Ierapetra is the southernmost city of Greece, set on the Libyan Sea coast in the southernmost part of Crete, 30km south of Agios Nikolaos. It is the sunniest and warmest region of the country, which makes it a swimming destination that stays open often until late autumn. Most visitors come for three things: a sandy town beach with a calm sea, the harbour with its Venetian Kales fortress, and the boat trip to Chrissi Island. This guide covers what to see, the beaches worth your time, the gorges nearby, where to stay, and how to get there.
In Ierapetra Town, Crete, a range of charming accommodations awaits to make your holiday memorable. From cosy hotels to private rooms and apartments, you have the option to stay right in the heart of the town, near the scenic bay, or choose a tranquil spot just around the bay, nestled on the beach. Each location offers the convenience of a short, delightful 5-10 minute stroll along the promenade, leading you back to the town’s vibrant life. Below is a curated list of accommodations in Ierapetra Town, tailored to enhance your stay.
Located in Ierápetra, just 400 metres from Agios Andreas Beach, Amazing Seafront Suite provides beachfront accommodation with free WiFi. The air-conditioned accommodation is 1.4 km from West Beach of Ierapetra.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views features 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Livadi Beach is 1.9 km from Amazing Seafront Suite, while Lake Voulismeni is 32 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 58 km from the accommodation.
Situated in Ierápetra, 400 metres from Agios Andreas Beach and 1.4 km from West Beach of Ierapetra, Friendly & comfy apartment provides accommodation with amenities such as free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. Boasting a balcony, the apartment is in an area where guests can engage in activities such as fishing and hiking.
The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.
The apartment offers a terrace.
Livadi Beach is 1.8 km from Friendly & comfy apartment, while Lake Voulismeni is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 58 km from the accommodation.
from
€54
/night
Situated in Ierápetra, 1.4 km from West Beach of Ierapetra and 1.8 km from Livadi Beach, Lovely sea view apartment at the heart of the town offers air conditioning. The property features sea and city views, and is 400 metres from Agios Andreas Beach.
The apartment has a balcony, 1 bedroom, a living room and a well-equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.
If you would like to discover the area, hiking is possible in the surroundings.
Lake Voulismeni is 32 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 31 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 58 km from Lovely sea view apartment at the heart of the town.
from
€55
/night
Ioannas Endless Blue Apartment is a beachfront property set in Ierápetra, 600 metres from Agios Andreas Beach and 1.3 km from West Beach of Ierapetra. It has mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a fridge and a kitchenware, and 1 bathroom with an a bath or shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Livadi Beach is 2 km from Ioannas Endless Blue Apartment, while Lake Voulismeni is 32 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 58 km from the accommodation.
from
€72
/night
Situated in Ierápetra, 400 metres from Agios Andreas Beach and 1.5 km from West Beach of Ierapetra, Opus Suite features air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi. With city views, this accommodation offers a balcony.
This apartment features 1 bedroom, a kitchen with an oven and a fridge, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 2 bathrooms fitted with a shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.
Livadi Beach is 1.8 km from the apartment, while Lake Voulismeni is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 57 km from Opus Suite.
City Apartment Ierapetra has a terrace and is located in Ierápetra, within just 1.5 km of West Beach of Ierapetra and 1.9 km of Livadi Beach. The accommodation is 500 metres from the Agios Andreas Beach and features free WiFithroughout the property.
The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a kitchen and 1 bathroom. A flat-screen TV is provided.
Lake Voulismeni is 32 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 31 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 57 km from City Apartment Ierapetra.
Despite its serene vibe, Ierapetra in Crete buzzes with activities and attractions. A must-do is the boat trip to the enchanting Chrissi Island, a slice of paradise. Don’t miss exploring historical landmarks like the The Fortress of Kales the House of Napoleon, and the Mosque of Ierapetra. Each site weaves into the rich tapestry of Ierapetra’s history. See below for a comprehensive list of things to do in Ierapetra Town.
On our ATV-Quad tour from Ierapetra we go off-roading in the rugged landscapes of Crete’s southern coast. We start with a theoretical introduction and a small driving practise, before we start the adventure. Lonely tracks away from main traffic, in the midst of the most beautiful nature will take you to a beautiful landscape on the Cretan mountains. Splash through streams, wind along ancient gorges, and look for island wildlife from behind the wheel of a personal quad vehicle. Get a taste of Cretan history and culture during several stops along the way, including a traditional Greek brunch at Kalamafka Village. The off-road quad safari from Ierapetra explores hard-to-reach areas of Crete’s southern coast. A Great way to experience Cretan culture and nature off the beaten path.
This Land Rover excursion is the perfect way to explore the central part of Crete, visiting 2 different plateaus and learning about mythology as well as local life.
We head out in the Land Rover to the plateau of Katharo, passing through the largest forest on Crete. The roads here are basically non-existent and the mountains reach heights of 1,500 meters. You’ll have a refreshment stop at a kafenion (coffee shop) somewhere in the wilderness.
The tour continues on along dirt tracks, through valleys, and across rivers, and the journey starts to get exciting! At the next stop you’ll have the opportunity to take photos from a spectacular viewpoint above the Lassithi Plateau. You’ll then head to the plateau to enjoy your BBQ lunch, along with unlimited wine.
After lunch you’ll travel back in time as you visit the Eco Village, where you can see local crafts being made by traditional methods. The next stop will be Zeus’s cave where, according to mythology, the father of the gods was born. If you’d like to enter the cave there is a EUR 4 entrance fee that’s payable at the site.
Your driver/guide will take you on to Seli, where you can take photos of the unique scenery. You’ll continue on to the village of Krassi, noted for its 2,000-year-old plane tree and natural spring water source. As you make your way back you’ll pass through Selinari, an area where you’ll be on the lookout for vultures, now an endangered species.
Explore the “wild heart” of East Crete, undiscovered by tourism, where “time” seems to
stand still. A combination of tar and off roads, will guide you from Ierapetra to the mountains of Thripti . A highlight of the tour is the stop at the summit Afentis (850 m) with an unforgettable panoramic view on both seas (Libyan/Aegean). We continue to Kavousi, where you can admire the oldest olive tree in the world (3250 years). In Mochlos, you can enjoy the “greek cuisine” in a typical tavern. Our trip continues through the vine yards and olive fields, among small chapels, towards authentic villages with their simple lifestyle (Sfaka, Lastros-known as the “cat village”). To end this adventures day, refresh yourselves in the crystal clear water at the bay of Tholos.
An unforgettable day for nature lovers and adventurers
Through this route we explore the south-eastern Crete. We head to Agios Nikolaos and stop in the traditional village of Kritsa, one of the most famous villages of Crete with its narrow picturesque alleys and its traditional shops.
Afterwards we ascend through a beautiful route with magnificent views and end up at the Katharo Plateau at an altitude of 1250 meters where we stop for coffee in a traditional cafe. We cross the forest of SELAKANO and end up in the SARAKINA Gorge which will surprise you with its beauty. Continuing and after our amazing meal, we reach the southernmost end of eastern Crete, the village of Myrtos with its amazing beach where you can have a swim in the crystal clear waters of the LIBIAN SEA.
Returning through a very beautiful route we arrive at your hotel.
This route will leave you with the very best memories.
Discover the scenery of Crete’s White Mountains on a road trip from Platanias to Zourva. Explore local villages, stop to take photos of gorges, and savor a typical snack in Zourva.
Begin the tour with pickup in Platanias, then set off through the colorful scenery of the Orange Valley. Continue climbing slowly up the west side of the White Mountains, admiring the views as you go.
After passing Meskla village we will have a short stop to visit a small Sarakina gorge where we will see the impressive rock walls of the gorge just a short walk away from the road. Curvy road will take us all the way up at Zourva where we will have a break with a simple snack with incredible view.
Breathtaking sceneries will continue to the next village Therisso which played an important role in Crete’s modern history. On the way back to Platanias we will drive along the Therisso gorge where you can admire the high vertical cliffs and the huge Plane trees.
Route: Platanias – Patelari – Meskla – Zourva – Therisso – Varipetro – Agia – Drakiana – Platanias
Explore the natural beauty of South Crete on our “Sarakina Gorge” safari tour! Discover the charm of Kritsa village, capture breathtaking Mirabello Gulf views, and navigate the off-road terrain of Kroustas Pine Forest. Savor a cup of coffee in Males village. Afterward… The highlight of your tour awaits at Sarakina Gorge, a sublime natural spectacle that is certain to fill you with wonder and amazement. Hike through this stunning canyon, surrounded by towering rock formations and lush vegetation. The brave may even take a dip in the natural pools that dot the landscape. After hiking … Taste Crete with a delicious lunch combined with local wine in the family’s restaurant. As the journey continues, venture to the coastal haven of Myrtos, where crystal-clear waters beckon you to refresh in the embrace of the South Cretan sea. Dive into a Cretan paradise!
Ierapetra, the southernmost city of Greece, is nestled 35km southeast of Agios Nikolaos on Crete island. This city, located in one of the warmest regions of Crete, is a popular holiday destination, often frequented until late autumn. Ierapetra and its surrounding areas boast a vast beachfront, renowned for its stunning beaches adorned with unique fine black pebbles that do not stick to your feet, coupled with a typically calm sea.
In proximity to the town, there are three primary beaches for swimming. Starting from the west, the first is Limanakia, situated west of the city next to the old mosque. The beach features coarse sand, patches of a rocky seabed, and shallow waters, offering a peaceful atmosphere. Given its closeness to the city, all necessities are readily available. Limanakia also hosts a channel in the middle of the beach that leads to a small man-made salt lake.
A short stroll eastward will bring you to the Fort of Kales, which guards the harbour of Ierapetra. Adjacent to it is Apovathra Beach, a sandy beach with shallow waters. This beach is well-equipped with numerous facilities for water sports and scuba diving, making it the most organized beach in the town.
The city of Ierapetra, in close proximity to the Agia Fotini church, boasts the longest beach which spans 4km eastwards and is known as the East Beach of Agios Andreas. The name is derived from the Saint Andrew church, constructed at the exit point of the Kotovianou river. Initially, you will encounter the municipal beach, well-structured and surrounded by numerous large hotels. However, as you venture further east, the beach becomes more private. Despite this, it’s not suitable for nudists due to the main road that connects the city with Makrigialos and Sitia along the coast. The beach near the city center is sandy, but as you advance east, the sand gives way to small, grey pebbles and rocks, particularly up to the Livadia area.
The easternmost point of the extensive Ierapetra beach is known as Livadia, and beyond that, is named Peristeras. This secluded region is enveloped by towering cliffs. The beach itself is sandy, interspersed with several smooth rocks. The farthest part of Agios Andreas can be accessed by walking down the road. In addition to this, there is another sandy beach hidden behind the rocky end of the expansive beach in Peristeras, which can be reached via the road. This area is significantly shielded from onlookers, however, it’s quite rocky.
Gra Ligia is a coastal village located a short 5km journey to the west of Ierapetra and a 39km trip south from Agios Nikolaos. Nestled at the mouth of a rich valley, the village is surrounded by greenhouses filled with early-ripening vegetables. The locals of Gra Ligia were pioneers in the use of greenhouse agriculture, a practice that has since spread throughout the Ierapetra region. The profusion of greenhouses has even earned the village the nickname of “Silicon Valley of Greece”. The Bramiana dam, situated 2km north of the village, plays a crucial role in the area’s agriculture, supplying water to all Ierapetra crops and forming one of Crete’s key wetlands.
Aside from farming, tourism also forms an essential part of the local economy. Gra Ligia, with its recent mild growth, is among the newest holiday destinations on Crete. This growth has been facilitated by the appealing long beach, fringed with coarse sand that extends from Ierapetra to the Stomio region. The beach is known for its tranquil waters and is well-equipped with amenities like umbrellas and showers, albeit not on a large scale. Tamarisk trees pepper the landscape, providing shade and greenery. The beach is a popular spot for locals who enjoy swimming and fishing from their boats docked in the local harbour.
The beach is also a venue for local events such as beach soccer tournaments. If you’re fortunate, you might even have a chance to partake in the unique “xentomatiasmata” or tomato war, a tradition revived and celebrated in early summer. Gra Ligia is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing holiday. In the evenings, visitors can unwind with a drink at local bars or take a short trip to Ierapetra. To reach Gra Ligia from Ierapetra, simply travel westward on the city road. Alternatively, there are bus services that pass through the village.
Just past the Peristeras suburb of Ierapetra begins the Katharades area, a chain of small beaches leading up to the popular coastline of the Koutsounari village. Known for its strong winds, it’s considered one of Crete’s windiest locations. The bays of this area are somewhat hidden, despite their proximity to the main road, leading to few visitors to the sequential bays. The area also goes by the name Paplinou, due to the nearby ancient Panagia Paplinou monastery.
The stunning landscape is shaped by numerous rock shelters and unique rock formations, a product of erosion on the conglomerate soil over time. There’s been a slight increase in development in recent years, mainly due to the construction of large hotels near the coast. Consequently, the main road between Ierapetra and Makrygialos boasts a few restaurants, mini markets, and accommodations.
The beach features coarse grey sand, and its seabed has large, smooth rocks interspersed with sandy areas. The surrounding area is dotted with tamarisk trees offering shade, and umbrellas are also available. The beach is well maintained by the nearby hotels and features a beach volleyball court, sunbeds, showers, and water sports facilities.
The Mylonas or Saint John Gorge is situated 18km to the east of Ierapetra. It commences near the St. John village at a height of 500m and concludes at the Kakia Skala beach. It is not feasible to descend the gorge from Saint John due to a tall waterfall, necessitating the use of canyoning equipment.
Nonetheless, there are two ascending trails that start near the Kakia Skala beach, providing access to the high fall of the Mylonas canyon. The first trail (easy – 20’) takes you through the pine-wooded side of the gorge, a large portion of which is the old concrete ditch, formerly used to transport water to Koutsounari. The other trail follows the riverbed and can be quite exhausting, especially in winter (takes approximately 1:30 hour).
Upon reaching the end of the ascending trails at a height of 300m, you will encounter the tall fall of Milonas, which stands at 20m. Below it, you will find a small pond filled with crystal-clear water, perfect for a refreshing swim. In winter, and after heavy rainfall, a second waterfall appears to the left of the main fall, creating a breathtaking view.
The Havgas Gorge, situated near the village of Kalamafka and just 12km north of Ierapetra city, is one of several gorges with the same name scattered across Crete. Other examples include the Havgas Gorge in the Lassithi Plateau, Plaka, and Kavoussi. The Havgas Gorge is nestled between the Megali Korfi (1103m) and Kokies (993m) peaks, and its stream, the Kapsous, serves as the primary tributary of the Kalamavkianos River that empties into the Stomio beach of Gra Ligia.
This stunning canyon boasts unique rock formations, sculpted by rare geological events. Many of these rocks are adorned with nature’s own “artwork”, etched over time by the elements. Despite its relatively short length, the gorge offers an easy and enjoyable walk along the riverbed, even for novices. The area’s altitude of around 500m provides the perfect environment for a lush pine forest. Regrettably, repeated fires have caused the forest to diminish in size. Nevertheless, the area is worth a visit, and visitors are sure to be charmed by the sight of small pine trees sprouting from the rocks, akin to bonsai trees.
The gorge’s depth extends to 300m. At one spot, two narrow rocks form the entrance to a series of caves that served as a refuge for Cretan rebels and Allies during the German Occupation. The locals refer to this area as the “Chinese Landscape”, due to the smooth rocks dotted with bonsai-like trees. Adjacent to the gorge’s exit, visitors can explore the village of Kalamafka with its inviting taverns and babbling water. Additionally, nearby attractions include an ancient olive oil mill and the churches of Saint John and Saint Anthony.
Ha Gorge, a mesmerizing natural wonder carved into the western side of Mount Thrypti, channels water from the Thripti plateau to the Pachia Ammos beach. The gorge’s journey commences near the Saint Anne Byzantine church and the E4 footpath at approximately 800m altitude, and concludes near the Monastiraki village, about 100m above sea level.
Traversing the Ha Gorge demands canyoneering skills and specific gear due to its series of cascading waterfalls, including a 35m high plunge. The gorge tightens to a mere thirty centimetres at certain points, squeezed between cliffs that rise to 400 meters. The Mastoras waterfall, one of Greece’s tallest free falls reaching 215m, contributes substantial water midway through the route.
For those with less experience, a hike from the Monastiraki exit of the gorge provides a peek into its splendour, leading to a charming pond at the base of the final waterfall and past ancient grain mills. The name of the gorge, Ha, originates from the Greek verb “Hasko,” which means to create a gap. However, local folklore offers vibrant alternative explanations. From stories of misleading Saracens to myths of a golden chariot hidden deep within, the Ha Gorge is not only a stunning natural spectacle but also a symbol of intriguing local mythology.
This magnificent natural phenomenon – Sarakina Gorge – can be found near the traditional village of Mythi and the coastal settlement of Myrtos, where the Kryos river merges with the sea.
As the tale goes in Greek mythology, Zeus’s son, the giant Sarantapihos, once paused to quench his thirst from the Myrtos or Kryos river, near Ierapetra. His sweeping beard slashed the mountain, dividing it into two parts, thereby forming the Sarakina canyon.
Regarded by many visitors as Crete’s most captivating hiking gorge, Sarakina may only stretch 1.5km, but within this concise journey, one encounters an awe-inspiring spectacle of nature, a natural sculpture painstakingly crafted by water over countless years. The canyon boasts towering walls that rise up to 150m high and extremely narrow passages often found in technical gorges that require canyoneering equipment. The width of Sarakina fluctuates between 3 to 10 meters, rarely extending beyond these points.
The majority of the canyon is accessible to explorers of all abilities, featuring water, pools, and a handful of climbing points that necessitate careful navigation. A standout feature is the abundant water almost all year round, creating picturesque waterfalls and ponds perfect for a refreshing dip, even in the summer. In winter, traversing the gorge without getting soaked is a challenge. As one embarks on the route, they’ll encounter the need to climb, navigate immense boulders, and cross rocky bridges. Carved stone stairs and tree trunks are present in tricky spots to facilitate easier climbing.
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