Waiting for you on Crete's most eastern shores, Sitia is a city with a rich history and undeveloped charm that make a visit here a must for the traveler who enjoys stepping off of the beaten path. This Sitia Travel Guide will help point you in the right direction to make the most out of your next visit to Sitia.

History

Understanding Sitia comes from understanding her rich and interesting history. As a city, Sitia has been destroyed on three separate occasions--once in 1508 by a massive earthquake, again a mere thirty years later when pirates invaded, and then again in the mid 1600s when Venetians destroyed the city rather than see it fall under Turkish rule. The city failed to rebuild for two centuries! Present-day Sitia was only formed in 1870. This could account for the slim population and laid-back lifestyle found here today.

Getting There

Sitia has it's own small airport that offers connections with larger airports in Athens, Kassos, and Rhodes. You can also get to Sitia by way of boat.

See and Do

Recently an ancient homestead was excavated on the east end of town. Given the roots of the town, artifacts here may date back as far as the Minoan period (3000 B.C.). 

The large public beach could be one of the only places you'll find other tourists while on your trip. The area doesn't experience a large tourist draw but those who do visit like to take in this area featuring waterfront shops and restaurants. The surrounding harbor is still a central area of life for year-round residents here and is a good place to casually stroll through if you're looking to get a taste of what daily life here is like.

There are many restaurants which offer traditional Greek fare.

Where to Stay

You have your choice of several lodging options while in Sitia. Ranging from value apartments to high end hotels, Sitia has something to fit every budget and preference.

The Lassion Golden Bay is comprised of 20 bungalows and has been open since 2004. Facilities outside include pools, bars, tennis and basketball courts and a playground for the kids.

The Hotel Krystal offers breathtaking views of the bay from the upper level (fourth floor and above) rooms. The price is a bargain and includes your morning breakfast.

If you're interested in apartments to rent you can contact the Bellevue Apartments or the Olive Coast Suites.