Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikólaos: is the regional capital of Lasithi, this former fishing village, is now one of the regions main tourist areas. Agios Nikólaos situated on the shoreline of Mirabello Bay , with the ruins of a Ventian castle overlooking the town, and the Voulismeni Lake in the centre. The lake, reputed to be bottomless, in fact, it is 64m deep, and a small canal connects it to the sea. There are a wide range of restaurants and tavernas, catering mainly for the tourists. There are also many shops, selling gifts for the tourist to more expensive goods. Nightlife in the town varies from small reasonably quiet bars to bars catering for the younger tourist.

The Archaeological Museum : houses a fine display of artefacts from the region, artefacts from the Stone Age to Roman period. One of the star attractions is the “Goddess of Myrtos”, a clay jug from 2500BC. Fine displays of pottery, glass and gold jewellery, one of the strangest is a skull, crowned with gold leaf, from the 1 st century AD.

The Folklore Museum : Has a display of local crafts, photographs and local costumes.

The Aquarium: on show are, as one would expect, fish. Information on diving and snorkelling is available. Note all diving must be under the supervision of a diving club.

The Church of Agios Nikólaos : is the towns oldest, under restoration in the 60s, frescoes from the 10 th and 14 th century were discovered.

Beaches: the beaches in the town are pebbly and filled to capacity; the beach at Alymyros is better.

Events and Activities: the Lato Cultural Festival takes place in July and August, with Cretan and international music, dances and competitions. Marine Week, takes place in the last week of June with boat races and swimming competitions also a firework display. Fishing trips, cycling and guided tours are also available.