Useful Tips & Information about Agia Galini

Useful Tips & Information about Agia Galini

Agia Galini is a small traditional seaside village located in the south coast of Crete. It is located in the midway along the south coast of Crete, making it a perfect starting point for the various 'must see' spots on this wonderful island. It is located 61 km southeast of Rethymno and 68 km southwest of Heraklion.

The beauty of the village lies in its geographical position. The steep almost vertically-cut rocks dominate the landscape. The village of Agia Galini is surrounded by three mountains: Asideroto, Kedros and Psiloritis. The amphitheatrically-built houses overlook the vast Messara bay and the endless Libyan Sea, making Agia Galini unique and ideal for visitors who want to experience seaside holidays close to beautiful mountainside.

The main road of the village opens out into an attractive, picturesque harbour which still maintains its typical Cretan appeal. The view from the harbour is lovely, especially at dusk and at night where the houses and shops on the hill are lit up. Also, in the area of the harbourcultural events or festivals(e.g. the nautical week) take place in the summertime.

Agia Galini has a wonderful beach with sand, small pebbles and crystal clear waters. There is a pedestrian road across the coast that connects the harbour with the beach and you can walk the path to reach the River Platys that flows into the sea.

If you wander around the narrow, paved streets of Agia Galini, you will see the old white painted village houses with the blooming yards and discover the history of the village 40 years ago when Agia Galini used to be a small fishing village.

You can enjoy your meal in one of the many taverns and restaurants in the area, which line the harbour, the beach and the village center. In the traditional taverns you will find home-made local Cretanfood and fresh fish that is caught daily and is abundant in Agia Galini. If you prefer to have dinner with view, there are many restaurants on the rock above the port with excellent view of Messara bay. Moreover, there are restaurants with live traditional Cretan music.

The name of Agia Galini means 'Saint Serenity' or 'Holy Peace' in Greek, suggesting that the place is very peaceful and the sea is always calm. Visitors can experience the tranquility, the aura of the place and enjoy the hospitality of its inhabitants.

10 things not to miss while in Agia Galini:

  • The view from the theatre to the village and the bay of Messara late in the evening when all buildings are lit up.
  • The statues of Daedalus and Icarus on the rock from where they flew away, as legend has it.
  • Drink local raki and taste “spoon sweet”, a preserve made of fruits.
  • Sample local fish (tuna, swordfish, mullets or the catch of the day) & traditional dishes (mousaka, pastitsio, kleftiko, meat with honey and local herbs).
  • Relax at a traditional “kafeneio” and enjoy a Greek coffee, raki and meze.
  • Take a fishing trip with one of the boats departing from the harbour.
  • Swim at nearby beaches (Aghios Georgios, Agios Pavlos, Triopetra, Kommos).
  • Visit the archaeological sites of Phaistos, Gortyna, and Agia Triada.
  • Take part in one of the many local festivals organized every year.
  • Enjoy the breathtaking sunrise.

You want more information about Agia Galini?