The myth of the Phoenician princess Europa being abducted by Zeus in the guise of a bull finds expression in a monumental statue at the end of a ho-hum…

Agios Nikolaos
Lasithi’s capital, Agios Nikolaos has an enviable location on hilly terrain overlooking the sensuously curving Bay of Mirabello. There’s a strong local character to Agios Nikolaos that imbues it with charismatic, low-key flair. A narrow channel separates the small harbour from the circular Voulismeni Lake, whose shore is lined with cafes and restaurants.
In the daytime the city beaches, while not particularly large or pretty, lend themselves to a few hours of relaxing and taking a dip in the sea. There's also some decent shopping in the pedestrianised lane above the lake.
Agios Nikolaos truly comes into its own at night, when a lively ambience descends on the lake, harbour and beaches and lounge-bars fill with stylish young Greeks and holidaymakers from the nearby resorts.
Explore Agios Nikolaos
- AAbduction of Europa Statue
The myth of the Phoenician princess Europa being abducted by Zeus in the guise of a bull finds expression in a monumental statue at the end of a ho-hum…
- MMinotaur Mural
Walking along the waterfront on Akti Koundourou, keep an eye out for a superb perspective mural depicting the Minotaur on a zigzagging staircase (next to…
- FFolk Museum
This modest museum near the lake houses a well-curated collection of traditional handicrafts (especially textiles, costumes and embroidery), alongside…
- AAgia Triada Church
Right in the town centre, Agios Nikolaos' main church is a three-aisled Byzantine construction dedicated to the Holy Trinity. The mosaic above the main…
Top attractions
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Agios Nikolaos.
- See
Abduction of Europa Statue
The myth of the Phoenician princess Europa being abducted by Zeus in the guise of a bull finds expression in a monumental statue at the end of a ho-hum…
- See
Minotaur Mural
Walking along the waterfront on Akti Koundourou, keep an eye out for a superb perspective mural depicting the Minotaur on a zigzagging staircase (next to…
- See
Folk Museum
This modest museum near the lake houses a well-curated collection of traditional handicrafts (especially textiles, costumes and embroidery), alongside…
- See
Agia Triada Church
Right in the town centre, Agios Nikolaos' main church is a three-aisled Byzantine construction dedicated to the Holy Trinity. The mosaic above the main…
Guidebooks
Purchase our award-winning guidebooks
Get to the heart of Agios Nikolaos with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.