Agios Nikólaos City (GR: Αγιος Νικόλαος) is the capital of the Lasithi province of Crete. It is built around a picturesque lake on the north-western side of Mirabello bay, the biggest bay in Crete. Major administrative, cultural and communications centre, Agios Nikolaos is one of the most developed tourist areas, not only in Crete but in Greece in general. Thanks to the beautiful coasts, the great sights and the cosmopolitan life, this lively city host every year thousands of visitors without losing one bit of its tranquillity and traditional hospitality.

A peaceful walk through the shops is always a delight. One can find stores that sell traditional Cretan art, copies of local archaeological museum pieces, jewellery, and beautiful embroidery. There are also stores that carry local products and delicacies sure to tantalize everyone’s taste buds. The town is lined with quaint coffee shops serving up mouthwatering dishes and raki.

The town of Agios Nikolaos is an incredibly beautiful place, full of hospitable people. It’s no wonder that it’s just as magical at night! The numerous bars throughout the town feature a relaxed atmosphere and loud music, making them popular among younger crowds.

Places to Visit in Agios Nikolaos

Situated in idyllic surroundings, Voulismeni Lake is popular among tourists and often plays host to various festivals and sporting events. On its shores are numerous souvenir shops where visitors can purchase unique items as a memorable keepsake of their trip.

The Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos was inaugurated in 1969 and is noteworthy for its extensive collection of artefacts from Crete’s history, orderly displayed according to the respective historical period. Over 1,500 pots are on display, as well as the oldest gold and bronze objects found in Crete. The museum is closed for maintenance at this time but remains open for special exhibitions.

The Folk Art Museum of Agios Nikolaos was founded in 1978 by the Cultural Association of Eastern Crete. It is situated on the bustling street of Agios Nikolaos, next to the Tourist Information Bureau in Lake Voulismeni. The distinct collection at this Museum largely consists of traditional handmade textile items with remarkable embroidery and patterns. There are also holy icons, wooden artefacts, and manuscripts housed here that reflect old traditional life on the island.

Agios Nikolaos church is located in a small harbour where, during the Byzantine and Venetian periods, ships were anchored. Most likely built before the Arab conquest of Crete (827-828), it’s a single-aisled with a dome church. Two layers of frescoes decorate its interior walls: The oldest layer (non-iconic) dates back to the period of iconoclasm. One of few examples earliest of Byzantine architecture on Crete, Agios Nikolaos church gave its name to the city of Agios Nikolaos.

The Cathedral of Agia Triada is located in the centre of Agios Nikolaos. It is a three-aisled, cruciform church with a dome, dedicated to Agia Triada in the middle aisle, the Three Hierarchs in the northern chapel, and the Presentation of the Virgin Mary in the southern chapel. The confessionals were added at a later date. The church is filled with frescoes representing two trends of Byzantine hagiography: Cretan and Macedonian.

The Panagia Vrefotrofos church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and located in the old district of Agios Nikolaos, is actually two different churches that were expanded upon successively. The original church and its first extension both have layers of frescoes; with the oldest ones dating back to the early 14th century mainly in the eastern part depicting scenes from Jesus’ and the Virgin Mary’s life. The second layer shows evidence of what is known as the academic style prevalent during the second half of the 14th century only noticeable in the archway if the westernmost section of the Church.

If you’re looking to do some shopping in the city, Odos Roussou Kondourou is the place to go. In addition to various shops, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes lining the street.