Last year, 3.7 million UK travellers headed to sun-drenched Majorca for their summer holidays, with hotspots like Palma, Arenal and Alcudia proving most popular.
But overtourism in the Balearic island has been a hot button issue this season, prompting major backlash from locals.
In one protest, Majorcans ‘occupied’ the Calo des Moro beach, while another saw activists chanting ‘tourists go home’ and ‘foreigners out’. Measures to save water have been put in place in other regions of the island, while a crackdown on drunken Brits is underway in the ‘party’ capital of Magaluf.
With that in mind, you might be looking for an alternative destination that’s slightly more welcoming to visitors – both for your own enjoyment, and to avoid annoying the residents.
According to the travel experts at eurochange, Lassithi in Crete is the perfect switch for Majorca.
While you’ve definitely heard of the Greek island – and may have holidayed there – this off-the-beaten-track location probably isn’t on your radar yet. However, alongside offering the sun and sea you expect from a Mediterranean getaway, the fact Lassithi largely unheard of among tourists means you’ll get more bang for your buck compared to elsewhere.
Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at eurochange comments: ‘If you’re looking to escape the crowds this summer, then Lassithi is a fantastic holiday spot, offering a peaceful, authentic Greek experience, with very reasonable prices too.
‘Lassithi’s coastline is much less developed and often more secluded than those in Majorca, so you won’t need to worry about being able to get a sunbathing spot.
‘This region is also a must visit for foodies; some of the best Greek produce is made here including olive oil and honey.’
Thinking it could be ideal for your next trip? Here’s everything you need to know.
Things to do in Lassithi
Also known as Lasithi, the capital of this Cretan region is Agios Nikolaos, with this and areas like Elounda, Chrissi, and Myrtos serving as some of the main bases for tourists.
Thanks to its beaches and warm climate, you can absolutely have a fly and flop break here, basking in temperatures that top 23.5°C right through to October.
If history’s more your thing though, Lassithi is home to a number of Minoan ruins – from the ancient city of Lato to the Palace of Zakros – which are well worth a visit, as is the former Venetian fortress and leper colony of Spinalonga.
Take a boat trip from the nightlife hub of Lerapetra to the beautiful island of Chrissi, or while away the day in the charming Kato Zakros village. Alternatively, see how settlers in 1,000 BC lived with a tour of Praisos, or go to one of Lassithi’s many olive oil farms to really immerse yourself in some authentic Greek culture.
In terms of nature, the Dikti Mountain Range is popular with hikers, while there are a range of caves around the coast to explore – just make sure to ask a local guide before you go to ensure you stay safe.
Prices in Lassithi
According to the research, the average price of a pint is €3.00, or £2.33. This is up to €1.50 less than what you’d pay in the popular Majorcan region of Palma (via Numbeo), and a whopping three times cheaper than in London.
For a meal out, you’re looking at €21.00 (£16.32) – a staggering €29 less than in Majorca’s capital.
Depending on when you travel, three-star accommodation can be booked for as little as £40 a night. Airbnbs are available for this August with prices starting from £60 per night, but the biggest discounts are for off-season stays or when booking in advance.
What holidaymakers say
On Tripadvisor, reviewer Erez called the Glika Nera Beach,’ a paradise for peace and quiet,’ while Soner203 said of Lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos: ‘Lovely setting, natural beauty, serene and peaceful yet full of life.’
Another, Dave S, described Lassithi’s Vai Beach as ‘gorgeous,’ adding: ‘What a place this is. Well worth the visit.’
Greeka reviewer agelikoni echoed his sentiments, writing: ‘Vai beach is exactly how I was told. So beautiful and so exotic! For the time being there, you almost forget you are in Greece, seems more like a beach in the Caribbean, I guess. Must see!’
On the same site, georgia22 commented: ‘Lassithi is the most quiet and relaxing area of Crete. While the rest of the prefectures are too crowded for me, Lassithi has exactly those features to make my holidays special.’
How to get to Lassithi
Direct return flights to Heraklion in Crete are available from airports around the UK, starting from £162 in August. The cheapest month is November, when return fares start at just £74.
Your Daily Horoscope
From Heraklion Airport, it’s roughly a 50-minute drive to Agios Nikolaos, or just over an hour to Elounda.
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