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    Sitia

    The Authentic Gateway to Eastern Crete’s Natural Wonders

    Sitia is a premier destination for travelers seeking an authentic Cretan experience away from the crowds. This picturesque harbor town serves as the gateway to the Sitia UNESCO Global Geopark, offering breathtaking landscapes and rugged hiking trails. Visitors can explore the world-famous Vai Palm Forest, relax on pristine Blue Flag beaches, and discover the historic Kazarma Fortress. Renowned for its award-winning olive oil and traditional hospitality, Sitia blends ancient history with a laid-back lifestyle. Whether you are visiting archaeological sites or savoring local gastronomy, Sitia is the perfect sanctuary for sustainable and off-the-beaten-path travel.

    Highlights

    Ancient Itanos

    It was one of the most powerful cities in Crete, especially during the Hellenistic and Greco-Roman times. The city was enriched by the glass craft, fishing and trade of purple, the red dye derived from shell extract.

    Toplou Monastery

    The imposing Toplou Monastery looks more like a fortress than a monastery. It was used many times as a fortress defending sometimes against the Turks and sometimes against the Knights of St. John.

    Palm forest Vai

    One of the most famous beaches of Crete and all of Greece, owes its reputation to the unique palm forest. The sandy shore and the turquoise waters with the background of the palm trees compose an exotic setting.

    Kazarma

    It dominates high above the city and is visible from the beach. It was built in the 13th century by the Venetians and was the garrison of the guard, which is why it was named Casa di Arma.

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    IDEAL DESTINATION

    The Hidden Authentic Sanctuary of Crete

    Sitia is the ideal destination for travelers seeking peace, authenticity, and raw natural beauty. This charming seaside town is the gateway to the world-renowned Vai Palm Forest and the rugged Sitia UNESCO Global Geopark. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, exceptional olive oil, and historic Kazarma Fortress, Sitia offers an untouched Cretan experience. Whether exploring ancient ruins or quiet beaches, it is the perfect retreat for off-the-beaten-path exploration.

    Enjoy the cuisine

    Experience the authentic gastronomy of Sitia, a cornerstone of the healthy Cretan diet. Famous for its award-winning PDO olive oil, the region offers unique flavors like “oiganopita” and local xerotigana pastries. Savor fresh seafood and traditional mezedes paired with local tsikoudia in cozy seaside tavernas. From mountain herbs to artisan cheeses, Sitia’s food scene is a culinary journey through the rich traditions of Eastern Crete.

    Best Time to Visit

    Crete is an all-seasons island. In summer to enjoy the endless sandy and pebble beaches and the clear waters. In spring and autumn to explore its mountain villages, mountains, gorges, and trails.

    How to use transportation in Sitia

    Airport/port transfer options

    By Air

    From Athens International Airport (duration approx. 01 hour and 15 minutes)

    Airport is located 1,5kms from the town Centre.

    Taxis and Car Rental are available

    Public transportation

    We recommend a Car Rental so you can enjoy the entire surrounding area.

    Questions / Answers

    Q&A

    Yes, it is the perfect destination for authentic Cretan hospitality away from crowded tourist hubs.

    Sitia is renowned for its award-winning PDO olive oil, the iconic Vai Palm Forest, and its UNESCO Global Geopark.

    Via Sitia Public Airport, by ferry from Piraeus, or a scenic 2-hour drive from Heraklion.

    Visit exotic Vai, secluded Xerokampos, ancient Itanos, or the windsurfing hotspot Kouremenos.

    May through October is ideal for swimming, while spring and autumn are perfect for hiking the Geopark.

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    They said about us...

     Savita
    2025-07-21
    Αthens, Santorini and Corfu
    My Kids and I loved the trip except for our lost baggage from the Aegean airlines upon arrival at Athens at the start of the trip.Loved all the sightseeing. Tour guides and Pick up services were awesome!! Tour guides were very knowledgeable in their area and history of the city and my kids and I loved that. They answered all our questions. Pick up services were always on time.I just wish I had a little more time in Corfu to do the boat tour as I had planned. Wasn’t able to accomplish that. Loved the wine tasting, Oia and Fira in Santorini. Thank You so much for helping me plan this trip. Great memories made on this trip!!Savita
    2025-05-09
    Group from India
    Thank you so much for your flexibility and support throughout the past weeks – the group ended successfully and we truly appreciate your efforts.
    During the trip, we also received very positive feedback from the tour leader regarding the hotels, restaurants, and the quality of your transportation service. We’re very happy with the overall arrangement and sincerely hope to continue working with you on upcoming groups.
    2024-03-27
    BDA - Scientific meeting
    Mata/ChristineThe feedback from all delegates was very positive about all the arrangements provided by the hotel and your good selves. Accommodation, meals and overall satisfaction from the hotel was very good. The renovated rooms help to bring the best of the hotel – the gala dinner room location was fantastic. Please give this feedback to the hotel too. All the transfers, excursions, the drivers, guide etc were performed professionally and all delegates again had something good to say about your services and the way you have handled the management of these activities. Overall well done. This is a genuine feedback and hope that makes you feel satisfied for a job well done
    Fabiola Cano
    2023-11-29
    Fabiola Cano from Viajes Lerma
    It was a real pleasure to meet you. The passengers were happy with all your details and the beautiful country of Greece. Regarding food, I must thank you for the care you took to choose the places and the dishes. They were all a great success. The menus, even in Spanish, were totally appreciated. Regarding accommodation, I found the hotel nice, comfortable and well located. The breakfast room is a bit busy in the mornings, but the food tastes great. And the view of the Parthenon from the top roof is impressive. Transportation good. The tours seemed good to me. Tour guides have a good command of the Spanish language and were quite friendly.  Regarding contact and respond from the company. I must emphasize that there is only praise for you, Anna. You really are a great person. The joy of your soul is transmitted around everything you do. Always with a smile no matter how tiring the tourist activity is. The details and care with which you do your job are extremely applaudable. I only have one word but for you THANKFULNESS.October 2023
    RAK
    2023-05-05
    One more Thank You
    Dear Mata and Desi,I mean it when I say I have never been exposed to such level of loving care in the world of travel.  We were not just your clients. We felt like your family. You cared for us, and all of our many (many! Many!) different needs. You showed Stuart such respect. You were patient with some in our group who would not always ask things with proper respect. You kept showing up in places we did not expect. You made visits to the pharmacy, and extra trips with your car, all to make us feel comfortable and at home.Truly—you are at the top of your business, and it shows. I do not even remember how we initially found you. But however it was, I am so grateful for this friendship and partnership. And I do mean it when I hope that we do many trips together in the future, and that I can send many of my colleagues to you for trips.It is hard for this trip to be over and to say goodbye. Know that we mean it when we say we have not only appreciation for you. But love for you.Αντίο και σας ευχαριστούμε και σας αγαπάμε και είμαστε ενθουσιασμένοι που θα σας δούμε σύντομα.With a heart that is full because we know one another, and heavy because we have to say goodbye!
    Kleopatra M
    2021-09-15
    Very helpful office…
    Very helpful office… special thanks to Ms. Lina who was very kind, very fast (although she had a large workload due to the tourist season) and met our needs perfectly !!! I highly recommend it !!!Kleopatra M
    Aris Konstantinidis
    2021-09-07
    The only travel agency that has served me perfectly
    The only travel agency that has served me perfectly as a voucher holder for \"tourism for all\". Perfect organization of the whole trip. Definitely first in my choices for future travel!Aris Konstantinidis