Neapoli, Crete: A Local’s Guide

Neapoli is a town in the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, set in a fertile valley of olive groves on the road between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos. It was the capital of Lasithi until 1904, and the museums, churches and monasteries in and around the town still reflect that past.

Quick facts

• Distance from Agios Nikolaos: about 15 km - 10-15 min

• Best for: history, museums, churches and monasteries

• Time needed: 2-3 hours

• Best time to visit: whole year

• Parking: In main square or next to hospital has a big public parking

Why visit Neapoli

• A former capital of Lasithi, with a long history as a regional centre

• Two museums in town: a folklore and historical museum and an archaeological collection

• Churches and monasteries, including remains of Venetian buildings

• The ancient site of Dreros, only 2 km away

• Easy to combine with a drive between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos

What to see and do

In the town

• Folklore and Historical Museum . The collection includes weapons from the Cretan struggles against the Ottomans, objects showing rural and urban life from the 19th century onward, and a collection of Iznik ceramics.

• Panagia Church in square of Neapoli(until 13:30)

• Archaeological Collection. A small museum with finds from the local area.

• Church of Agios Pnevma (Holy Spirit) . The only surviving part of a Venetian monastery in Neapoli, dating from the 16th century.

• Churches of Agios Georgios and the Transfiguration of Christ [map link]. Two more of the town’s churches, worth a look as you walk around.

• House of Maslum Karakasis. The residence of a janissary in the Agios Dimitrios district, close to the old aqueduct.

Around the town

• Monasteries of Kremasta and Panagia in Koufi Petra . Two monasteries near Neapoli.

• Venetian Franciscan monastery of Agios Antonios Fraro. Located west of Neapoli.

• Ancient Dreros. The ruins of an ancient city on Mount Kadestos, about 2 km northeast of the town.

Suggested routes

Half-day route: town and history

1. Morning: Folklore and Historical Museum and the Archaeological Collection.

2. Late morning: the Church of Agios Pnevma and a walk to the House of Maslum Karakasis.

3. Lunch: Foinikas restaurant and more around square

4. Afternoon: Ancient Dreros.

Full-day route: monasteries and ruins

1. Morning: the museums and churches in town.

2. Midday: the monasteries of Kremasta and Panagia in Petra.

3. Afternoon: Agios Antonios Fraro and Ancient Dreros.

Eat and drink

[Add your recommended cafes, tavernas and local specialties in Neapoli.]

Local tips

[Every Thursday is the local street market of Neapoli next tp football stadium

Getting there

• By car: Neapoli lies on the road between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, about 54 km from Heraklion and about 15 km from Agios Nikolaos. The E75 national road passes close to the town.

• By bus: ktelherlas.gr

• By taxi or private tour.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Neapoli from Agios Nikolaos?
About 15 km.

What is Neapoli known for?
It was the capital of Lasithi until 1904, and it has a folklore and historical museum, an archaeological collection, and several churches and monasteries.

Is Neapoli on the way between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos?
Yes. It lies on the road connecting the two, about 54 km from Heraklion, so it is an easy stop on that drive.

Can I visit Neapoli with a guide?
Of course, feel free to join us in North Mirablello villages tour that we pass from Neapoli or Neapoli walking tour!
Or you can visit Neapoli through Traditional Woodcarver Experience and villages around Agios Nikolaos

Nearby: build your day

• Ancient Dreros is about 2 km northeast of the town.

• Kritsa is about 11 km away. See our Kritsa Village Guide.

• Agios Nikolaos is about 15 km away.

• Explore more of the area in our guide to the Villages around Agios Nikolaos.