With the mesmerizing Lake Voulismeni flowing into the ocean, Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece is a perfect example of a magical paradise. Even the beautiful Greek goddesses Athena and Artemis are rumored to have bathed in the turquoise waters of the lake. Capital of the Prefecture of Lasithi, Agios Nikolaos, meaning Saint Nicholas, is populated with sandy beaches, ancient and modern architecture, restaurants, hotels, and trendy shops. It is a vibrant town with a peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking sites. Whether you are gazing at the skull of a young female athlete during the reign of the Roman Empire or you are touching the ancient marble columns of the Agios Nickolaos Ragavas Church, the attractions show how traditions and history play a major part in Grecian society.
To appease your shopping addictions, Agios Nikolaos has many quaint shopping areas. From designer labels to antique souvenirs, its expansive selections of goods such as art, jewelry, home décor, and clothing are satisfying to tourists in need of retail therapy. You can take a piece of Cretan culture home by shopping at one of the antique boutiques or you can treat yourself to a juicy fruit or gourmet cheese from one of the local markets. The picturesque beaches are inviting and they encourage you to lie under the bright sun, or you can cool off in the sea and try to dodge the waves. Not only can you swim with the fish, but you can catch them as well. The waters of Agios Nikolaos are filled with numerous species of fish like snapper and mackerel, and there is nothing like the thrill of a fish gnawing at the end of your hook.
Enjoying a hearty meal and sipping on the town’s best wine is also a great cultural experience. The delicious aromas coming from lamb, braised goat, and moussaka fill the air at the La Casa Café’- Restaurant. For an all-in-one lounge, restaurant, and bar head to the Gold Lounge Bar Restaurant and enjoy live entertainment while dining on dishes like freshly caught lobster and beef fillet. For creative Cretan delicacies like fish soup and stuffed, fried zucchini blossoms, Meet and Eat in Crete also provides a relaxed ambiance with the panoramic view of the ocean in the background. Agios Nikolaos has a variety of delicious cuisines with inviting atmosphere that will leave you fulfilled yet still craving more.
Plenty of sunshine all year round makes Agios Nikolaos a great destination spot. During the summer there is little to no rainfall because the weather is mainly hot and dry. In July and August the temperatures average from as high as 91.4ºF to as low as 71.6ºF. In April (spring) temperatures reach a little over 64.4ºF and throughout the Month of May temperatures range from 68 ºF to 75.2ºF. In June temperatures soar to 80.6 ºF and the wettest months January and February temperatures can get as low as 53.6 ºF. However, In September and October the temperatures remain slightly above 68 ºF.
Bus Transportation in Agios Nikolaos is located near the town center. These buses run every 30 minutes and they travel to the towns of Sitia, Iraklio, Ierapetra, Elounda, Kritsa, and Plaka. Ferries travel to Athena every other day and glass-bottomed catamarans go to the marine water world which cost €18.50 (23.17 USD) for adults. In addition, there are boats in the summer time offer inexpensive rides to Spinalonga. However, the best memories can be made by just taking a simple stroll or cycling while admiring the beautiful scenery.