Ierapetra is very organized town which has grown into a rich agricultural, commercial and financial center and may host visitors all year long, as all the facilities and amenities are provided. The culture of peacefulness of its residents along with Cretan hospitality and friendliness will contribute to tranquil holidays, although intensity can also be found in its traditional festivals and modern nightlife.
Ierapetra consists of two quite distinct parts, Kato Mera and Pano Mera. Kato Mera is the picturesque old town located at the southwestern headland. Pano Mera is the bigger new town, still expanding towards the west, north and east.
Ierapetra's main shopping street is Koundouriotou.To the west of the coastline is the Fortress-"Kales", a small port for fishing boats and ´Navmachia´ area, where sea fights among slaves for citizens´ amusement were taking place, during the Roman period. In the center of the coastline there is a crystal clear beach with small hotel and apartments, bars, cafeterias and traditional tavernas. Ferries to the exotic and tropical Chrissi island or "Gaidouronisi" - 8 miles distance - depart from here too. Tickets can be purchased from the travel shops close by. To the east of the coastline lies the main boulevard with hotels, bars, traditional restaurants, cafeterias, souvenir shops etc. At its end a walking street leads alongside Ierapetra Bay's long beach.
Monuments & Must See:
The Fortress - "Kales"
The Residence/House of Napoleon (Kato Mera)
The Mosque (Kato Mera)
The Otttoman School (Archaeological collection Museum)
Ierapetra's region is diverse and combines endless piqturesque beaches with wild mountains, forests, springs and so many other natural beauties to visit on a day's road trip and explore-discover.
The crystal clear beaches of the region (some enclosed in small bays suitable for relaxation and others more organized providing facilities such as water-sports, scuba diving, windsurfing, beach-volley, paint-ball) share a total length of 51km and many of them have been awarded the international Blue Flag (cleanness) distinction.
Natural Beauties in the Region:
Dam of Bramiana
Gorge of Ha
Gorge of Sarakina
Canyon of Havgas
Gorge of Mesona
Forest of Selakano
