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There are an array of things to do in Greece, with Malia sharing quite a few of those!
Sparkling like a jewel on the northeastern coast of Crete, Malia offers a treasure trove of experiences for those seeking the perfect blend of sun, sand, and culture.
With its idyllic beaches, ancient ruins, and lively nightlife, Malia beckons visitors to explore its many wonders and discover the rich tapestry of history that surrounds it.
So come and immerse yourself in the beauty of Malia, where adventure awaits at every turn.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Malia:
1. Palace of Malia
The Palace of Malia is a Minoan archaeological site located on the island of Crete, Greece. It was built in the Middle Minoan period around 1900 BC and covers an area of approximately 7,500 square meters.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace complex, which includes a central courtyard, a temple, a theater, and various other rooms.
The site also features impressive frescoes, pottery, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into the Minoan civilization.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive “bull’s head” ritual vessel, which is considered one of the most iconic artifacts from the Minoan era.
The palace also features a fascinating drainage system, which was advanced for its time.
Insider travel tips: To beat the crowds, plan to visit the Palace of Malia early in the morning. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as there is a lot of walking to do on the site.
Additionally, consider hiring a guide to provide additional insight and context into the history of the site.
2. Malia Beach
Malia Beach is a famous and vibrant beach located on the northern coast of Crete Island in Greece.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: – Malia Beach tends to be crowded during peak tourist season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot on the sand.
3. Malia Strip
A lively street in the resort town of Malia, Crete lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for partygoers.
What to see or do: Enjoy the upbeat atmosphere and music at the various venues along the strip, indulge in food and drinks at the restaurants and bars, and dance the night away at the pulsating nightclubs.
Don’t miss: The open-air clubs and their eccentric parties, as well as the themed bars that offer a unique experience for visitors.
Insider travel tips: Be wary of promoters offering free drinks, as they may be scams. Also, remember to keep your belongings safe and avoid excessive drinking to ensure a safe and enjoyable night out.
4. Stalis Beach
Stalis Beach is a long and beautiful sandy beach located in the small town of Stalis, near Malia, on the northern coast of Crete.
What to see or do: At Stalis Beach, visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea, soaking up the sun on the soft sand, and taking long walks along the beach.
The beach also offers a range of water sports activities, such as jet skiing, parasailing, paddle boarding, and banana boating.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunsets that grace the beach every evening.
Insider travel tips: For a more peaceful beach experience, avoid the peak summer months of July and August when the beach can get quite crowded.
It is also advisable to wear water shoes when entering the sea, as the beach can have some rocky areas. Lastly, don’t forget to try some authentic Greek cuisine at the tavernas located along the beach.
5. Star Beach Water Park
Star Beach Water Park is a popular water park located in Malia, a coastal town in Crete, Greece.
What to see or do: This water park offers a wide variety of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. There are several water slides, including the Kamikaze Slide and the Black Hole, which are perfect for thrill-seekers.
The Lazy River and the Wave Pool are great for those who want to relax and enjoy the water. The park also offers a bungee jumping tower, go-karting, beach volleyball, and other activities.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Foam Party, which is one of the park’s most popular events. The foam floods the dance floor while DJ’s spin the most recent hits.
Insider travel tips: To save money on tickets, purchase them online in advance.
6. Lychnostatis Open Air Museum
Lychnostatis Open Air Museum is a unique museum in Malia that showcases the traditional Cretan way of life.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful outdoor space and discover the history and culture of the island through exhibits and demonstrations. The museum features traditional architecture, gardens, and various collections that highlight ancient crafts, pottery, weaving, and olive oil production.
There is also an impressive display of musical instruments, as well as a traditional wine cellar that offers wine tastings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss a chance to try some of the traditional Cretan food available in the museum café, which overlooks the beautiful gardens.
The café serves delicious local cuisine, including traditional pies, salads, and desserts.
Insider travel tips: For a more immersive experience, visitors can book a guided tour that provides an in-depth look at the various exhibits and collections.
It’s also recommended to visit during the morning or evening hours to avoid the heat of the midday sun.
Additionally, the museum hosts several events throughout the year, including cultural festivals and music performances, which are worth checking out if timing permits.
7. Krasi Village
A quaint traditional village located in Malia, Crete.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and charming alleys of Krasi Village, which is surrounded by verdant hills and scenic landscapes.
Admire the traditional architecture of the whitewashed houses and the beautiful gardens that are lush with colorful flowers. Visit some of the local shops and cafes to experience the laid-back lifestyle of the village.
Don’t miss: The 2000-year-old plane tree, which is considered the oldest tree on the island and a national monument. Legend has it that Alexander the Great himself rested under the tree during his journey in Crete.
Insider travel tips: Try the local honey and the delicious traditional Cretan cuisine in one of the village’s tavernas.
If possible, visit the village during the annual festival of the Holy Cross on September 14th, which is a major event for the locals and features traditional music, dance performances, and lots of delicious food.
8. Dikteon Cave
A legendary cave in the mountains of Crete, said to be the birthplace of Zeus.
What to see or do: Explore the dark and eerie chambers, marvel at the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, and imagine the powerful god being raised in secret within these walls.
Don’t miss: The underground river that still runs through the cave, adding to its mystical atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the cave floor can be slippery. Also, be prepared for cooler temperatures inside the cave compared to the outside, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
Finally, make sure to ask the guide about the myth and history of Dikteon Cave, as it adds to the overall experience.
9. Spinalonga Island
Spinalonga Island is a small rocky island located near the town of Elounda in Crete, Greece. The island has a rich and interesting history, having served as a fortress, leper colony, and tourist attraction.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the Venetian fortress and the abandoned buildings of the leper colony. The island’s small rocky beaches are also worth checking out.
Don’t miss: The hauntingly beautiful abandoned leper colony is a must-see.
The remnants of the colony, including houses, shops, and medical facilities, give visitors a glimpse into the tragic history of the site.
Insider travel tips:
10. Hersonissos Port
Hersonissos Port is a bustling harbor town located on the northeastern coast of the Greek island of Crete, while Malia is a nearby beach resort.
What to see or do: – Spend the day lounging on the pristine beaches of Malia, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Don’t miss: – The lively nightlife scene in Malia, which is known for its beach parties and clubs.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, visit Hersonissos Port in the early morning or late evening.
11. Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre
Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre is a family-run zoo featuring a diverse collection of marine and reptile life, located in Malia on the island of Crete.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the aquariums that house over 100 species of fish and various sea creatures, such as turtles, octopuses, and colorful corals.
There are also terrariums with a wide variety of reptiles, like snakes, lizards, and chameleons.
Additionally, the center runs a rescue program to help and educate visitors about injured or abandoned reptiles, which they often release back into the wild.
Don’t miss: A highlight of the center is its interactive shows, where visitors can watch handlers feed and interact with large turtles, snakes, and crocodiles.
Another must-see is the outdoor open-air museum, featuring ancient Greek statues and artifacts.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to visit early in the morning and avoid the crowds. The center is often busy with tourists by mid-day.
12. Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is a large aquarium located in Malia, on the island of Crete in Greece.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at over 2,000 species of marine life including sharks, jellyfish, seahorses, and colorful fish. There are a variety of themed exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the diverse underwater world of the Mediterranean.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the aquarium is the 70-meter-long tunnel that allows visitors to walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by a variety of fish and marine life.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Be sure to catch one of the daily feeding shows to learn more about the marine animals and their habits.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all the amazing sights!
13. Acqua Plus Water Park
Acqua Plus Water Park in Malia is one of the biggest water parks in Crete. It is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of water slides, pools, and other water-based attractions.
What to see or do: There are over 50 different water attractions to enjoy at Acqua Plus Water Park. Some of the highlights include the Black Hole, Kamikaze, and the Crazy River.
Young children will love the shallow pool with mini water slides and a playground. Families can also relax in a lazy river or visit the wave pool.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Space Bowl, a thrilling ride that takes you down a steep drop before spinning you around a bowl-shaped slide.
Also, try the Turbo Cyclone, one of the newest and most exciting attractions in the park.
Insider travel tips: Avoid long lines by arriving early, especially during the peak season. You can also book your tickets in advance online to save time.
The park has free parking, and you can rent lockers to store your belongings. Plan to spend the whole day at the park and bring sunscreen, towels and other essentials you may need.
14. Lassithi Plateau
Lassithi Plateau is a fertile plain situated in the eastern part of the island of Crete, at an altitude of approximately 800 meters.
It is surrounded by hills and mountains and is famous for its windmills and exceptional natural beauty.
What to see or do: Visit the numerous archeological sites and the Diktaean Cave, which is said to be the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the gods.
The picturesque windmills are also worth checking out, and you can take a stroll around the plateau to witness the traditional way of life in the region.
Don’t forget to visit the cave shrines of Psychro and Milatos for a memorable experience.
Don’t miss: Take a ride on the quaint donkey trails that lead from the foothills of the plateau to the summit and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
You can also explore the traditional village of Malia and taste the local cuisine at the taverns and restaurants.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during August, be sure to attend the annual potato festival, where you can sample the famous Lassithi potatoes.
Also, consider hiring a local guide who can give you an in-depth insight into the history and culture of the region.
Lastly, make sure to pack some warm clothing as the temperature drops significantly in the evenings.
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