Ierapetra is one of the most visited places of Crete. The queen of south Crete, the city with the warmest climate of the island. The area has all amenities a guest would request to enjoy, it is the most important city, since old times, for trade and the connection to Africa! The town of Ierapetra is located on the southeast coast of Crete, situated on the beach of Ierapetra Bay.
This town lies south of Agios Nikolaos and southwest of Sitia, and is an important regional center, the most populous town in the regional unit of Lassithi and the fourth most populous town in Crete, nicknamed "the bride of the Libyan Sea" because of its position as the only town on Crete's southern coast.
Location
Ierapetra is located south of Agios Nikolaos city. It is just 35km distance far. The city is one of the most visited places of the island, it has a very busy port. This is the first place that ferries sail to Chrissi island!
How to go there
Ierapetra is a place easy to access, you can drive-cycle-ride and go there. There are very often connections to the village, either from east-Sitia airport-Agios Nikolaos or west from Heraklion or Chania.
By car
The best way to visit Ierapetra is by hiring a car. There are very competitive rates to hire a car from Heraklion airport or any other place of Crete.
By Taxi
Hiring a Taxi is a good idea when you arrive late night and have to drive a long distance.
By Bus
By bus is a good solution too. You can get one in Heraklion port main station or from the airport Heraklion. The other cities have a good connection too.
Things to do during your stay
It is necessary to visit the beautiful island opposite, Gaidouronisi island. It is one of the most visited excursions of Crete! This island used to be an important island during Ottoman occupation, nowadays is one island where the fabulous beaches and the dreaming sightseeing are factors to be explored from guests from all over the world! The only you have to do is go to the port of Ierapetra and get into a small boat or ferry. It takes 35-40 minutes until the island port.
Accommodation-resorts
Ierapetra is hosting many visitors who come for leisure and business. The famous resorts are welcoming their guests all year round. There are very good 5 star hotels in Tertsa, Myrtos, Potamoi ans eastern in Koutsounari, Ferma, Makri Gialos.
Gorges close to Ierapetra
Richtis gorge is one famous gorge in Lassithi prefecture. This is one of the most beautiful small gorges of Eastern Crete, following a well-marked route. Located in the prefecture of Lassithi, between Agios Nikolaos and Sitia on the northern coast, it follows the stream which flows all year round, creating a splendid waterfall. “Richtis” word means waterfall in Cretan dialect.
Historic
This is the place Arabs coming from Africa, tried to change the religion of people into Islam. they failed many times as the Greeks defended their land.
Agriculture
The area is full of green houses, it is the most sunny place of Crete! There are many immigrants working by the greenhouses and open fields. The locals produce tomatoes and vegetables, according to the year period the production is varying to different vegetables.
Food-Restaurants by the port and city center
Ierapetra is one of Crete’s places that local fishermen bring fresh fish to the local market, everyday. You can taste delicious fresh fish dishes and taste the Cretan diet! The most important thing for you is to feel the quiet atmosphere and spend unforgettable days and nights in this area. There are numerous of famous restaurants as well as local taverns.
Visit Chrissi island with Christina boat! Chrissi island is a place you MUST visit while staying in Ierapetra. It is a Natura protected island 35minutes far from Ierapetra port, you can sail there with one of the small boats or ferries from the city Ierapetra port. It is a magnificent sail with numerous of interesting things to do on this island. Local people call this island Gaidouronisi-donkey island.
When is it the best period to visit Ierapetra
Crete has temperate climate, there are some places that have subtropical climate. The winter is mild and the summer is hot. Ierapetra is keeping a warm climate during all year. It’s location is perfect and the mountains by the southern side protect the village. It’s sea is quiet and the old port has no waves. Ierapetra is the place where the temperature reaches unbelievable records, winter or summer. Don’t forget it is the place where the greenhouses are producing vegetables and tropical fruits.
In conclusion, I support Ierapetra is the Queen of South eastern Crete, the best city to explore the eastern of the island!