Agios Nikolaos Holidays
Agios Nikolaos for all inclusive holidays and more
43 miles from Heraklion, on the Greek island of Crete, Agios Nikolaos was once renowned for its nightlife. Today, the all-night raves have gone; couples book last minute breaks here for relaxation, and the resort is a popular choice for family holidays.
Family breaks in Agios Nikolaos will appeal to those who want high quality self-catering or all inclusive holidays, with clean golden beaches and plenty of Greek atmosphere. The harbourside, particularly, is as popular with the locals as it is with tourists, and has the added bonus of Lake Voulismeni - a stunning sweet water lake connected to the harbour via a Victorian channel.
Party animals might be disappointed, but there are enough discos to keep the most holidaymakers happy, and the town has a packed cultural calendar during the spring and summer months.
All inclusive holidays in Agios Nikolaos
The hotels along the coast are geared towards family holidays and couples, and have some good deals if you book online. If you choose half-board or self-catering, be aware that the harbourside restaurants, although scenic, can be expensive – especially if you eat on the lake. For a taste of real Greek cuisine, head for the less tourist-orientated tavernas.
Ammoudi beach has a European restaurant as well as clean, safe bathing. Most of the larger hotels have swimming pools, and there are extensive land and water sports available as well as hiking – the Agios Nikolaos area has a spectacular coastline and is ideal walking country.
Book your all inclusive holidays during the Easter period, and the sun will be less keen and prices far lower. The lake is reputed to be bottomless, and is rife with legends. Each Easter day there is a massive lakeside festival, with a spectacular firework display in the evening.
Cultural family breaks in Agios Nikolaos
The town sits on the ruins of the ancient city of Lato pros Kamara, and has a fascinating archaeological museum with finds from the Minoan period. Agios Nikolaos is an excellent base from which to explore other local sites, such as the 2,300 BC cemetery of Aghia Photia and the fortified isle of Spinalónga, which contains the ruins of the last leper colony in Europe.
As well as shops selling local jewellery and crafts, there is a weekly street market with traditional foodstuffs, including local honey and other produce. A picnic in the park above the lake makes a lovely end to a perfect day.
We at Future Travel offer last minute breaks in Agios Nikolaos throughout the season, at prices you will find hard to beat.