The port of Agios Nikolaos is one of the most developed tourist areas in Crete and in all of Greece. The city, beautifully situated on the Gulf of Mirabello, boasts not one but two harbours: a lovely fishing harbour and, right in the town, an inner harbour that is really a lake. All these attractions, and many more in and around the town, turn it into one of the busiest places on Crete in the middle of summer.

On the south side of town is a small beach and a marina, home to some pricier restaurants. Near the bus station at the western end of the marina is the church of the Panagia Verfotrofou, dating from the twelfth century. Overlooking the channel is the town’s Folk Museum, well worth seeing for its Cretan costumes, and folk art of the island.