Ierapetra holidays

Holidays to Ierapetra take you to sandy beaches and historic fortresses in one of the most southern towns in Europe.

Wander the old town

The old quarter of Ierapetra, on Crete’s south coast, is the beating heart of the town – it's got pretty, cobbled streets dotted with flowerpots and historic churches. There’s even a building where Napoleon allegedly stayed in the 1700s – you can’t go in, but you’ll see people stopping by for a photo. When you head to the waterside, you’ll find a selection of bars and restaurants with views out to sea. Crete’s known for its cheese, olive oil and grilled seafood, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining.

Visit Chrissi Island

Daytrips to postcard-perfect Chrissi Island sail from Ierapetra throughout the summer season. The island’s uninhabited, so you can have lazy afternoons on unspoiled beaches with a backdrop of green cedar forest, or you could grab your snorkelling gear and take advantage of the calm waters. You might pass by colourful schools of fish, octopuses and sea urchins, and you’ll maybe even spy a rare loggerhead sea turtle if you’re lucky.

Beach days galore

The beaches steal the show in Ierapetra – they've got soft sands and translucent blue waters. One of the most famous stretches in this part of Crete is Koutsounari Long Beach, and as the name suggests, it unfurls as far as the eye can see for five sandy kilometres. Elsewhere, you’ve got the tucked-away bay of Myrtos Beach, where afternoons beneath the sun are all about peace and quiet. The sunsets on this side of the island are first rate, too.

A historic fortress

History buffs won’t want to miss a visit to the Fortress of Kales Ierapetra. This Venetian ruin dates back to the 14th century, and it’s now a tourist attraction and archaeological site. With turrets and towers, it’s a striking sight against the traditional streets behind it, and its spot right above the fishing harbour gives you great views out to sea.