Eastern Crete at its most relaxed — the Gulf of Mirabello, Elounda and Spinalonga, cedar-covered Chrissi island and the famous palm forest of Vai.
Lasithi is the easternmost region of Crete — quieter, greener and full of surprises. Agios Nikolaos and Elounda look out over the Gulf of Mirabello, while Ierapetra on the south coast is the gateway to Chrissi island.
Take a boat to Spinalonga, spend a day on Chrissi's white sand, swim among the palms at Vai or explore the Lasithi Plateau and the cave where, according to myth, Zeus was born.
The places everyone talks about — and the local hosts who can take you there.
A Venetian fortress island and later a leprosy colony — now one of Crete's most moving sights.
Calm turquoise water, seaside tavernas and boats to Spinalonga.
A lively harbour town around the small lake of Voulismeni.
White sand, cedar trees and shallow, crystal-clear water — a protected nature reserve.
A unique palm forest running down to a sandy beach.
Windmills, farming villages and the Diktaean Cave of Zeus.
Eastern Crete was home to Minoan towns and palaces, Venetian fortresses and the cave of Zeus.
Hotels, villas and guesthouses in Lasithi, run by local hosts.
Boat trips, safaris and day excursions in and around Lasithi.
Diving, cooking, fishing and more — straight from the people who run them.
May to October for the beaches and boat trips; boats to Chrissi usually run in the summer season.
Heraklion airport is about an hour from Agios Nikolaos; the small Sitia airport has domestic flights.
A car is the best option. Boats to Spinalonga leave from Elounda, Plaka and Agios Nikolaos; to Chrissi from Ierapetra.
Message any host directly from their listing — ask about dates, prices or what's best for your group. No account needed, no booking fees.
