Autumn in Sitia: A Destination for Exploration and Relaxation
Autumn is the ideal season for travellers who want a peaceful experience in Sitia, full of magical moments. Although Crete is known for its sun and beaches, the island reveals wonderful surprises during the autumn season.
This is the ideal time to explore Sitia and indulge in its magic.
Walk along the paths that sweep the view from the endless blue of the Cretan sea to the amazing world of olive groves and vineyards. Here, the landscape is constantly transforming, offering unique colours and images that will accompany you every step of the way.
Beyond nature, Sitia is known as the birthplace of the poet Vincenzo Kornaros, who captured the beauty of the region in his unique way. Wander the streets that inspired the poet and discover the world through his eyes.
Don’t forget to visit the magnificent port of Sitia and enjoy the stunning panoramic view from the majestic Kazarma Fortress (perfect place for social media photos), which will make your trip unforgettable.
To get to Sitia you can use the following ways such as:
By air: If you choose to fly, you can reach Sitia via the area’s International Airport, which hosts small and medium sized planes. From there, there are regular flights to and from various destinations such as Athens, Rhodes, Karpathos, Kasos, Aktion and Heraklion. In addition, the airport is able to accommodate charter flights and private aircraft for easier access to Sitia.
By boat: From Piraeus the journey to Sitia takes 10 hours. The port of Anafi, Heraklion, Karpathos, Kasos, Kalos, Milos, Rhodes, Santorini, Chalki and the following ports are also connected.
By road: If you are already in Crete, you can travel to Sitia by car. From Heraklion, follow the national road E75 eastwards. The route is fast and offers you the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic scenery of Crete along the way.
Bus: If you prefer to use public transport, you can use the bus where there are regular services to discover the area.
Whichever way you choose, Sitia is waiting for you to discover its magic and enjoy your autumn journey to this beautiful Cretan destination.
TOP SUGGESTIONS & EXPERIENCES - Live like a local
Toplou Monastery: A few kilometers away from Sitia, you will discover the historic monastery of Toplou Monastery, a journey that combines the spiritual quest with the pleasure of tasting. This historic monastery was built in the 15th century and has since undergone many reconstructions due to earthquakes. Inside the church, the spiritual experience is enhanced by the Byzantine icons and the impressive image of the “Great Epiphany”, a rare beauty that you will not find anywhere else.
But the journey doesn’t stop there. In the monastery’s winery, the traveler is invited to discover the culinary soul of Crete through Cretan wines, giving a taste dimension to the traveler’s experience.
Visit to the Kazarma Fortress: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Kazarma Fortress, an archaeological monument that offers you an impressive dazzling view towards Sitia and the endless blue of the Cretan sea.
Visit to the Archaeological Museum of Sitia: Here you can explore an impressive collection of archaeological finds that reflect the history of the area.
Folklore Museum: In this museum you will find exhibits that highlight the traditional culture of Sitia, such as household items, handicrafts and traditional items. (See photos)
Beaches: Although best known for summer, Sitia’s beaches are just as beautiful in autumn. The central beach in Sitia is one of the first choices. Although it is located next to the port, the beach is known for its impeccable cleanliness and complete organization, which is constantly awarded with a blue flag. If you are traveling with the family, you will find shallow water areas that are ideal for children.
During autumn, you have the opportunity to explore the neighboring beaches of the villages of Koutsouras, Mavros Kolympos and Achlia, where the crystal clear waters await you. In the village of Mochlos and the neighboring beaches hidden in small coves, you will discover even more secluded beaches. Xerokampos and Karoumes offer unspoiled beaches, some organized and some quiet, ideal for those looking for tranquility. Also, the beaches of Vai, such as Kouremenos and Hiona, are famous for their crystal clear water and are a favorite destination for water sports, such as wind surfing. All these beaches are the ideal destination for unforgettable sea experiences during the autumn season. Enjoy their tranquility and beauty without the crowds.
Explore the Geopark of Sitia: For you, dear traveler, who is looking for authentic and unforgettable experiences, the Geopark of Sitia invites you to a world full of magic.
You can plan a hike that crosses the amazing gorges of the area, such as Zakros Gorge, Chochlakia Gorge, Pefki Gorge, Richti Gorge and many more. Along the way, you will discover the natural beauties waiting for you to enjoy them, passing by small churches and waterfalls that add a magical character to this experience. And once you reach the highest peaks, the panoramic view will captivate you even more, letting your senses travel to a world of unparalleled beauty.
(See: More information on canyons)
Wander through the small villages of Sitia: Sense The Authentic
Sitia is full of small villages just waiting to be discovered by travelers. If you are in the area, some of the more interesting villages worth visiting are listed below:
Exo Mouliana: This beautiful village with its cobbled streets and traditional houses transports you to another era. It is an ideal place for walks and to enjoy the atmosphere of the Cretan countryside.
Piscokefalo: One of the largest and richest villages of Sitia, where you will be enchanted with the amazing view towards the sea and the mountain. The village is also distinguished for the unique architecture and cultural heritage it preserves. An unforgettable part of your visit is the house of Vicenzou Kornaros, which combines the tradition, history and culture of this region.
Mochlos: A beautiful village that stands out for its stone houses and the traditional way of life of the locals.
Zakros: Discover the small rural paradise where the ruins of the ancient Minoan city of Zakros are worth seeing.
Trypitos: Discover an interesting story a few kilometers outside of Sitia. Here a Hellenistic city is revealed that occupied the entire peninsula of Trypitos. It is probably the ancient city of Sitia, known as Hetia. Excavations in this area have brought to light important remains, such as the strong city wall, ancient dwellings, rooms, storehouses, tanks, cobbled streets and even coins. This archaeological site is part of the region’s rich history.
Palaikastro: Be sure to explore the Minoan settlement of Palaikastro, located in the Rousolakkos region on the northeastern tip of Crete.
Each village in Sitia has its own unique character and offers a unique experience not to be missed!
Eat like a local
Local gastronomy: You will have the opportunity to enjoy fresh local products, such as olives, cheeses and wine, as well as taste Cretan dishes, which are part of the region’s rich culinary tradition. In your choices include dakos with nuts, barley rolls, hochlios, dolmades, pies and macaroni dishes. The Cretan diet does not omit spicy and wild greens such as Stamnagathi, dandelion, as well as various types of wild or sweet radish. Staka is also popular, an excellent cream made from sheep’s milk, used in pilaf, pies and sweets.
However, one of the essential dining experiences not to be missed is the Setian water pie, a pie with pure dough and mizithra filling, which is opened with wet hands inside the pan. We wish you bon appetit and enjoy your trip to gastronomic Crete!
Why autumn?
Another reason why we love Sitia more in Autumn is its favorable climate. Autumn offers mild temperatures and a less crowded tourist environment, offering a comfortable experience to the traveler.
In addition to the aforementioned activities, this area offers even more to enjoy during the fall. You can discover the small paths through the impressive landscapes of the area, walking in nature and enjoying the fresh air.
The autumn season in Sitia is a magical journey worth experiencing. Opening the way to the discovery of the area, you will delve into the richness of the Cretan tradition, enjoying the authentic hospitality of the locals. Autumn Sitia offers a wealth of experiences that make up a magical travel adventure.
Get ready to experience the magic of Sitia and create unforgettable memories in this exceptional and steadily growing Crete destination!