Almyrida Travel Guide for 2023

Almyrida, a picturesque seaside village on Crete’s northern coast, is one of Greece’s most beautiful and popular holiday destinations.

Lush greenery, rolling hills, ancient sites, vibrant cultural life and a welcoming atmosphere, Almyrida has everything needed for a perfect vacation.

With its clear seas, calm waters and stunning beach views, this quaint little village offers an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

A short history of Almyrida

Almyrida’s history dates back to the Minoan era, and it was once a thriving port town and a small naval base of the Venetian Empire, from which numerous battles were fought against the Ottomans.

Today, Almyrida is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions that appeal to anyone looking for a relaxing vacation.

Where to go

Almyrida Beach: This stunning beach, with its bright blue waters and vast coastline, has been recently awarded a Blue Flag for its excellent water quality and cleanness.

Ancient Aptera: Here, you will find the ruins of an old Greek City and sculptures dedicated to the God Apollo.

Chania: A picturesque harbour town in Crete, boasts a rich history and charming cobbled streets.

What to do

Boat trips: Hire a boat and explore the nearby bays and inlets, or take a day cruise around the beautiful islands of Crete.

Scuba Diving: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and explore the area’s rich marine life.

Wine Tasting: Almyrida is known for its local wines; you can enjoy many tasting experiences.

Walking Tours: Take a guided walk and discover the area’s hidden gems.

Vineyard Tours: Discover wine-making secrets and try the local wines on a vineyard tour.

Local foods to try

Moussaka: A traditional Greek casserole dish made with layers of eggplant, ground beef and potatoes, and a creamy Béchamel sauce.

Souvlaki: Delicious grilled meat skewers, often served on warm pita bread with salad.

Greek Salad: A classic Greek salad with feta cheese, olives and tomatoes, seasoned with oregano and olive oil.

Raki: A strong alcoholic drink made from grapes and other fruits, this is popular after dinner.

Halvas: A sweet pudding made from semolina and honey is a traditional favourite.

Souvenirs to buy

Olive oil: Almyrida is famous for its pure, high-quality olive oil, so stock up for a genuinely Mediterranean gift.

Ceramics: Delicate and colourful ceramics or pottery are an excellent option for souvenirs that will look beautiful in your home.

Hand-crafted jewellery: The craftspeople of Almyrida create stunning hand-crafted jewellery from local stones and gemstones.

Honey: Buy a jar of honey from the local beekeepers and bring home something sweet and unique.

Postcards: Wake up some fond memories with postcards with local photographs of the area.

Is Almyrida expensive?

Almyrida is relatively inexpensive compared to other parts of Greece and Europe. Public transportation and restaurants are reasonably priced, while accommodation and activities can be affordable if you know where to look.

Helpful recommendations

ATMs: There are several ATMs in Almyrida and nearby towns and cities.

Language: English is spoken in most tourist areas, so don’t worry if you don’t speak Greek.

Taxis: Pre-book a cab online to save time when travelling to another town or airport.

Tourist Office: A tourist office near the main square has helpful staff to assist with questions.

Sunscreen: Bring plenty of sunscreens and a hat if you plan to be out in the sun all day.