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Plakias

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City
—°11
Plakias (Greece)
ℹ️

Practical info — Plakias

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Be prepared for the 'Meltemi' winds in July and August; the bay can get very windy, making swimming challenging on some days.
  • Rent a car to explore the remarkable nearby mountain villages like Myrthios and Sellia for spectacular views over the bay.
  • Use Plakias as your base to visit the famous Preveli Palm Beach, accessible via a short drive and a steep descent.
  • Scuba diving is excellent here; the clear waters and rocky seabed make for great underwater exploration.

🍽 Food

🍽
Staka

A rich, traditional dairy dip made from sheep's milk fat, best tried in the hillside tavernas of Myrthios above Plakias.

🍽
Antikristo

Lamb traditionally roasted around an open fire, often served in the mountain village tavernas inland.

🍽
Bougatsa

Start your morning with this creamy custard pastry topped with cinnamon from the local bakeries in town.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Carob Products

Buy local carob syrup (hartoupi) or rusks, a traditional and healthy regional specialty found in mini-markets.

🛍
Ceramics

Authentic Cretan pottery and ceramic bowls can be found in artisan shops in the surrounding villages.

🧘
Souda Beach

Just a few kilometers west of Plakias, this sheltered bay gives a much quieter and calmer swimming experience.

🧘
Kotsifou Canyon

Drive through this impressive gorge just north of Plakias and stop at the small chapel built into the rock face.

Plakias has evolved from a small fishing hamlet into a beloved destination for independent travelers, while maintaining its relaxed charm. The main bay features a long sandy and pebble beach extending over a kilometer, with exceptionally clear water. A standout feature is the massive vertical cliff at the eastern end of the beach (Gonates), which is a popular spot for rock climbing. Due to the winds funneling through the nearby gorges, Plakias is also a known spot for windsurfing. The surrounding area provides excellent hiking opportunities, including the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and the path to the famous Preveli palm forest and beach. The waterfront promenade is lined with tavernas serving fresh local fish. Located about 35 km from Rethymno, Plakias features a more authentic atmosphere compared to the busier northern resorts. Nearby coves like Damnoni, Ammoudi, and Souda are within easy reach for those looking to explore different beaches.

Geography

Population
143
Coordinates
35.19167, 24.39167

Facts

  • Long sandy bay
  • Former fishing village
  • Known for strong winds
  • Gonates climbing cliff
  • Gateway to Kourtaliotiko Gorge
  • Near Preveli palm beach
  • Authentic fish tavernas
  • Calm Libyan Sea waters

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Plakias (11)

Kalypso Cretan Village🎡 recreation

A coastal resort near Plakias in Crete, known for its rocky inlets and clear sea.

Fotinari Beach🎡 recreation

Fotinari Beach is a secluded pebble beach near Plakias.

Souda Beach🎡 recreation

A long sandy beach with crystal-clear waters near Plakias.

Plakias Korifi (Paligremnos)🏺 historical

Plakias Korifi (Paligremnos) is an important archaeological site in Plakias situated near the striking vertical cliff face.

Mill of Chatzis📍 landmark

The Mill of Chatzis is a restored watermill with a stream.

Plakias Koules🏰 castle

Plakias Koules, a castle in Plakias, built in 1866.

Plakias Stoneage Project

An archaeological site located in Plakias, offering a glimpse into the region's ancient prehistoric past.

Museum Monastery Foinikias🏛 museum

A local museum situated in Plakias, preserving the cultural and historical heritage of the area.

Calypso🌿 nature

A beautiful natural attraction in Plakias, offering scenic views and a peaceful environment for visitors.

Koules Plakias🏰 castle

A historic castle structure located in Plakias, reflecting the rich architectural heritage of the region.

Damnoni Beach🌿 nature

An easy on the eye natural beach near Plakias, well-suited for relaxation and enjoying the beautiful coastal landscape.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best beaches near Plakias?
Besides the main beach, Damnoni, Ammoudi, and the palm beach of Preveli are very popular.
Is Plakias very windy?
Yes, the region is known for strong north winds (Meltemi), which can blow especially in summer.
Is there a nightlife in Plakias?
It is quite relaxed; there are cozy bars and taverns, but no large clubs.
Can you go hiking from Plakias?
Yes, there are beautiful trails through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge or to the surrounding mountain villages.
How to get from Rethymno to Plakias?
There are regular bus connections (KTEL) or you can drive in about 45 minutes.
Plakias: where is it located?
Plakias is located in Greece.
Plakias: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kalypso Cretan Village, Fotinari Beach, Souda Beach.
Plakias: why is it worth visiting?
Plakias has evolved from a small fishing hamlet into a beloved destination for independent travelers, while maintaining its relaxed charm.
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