm forest in Vai is the backdrop to one of the most exotic swimming spots in Crete. And when it comes to the cultural highlights, you’ll enjoy exploring the Kazarma Fortress and the Archaeological Museum and revisiting the glory days of ancient Itanos. Meanwhile, in the home of Vitsentzos Kornaros (author of the epic poem Erotokritos) you, too, will find your Cretan muse.
What to do in Sitia, Crete
Listen to the tales of the Kazarma Fortress
Kazarma (Casa di arma), the fortress of Sitia’s castle, has a tumultuous history to tell. From the Middle Ages to Byzantium and beyond, it’s been demolished, repaired and rebuilt many times over. Venetians, Ottomans, pirates, earthquakes … all have left their mark on Kazarma. And yet it’s still there, each summer hosting the Kornaria, a series of cultural events.
Take a stroll in town and finish with a swim
Sitia welcomes you with its restaurants, cafes and charming waterfront. It’s an animated scene, with shops, tavernas and bars. Visit the Archaeological and Folklore Museum and then go swimming on the sandy beach next to the town centre.
Head to the beach… there’s plenty of choice
A little further away are Makri Gialos, Kserokampos, Goudoura, Koufonisi … all beautiful beaches where you’ll enjoy swimming, snorkelling and water sports.
Explore the exotic palm forest at Vai
Some 20km west of Sitia is one of the most spectacular sights in Crete: a palm tree forest covering an area of approximately 200,00m2. According to local legend, the forest grew from the stones of dates that were thrown here by Egyptian soldiers, Saracen pirates and King Mithridates’s army. What you’ll know for sure is that you’ve found one of the most beautiful spots in Crete. The rare palm trees (Phoenix Theofrasti), golden sand and blue-green water give Vai an exotic air.
Relive the glory days of Ancient Itanos
Near the beach are remnants of a colony built by the Phoenicians. Ancient Itanos, whose ruins are spread along a sandy hill, acquired its wealth and power by trading Tyrian purple, a rare dye for fabrics. It was prosperous until the Byzantine period, decorating its public buildings and temples with beautiful marble and even having its own currency. The raids of the Saracens in the 9th century signalled the end of its glory days. Today, you’ll see the ruins scattered across the width of the cape.
Hidden gems of Sitia, Crete
The poet of Erotokritos
"In Sitia was he born, in Sitia was he bred. And there he laboured hard to write all these words you’ve read,” wrote Vitsentzos Kornaros, born locally in 1553 and author of the epic Erotokritos. His romantic work, written in rhymed verse around 1600 is a masterpiece of Greek literature.
The fortified Toplou Monastery
About 9.6km west of ancient Itanos, within a lunar landscape of stones and shrubs, you’ll find the Toplou Monastery. A fortified monastery built in the 16th century, the Ottomans named it Toplou after the cannon used to keep pirates at bay (‘top’ meaning cannon in Turkish).
The delicious tastes of Sitia and Crete
The pure products of Sitia’s soil are special: award-winning extra-virgin olive oil, uniquely flavoured thyme-honey, delicious dairy products, excellent tsikoudia, herbs and traditional pastries, many of which you’ll find only here. Try the savoury kalitsounia filled with myzithra (a local cheese), koulourakia (sourdough buns), loukoumades (doughnuts drizzled with thyme honey), and kserotigana (delicately wrapped sweet fritters that are a staple at weddings in Crete).
Makrigialos
Makri Gialos is 35 km far from Sitia and 29 from Ierapetra. The name Makri Gialos means “long beach”, which indeed it is the long sandy beach with crystal clear, shallow waters, is perfect for children and non-swimmers, and further out for more experienced swimmers. The beach is lined with a good variety of tavernas to suit all tastes, the fishing port being the most picturesque part of the village.
From the port, there is a boat which leaves each morning for the beautiful island of Koufonisi, returning late afternoon. Makri Gialos has a very good suply of shops, tavernas and watersport facilities and attracts visitors of all ages. From Makri Gialos you can visit also Monastery of Kapsa.
The excavations brought to light a minoan villa. In the same region a villa from the Roman period has been excavated.
A few years ago Makrigialos was a little harbour with a few storehouses. The local people (who in that time used to live in the surrounding villages in and around the mountains) used to store up and then, export their goods, like olive oil, wine, raki, sultanas, carobs beans, corn, and live animals. Around this time, there were only a few families living in the area and a few men, spending the night while they were fishing. There weren’t many roads for transfers, because the land is very mountainous. It wasn’t until after the last war and between the 50s – 70s that the government started building roads. Also, during these years, most of the local population moved to the big cities in Crete, Athens, and other Greek cities. A large number of them also went to Germany and to Australia for work.
Today the resort of Makrigialos has a population of around 1000 people who come mainly from the villages of Agios Stefanos (Saint Stefano) and Pefki (Pine trees). Makrigialos consists of two settlements, Makrigialos and Analipsi. The village has grown very fast between 1980-1995.
The two beautiful villages of Agios Stefanos and Pefki are 7 km from the sea and are 420 m above sea level. Both villages are now connected by a new asphalt road. There are still some very old people living there.
Surrounding Makrigialos are several mountain villages steeped in history with narrow winding streets, old and beautifully renovated stone houses encircled by Geraniums, Bougainvillea, and vines. Lemon and Orange trees too numerous to count and of course the occasional goat or donkey being led through the streets.
On the Afendis Stavromenos mountain top of 1500 m. you can enjoy a fantastic and unforgettable view of the eastern Crete area, Ierapetra, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and all surrounding islands.
30 當地人推薦
Makry Gialos
Makrigialos
Makri Gialos is 35 km far from Sitia and 29 from Ierapetra. The name Makri Gialos means “long beach”, which indeed it is the long sandy beach with crystal clear, shallow waters, is perfect for children and non-swimmers, and further out for more experienced swimmers. The beach is lined with a good variety of tavernas to suit all tastes, the fishing port being the most picturesque part of the village.
From the port, there is a boat which leaves each morning for the beautiful island of Koufonisi, returning late afternoon. Makri Gialos has a very good suply of shops, tavernas and watersport facilities and attracts visitors of all ages. From Makri Gialos you can visit also Monastery of Kapsa.
The excavations brought to light a minoan villa. In the same region a villa from the Roman period has been excavated.
A few years ago Makrigialos was a little harbour with a few storehouses. The local people (who in that time used to live in the surrounding villages in and around the mountains) used to store up and then, export their goods, like olive oil, wine, raki, sultanas, carobs beans, corn, and live animals. Around this time, there were only a few families living in the area and a few men, spending the night while they were fishing. There weren’t many roads for transfers, because the land is very mountainous. It wasn’t until after the last war and between the 50s – 70s that the government started building roads. Also, during these years, most of the local population moved to the big cities in Crete, Athens, and other Greek cities. A large number of them also went to Germany and to Australia for work.
Today the resort of Makrigialos has a population of around 1000 people who come mainly from the villages of Agios Stefanos (Saint Stefano) and Pefki (Pine trees). Makrigialos consists of two settlements, Makrigialos and Analipsi. The village has grown very fast between 1980-1995.
The two beautiful villages of Agios Stefanos and Pefki are 7 km from the sea and are 420 m above sea level. Both villages are now connected by a new asphalt road. There are still some very old people living there.
Surrounding Makrigialos are several mountain villages steeped in history with narrow winding streets, old and beautifully renovated stone houses encircled by Geraniums, Bougainvillea, and vines. Lemon and Orange trees too numerous to count and of course the occasional goat or donkey being led through the streets.
On the Afendis Stavromenos mountain top of 1500 m. you can enjoy a fantastic and unforgettable view of the eastern Crete area, Ierapetra, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and all surrounding islands.
Γειτονιές
ΑΒ Βασιλόπουλος
Αγορές εντός καταστήματος · Παραλαβή στο κατάστημα · Διανομή
Limenarchion Sitias
33 Emmanouil RouselakiHeraklion - Lasithi Busses - Sitia Bus Station