Sitia Σητεία

Sitia is a thriving modern town in the east of Crete, sitting on Sitia Bay on the north coast 70 kms from Agios Nikolaos, with a population of 8,000.

This town has a wonderful feel, is spic and span and spotless, with a brand new harbour for small craft and the large ferries that call in from the Dodecanese. In Lasithi prefecture or nomos, the prosperous local olive co-operative means the region does not rely solely on tourism. Hence it really retains its sense of self. There is a small airport.

Sitia is lovely to visit, and makes a good base from which to explore eastern Crete.

Sitia has had many incarnations and a turbulent history. Dating back to 3000 BC, active in Minoan times, it survived earthquake, pirate attack and invasion by the Turks only to fall into disuse. It was rebuilt in 1870.

Some colourful stories from history; it was attacked by the famous pirate Barbarossa in 1538, and it is the birthplace of Vitsentzos Kournaros author of the epic Cretan poem Erotokritos. This proud artistic tradition has given the name to a cultural festival Kournareia held each summer with concerts, theatre, speakers and fine art displays.

Walking about Sitia

Walking around the large harbour, along to the marina and further to the beach you will stroll along a wide promenade with lovely lanterns, lush palms, park benches and mosaics. All along the water’s edge are tavernas, restaurants and cafés. There is a hubbub in the air, the town’s young and old are out enjoying themselves.

One of our favourites is El Gato café for its vibe and location just off the harbour.

The best thing to do would be to step in and try some of the local wines. The Union of Agricultural Cooperative of Sitia was founded in 1933 and most of the farming families of the region are members (over 8000 members). The exquisite olive oil from the sun drenched skies and various local wines are now well known. The are the local label red, white, the Kritikos label red white and rose, a wine produced by the local monastery of Topolou, and the essential Cretan drink tsikoudia, with the label Varvaki. Don’t miss the tasting room at 74 Misonos St.

There are many lovely hotels, domatia, rooms and apartments to rent for your holiday. We stayed at Pension Arhontiko, which has a handy location one street up the hill from the harbour and wonderful hospitality. The nice girl called Alex Gressman was very helpful.

On the 24th of June every year is the festival of Klidonas, where woman in Minoan style dress carry 'silencing water' in an ancient ritual. The parade is accompanied by local musician on violin and mantinades are spoken. Late in the evening the festivities take off into a big 'glendi' or party with music and dancing till dawn. This festival takes place all over Lasithi.

Caves, beaches, history, it is all at your feet here in Lasithi. From here it is easy to visit the beach of Vai with its unique palm forest, and the village of Palekastro.

Beautiful images below of Sitia town.