When people think of Crete, they often imagine bustling Chania or historic Heraklion — but if you’re craving untouched beaches, mountain villages, and culture that hasn’t been overrun by tourism, let me introduce you to Sitia, Crete. I visited in April 2025, and it was honestly one of the highlights of my entire Greek island-hopping adventure. 

In this blog, I’ll walk you through why you should go, how to get there, the must-see sites, where to eat, where to stay, and everything I wish I had known before visiting. 

Whether you’re planning your next Mediterranean escape or just daydreaming, this is the most complete guide you’ll need for visiting Sitia, Crete. 

Is Sitia, Crete worth visiting? 

I’ll be honest — I almost skipped Sitia. But I’m so glad I didn’t. Here’s why you shouldn’t either: 

• It’s home to some of Crete’s clearest, most secluded beaches (and yes, you’ll find a palm forest). 

• Incredible wineries and monasteries — including one that lets you taste award-winning wine made by monks. 

• It’s one of the few towns on Crete where you can still feel like you’re exploring somewhere authentic and unspoiled. 

• Hiking, history, and quiet hilltop villages — all without the tourist crowds. 

• It’s much more affordable than the more popular parts of Crete. 

How to Get to Sitia, Crete 

By Air 

Sitia has its own airport (JSH) with domestic flights from Athens via Sky Express and Aegean. It’s tiny, efficient, and just a 5-minute drive from the center. 

• ✈️ Athens → Sitia: ~1 hour 

• 💡 Tip: Flights fill up in summer — book early if traveling July–September 

By Car 

If you’re already in Crete, the best way to get to Sitia is by driving — and the coastal route from Agios Nikolaos is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Click here to view local car rental options

• From Heraklion: 2.5–3 hours (this is what we did, and found the drive really pleasant) 

• From Agios Nikolaos: 1.5–2 hours 

By Ferry 

Ferries to Sitia run from other Greek islands like Karpathos, Kasos, and Rhodes, especially during high season. 

What to See and Do in Sitia, Crete 

1. Toplou Monastery (and Wine Tasting) 

This 15th-century fortress-like monastery blew me away — it’s not only a spiritual site but also a functioning organic winery. 

• 🏛️ Explore the beautifully preserved monastery and museum 

• 🍷 Wine tasting includes local varietals like Vilana and Liatiko 

• 💶 Entry: €4, wine tasting extra (€8–€12 depending on flight) 

• 🏞 Don’t miss the windmill next to the monastery — one of the most photogenic stops of my trip and if you drive back around 7-8pm you’ll see goats on the roads! 

2. Vai Beach & Palm Forest 

Yes, a natural palm forest in Europe — Vai is one of the most exotic-looking beaches I’ve ever visited. 

• 🌊 Crystal-clear turquoise water 

• 🌴 Home to the largest natural palm grove in Europe 

• 🍽 Beach tavernas available, though a bit pricey 

• 📸 Go early to get a quiet spot under the trees 

3. Kazarma Fortress (Sitia Town) 

Right in the heart of Sitia town, this 13th-century Venetian fortress gives you great views and a bit of history. 

• 💶 Entry: €2 

• 📸 Great for golden hour photos over the harbor 

4. Chiona Beach 

One of the quietest beaches I visited — calm, local, and lined with laid-back tavernas serving fresh seafood. 

• 🐟 Recommended: Go to “Psaropoula” taverna or Chiona Fish Tavern for grilled octopus 

5. Erimoupoli Beach & Ancient Itanos 

A hidden treasure — this beach is backed by ruins of an ancient Greek city (Itanos) and is rarely crowded. 

• 🏺 You can explore three excavation zones 

• 🧘‍♀️ Bonus: It’s often used by naturists, so choose your spot wisely! 

6. Maridati Beach 

An unspoiled pebble beach framed by dramatic cliffs and olive trees — pack snacks, there are no facilities. 

• 💡 Perfect for a swim stop after visiting Toplou Monastery 

7. Richtis Gorge & Waterfall 

One of my favorite hikes in Crete. You’ll walk through dense forest, past stone bridges, and end at a magical waterfall. 

• 🚶‍♀️ Hike: ~2–2.5 hours round trip 

• 🥾 Moderate difficulty (rocky in parts) 

• 💦 Bring water shoes if you want to swim under the falls 

8. Hamezi Village 

Tiny, traditional, and totally off the beaten path. Come for lunch, a coffee with locals, or to admire the stone architecture. 

• 🍽 Visit “To Petrino” for homemade Cretan dishes 

9. Kalavros Village 

Another peaceful escape — less visited than other mountain villages. A great stop if you’re road-tripping inland.

 

Where to Stay in Sitia, Crete 

Best Hotels in Sitia: 

• Sitia Beach City Resort & Spa – Great pool, beachfront location, and walkable to town 

• Nereids Apartments – Instagrammable with amazing sea views 

• Cavo Plako Villas – Near Palekastro, perfect for a quiet retreat 

• Porto Kaza – Boutique hotel, next door to Kazarma Fortress with kitchenettes for added convenience

Essential Tips for Visiting Sitia, Crete 

• Rent a car — public transport is very limited and many sites are remote (plus rentals are pretty cheap here! It only cost us £15 for 4 days. Click here to see prices.

• Bring cash — many small tavernas and shops don’t accept cards 

• Wear water shoes — especially for rocky beaches like Maridati 

• Visit early — Vai, Erimoupoli, and Richtis can get warm and busy by mid-day 

• Respect the land — Eastern Crete is pristine. Take your trash and leave no trace. 

Final Thoughts: Why I Fell in Love with Sitia, Crete 

There was something about Sitia, Crete that stayed with me. It’s not polished or flashy — but it’s real, it’s raw, and it’s one of the most authentic experiences I’ve had in Greece. From sipping wine in a centuries-old monastery and hearing goats in the hilltops to walking through old forgotten ruins, this corner of Crete is a love letter to slow travel. 

If you’re debating whether it’s worth the detour — this is your sign to go. 

Want to extend your stay in Greece? Why not check out one of my other greek guides: Santorini Guide, Mykonos Guide.