Located in a valley of olive groves, Neapoli (also Neapolis) is a charming city situated 54 km east of Heraklion and 15 km west of Agios Nikolaos. This tranquil and picturesque town, steeped in history and culture, offers a tapestry of elegant buildings, lush gardens, and historical churches, making it an embodiment of Cretan charm.
Tracing its roots back to the Venetian era, Neapoli, originally a small village known as Kares, has evolved significantly over the centuries. The Venetians reconstructed and renamed it Kenourgio Chorio (New Village), and it saw further development during the Turkish Occupation, becoming the administrative centre of the Lassithi Prefecture. This period of growth is reflected in the town’s architectural heritage, including the Court building, old secondary school, and the Bishopric Offices of Petra. Cultural enthusiasts can explore the Folk Museum of Neapoli and the grand architecture of the old orphanage, now housing an archaeological collection and the Eliakis Public Library.
The Cathedral of Panagia, a magnificent structure at the town’s heart, is a testament to its historical depth, being the second-largest church in Crete, built on the site of a former mosque and temple. The town’s historical narrative is further enriched by the ruins of Dreros, an ancient city with the temple of Apollo Delphinios, revealing tales of the Dorian invasion and subsequent city-state significance.
In contemporary times, despite facing neglect post-World War II and a trend of youth migration to larger cities, Neapoli retains its majestic character. Its culinary scene centred around the main square near the Cathedral of Megali Panagia, is renowned for producing orgeat (soumada), a traditional sweet almond drink symbolic of Cretan hospitality. The town’s quaint streets, such as those in the Agios Dimitrios neighbourhood, lead to historical gems like the old aqueduct and the Seraglio of Maslum Karakasis.
Neapoli, positioned in the Ano Mirabello region of northwestern Lassithi, is not just a historic seat but also a living mosaic of Cretan life. A short drive from the bustling town of Agios Nikolaos, it serves as the focal point of the Holy Metropolis of Petra and Cherronisos, as well as a centre for judicial services. The town’s character is further accentuated by its old mansions, scenic alleys, and Ottoman fountains. The main square, with its idyllic municipal garden and adjacent Folk Art Museum of Neapoli, enhances the area’s serenity and grandeur. Surrounded by historical monasteries and churches, including the Franciscan Monastery of Fraro and the archaeological site of Driros, Neapoli is a hub of history and culture. Additionally, the town is alive with annual cultural and athletic events, with the festivities on August 14th and 15th being the highlight, drawing visitors and locals alike to celebrate Neapolis’ rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
In the quaint Neapoli Town of Crete, accommodations blend local charm with comfort. The town is dotted with family-owned apartments, offering a warm, authentic Cretan experience. For those seeking a touch of luxury, Neapoli doesn’t disappoint, with several upscale options available. Discover your perfect stay in our curated list of accommodations below, each promising a memorable visit to this charming Cretan town.
Offering free bikes and a garden, the stone Casa di Pietra are located in Neapolis. They feature fully equipped units with free WiFi access and mountain views. Elounda resort is a 15-minute drive away.
Fitted with a fireplace and parquet floor, all air-conditioned and tastefully decorated houses of Vintage come with 2 separate bedrooms. Each consists of a seating area with flat-screen TV and a kitchen with dining area and oven with hobs.
The property facilities include grocery deliveries. An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including cycling and hiking.
The popular Malia Village and Agios Nikolaos Town can be found a 15-minute drive away. This holiday home is 40 km from Heraklion International Airport.
Set in Nikithianós and within 12 km of Lake Voulismeni, Villa Sarichel features a terrace, non-smoking rooms, and free WiFithroughout the property. The property is around 38 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos, 13 km from Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) and 15 km from Agios Nikolaos Port. Rooms come with a patio with views of the mountain.
The units come with a microwave, toaster, a coffee machine, a hot tub, a hair dryer and a wardrobe. All rooms are equipped with a kettle, while selected rooms here will provide you with a kitchenette with an oven, a stovetop and kitchenware. At the guest house rooms are equipped with bed linen and towels.
Lixnostatis Folk Museum is 23 km from Villa Sarichel, while Aquaworld Aquarium is 25 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 46 km from the accommodation.
from
€63
/night
Set in Nikithianós, 12 km from Lake Voulismeni and 39 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos, Platipodi stone house offers air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi. The property features garden views and is 14 km from Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) and 15 km from Agios Nikolaos Port.
The holiday home with a terrace and mountain views has 1 bedroom, 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 offered in the holiday home.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Lixnostatis Folk Museum is 24 km from the holiday home, while Aquaworld Aquarium is 26 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 47 km from Platipodi stone house.
APIGANOS house, a property with a garden and a bar, is set in Khoumeriákos, 13 km from Lake Voulismeni, 40 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos, as well as 15 km from Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa). This property offers access to a balcony and free private parking.
With direct access to a terrace, this air-conditioned villa comes with 3 separate bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
Agios Nikolaos Port is 16 km from the villa, while Lixnostatis Folk Museum is 25 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 48 km from APIGANOS house.
from
€137
/night
Located in Latsídha, 17 km from Lake Voulismeni and 37 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos, Traditional Residence with terrace provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. With city views, this accommodation features a patio.
The holiday home with a terrace and mountain views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 18 km from the holiday home, while Agios Nikolaos Port is 19 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 45 km from Traditional Residence with terrace.
Located in Vrachasi and only 19 km from Lake Voulismeni, Villa Aires provides accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. With mountain views, this accommodation offers a terrace and a swimming pool.
Featuring a Blu-ray player, the villa has a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a living room with a seating area and a dining area, 5 bedrooms, and 5 bathrooms with a bath and a shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.
The villa offers a barbecue.
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 32 km from Villa Aires, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 47 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 40 km from the accommodation.
from
€412
/night
In the charming town of Neapoli in Crete, the majestic Cathedral of Panagia stands tall as the town’s centrepiece and the second-largest church on the island. Beyond this architectural marvel, immerse yourself in local culture with an Olive Tour Crete, delving into the heart of the region’s olive oil production. For a touch of wildlife adventure, visit Amazonas Park, a sanctuary housing playful lemurs and colourful exotic parrots. Discover more enthralling experiences and activities in and around Neapoli Town in the list below.
Starting we climb on an off-road terrain between olive groves through this green place full of colors, we will go quad safari on an impressive off-road route among the vineyards and to explore the Cretan nature that will amaze you!
We arrive at the PACHALIGO where we will relax in the Forest!!
We have the opportunity to take amazing photos and then continue to explore beautiful parts of the offroad course ending through an amazing dynamic dusty-sandy off-road course and through the narrow streets of the traditional village of Sisi.
Having experienced an incredible Gocretesafari Quad Trip in Crete and having the opportunity to learn about the authentic Cretan life, we are sure that you will come back full of amazing memories that will last a lifetime!
This tour is a special way to discover the countryside of Crete in a top buggy! You will experience the ultimate adventure, crossing gorges, in an breathtaking manner and being guided to places you have never been. Come and have a try. You will follow our experienced guide starting from our base to the archeological site, Minoa palace, where you will be shown around by a tour guide and then we continue by driving through the beautiful villages of Sissi , epano Sissi and Milatos where we will visit the Milatos cave.
The cave is large, measuring 2,100 square meters, with eight small and large entrances. It is 73 meters long, and its widest point is 63 meters. We will come across a little church built in 1935, and a memorial of those slaughtered by the Turks.
It doesn’t matter if you have never driven a buggy before as the vehicles are user-friendly, and everybody will get a detailed instruction and practice on the spot before we start our tour. What makes our tour unique is the fact that we reach the most hidden spots on the island where we meet the friendly locals. The distance of the tour is approx. 50km.
Get on board on the two-seater buggy with your partner and cruise along the endless rural roads of Crete with its amazing landscape. we wait for you !!!!!!
Explore off-road trails in Crete on a quad. Marvel at Minoa Palace and drive through olive groves. See an ancient oak tree and a 16th-century monastery. Savor a traditional Greek lunch in a cozy tavern and tour an olive mill. Bask in the sun and cool off with a swim in the sea at the end.
Go to the activity provider’s premises in Malia for a safety briefing. Then, head to Minoa Palace in Malia and continue to the village of Sisi. Cross a forest and pass through olive groves on your way up to the mountains to stop for a memorable photo at an 800-year-old oak tree.
Afterward, visit Vrahasi village and navigate its narrow streets as you head up a steep road to the Monastery of Agios Georgios Vrahasiotis. This monastery dates back to the 16th century. Every 30 minutes, you can stop to take photos and listen to the guide explain where you will go next.
Next, go to the village of Latsida and eat a traditional local lunch in a tavern. Finish your meal and then follow your guide to Neapoli. Check out Vasilakis Estate, an award-winning olive mill where olive oil is produced. Enjoy a tour here and then continue to Sisi to relax on the beach and swim.
Finally, return to the starting point and then transfer back to your accommodation to conclude your adventure.
This tour is a special way to discover the countryside of Crete in a top buggy! You will experience the ultimate adventure, crossing gorges, in an breathtaking manner and being guided to places you have never been. Come and have a try. You will follow our experienced guide starting from our base to the archeological site, Minoa palace, where you will be shown around by a tour guide and then we continue by driving through the beautiful villages of Sissi , epano Sissi and Milatos where we will visit the Milatos cave.
The cave is large, measuring 2,100 square meters, with eight small and large entrances. It is 73 meters long, and its widest point is 63 meters. We will come across a little church built in 1935, and a memorial of those slaughtered by the Turks.
We will continue our tour by driving up the mountain and crossing some gorges. The longest stop of the tour will be made at the village of Latsida where lunch will be served in traditional tavern.
After eating and chatting, our trip will continue to the village of Neapoli where we will visit Vasilakis olive factory and have a friendly olive tour in an award-winning Cretan olive press.
After that we will drive to the village of Vrahasi in a beautiful ethnic museum where you will have the opportunity to learn about the way the local people lived in the past. Nearing the end of our tour we will continue back to Malia where we will have our final stop at a small beautiful private beach, then we will drive back to our base where our journey began.
It doesn’t matter if you have never driven a buggy before as the vehicles are user-friendly, and everybody will get a detailed instruction and practice on the spot before we start our tour. What makes our tour unique is the fact that we reach the most hidden spots on the island where we meet the friendly locals. The distance of the tour is approx. 80km.
Get on board on the two-seater buggy with your partner and cruise along the endless rural roads of Crete with its amazing landscape. we wait for you !!!!!!
This tour includes our olive mill tour and an olive oil tasting session with an expert. You will taste 4 different olive oils and learn what qualities olive oil connoisseurs look for in an award-winning oil.
Crete has produced wine since antiquity.
Our qualified sommelier will guide you through the signature Cretan vine varieties, and you will recognize why Cretan wines compete with the best.
You will also enjoy renowned Cretan foods including cold cuts, cheese, traditional double-baked rusks, olives and olive spreads, and seasonal fruit.
Description:
Arrival at Vassilakis Estate &
greet your guide
Tour of the olive press with
Vassilakis family member:
• Viewing of the original 1865
museum-piece hand-operated press
and description of how olive oil used to
be made
• Viewing of the working olive mill
and description of how olive oil is made
today
Cretan wine-tasting session with
qualified sommelier & appetizers
(at visitors’ building):
Professional tasting of 3 or 5
different Cretan wines accompanied
with a generous selection of local
Cretan delicacies
Browse in our on-site shop:
• Taste local food products
• Opportunity to buy products in
our on-site shop for take-away
or home delivery:
Our multi-award-winning organic
& extra virgin olive oils
Cretan wines & spirits
Olives & olive spreads
Honey & marmalade
Cosmetics made with our
organic olive oil
Free time for photos and
questions.
Situated 34km northwest of Agios Nikolaos and 16km east of Hersonissos, on the western fringes of the Mirabello province, lies Milatos. This coastal village has managed to preserve many of its traditional attributes. Just 1km north, one can find the coastal settlement known as Beach of Milatos or Paralia Milatou in Greek. The region is renowned for the Milatos cave, near the village, where a significant massacre of locals by the Ottomans took place in 1823. Today, Milatos is a popular tourist spot with a significant fishing port. The area is dotted with ancient olive groves and the shoreline is speckled with small, rocky inlets, some of which are suitable for swimming.
About 1km east of Milatos, in Pigada, you’ll discover small isolated bays with narrow sandy beaches nestled between towering cliffs. These secluded coves of Milatos are perfect for those seeking solitude, though the waves can be quite high. As you approach the village, just before reaching the harbour, you’ll encounter the main beach of Milatos. This sizable beach is comprised of pebbles and rocks in certain areas, and while it’s not fully facilitated, it’s conveniently close to the village’s amenities. Regrettably, this beach is also affected by the waves. The next beach is situated within the harbour (Limani), close to the village taverns. It’s a small sandy beach that’s quite well-maintained. This beach is the most frequented, as the water is always tranquil and safe for children.
The inventory of Milatos’ beaches would typically end here, but human intervention has altered this. Following the coastal road west from the village will lead you to the Minos Imperial hotel port. For the sake of tourism and revenue, the hotel has constructed two artificial beaches in the Volaki area, both bordered by a cement pier. Previously a natural rocky coast with a stunning seabed, it has now been transformed into a profitable sandy beach, organized by the hotel owners.
The village of Milatos was established near the remnants of the Minoan city Milatos, which was destroyed in the 3rd century BC by the rival city of Lyttos. Homer referenced it as one of the seven Cretan cities that sent troops to Troy. According to legend, Milatos was the name of a boy who was raised in a forest by a wolf. Upon reaching adulthood, he killed the city’s tyrant and fled to the coasts of Asia Minor. There, he founded the famous Miletus colony in 1500BC, which later became the birthplace of several distinguished philosophers such as Thales, Hippodamus, and Anaximander.
In the region of Anogia, located in the northern part of the Mirabelo province east of Milatos, you’ll come across several tiny, rocky coves. You can reach this area by driving through the rugged terrain. Vlychada Tzavlidon is one such beach, characterized by large pebbles. The beach walls display remarkable layers of conglomerate rocks, and at the western end, there’s a small arch at the base of which is a fresh water spring. This beach is situated at the exit of the gorge known as Christopatimata, or Christ’s Steps. The walls of this gorge are home to some peculiar formations, which are not easily noticeable. According to local lore, these are the footprints of Christ!
Sissi, also known as Sisi, is a tranquil traditional seaside village nestled 26km west of Agios Nikolaos and 41km east of Heraklion, not far from Malia. The village is renowned for its natural harbour, characterized by tranquil deep green waters, and its charming taverns nestled within narrow streets. The Sissi coastline is predominantly rocky, with only a few sandy stretches. The sea around here is typically choppy, making the only calm swimming spot the small beach within the harbor (Limani). This petite beach offers a few umbrellas and showers for visitors.
If you desire to explore other beaches, you can travel east to Harkoma bay, home to the well-kept Boufos beach. This sandy beach is exposed to the wind. Adjacent to it, you’ll find the smaller Avlaki beach, situated at the exit of a narrow bay.
Moving further east, you’ll find the sandy Kalimera beach, located in front of the Kalimera Kriti hotel. Managed by the hotel, the beach is well-organized and boasts of shallow waters, making it perfect for children. On the opposite side of the hotel is Spiliada, the last beach within the Sissi territory. Spiliada is a sandy beach shaded by numerous tamarisk trees, offering a more peaceful atmosphere compared to the other beaches.
Elounda’s Skisma Beach is a picturesque sandy enclave, perfect for families. Its cleanliness and organization make it especially welcoming.
Little ones delight in its flat sandy terrain and the playground, while older kids gravitate towards the available water sports. Occasional winds result in bigger waves, offering simple surfing opportunities.
With convenient facilities like restrooms and showers, coupled with an array of nearby taverns, it’s an ideal spot for families with children.
The Adrianos Gorge originates from the Adrianos village. There are areas within the gorge where large rocks obstruct the pathway, making navigation challenging, but achievable (it takes approximately 3 hours to traverse). In close proximity to the gorge, you can explore the Maridon and Atziganospilios caves.
The river that courses through the gorge is a segment of the Skoulikaris or Xeropotamos River. This river collects water from the Potami village valley and, after covering several kilometers, it finally drains near the Agios Nikolaos town stadium.
Located approximately 45km east of Heraklion and 21km west of Agios Nikolaos, the Gorge Sellinari is nestled on the eastern slopes of Selena Mount, draining the valley west of Vrachassi. This gorge is a well-known location for all Cretans as the National Road from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos runs along it. Historically, it served as the natural passage from the region of Lassithi to the fertile north coasts of Heraklion.
The dense vegetation of Selinari can be enjoyed either by car or by taking a leisurely walk until its exit near Milatos. A route worth exploring is the old National Road, which runs parallel to the New Road and winds through the gorge. The gorge walls and surrounding mountains provide a haven for many birds of prey. Selinari was once a refuge for the rare Cretan wild goat, but sadly, it is now extinct. Several springs are scattered around the area, but the most renowned attraction is the historic Saint George Monastery. For the Cretans, it is considered a bad omen to pass a gorge without stopping at the monastery. This belief stems from the past when the Selinari Monastery served as a rest stop for travelers and their animals.
The Maliaris Gorge, which originates near the Peronides village, travels west of the Souvlos village where a trail commences, and combines with the Anemaliaris gorge before concluding at the Tzavlidon Vlyhada beach. This gorge, characterized by scrublands, expansive areas, and cave-filled walls, is a classic representation of the Mirabello region. Notably, the gorge is home to a massive cave known as Volakospilios, situated in its center.
The Kritsa Gorge, located 9.5km southwest of Agios Nikolaos, begins near the charming village of Kritsa and concludes at Tapes village. This 4 km long gorge, at some points, is only 1.5m wide. It is fairly easy to navigate, with a few areas requiring caution, where large rocks need to be climbed over. However, it is not advisable to visit the gorge following rainfall, as the resulting ponds can obstruct the paths.
The canyon’s entrance near Kritsa is striking. The mountain is split in two, creating the narrow Havgas passage (Havgas is a common term for gorges in East Crete). In addition to the main trail that begins near Kritsa’s stone bridge, there is an alternate path that starts in the village itself.
Close to the trailhead, you’ll find a large rock that can be scaled with relative ease. Beyond this point, the canyon becomes even more breathtaking, with slender passages and towering walls that block out sunlight. This natural wonder is particularly beautiful in spring when flowers are in bloom and water levels are low. The walls eventually recede, revealing a picturesque valley filled with olive groves. If you continue along the riverbed for approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll arrive at the lovely village of Tapes, where you can relax at the local coffee shop.
Neapolis is situated in a lush valley of olive groves, around 54 km east of Heraklion and 15 km west of Agios Nikolaos in Crete, Greece.
During the Venetian rule, Neapolis was named Kenourgio Chorio (New Village) and was formerly known as Kares – meaning Nut Trees in the Cretan dialect. During the Turkish Occupation of Crete, the village underwent a massive transformation and was renamed Neapoli, becoming the capital of East Crete until 1904. Nowadays, it houses many Greek state authorities, making it a modern and important city.
Neapolis boasts charming buildings, gardens, churches, and some scenic attractions. The main church of Neapolis is the Cathedral of Panagia (Virgin Mary), located in the city centre and built on the grounds of an older mosque and temple. It is the second largest church in Crete. The Church of Saint George, situated near Neapolis, holds a somber history. In 1770, after Daskalogiannis’ Cretan revolution, Turks surrounded it during vespers and massacred the priest and all worshipers inside – thereby earning the name ‘Blooded Saint George’.
You can enjoy your food or coffee in the main square, near the Cathedral of Megali Panagia in Neapolis.
The average temperature in Neapolis town ranges from 15°C to 30°C, depending on the season.
The nearest airport to Neapolis town is Heraklion International Airport, which is approximately 60 km away.
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