Lassithi is a prefecture of Greece on the island of Crete. It lies east of the prefecture of Heraklion. Its capital is Agios Nikolaos, the other major towns are Irapetra, Sitia and Neapoli. To the east of the village of Elounda lies the island of Spinalonga, formerly a Venetian fortress and a leper colony. On the foot of Mount Dikti lies the Lassithi Plateau, famous for its windmills. Vai is well-known for its date palm forest. Lassithi attracts many tourists. Mass tourism is served by places like Vai, Agios Nikolaos and the island of Chrissi. More offbeat tourism can be found in villages on the south coast like Myrtos and Koutsouras. The prefecture counts a lot of ancient remains. Vasiliki, Fournu Korfi, Pyrgos, Zakros and Gournia are ruins of Minoan date, Lato and Itanos were Doric towns.
Agios Nikolaos: Situated on the north western coast of the picturesque gulf of Mirabello is Agios Nikolaos, the capital of the prefecture of Lassithi. It is a cosmopolitan town, with lots of charm, making it a popular tourist centre, ideal for enjoyable holidays.
Vai: Vai is an idyllic settlement, with 5,000 palm trees. The extraordinary palm tree forest is a revitalizing sight that enchants everyone who lays eyes on it.
Irapetra: Irapetra is a city that combines modern lifestyle with traditional features. Sightseeing in Lerapetra is excellent.
Sitia: Amphitheatrically built above a cove and on a hillside, Sitia, the most eastern city of Crete is an attractive summer resort.
Zakros: Zakros is one of the quaintest villages in Crete, built on two verdant hills, full of olive groves and fruit-bearing trees. The Minoan Palace is the gem of the town.
Elounda: The picturesque settlement of Elounda, with beautiful beaches and verdant landscape, is the ideal resort for relaxing holidays.
The island of Spinalonga: Spinalonga is a small island located at the north eastern part of the Elounda Bay. Surrounded by a Venetian Fortress that was built in 1584, Spinalonga is an interesting site, as it used to be a place of exile, and used as a leper colony. You can reach the islet by trawler from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka.
