Agios Nikolaos Church, nestled in Georgioupoli, stands as one of Crete’s most photographed attractions. This radiant, whitewashed chapel is perched on a rocky islet, presenting some challenges for those attempting to access it on foot.
Floating seemingly on the Aegean Sea, the chapel honors St. Nicholas (Ἅγιος Νικόλαος), the protector of seafarers, who also inspired the legendary figure of Santa Claus.
Renowned for its picturesque beauty, the chapel is a highly sought-after venue for weddings, attracting couples for Greek Orthodox ceremonies. It also serves as a serene spot for lighting a candle and prayer, or simply for those seeking tranquility, regardless of religious beliefs. Visiting the church is complimentary, though visitors are welcome to leave a donation.
However, accessibility might be challenging for individuals with disabilities, and visitors are advised to wear sturdy shoes due to the slippery and rocky path. The journey, despite its demands, rewards with its romantic ambiance and unparalleled vistas. Visitors are cautioned against attempting the path in adverse weather conditions and to be mindful of the crabs hiding among the rocks.
From the main beach of Georgioupoli, the chapel’s beauty can be admired from afar, providing a perfect backdrop for photos that capture the essence of the village, making it an iconic symbol of Georgioupoli.
Esteemed as one of the most exquisite religious sites in Crete and Greece, the church’s origins trace back to about a century ago, credited to a sailor whose identity remains a mystery. For those visiting outside the peak season, the church hosts a beautiful Greek Orthodox service on December 6, the feast day of St. Nicholas.
The tourist season sees the chapel bustling with wedding celebrations, performances by musicians, and tourists navigating the causeway in less-than-ideal footwear. Inside, the church is modestly adorned with Greek Orthodox icons, including those of Mary and St. Nicholas, alongside a table for candle offerings.
A piece of advice for visitors: Opt for sports shoes over flip-flops for a safer and more comfortable walk to the church, even though the path is relatively short.
Get directions to Agios Nikolaos Church Georgioupoli
Find below the list of hotels near Agios Nikolaos Church Georgioupoli:
Situated in Georgioupolis, 200 metres from Georgioupolis Beach and 500 metres from Kalivaki Beach, Golden sea suites offers air conditioning. It has garden views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a balcony with sea views.
Peristeras Beach is 800 metres from the apartment, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 23 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 48 km from Golden sea suites.
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€117
/night
Egeon Rooms and Studios is located in Georgioupolis of Chania, just a few metres from the port and 1 km from the sandy beach. It offers free Wi-Fi in all areas and studios with partial views over the lagoon.
Opening to a balcony, all studios of Egeon have a kitchenette with fridge, electric kettle and cooking hobs. Each is equipped with air conditioning, a safe and a TV with satellite channels. The private bathroom is stocked with a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Guests will find restaurants and bars within a short walk from Egeon Rooms and Studios. Chania Town with its Venetian Harbour is 40 km away, while Chania International Airport is 52 km away. Free public parking is possible on site.
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€54
/night
Located in Georgioupolis, near Georgioupolis Beach, Kalivaki Beach and Peristeras Beach, Teo Apartments features free WiFi.
Accommodation is fitted with air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer.
A continental, Full English/Irish or vegetarian breakfast can be enjoyed at the property.
Fishing and hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 23 km from the apartment, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 48 km from Teo Apartments.
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€86
/night
Irini Studios has mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Georgioupolis, 500 metres from Kalivaki Beach.
The units come with parquet floors and feature a fully equipped kitchenette with an oven, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
The country house features a barbecue, garden and sun terrace.
Georgioupolis Beach is 500 metres from Irini Studios, while Peristeras Beach is 1.1 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 48 km from the accommodation.
Pilot Amphora Boutique Hotel “Adults Only” features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, a garden and shared lounge in Georgioupolis. Each accommodation at the 5-star hotel has city views, and guests can enjoy access to a restaurant and to a bar. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property.
The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a desk, a coffee machine, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony and a private bathroom with a shower. At Pilot Amphora Boutique Hotel “Adults Only” every room includes bed linen and towels.
Guests at the accommodation can enjoy an American breakfast.
Pilot Amphora Boutique Hotel “Adults Only” offers a sun terrace. The area is popular for hiking and cycling, in addition, bike hire and car hire are available at this hotel.
Popular points of interest near the hotel include Georgioupolis Beach, Kalivaki Beach and Peristeras Beach. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 48 km from Pilot Amphora Boutique Hotel “Adults Only”.
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€168
/night
Located in Georgioupoli, 400 metres from Georgioupolis Beach and 600 metres from Kalivaki Beach, Primrose Home in Georgioupoli offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home is equipped with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with garden views.
Peristeras Beach is less than 1 km from the holiday home, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 22 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 48 km from Primrose Home in Georgioupoli.
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