The southernmost town in Europe has a well-preserved 13th-century Venetian fortress and a year-round warm climate. Its beaches stretch along 40km of Libyan Sea coastline.
Ierapetra, Greece's southernmost city, stretches along the Libyan Sea on Crete's southeastern coast. In the old town, you'll walk past stone houses with wooden balconies, stop at cafes in narrow lanes, and explore a 13th-century Venetian fortress. Local fishermen still bring their catch to the harbor each morning, while boats depart for Chrysi Island's cedar forests and white sand beaches.
Getting to Ierapetra
You can reach Ierapetra by driving south from Heraklion (140 km) or Agios Nikolaos (31 km) on well-maintained roads. Regular KTEL buses connect the city with major Cretan towns, with the journey from Heraklion taking approximately 2 hours. The city's position on Crete's southern coast keeps it away from mass tourism routes.
Climate and Weather
With over 3,100 hours of sunshine per year, Ierapetra shares the title of Greece's sunniest location with Rhodes. Temperatures average 20°C (68°F), with summer highs reaching 35°C (95°F) and winter lows rarely dropping below 12°C (54°F). Local farmers use these warm conditions to grow vegetables in greenhouses throughout the year, exporting produce across Europe.
Walking Through Kato Mera
Wind through the medieval streets of Kato Mera, where stone houses line narrow alleyways. You'll pass the former Ottoman mosque with its distinctive dome and the "House of Napoleon," a residence where local legend places Bonaparte for one night in 1798. In the district center stands the Aghios Georgios metropolitan church, built in 1856 with its bell tower visible above the rooftops.
Fortress and Harbor
Walk up to the Venetian fortress of Kales for views across the old harbor and Libyan Sea. The fortress hosts cultural events and exhibitions during summer evenings. Below, fishing boats dock with their morning catch, and you can watch local fishermen mending their nets or selling fish directly from their boats.
Beaches and Swimming
The city's main beach, Paralia Ierapetras, runs along the waterfront with dark volcanic pebbles and clear water. For a quieter swim, drive 5 km east to Agia Fotia beach, where limestone cliffs rise above the bay and tamarisk trees provide natural shade. The beach at Mirtos village, 14 kilometers west, has calm waters and several waterfront tavernas.
Day Trip to Chrysi Island
Catch the morning ferry at 10 AM from Ierapetra's quay to Chrysi Island. The island's protected status means you must follow marked paths, which lead to white sand beaches and ancient cedar forests. Look for the 13th-century church of Agios Nikolaos on the western side. The last ferry returns at 5 PM. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as the island has no facilities.
