Crete, Malia - the first acquaintance with Greece. Aqua Plus water amusement park. Malia on the map of Crete

This is one of the most party places in Crete, therefore it attracts young people and lovers of nightlife. We note right away that young people are mainly from Great Britain, Germany and France, there are few Russian speakers.

Malia on the map of Crete

The infrastructure in Malia is very well developed: hotels of any star rating, equipped beaches, all kinds of entertainment, taverns, cafes, pubs, motorcycle and bicycle rentals, supermarkets, souvenir shops.

The city center (Dimokratias and Mattheou Zachariadi streets) is at the mercy of clubs and bars. The most popular of them are: Zig Zag, Appolo, Warehouse, Candy. They open after 22:00 and work almost until the morning. Entrance is free, except for special events, only drinks are paid.

If you want to visit Malia, but do not like parties, then we recommend settling in the vicinity of the town, where it is calm and picturesque. The neighboring resorts of Stalida and Hersonissos look much more calm and respectable.

Sightseeing lovers won't be disappointed in Malia either. 3 km away, the resort is closest to the cave of Zeus and the Lassithi plateau. If not enough, then you can go to Heraklion - the trip will take 1 hour.

Sea and beach

The beach in Malia, although it has a single name, is not a single entity. In fact, this is a combination of suitable sandy and unsuitable rocky sections of the coast.

Suitable sites - have a gentle entrance to the water. Water activities, children's and sports grounds, showers, paid sun loungers and umbrellas are available on the coast. Beach honored blue flag for cleanliness and infrastructure.

It is worth bearing in mind that the beach in Malia is crowded, and Greeks also come here on weekends.

If you want some privacy, then head to the sandy beach of Potamos, which is 2 km away, not far from the ruins of the Malian palace. It is also equipped with everything you need: there are several bars, sun loungers, umbrellas, cabanas.

The best nearest beach is considered to be located 4 km from the center of Malia.

Attractions

Malia is divided into two parts - old and modern. In the Old Town with its narrow streets, houses with climbing flowers and taverns with live Greek music are the main attractions of Malia:

• church of St. Nektarios,
• Venetian Church of Saint John,
• Church of Saint Dimitrios.

But still the most significant sights are located in the vicinity of the resort. First of all, it is 3 km from the city. They have not been reconstructed and are in their original form. This is the third largest Minoan palace in Crete. Unique jewels made by Cretan masters 3,000 years ago have been found here.

You can also visit the monastery of St. George, 5 km from the city. Located 6 kilometers from Malia cozy town Mohos, where you can see the traditional way of life of the indigenous people.

How to get to Malia

1. Heraklion Airport.

You can get from Malia on your own by bus, taxi or rented car.

Bus.

Buses run every 15-30 minutes to Malia from Heraklion bus station A every 15-30 minutes, making a stop at the airport. Hours of operation are approximately 6 am to midnight. Travel time - 1 hour. The fare is 4 euros. The stop at the airport is on the right, 100 meters from the exit from the arrivals area, next to the parking lot of car rental companies. In Malia, the bus passes through El. Venizelou, next to the Old City. Makes 3 stops, numbers 31-33. Walking with luggage to the sea is quite far and inconvenient, especially in the late afternoon, when young people on ATVs become more active. Therefore, calculate your strength when you think about taking the bus.

Taxi.

The best way to get directly to the hotel is by taxi. The option is more expensive, but if there are several people, then it is worth considering. You can also . Then they will meet you at the airport, help you with your luggage and already know your destination for sure. In addition, you can ask for child seats.

Car rental.

If you plan to travel a lot around Crete, then the airport - the best place For . There is the largest selection of companies and cars, including those with automatic transmission. If you do this in advance, you can save a lot. Also save on taxis.

2. Port of Heraklion.

It is located near the intercity bus station of Heraklion (Bus Station A). From there, buses run regularly to Malia during the season, which, among other things, pass through the airport.

Hotels

The resort has a large selection of accommodation. Hotels in Malia have different stars and their total number is close to a hundred. You will also find many

34 kilometers east of Heraklion, in the direction of the city of Agios Nikolaos, there is a popular tourist resort Malia.

About 4,000 thousand years ago, in its place was an ancient Minoan city, which, due to its advantageous position on the shores of natural sea ​​bay, was an important political and commercial center.

Two kilometers from Malia, the ruins of a palace built at the same time as the famous Palace of Knossos and owned by Sarpedon, brother of King Minos, have been preserved. Archaeological excavations began here in 1915 and continue to this day. The most famous find is a gold pendant in the form of two bees with a drop of honey in their paws. It has become the unofficial emblem of Crete, and a copy of it can be purchased at any jewelry store on the island.

Modern Malia is known for its numerous beaches, restaurants, shops, clubs, discos. It has everything you need to make your vacation unforgettable.

How to get there

• by KTEL bus for 3.80 euros from Heraklion. From the city bus station A, flights to Malia depart every hour, starting at 6.30, the last one at 21.45. The trip will take 35-40 minutes. From the airport terminal to the bus station, a bus runs every 15-20 minutes for 1.10 euros;
• a taxi from the airport will cost 40-50 euros;
• You can rent a car right at the airport. The cost of a weekly rental car Opel Corsa will be approximately 350 euros, VW Polo will cost 400, and Toyota Pirus 560 euros.

Car rent

If you have a license and driving experience for more than a year, then for good rest costs . A large number of historical and natural attractions, beautiful beaches, picturesque gorges, waterfalls, caves. All this splendor is located in different parts of the island, having a car at your disposal, it will be much easier to visit them.

It is better to order a car in advance via the Internet, indicating the airport or hotel where you plan to stay. But it's easy to do on the spot. In Malia a large number of rental offices.

Closer to the middle of June, with the beginning high season, the cost of renting a car is increasing, and the range of cars offered is decreasing.

So, during the season, the cost of a Skoda Fabia for a week will be 410, and at the end of September, the rental will cost 257 euros.
In addition, renting for seven days will cost significantly less than one. The price of the same Skoda Fabia per day will be about 85 euros.
When concluding a contract, pay attention to insurance, it should be as complete as possible, although the roads in Crete are good, but due to the mountainous landscape, they are not very easy to drive. The price of gasoline in Greece is 1.70 euros per liter, diesel costs 1.37 euros.

The cost of renting a scooter for a week is about 300 euros, for a day - 34 euros, for a motorcycle - 400-500 euros, for a day - 58-64 euros. A bicycle will cost from 5 to 12 euros per day, be sure to ask for a bike lock.

One of the popular and reliable car rental companies in Malia is Cretamotor.

Located at: Grammatikaki street. If you move from a large church in the center of Malia to the embankment, the first turn to the left, then 300 m, the entrance is on the right.
Telephone: +30 28 970 33 039.

Beaches

The season in Malia starts in April and ends towards the end of October. Maximum temperature air reaches +35°C, and water warms up to +25°C.

Stalis beach stretched throughout the town. It has everything you need: umbrellas and sun loungers (5 euros for a set of one umbrella and two sun loungers), changing cabins, a shower, a volleyball court, a rescue service, a center aquatic species sports. Numerous cafes and taverns are located along the beach, almost all of them offer a children's menu.

Sandy beaches of the village of Malia ( sun beach, Dolphin) are considered the best on the coast. Clean and well-maintained, with a gentle entry into the water, they provide all the conditions for a comfortable stay. Umbrellas, sun loungers (5 euros per set), children's and sports grounds, showers. The Dolphin water sports center offers catamaran and banana boat rides for 5 euros, parasailing for 40 euros. Regular customers can get a discount.

The beach bar Dolphin is very popular. Here you can spend the whole day renting an umbrella and sun loungers for 5 euros. The bar is famous for excellent cocktails, inexpensive quality food and a pleasant atmosphere created by the owners of the bar - a Dutch couple.

Potamos beach (Potamos) is located near the ruins of the Malian palace, two kilometers east of the port of Malia. This is a large sandy beach with coarse white-golden sand and crystal clear clean water there are always few people here. There are several bars, cabanas, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas (6 euros).

Malia Hotels

Malia is a lively resort focused primarily on tourists. In the village and its surroundings there are about 70 hotels and apartments that can satisfy any request.

Hotel Royal Heights Resort 5*

Located on a hill near the center of Malia and covers an area of ​​approximately 24 hectares. Nothing breaks the night silence here, the proximity of the city known for its stormy life is practically not felt. The hotel provides a shuttle bus that takes you to the beach and town.
It consists of two-story modern buildings with hotel entrances to each room and villas with their own garden and swimming pool. All rooms offer superb sea views. On the territory of the Royal Heights Resort there are several swimming pools, a spa center and a fitness club with a sauna and Turkish bath work all year round.

During the season, a week of accommodation will cost a family of two adults and one child about 125,000 rubles;

High Beach Hotel 4* and Miramare Annex High Beach 3*

The small High Beach Hotel is located 200 meters from the center of Malia, on the seafront. Next to it is the Miramare Annex High Beach 3 * building.
These hotels have a common infrastructure: a small but well-groomed and green area, a fish pond, 2 pools with bars, a beach bar. In the Miramare building, the rooms are somewhat smaller.
The hotel beach is sandy with a gentle entrance. You can rent catamarans and canoes for free at Dolphin Club Water Sport. Sunbeds are free of charge, beach towels for a deposit of 10 euros, change of towels - 2 euros.
The hotel also operates on an all-inclusive basis. The hotel has a mini club for children from 4 to 12 years old.

A week for a family of three will cost 115,000 rubles in a 4* building and about 92,000 rubles in a 3* building;

Cretan Malia Park 4*

Located 1 km from the village of Malia, on the seashore. It consists of the main building and a complex of two-story bungalows, in a park area.
The hotel has its own sandy beach and is recommended for family vacation. There is an opportunity for large and table tennis, aerobics, there is a volleyball court on the beach.
Meals can be ordered on an all-inclusive basis, or leave only breakfast.

Price week stay for a family of three will be about 95,000 rubles;

Philoxenia Family Hotel 3*

The buildings of the Philoxenia Hotel are separated by 150 meters from their own sandy beach.

Consists of several three-storey buildings.

The rooms are equipped with air conditioning and satellite TV, have a balcony or terrace.

On the territory there is a swimming pool, playground, tables for table tennis and billiards.

The cost of a weekly stay for a family of three will be about 40,000 rubles;

Malia Beach 3*

The hotel is built in traditional Cretan style. Offers for accommodation 35 small rooms equipped with air conditioning, mini fridge and balcony.
On the territory there is a small pool with a bar and a jacuzzi, sunbeds are free. Located in the city center, 800 meters from the beach. Umbrellas and sun loungers are paid, 5 euros per set. BBQ nights are held every week.

For a week, the cost of living for a family of three will be about 29,000 rubles;

Apartment Pyrgos 2*

Located 100 meters from the sandy beach and a short walk from the center of Malia.

The air-conditioned rooms feature a balcony and a kitchenette with a stovetop and refrigerator.

The swimming pool is close to the beach and sun loungers are provided free of charge. The pool bar serves drinks and snacks.

Weekly accommodation will cost a family of three 28,000 rubles.

Where can you eat delicious food?

Tavern Milos

Located in the old city at the address: st. G.Lapidis 9. According to numerous reviews, it is considered one of the best not only in Malia, but throughout Crete.
A cozy veranda surrounded by greenery, a friendly owner and, of course, excellent Cretan cuisine.

Simmered lamb, eggplant stuffed with meat and cheese, freshly caught sardines. Fruit and brandy as a compliment.

The approximate cost of a dinner for two, including a salad, main course, beer or local, will cost 45-50 euros. Phone: +3028970 33150

Cretan Family

The tavern is located next to the Malia Park Hotel. Cozy with excellent food. Huge portions.

The menu is traditional Greek dishes: grilled meat and fish, stewed rabbit, shrimps, mussels, octopus. Excellent steaks, the owner's favorite dish, which he cooks himself.

Half a liter of homemade wine costs 4 euros. Main meat dish costs 8 euros, seafood about 20 euros, 6 euros.
Dinner takes place in a great atmosphere, all family members play musical instruments remember guests by name. For dessert, lemon liqueur or brandy, fruit and homemade cream are offered as a compliment. Phone: +302897031527.

Kalesma Tavern

Located in the old town at Omirou 8. Large selection of traditional Cretan dishes. Here they cook perhaps the most delicious moussaka in the region.

On the menu: lamb kleftiko, stiffado (8 euros), baked feta in tomato sauce, onion soup. For dessert, homemade chocolate mousse, Greek yogurt with honey, fruit.

The average price for a dinner for two with drinks is 35 euros. Phone: +30 2897 033125.

Malia Port Fish Tavern

Malia Port is located next to the port. From the veranda you can admire the sea view.

Only fresh fish and seafood: anchovy, sea bass, shrimp, mussels, octopus, cuttlefish. Large portions.
Prepare freshly squeezed juices.

Lunch for two will cost 40-45 euros. Phone: +302897032463

What and where can you buy?

There is a small shop at the entrance to Malia from Heraklion

Soaps based on olive oil will cost 3.5 euros, creams cost from 7 euros, masks from 10. Magnets for 1 euro, the cost of fragrant Cretan honey starts from 5.5 euros. Everything is carefully packed in paper, and then in a branded package.

There are two supermarkets in Malia: SPAR on the embankment and another Chalkiadakis SPAR on Mattheou Zachariadi street, behind the church of St. Nektarios. Here you can buy olive oil and much cheaper.

The price of olive oil starts from 5 euros per liter. Connoisseurs advise buying a yellow wrinkled melon here, which has a honey taste.

There is a large souvenir shop on Dimokratias Street, which sells paintings, figurines, porcelain and leather products on three floors.

On main street cities, pay attention to the sellers of small Cretan bananas, sometimes they are greenish. Not very cheap, 2 euros per kilo, they taste great.

Sights of Malia

temples

On the main street of Malia is the most big church of the city - St. Nektarios, its interior is decorated with frescoes by the Greek artist M. Vasilakis.

It is behind this church that the lanes of the old town begin. If you turn left at the first crossroads, you can reach the Venetian church of St. John.

The surroundings of Malia are of interest to travelers who prefer active recreation.

Ruins of a Malian palace

In the east of Malia, about three kilometers from the center, there is a well-known archaeological excavation area of ​​​​the Malian palace. Its ruins, in contrast, have not been reconstructed and are in their original form. Visitors have a chance to mentally recreate their original appearance. Entrance to the territory costs 4 euros, you need to have time to enter before 15.00.

Mohos

5-6 kilometers from Malia in a picturesque mountain valley the cozy town of Mohos is located. For those who want to see the traditional way of life of the Cretans, it is worth making walking tour along a marked hiking trail.

You can relax and dine in the Lithos tavern with the hospitable owner Nikos: home-made olive oil, lamb stewed over low heat, steamed fish, Greek yogurt with honey, all traditional Greek cuisine on your table. The approximate cost of a dinner for two with homemade wine will be 20 euros.

Monastery of St. George

Five kilometers from the city is monastery Saint George. It can be seen on the mountainside right at the entrance to the Selinari Gorge. The modern monastery complex, impressive with its architectural decoration, was built on the site of the old one, which was founded during the period of Byzantine rule and destroyed by the Turks in the 16th century.
According to legend, three brothers lived in these places, originally from the island of Rhodes, and one of them, Nikolaos, was enlightened, he found the icon of St. George in the mountains. The old monastery church was erected on this site. After this event, Nikolaos became a hermit and settled in a cave near the place where he found the icon. When the saint died, his relics were transported by sailors to Rhodes, and the very place of his death, the rock opposite the monastery, was marked with a large cross.

Currently, the miraculous icon can only be seen on the feast of St. George in May. A copy of it is exhibited in the monastery church. From the platform in front of the monastery, there is an excellent view of the surroundings, right up to the coast.

You can come here by rented car on the road leading to Agios Nikolaos or by taxi for about 15 euros, admission is free.
Before visiting the monastery, you should take care of the appropriate clothing.

Some excursions

From Malia, it is convenient to make a trip to Agios Nikolaos, a charming city, inside which a large freshwater lake Vulizmeni. There are numerous cafes around the lake.

It is nice to sit here, drink a cup or a glass of cold juice. You can dine in one of the many taverns on the waterfront or in the depths of the narrow streets of the old city.

You can get here for 3.30 euros by bus from Malia, departing every hour. The last bus from Agios Nikolaos leaves at 22.15.

Already from Agios Nikolaos you can take a bus for 1.70 euros or a taxi for 10 euros to get to Elounda, admire Mirabello Bay and swim on the excellent municipal beach of this popular resort village.

From the port of Elounda every 30 minutes from 9.00 to 16.30 a sightseeing boat leaves for the legendary. The ticket costs 10 euros, the entrance to the territory of the abandoned city is 2 euros.

Night life

From 22.00 hours in Malia, a vibrant nightlife begins, which continues until 5 am. Hundreds of young people, mostly from England and Germany, come here to spend their fun holidays.

Most popular clubs: Malibu Club, Camelot Castle And Banana Club. In general, there are a lot of clubs, admission to them is free, only drinks are paid. Therefore, you can move from one to another all night long, in search of the one that you like the most. Dance clubs are candy club And Appolo Club.

Most taverns and cafes, as well as souvenir shops in the city center, are open until late in the evening.

At the same time, in Malia one of the most gentle entrance to the crystal clear sea, developed infrastructure.

Families with children and those who do not want to take part in the bustling fun until 5 in the morning should choose hotels on the outskirts of the city, where the noise from numerous discos is not heard. In this case, your vacation will not be overshadowed, and you will be able to fully enjoy magnificent nature and hospitality of this region.

Malia (or Malia) - small resort town on northeast coast islands of Crete, Greece. The guide writes about Malia that it is the brightest and liveliest resort in Crete. This is very similar to the truth (although in all resort towns I haven't been to the island.

Malia is distinguished by two things:

1. Good sandy beaches.
2. Vibrant nightlife.

And also nearby is one of the palaces of the Minoan era.
The Mali Palace is located about two to three kilometers east of the town on a quiet plain between the sea and Mount Selene. You can walk there quite calmly if you put on light comfortable shoes and stock up drinking water, and even better with a snack - then you can walk back and back to Malia. Go east along Tsagaraki Street (this is the first wide street from the beach that runs parallel to the coast, it is also called Grammatikaki in the western part of Malia). Go all the time straight along this road for quite some time until you hit a T-junction: to the right, the highway will already be noisy, and you will see the corresponding signs. You will need to turn left and go a little more.

Not far from the archaeological complex (remains Minoan palace) towards the port of Malia, that is, back, there is a wide, large, relatively wild sandy beach. They come here on purpose.

Now directly about Malia. As for the first two things. The sandy beaches of Malia are some of the best in Crete . In advertising booklets there is a phrase about as many as 6 kilometers of "beautiful sandy shores with a gentle entrance to the sea." So it is approximately)) Even in the central part of the beach, it seems that everyone has enough sunbeds. They are usually paid. It is more profitable to buy a subscription;) "Dense population" on the beaches is within reason. It did not seem to me that there were too many people, although I am quite sensitive to this issue.

The beach in the central part of Malia is very recognizable: at a distance of about one hundred and fifty meters from the coast there is a small island with a small white chapel. You can swim to the island, which many vacationers do from time to time.

IN vibrant nightlife has both its pros and cons. If you are a fan of nightlife, you will not be disappointed: there are really many bars, pubs and nightclubs in Malia, they can be found in the center of the resort literally at every turn. And there are a lot of people in them, it won’t be boring (probably;)).

At the same time, one must understand that crazy British youth (on average, fifteen years old) are purposefully going to break away in Malia. This audience wakes up by noon and later, until evening, comes to their senses and lazily hangs out in their company more often near the pool than on the sea. Toward evening, having put themselves "in order", these English-speaking youth move to fast food establishments, where they actively absorb french fries and hamburgers, and in the late evening flow into nightclubs. Until 4-6 o'clock in the morning the fun lasts, and then the guys return to their hotels and start yelling. Until they communicate with each other and calm down - that is, hours until 7 in the morning :-D

I actually consider myself a fairly tolerant person, and, believe me, I describe all this without exaggeration. I had such a company living in neighboring rooms (both boys and girls), so I learned the routine of their life very well;) No, I'm not complaining. I just slept with earplugs on every night. It's OK. In addition, it is not at all a fact that you will also be "lucky" with your neighbors, like me. British teenagers are only part of the vacationers, families and calmer comrades go to Malia.

It is also impossible not to say that the British youth in Malia loves to rent quad bikes and bikes and drives whole companies through the streets of the city. Because it's not fun to be alone. It was like they were just driving around in circles just for fun, because Malia - small town A: Everything you need is within walking distance. Since the sidewalks in Malia are narrow, and often they simply do not exist, many times you have seen how pedestrians shy away from the roaring and dusty company of ATVs.

British teenagers, especially girls, often look very specific in the evening. War paint, of course. Black color in clothes is held in high esteem. The outfits are very revealing. Obese girls are not at all ashamed of their size and wear equally short skirts and equally tight tops. In a word, .. uh ... very amateurish))

There are also hotels whose guests hear nightly noise from nightclubs. Read reviews before booking!

However, I do not want you to conclude that Malia is not a place for families with children. Hanging out young people are not aggressive, there are not so many of them in the city, but this audience is almost never on the sea. And the beaches for bathing children in Malia are good - there are many places where there is a gentle entrance, almost everywhere there is a pleasant sand (which is not so much in Crete). And they go to Malia with children.

In the photo, the central part of the beach of Malia - note: there are quite a lot of children.

Also in Malia many restaurants, various taverns and cafes. There is a place to eat - it's not a problem. There is even a McDonald's.

The city is divided into two parts. Lower town (adjacent to the beach) - tourist: hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, shops for tourists. And there is an upper Old city where he lives for the most part local population. Be sure to take a walk there too - there are also many restaurants and taverns, there are cozy squares where lights are lit in the evenings and they take on a very nice romantic look, there are several churches.

In Malia, it is easy to rent a car or a motorcycle to travel around Crete on your own, as well as many travel companies with Russian-speaking staff who will gladly send you on excursions.

From Malia easily on your own regular bus get to the capital of the island of Crete - the city of Heraklion, to the lovely town of Agios Nikolaos, to the WaterCity water park. The bus timetable is posted at the bus stops. Intercity bus in Malia runs on the second major street, parallel to the coast, the street that separates the lower and Old city, it is called Veniziou.

I enjoyed my holiday in Malia. The hospitality of the Cretans, good sea and beach, tasty food and a large selection of restaurants and taverns; there are plenty of places to walk tourist shops where you can choose souvenirs, buy essential food. And the frenzied British youth - well, this is a specificity that surprises, but does not necessarily interfere with rest. I personally don’t understand - if you need nightlife and clubs - why go to the sea at all ???

At the end of the review - a few more photos of the town of Malia (Crete)

As you can see, the strip of the beach is quite narrow, the sunbeds are relatively tight, but there are always free sunbeds. Due to the fact that the width of the beach is small, a lot of people do not crowd into the sea.

There are quite a lot of people, but it’s impossible to say that the apple has nowhere to fall.

The length of the beach is quite large. Photo against the sun(

Beach cafe. Cocktails in assortment. The staff is genuinely welcoming.

Orthodox churches. Inside, they look almost the same as Orthodox churches in Russia. But here I was very amused by the painting of the wall on infernal themes)) (Sorry for the photo quality) One of the demons even has female breasts!

View from the cafe to the sea and the beach.

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• Legendary

Malia Beach is the most youthful and party beach of Crete. This East End a huge beach stretching for 6 km, starting from Stalida.

If you want to really have fun, see the azure water, enjoy the beauty the cleanest beach with fine sand, and also you are not embarrassed by a huge number of people, then you will be delighted with this place.

The city of Malia is primarily known for its vibrant nightlife, as well as its huge cultural heritage ancient times and past civilizations. The clean and well-groomed sandy beach of Malia is considered the best on the coast; here you can find everything for a comfortable stay.

Weather conditions in Malia

In all the resorts of Crete, including the town of Malia, it is warm and humid in winter and hot in summer.

The tourist season in Malia opens in April and closes at the end of October. The maximum air temperature at this time reaches +35°C, and the water warms up to +25°C.

August is the warmest month of the year, at this time the average daytime temperature is +29.7°C, and at night +22.9°C, the water warms up to +26.2°C. It is not cold here in winter, but it rains. The temperature, as a rule, does not fall below +14°C.

Attractions near the beach

Opposite the beach you can see a small island where the Church of the Transfiguration (Metamorphosis Sotiros) is located. Perhaps now it is one of the most recognizable symbols of Malia's beach.

There are others near the beach cultural objects. In the city itself, you can visit the church of St. Nektarios, the interior of which is decorated with frescoes by the Greek artist M. Vasilakis, the Venetian church of St. John, as well as the church of St. Dimitrios. This is part of a town with narrow streets, passing through which you can enjoy the beauty of flowers and live Greek music. But the most important sights are located in the vicinity of the city - these are the ruins of the Malian Palace, Mohos and the monastery of St. George.

Ruins of the Mali Palace

The famous archaeological excavation area of ​​the Mali Palace is located 3 kilometers from the beach of Malia. This is the third largest palace of the Minoan state in Crete. According to archaeologists, the ruins belong to the second palace, destroyed as a result of a volcanic eruption that occurred around 1450 BC. e. And why the first one was destroyed, no one knows.

The ruins of the Mali Palace have not been reconstructed and are in their original appearance. Therefore, visitors have the opportunity, looking at parts of the former palace, to recreate in their minds its original appearance. At the moment, excavations are continuing by the French Archaeological School, whose representatives put forward the hypothesis that south of the palace is ancient city which is yet to be explored.

Mohos

The cozy town is located in a picturesque mountain valley 5-6 kilometers from Malia. There is a hiking trail along which you can take a walk and get acquainted with the traditional way of life of the Cretans.

Monastery of St. George

The monastery is located 5 kilometers from the noisy beach of Malia. The monastery surprises with its peculiar architectural solution. It is believed that the monastery was erected at the site of the discovery of the miraculous icon of St. George. The icon was found by Nikolaos after a divine revelation. After the construction of the church, he settled in a cave near the monastery and became a hermit. Look at the rock opposite the monastery and you will see a large cross - the place where, according to legend, Saint Nikolaos lived.

Please note that in common days a copy of the miraculous icon is exhibited in the monastery, while the original can only be seen at the feast of St. George, which is celebrated in May. When going to the monastery, do not forget about appropriate clothing.

There is also a platform in front of the monastery, which offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings and the coast.

Excursions

A large number of excursions are also organized from Malia. The most popular are: an excursion to the Palace of Knossos, a trip to the Lassithi plateau, a visit to the island of Spinalonga, an overview of the cave of Zeus, as well as excursions to charming city Agios Nikolaos, inside which there is a large freshwater lake Voulismeni.

Infrastructure

In general, we can say that the beach of Malia includes everything you need and even more. Everything is here: the sea, the purest sand, hotels for every taste, all kinds of entertainment, taverns, cafes, pubs, souvenir shops. There are huge supermarkets near the beach. In Malia, you can rent any type of transport: a bicycle, an ATV, a motorcycle, a scooter, a car of any brand.

Malia Beach is located in front of the city and is filled with a huge number of holidaymakers. On the beach you can find everything you need for relaxation: showers, changing rooms, umbrellas and sun loungers, beach bars, massage rooms, sports grounds and much more. You can also go windsurfing here - the weather permits.

If you want to find all the entertainment of the island in one place, then you can safely go to Malia. However, keep in mind that during the season it is quite crowded and noisy. From 10 pm in Malia, a vibrant nightlife begins, which continues until the morning. Most often, young people from England and Germany come here, there are few Russians here, but everyone here has the same goal - to spend an unforgettable and fun vacation. Therefore, if you want peace and tranquility, then central beach You won't like Malia. In this case, you can go to Potamos Beach - it is less crowded and more peaceful here.

Families with children and those who do not want to participate in all-encompassing fun until 5 in the morning should choose hotels on the outskirts of the city - noise will not be heard here.

Where is the beach of Malia

The town of Malia is not at all big, it is inhabited by a little less than 3,500 people. Malia beach is located in coastal zone near Hersonissos, about 35 km from Heraklion - administrative center islands of Crete.

It is in front of the city and is the eastern part big beach 6 km long, which starts from Stalida.

Panoramic view of Malia beach in Greece - Google Maps

How to get to Malia beach in Crete

You can get to Malia beach by bus, rented transport or taxi.

Bus

Taxi

For the most comfortable way to the beach, you can use taxi services: Kiwitaxi, CreteTaxi.net or others operating in Crete.

Car rental

One of the most popular ways for tourists to get around the island is to rent a car. IN tourist places in Crete, as a rule, there is a large selection of companies and cars. In order to rent a car, it is enough to have a passport with you, driver's license and means of payment.

Video about the beach of Malia in Crete

Crete is quite attractive and interesting island, so tourists from all over the world are happy to visit it at any time of the year, and given that even in winter average temperature air is at plus fifteen degrees, then practically in winter, in the full sense of the word, it cannot be called. Therefore, many hotels are equipped with heating, heated indoor pools and work here all year round. But, of course, it cannot be called a year-round season, since swimming in sea ​​water with a temperature of seventeen or eighteen degrees Celsius, not everyone dares, and therefore, the beach season, which we will talk about, cannot be called such a time.

Some say that they had a good rest in Malia or Crete in general, at the end of April. I agree that in April you can have a good rest and sunbathe, but this is if you are so hardened that you can afford to swim in eighteen-degree water. Or you can refuse the sea and compensate for this lack by swimming in the hotel pool, especially since many hotels, as I said, have not only outdoor pools. As for my personal opinion, I think the earliest time to come to rest in Malia can be called mid-May, when the sea will be at least twenty degrees. However, a lot of our compatriots prefer to come during the long May holidays, and this makes some sense, since prices this month, more precisely ... read more

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Monthly weather in Malia:

* This table shows average weather data collected over more than three years

HOLIDAY PRICES:

How much does a holiday in Malia cost? June 2013.

tour cost

My husband and I had Honeymoon from 2 to 9 June in Crete, in Malia. Hotel 4* Creatan Malia Beach, all-inclusive. The room was rented in a bungalow, 1st floor, with access to the pool. The cost of the flight Kyiv (Borispol) - Heraklion + accommodation was 2000 euros, taking into account early booking(month of April). The bonus of our trip was the provision of a higher class room (with access to the sea) for 3 days and 3 nights due to the fact that we were newlyweds. You must notify the hotel in advance if you want to receive a bonus. You must have a marriage certificate with you, however, we never asked for it.

Excursion to the cave of Zeus - 40 euros per person, if taken at the hotel. On the street you could find 35-37 euros.

Island of Santorini - 150 euros per person, again, if taken at the hotel.

Food and products

In Malia we went to a fish restaurant. We took octopus, swordfish, Greek salad, 2 beers of 0.5 liters each. It cost us 25 euros. Bread and fruits after the meal were brought for free. In another restaurant, the amount was similar (they took meat, french fries, salad and 2 forfeits of 0.5 liters each).

Souvenirs and other goods

We bought our husband a traditional long-sleeved shirt for 20 euros, a cap cost 8 euros, a women's hat 10 euros. Magnets from 1 to 5 euros. A set of spices cost 10 euros. Pomegranate tincture was bought in a monastery near Malia for 8 euros, it's a pity that they didn't take more.

Cost of services and entertainment

We rented a quad bike. Day 40 euros, we took on the 3rd for 100 euros. Be careful when renting, we were deceived with the engine size (the first refueling is right in the rental center).

Total money spent on vacation

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HOLIDAY REPORTS:

Irina

May holidays experience

It's been a wonderful vacation. The weather in Crete by the end of May is already fully consistent with summer, so you can use the beach with might and main. At the same time, there is still no such hellish heat as August, so it is quite comfortable to spend free time outside the beach. Good time for sightseeing. In addition, at this time there are still relatively few tourists and you will be given discounts on purchases everywhere, and it is also more convenient to take pictures without a crowd.

Family holiday

In Malia, there are opportunities for recreation for people of all ages. It will be comfortable here for children, and the elderly, and young people. The main thing is that there is entertainment for everyone. But we can say that this resort is ideal for active family who doesn't want to sit still.

What to take with you on vacation?

It is worth taking with you only what you personally need from things and clothes. Don't forget sunscreen and medicines you may need. From clothes, along with summer things, take also warm clothes, as it can get a little colder. Do not forget about running shoes or comfortable shoes, which will be very useful during excursions. On the same excursions, a capacious backpack will not hurt to put water and purchased souvenirs there. If you are traveling with small children, then take a swim ring. In general, try not to take too much, so as not to overload the suitcase. You will bring back a lot of souvenirs, so you need to leave a place for them. If you forget something, don't worry. There are many shops in Malia where you can buy everything. Prices are quite affordable.

Where is the best place to stay?

There are plenty of all kinds of hotels and apartments in Malia. It is best to choose something away from the noisy center. Then you will definitely be provided relaxing holiday at night. Remote hotels can be so comfortable that you may not want to leave the area often. But even if you want to go to the beach, then find out in advance if the hotel has a bus that constantly delivers vacationers to the coast. Most of the time this service is available.

What to do at the resort?

What tourists go for seaside resort, it's the beach, the sea and the sun. This is the main pastime. If you are not a supporter of a monotonous holiday, then you should at least take a walk around the city. During the day, you can go shopping or walk the streets. Malia is conditionally divided into old and new parts. Just in the old part it will be relatively calm and interesting. You can walk along narrow streets, see houses and small flowering courtyards, as well as visit Byzantine churches. Among them are the church of St. Nektarios with frescoes by a Greek artist, the Venetian church of St. John, the church of St. Dimitrios. It will also be interesting to explore the surroundings of Malia on your own. At 3 km from the city are the ruins of the Malian palace, which are in no way inferior to the Palace of Knossos and have been preserved in their original form. Also worth visiting small town Mohos to see the traditional way of life local residents. For those who adhere to the faith, a trip to the monastery of St. George in the mountains will be interesting.

And of course, we must not forget about the noisy nightlife in Malia. There are a lot of clubs and night discos, for which crowds of young people come here. These establishments are open until 5 am, so the music does not stop and it is always fun here. Access to all clubs is free. Only drinks are paid.

It is now easier to choose excursions via the Internet, so you should take care of this in advance, especially since the choice is very large. If this is your first time in Greece, then it is worth visiting the island of Santorini and it is better to take a 2-day excursion with an overnight stay. Then you can see the main sights and meet the famous sunset. Among other excursions worthy of attention are the Palace of Knossos and the labyrinth of the Minotaur, the Lassithi plateau and the cave of Zeus. These attractions are located near Malia, so excursions here are carried out either for the whole day or on a reduced program for half a day. If you wish, you can make beach trips either to Balos Bay or to pink sands Elafonisi. There is still the opportunity to visit the deserted beaches on the Libyan coast. These are the golden beaches of Chrissi and wild beaches Koufonisi. But these trips are long and designed for the whole day with an early departure and a late return. Inexpensive and interesting excursions in Western Crete. It is worth visiting the cities of Rethymno and Chania with a stop at the freshwater turtle lake in Kournas, and for those who are not afraid of long walks, it will be interesting to visit the Samaria Gorge. You should also pay attention to the excursion to the island of Spinalonga and the city of Agios Nikolaos. Also from Malia you can make a trip to Athens or Heraklion. For those who want more relaxation and entertainment, you can choose a boat trip on a boat with fishing. If you are relaxing with children, then you can go to one of the island's water parks, especially since the transfer is already included in the price. Also provided for evening tour which includes a visit to an olive factory followed by entertainment program where you can enjoy music, dancing and traditional cuisine.

The beaches of Malia are sandy with a gentle entry into the sea. All beaches have the appropriate infrastructure, which includes sun loungers and umbrellas (for an additional fee), toilets and showers, sports and playgrounds. On the beaches you can use the services of a bar or cafe. Also, not far from Malia, you can visit the beaches of the village of Stalida. You can get there by regular bus, which runs every 15 minutes. Stalis has the same equipped beaches as in Malia. It is also worth visiting the beach near the ruins of the Malian palace. This beach is called Potamos. It also has everything you need to relax, and there are much fewer people.

It is also worth adding that all the beaches of Malia have been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness and environmental safety.

Souvenirs can be purchased on Dimokratias street in a large 3-storey shop. There is a very large selection of such products. Also, for souvenirs at a lower price, you should stop by a small shop at the entrance to Malia from Heraklion. For groceries, you can go to two SPAR Supermarkets. The same feta cheese and olive oil can be purchased here at a lower price. Be sure to buy a bunch of small bananas from street vendors. It's inexpensive, but delicious.

As for more serious purchases such as, for example, a fur coat, clothes, jewelry, then for this it is worth going to Heraklion or other large cities.

Where can you eat?

Malia has a variety of food establishments, including cafes, restaurants, chain cafes and street fast food outlets. First of all, you should pay attention to small establishments with traditional Greek cuisine. Here, all dishes are prepared with high quality and home-style, since such cafes usually belong to one family, which takes care of the reputation of the institution. You can also have a delicious dinner at fish restaurants or taverns. Seafood and fish are always fresh from the morning catch.

How much does it cost to eat? About food prices.

Approximately the cost of one dinner for two, consisting of a main course, salad and beer or local wine, will cost 45-50 Euros.

Entertainment

Malia is primarily a resort with an active nightlife, so many young people come here and go for parties and parties. For most vacationers, there are beaches and pools at hotels. It is worth noting that on the beaches of Malia there are recreation and sports centers where you can rent a catamaran or ride a banana. You can also go parasailing. For walks, you can choose the narrow streets of the old city, where it will always be interesting. There is also something to see in the vicinity of Malia. Each travel agency will be happy to offer you an excursion to anywhere in Crete. But you can go to some places near the resort yourself. For example, you can take a bus to Agios Nikolaos and see the wonderful freshwater lake Voulismeni. From the same city, you can also get to Elounda by bus, admire the Mirabello Bay and swim on the local beach. From Elounda you can go by boat to the island of Spinalonga. The main thing is to calculate all your movements in time in order to return to Malia by evening. It makes sense to go to Heraklion yourself, especially if you want to buy something serious and expensive. But this city also has interesting sights, among which Archaeological Museum. You can also go to the Palace of Knossos yourself, and if you wish, you can also go to Santorini without an excursion group.

Pros of living in Malia

I liked the sandy beaches, where there is enough space for everyone, and there is everything you need to spend the whole day there. Also, the atmosphere of the resort itself is conducive not only to active recreation, but also to complete relaxation. It is also interesting that here you can touch the antiquity on the streets of the old city, and it is quite possible to get to some of the surrounding sights on your own without resorting to the help of travel agencies.

Cons of staying in Malia

It could be called a disadvantage too noisy nightlife, but this should be taken into account immediately and look for a hotel away from the center. If the hotel is selected by a travel agency, then you should pay their attention to this moment. It is also worth considering that this small resort where there is not much space for walking. If not for the old city, it would not be so interesting. Another disadvantage is the lack of stores for clothing shopping. I don’t really want to spend the whole day for these purposes and go to a larger city.

Should you visit Malia?

Definitely worth going here. Still, the summer in this resort lasts a long time, the beaches here are sandy and equipped with everything you need. The hotels are quite worthy to stay. From Malia there is an opportunity to visit many cities of Crete and not only Crete.

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