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One Week in Ierapetra
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Crete, Ierapetra is a sun-drenched escape that blends authentic Cretan charm with spectacular beaches, historic sites, and easy access to natural wonders. Often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations, Ierapetra rewards those who make the journey with a slower pace of life, friendly locals, and experiences you won’t find in tourist-heavy resorts.
Whether you’re coming for peace and quiet or for exploration and culture, this comprehensive one-week itinerary will help you uncover the best of Ierapetra and its surroundings.
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the Town
Once you arrive in Ierapetra, take the first day to unwind and get acquainted with your surroundings. If you’re arriving from Heraklion or Sitia airport, the scenic drive along the southern coastline will already set the tone for your holiday.
After checking into your accommodation, head out for a leisurely walk through the town. The Old Town of Ierapetra is a charming maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, colorful doors, and blooming bougainvillea. Stop by the Ottoman Mosque and the House of Napoleon, where legend says the French emperor once stayed during his travels.
End your afternoon with a walk along the seafront promenade. Locals gather here in the evenings for a coffee or raki. Find a taverna overlooking the harbor and enjoy fresh grilled fish, dakos, and a glass of local wine as the sun dips into the Libyan Sea.
Day 2: Beach Day & Local Flavors
Ierapetra boasts some of the best beaches in Crete—clean, often uncrowded, and with crystal-clear waters. Start your beach-hopping day at Agios Andreas Beach, known for its shallow waters and natural rock formations. It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Later, head east to Koutsounari Long Beach, a peaceful stretch with a mix of sand and fine pebbles. There are quiet spots for those seeking solitude as well as beach bars for those wanting cocktails and sun loungers.
For lunch, stop by a local taverna in Koutsounari village. Dishes like stuffed zucchini flowers, fried snails (chochlioi), and goat cheese salads showcase the authentic Cretan diet.
In the evening, stroll through the town center and sample sweet bougatsa or loukoumades (Cretan honey donuts).
Day 3: Experience Traditional Cretan Music and Dance
In the evening, seek out local tavernas or cultural centers that host live Cretan music and dance performances. Engaging with the island’s musical traditions provides a deeper understanding of its cultural heritage. Don’t be shy to join in the dancing—locals often welcome visitors to partake in the festivities.
Additional Recommendations:
Visit the Napoleon House: Explore the historic residence where, according to local lore, Napoleon Bonaparte stayed during his travels. This site offers a unique glimpse into the town’s storied past.
Explore the Local Olive Oil Farms: Crete is renowned for its olive oil production. Arrange a tour of a nearby olive oil farm to learn about the cultivation process and enjoy tastings of this staple of Cretan cuisine.
Attend a Local Festival: Depending on the timing of your visit, you might have the opportunity to participate in local festivals celebrating everything from religious holidays to agricultural harvests. These events are vibrant expressions of Cretan culture and hospitality.
Day 4: Inland Villages & Sarakina Gorge
Rent a car and take a drive inland to experience the traditional heart of Crete. Head to Myrtos, a lovely coastal village west of Ierapetra with a relaxed vibe and plenty of beachfront cafes. It’s a great place for breakfast by the sea.
From Myrtos, drive up to Mithi and continue to Sarakina Gorge, a short but impressive canyon carved by the Kriopotamos River. The hike is relatively easy and suitable for families and casual hikers. You’ll encounter rock pools, small waterfalls, and towering canyon walls. Wear water-friendly shoes, as parts of the trail may require wading.
After the hike, reward yourself with lunch at a traditional taverna in Mithi or Christos, where you can enjoy local lamb, village sausages, and wild greens (horta).
Spend the late afternoon back at your accommodation or take a sunset dip at a nearby beach.
Day 5: Cultural Immersion & Food Experiences
Start your day with a visit to the Archaeological Collection of Ierapetra, housed in a former Ottoman school building. Here, you’ll find artifacts from the Minoan, Hellenistic, and Roman periods, including funerary urns, statues, and inscriptions.
Follow that with a walking tour of Ierapetra’s local market (open most days except Sunday) and grab fresh produce, local cheese, herbs, and handmade crafts.
For a more immersive experience, join a Cretan cooking class or a wine tasting tour. Several local farms and family-run venues around Ierapetra offer hands-on sessions where you can learn to make dishes like gemista, moussaka, or traditional bread baked in wood ovens.
If you prefer a DIY afternoon, stop at a winery in nearby villages like Kavousi or Anatoli and bring back a bottle to enjoy on your balcony.
Day 6: Southern Coast Exploration
Use this day to explore more remote and untouched parts of Crete’s southern coastline. Drive east to Makry Gialos, a lively seaside village with organized beaches and tavernas, or even farther to Goudouras, a quiet place with dramatic scenery and pebble coves.
A short hike from Makry Gialos will take you to Pefki Gorge, a pleasant walk through pine-scented paths and rocky cliffs. For a beach with a wild edge, visit Achlia or Agia Fotia, both offering clear waters and fewer crowds.
On your way back, consider stopping at Moni Kapsa, a monastery clinging to the cliffs near the mouth of a gorge. It’s a peaceful, spiritual site with panoramic views of the sea.
Dinner tonight could be somewhere special—perhaps a taverna in the hills like Mesonas or Selakano, known for hearty mountain food and cool evening breezes.
Day 7: Rest, Reflect, & Shop Local
For your final day, slow things down. Return to your favorite beach, or discover one last gem like Ferma Beach, perfect for a quiet morning swim. Enjoy a long, relaxed brunch and soak in your final views of the sea.
If you’re looking for souvenirs, visit local shops selling Cretan olive oil, carob products, thyme honey, herbal teas, and handmade ceramics. These make wonderful gifts and memories of your time in Crete.
Before departure, treat yourself to a farewell dinner at one of Ierapetra’s rooftop restaurants or a taverna with live Cretan music.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Getting There: The closest airports are Heraklion (90 minutes) and Sitia (60 minutes). Car rental is recommended for exploring.
Where to Stay: Ierapetra offers everything from boutique hotels to seaside villas and traditional apartments.
Best Time to Visit: Late April to early November, with June and September being ideal for warm weather without the peak-season crowds.
Local Etiquette: Greet people with a friendly “Yassas”, be respectful at religious sites, and don’t be surprised if you’re offered a raki at the end of your meal!
