Anissaras Crete: Things to Do, Beaches, Nightlife and Car Rentals!

Anissaras is a beach town in the northern coast of Crete, located 24 kilometers (15 miles) east of Heraklion and 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles) from Hersonissos town, a popular resort town. Anissaras is known for its collection of luxury hotels and resorts including Mitsis Royal Mare (ex. Aldemar Royal Mare), Mitsis Laguna Resort and Knossos Royal Beach hotel. Anissaras Beach stretches along this coastline and is characterized by a combination of sandy and rocky sections. Anissaras beach is mostly man-made and well-organized, offering amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars. The beach is popular for snorkeling and diving due to its rocky seabed, which attracts marine life. Visitors to Anissaras appreciate the clear waters, though they are advised to wear protective footwear because of the presence of sea urchins in some rocky areas​.

Anissaras beach is free to access, but amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas cost €12 ($13, £9) per day. There are several things to do in Anissaras, including visiting the Knossos Palace, a significant Minoan archaeological site located 30 kilometers (18 miles) southeast of Heraklion. The Agricultural Museum of Piskopiano showcases traditional Cretan rural life with an admission fee of €5 ($5.45, £4.30) for adults.

Car rental in Anissaras is recommended, with medium-sized cars like the Nissan Micra costing 42 € ($46, £36) per day. Weekly car rentals cost around 301 € ($334), and booking early ensures better rates.

Anissaras is situated on the northern coast of Crete, Greece, at coordinates 35° 20′ 06.5″N, 25° 22′ 49.7″E, 24 kilometres (15 miles) east of Heraklion and 24 kilometres (15 miles) from Heraklion International Airport. Hersonissos, the closest town, is 4.5 kilometres (2.8 miles) east. Nearby communities include Kato Gouves, 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) west, and Analipsi, 4.7 kilometres (2.9 miles) westward. Piskopiano and Koutouloufari are 4.5 kilometres (2.8 miles) southeast, while Malia, a popular tourist destination, is 16.2 kilometres (10 miles) east.

Anissaras has 191 residents, with 100 males and 91 females according to the consensus of 2024. Anissaras town population includes 30 children, evenly split between boys and girls, and 19 young adults. The largest age group has 92 people, with a slight male majority. About 50 elderly residents make up a significant portion of the population, with 28 people aged 70 and above and 22 aged 60-69.

Visiting Anissaras, Greece, requires preparation for its Mediterranean climate and attractions. Temperatures in July range from 24°C (75°F) to 28°C (83°F), with strong breezes. The region has high sunshine levels, and the UV index can reach 11. Light, breathable clothing and sun protection like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. Comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, hiking sandals, or trail shoes, are needed for walking on uneven terrain. Dining options include local tavernas and hotel restaurants. A dinner with alcohol typically costs 30 € ($33 , £28) per person.

The best time to visit Anissaras, Crete is between late May and early October. This period offers warm, sunny weather, ideal for beaches and outdoor activities. June to August, the hottest months, see temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F), perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the Mediterranean. These months are peak tourist season, with larger crowds and higher prices. For a balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists, late May, September, and early October are better options. Temperatures during these months range from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F), and the sea remains warm for swimming.

How does Anissaras look on the map?

Find below an image describing the Anissaras map.

What are the best things to do in Anissaras?

Find a list of the best things to do in Anissaras below.

• Knossos Palace. Knossos Palace is a significant Minoan archaeological site in Greece, is celebrated for its advanced architecture, including multi-story buildings, frescoes, and drainage systems. Entrance fees are €15 ($17,£13) for adults, with reduced rates for seniors, students, and free entry for children under 18 and EU students.
• Spinalonga Island. Spinalonga Island, located in the Gulf of Elounda, northeastern Crete, is known for its fortifications and historical significance. Boat trips cost between €10 ($11 , £8) to €15 ($16 , £12), with an entrance fee of €8 ($9 , £6) for adults and reduced rates for seniors and students.
• Open-Air Museum Lychnostatis. The Open-Air Museum Lychnostatis, founded by Yiorgos Markakis in 1992, offers a cultural experience of traditional Cretan life. Admission is €7 ($8 , £6) for adults, with reduced rates for seniors and students, and free entry for children under 12.
• Christian Basilica of Kastri. The Christian Basilica of Kastri, a 5th-century AD site in Hersonissos, Crete, features architecture influenced by Syrian models. Rebuilt after its destruction in the 7th century, It is located 2.8 kilometers (1.7 miles) from Anissaras and 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) from Hersonissos.
• Agricultural Museum of Piskopiano. The Agricultural Museum of Piskopiano, founded in 1988, showcases traditional Cretan rural life in a 19th-century stone-built olive mill and house. Admission is €5 ($5 , £4) for adults, with reduced rates for students and seniors, and free entry for children under 12

1. Knossos Palace

Knossos Palace is an ancient Minoan palace complex and one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece. The palace is famous for its advanced architecture, including multi-story buildings, intricate frescoes, and sophisticated drainage systems. Excavated and partially reconstructed in the early 20th century by British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans, the site offers visitors a look into the sophisticated Minoan culture that flourished over 3,000 years ago. The Palace of Knossos is 30 kilometers (18 miles) southeast of Anissaras. The entrance fee for the Palace of Knossos is €15 ($16.30, £12.90) for adults, with reduced rates of €8 ($8.70, £6.90) for seniors and students. Children under 18 and EU students can enter for free. A combined ticket that includes entry to both the palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is available for €20 ($21.70, £17.20), offering better value for those interested in exploring more of Crete’s ancient history.

To reach the Palace of Knossos from Anissaras, visitors have several options. The distance between Anissaras and Knossos is 28.6 kilometers (17.8 miles). By car, the journey takes 30 minutes via the Greek National Road 90. Public buses are also available from Heraklion to Knossos, which visitors from Anissaras can access by first taking a bus to Heraklion. Many hotels and tour operators in the area offer organized excursions to Knossos, which can be a convenient option for those preferring a guided experience. Knossos Palace appeals to a wide range of visitors, including history lovers, archaeology experts, and cultural tourists.

2. Spinalonga Island

Spinalonga Island, located in the Gulf of Elounda in northeastern Crete, 47.4 kilometers (18 miles) from Anissaras is a must-visit destination for history lovers and cultural tourists. This small island, covering an area of 8,500 square meters, is famous for its well-preserved fortifications, abandoned buildings, and poignant history. Spinalonga is easily accessible by boat. Visitors can catch a boat from Plaka, which is a short 10 kilometers (6 miles) ride away, or from the nearby towns of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos, with boat trips taking 20 kilometers (12 miles) to 30 kilometers (18 miles). The island’s strategic location in the Gulf of Elounda made it a crucial defensive point in ancient times, and today it offers views of the surrounding sea and coastline.

The cost of visiting Spinalonga includes both the boat trip and the entrance fee to the island. Boat tickets typically range from €10 ($10.90, £8.60) to €15 ($16.30, £12.90), depending on the departure point and the tour operator. The entrance fee to the island is €8 ($8.70, £6.90) for adults, with reduced rates of €4 ($4.35, £3.45) for seniors and students. Children under 18 and EU students can enter for free. To reach Spinalonga from Anissaras, visitors can drive 45 kilometers (28 miles) to Elounda or Agios Nikolaos and then take a boat to the island. The drive takes 45 minutes, followed by a short boat ride. Public transportation options are also available, with buses connecting Anissaras to these towns, though the journey may take longer. Organized tours from Anissaras often include transportation, making it a convenient option for those preferring a guided experience. Spinalonga appeals to a diverse audience, including history experts, archaeology lovers, and cultural tourists.

3. Open-Air Museum Lychnostatis

The Open-Air Museum Lychnostatis is a cultural attraction that offers visitors an immersive experience into the traditional Cretan lifestyle, folk culture, and natural environment. Established in 1992 by Yiorgos Markakis, a professor of ophthalmology, the museum showcases a wide range of exhibits, including traditional dwellings, agricultural tools, and local crafts. The museum is 5.9 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the center of Hersonissos and 11.8 kilometers (7.3 miles) from Anissaras, making it a short drive or a pleasant walk for those staying in Anissaras. The cost of admission to the Open-Air Museum Lychnostatis is €7 ($7.60, £6.00) for adults, with reduced rates of €4 ($4.35, £3.45) for seniors and students. Children under 12 can enter for free, making it an affordable outing for families. The museum also offers audio-guided tours in multiple languages, providing detailed information about the exhibits and enhancing the visitor experience.

To get to the museum from Anissaras, visitors can drive 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) south along the coastal road, which takes 10 minutes. Public transportation options are also available, with local buses running regularly between Anissaras and Hersonissos. Many hotels and tour operators in the area offer organized excursions to the museum, providing convenient transportation and guided tours. The Open-Air Museum Lychnostatis appeals to a diverse audience, including history lovers, cultural tourists, and families. The museum’s interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, such as traditional craft workshops and wine-tasting sessions, make it an engaging destination for visitors of all ages.

4. Christian Basilica of Kastri

The Christian Basilica of Kastri, also known as Basilica B, is an important early Christian site located in Hersonissos, Crete. This ancient basilica dates back to the 5th century AD and showcases impressive architectural features influenced by Syrian models. The basilica was initially built at the end of the 5th century, destroyed in the 7th century, and later rebuilt in smaller dimensions.The site is 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) from the center of Hersonissos and 2.8 kilometers (1.7 miles) from Anissaras, making it a short drive or a pleasant walk for those staying in Anissara. Admission to the Christian Basilica of Kastri is free, making it an affordable and enriching outing for tourists. The site is open to the public year-round, allowing visitors to explore the ruins and appreciate the historical significance of the basilica.

To reach the basilica from Anissaras, visitors can drive 8 kilometers (5 miles) south along the coastal road, which takes 15 minutes. Public transportation options are also available, with local buses running regularly between Anissaras and Hersonissos. Many hotels and tour operators in the area offer organized excursions to the basilica, providing convenient transportation and guided tours. The Christian Basilica of Kastri appeals to a diverse audience, including history lovers, archaeology experts, and cultural tourists. The site is particularly fascinating for those interested in early Christian architecture and Byzantine history.

5. Agricultural Museum of Piskopiano

The Agricultural Museum of Piskopiano, also known as the Menelaos Parlamas Museum of Rural Life & Theano Metaxa-Kanakaki Weaving Collection, is a cultural institution founded in 1988 by the Society of Cretan Historical Studies. The museum is housed in a 19th-century stone-built olive mill and house donated by the Parlamas family. The museum’s collections are organized thematically, showcasing various aspects of traditional Cretan rural life from the late 19th to mid-20th century, including a wine press, raki still, oven, agricultural implements, a typical Cretan house, smithy, cooper’s shop, carpenter’s shop, olive mill, and an extensive collection of weavings and weaving tools.

The Agricultural Museum of Piskopiano is easily accessible and stands as a central attraction in the village. The museum is 4.7 kilometers (3 miles) from Anissaras, making it a convenient destination for tourists staying in the area. Admission to the museum is reasonably priced at €5 ($5.45, £4.30) for adults, with reduced rates of €3.50 ($3.80, £3) for students and seniors over 65. Children under 12 can enter for free. To reach the museum from Anissaras, visitors can take a short 5-10 minute drive or taxi ride. Public buses also connect Anissaras to Piskopiano, though less frequently than to major towns. The Agricultural Museum of Piskopiano appeals to a wide range of visitors, including history lovers, cultural tourists, and families interested in learning about traditional Cretan life.

What are the best beaches in Anissaras?

Find a list of the best beaches near Anissaras below.

• Anissaras Beach. Anissaras Beach is a popular sandy beach and coastal tourist destination in Crete, Greece, located near Hersonissos, Heraklion, and Stalida, and it is a type of recreational coastal area.
• Hersonissos Beach. Hersonissos Beach, 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles) east of Anissaras, is part of a resort area known for nightlife, restaurants, and water sports. Access is free, with charges for amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas. Facilities include showers and changing rooms.
• Limanakia Beach. Limanakia Beach, a series of bays 1.9 kilometers (1.2 miles) east of Anissaras, offers a relaxed atmosphere. Access is free, with charges for sunbeds and umbrellas. Facilities include showers and changing rooms. It is accessible by a 5-minute drive, taxi, or a 20-25 minute walk.
• Analipsi Beach. Analipsi Beach, 4.6 kilometers (3 miles) from Anissaras, is family-friendly with shallow waters. Access is free with fees for amenities. It can be reached by a 5-7 minute drive, taxi, a 30-35 minute walk, or a 10-minute bus ride from Anissaras.
• Stalis Beach. Stalis Beach, 9.2 kilometers (18 miles) east of Anissaras, is family-friendly with a broad sandy shore. Access is free with charges for amenities. Some beachfront bars offer free sunbeds with food or drink purchases.

1. Anissaras Beach

Anissaras Beach is a popular sandy beach and coastal tourist destination in Crete, Greece, located near Hersonissos, Heraklion, and Stalida, and it is a type of recreational coastal area. Anissaras Beach offers visitors clean sand, clear shallow waters, and organized facilities, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Anissaras Beach attracts thousands of tourists each summer, contributing significantly to the region’s hospitality industry, according to local tourism statistics. Anissaras beach benefits families and couples seeking a quieter alternative to the busier beaches in nearby Hersonissos. Its main alternative is Stalida Beach, which offers similar amenities with a livelier atmosphere. Tourists, local residents, and hotel guests, known as beachgoers or sunbathers, visit Anissaras Beach for leisure and relaxation. The area developed as a tourist spot in the 1980s when hotels and resorts expanded along the northern coast of Crete. The beach includes organized sunbed zones, natural sandy stretches, and nearby rocky coves for snorkeling.

2. Hersonissos Beach

Hersonissos Beach is part of the larger Hersonissos resort area, famous for its nightlife, diverse restaurants, and extensive water sports activities. Hersonissos Beach is located 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles) east of Anissaras, at coordinates 35.3167° N, 25.3900° E. Access to Hersonissos Beach is free, though charges apply for amenities such as sunbeds and umbrellas, typically €12 ($13, £9) for two beds and an umbrella per day . The beach is equipped with facilities including showers, changing rooms, and is flanked by tavernas offering local cuisine.

To reach Hersonissos Beach from Anissaras, visitors have several transportation options: The most convenient is driving which takes 7 minutes. A taxi ride from Anissaras to Hersonissos beach costs €10 ($11, £8) -12 ($13, £9) and also takes 7 minutes. There is no direct bus route from Anissaras to Hersonissos Beach, but one can take a bus to the Hersonissos town center and then walk to the beach. The bus journey is 10 minutes and costs €1 ($1, £1), followed by a short walk.

3. Limanakia Beach

Limanakia Beach, a series of bays in Hersonissos, is located 1.9 kilometers (1.2 miles) east of Anissaras, at coordinates 35.3167° N, 25.3900° E. The beach environment is lively, yet less hectic than the nearby main beach of Hersonissos, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. Access to Limanakia Beach is free, though amenities such as sunbeds and umbrellas are available for €8 ($9, £6) per day. The beach features necessary facilities including showers and changing rooms, with several tavernas nearby where visitors can indulge in local cuisine.

For visitors coming from Anissaras, Limanakia Beach is easily accessible. Driving is the most efficient option, taking 5 minutes, with car rentals costing €42 ($46, £35) per day. A taxi journey from Anissaras takes roughly the same amount of time and costs €10 ($1, £8) to 12 ($13, £10). For those who enjoy walking, it is a pleasant 20-25 minute stroll to the beach, offering views of the coastline along the way.

4. Analipsi Beach

Analipsi Beach, located 4.6 kilometers (3 miles) from Anissaras, is famous for its peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere. This well-organized beach features shallow waters and surroundings, making it an ideal destination for families and anyone seeking a beach experience. Access to Analipsi Beach is free, although there are fees for amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas, which are available for €8 ($8.80, £6.90) per day.

Analipsi beach is equipped with excellent facilities including showers, changing rooms, and is close to tavernas where visitors can savor local cuisine. For transportation, driving is the most convenient option, with a journey time of 5-7 minutes from Anissaras. Car rentals in the area are priced €42 ($46, £36) per day. A taxi ride costs between €10 ($11, £10.40) and €12 ($13, £10.40), also taking 5-7 minutes. For those preferring a leisurely approach, walking to Analipsi Beach from Anissaras along the coastal road is a pleasant option, typically taking 30-35 minutes. There is a local bus service running from Heraklion to Analipsi, passing through Anissaras. This bus ride costs €2 ($2.20, £1.70) and takes roughly 10 minutes, offering a practical and economical way to reach the beach.

5. Stalis Beach

Stalis Beach is a beautiful, family-friendly beach located on the northern coast of Crete, 9.2 kilometers (18 miles) east of Anissaras. It is located between the popular resort towns of Hersonissos and Malia, making it easily accessible for tourists staying in the area. Visiting Stalis Beach is free of charge, as there are no entrance fees. There are costs associated with amenities such as sunbeds and umbrellas. Visitors can expect to pay between €6 ($6.60, £5.20) to €8 ($8.80, £6.90) per day for a set of two sunbeds and an umbrella. Some beachfront bars and restaurants offer free use of sunbeds if you purchase food or drinks from them.

For those traveling from Anissaras to Stalis, several transportation options are available. Driving is the quickest and most convenient method, typically taking 15-20 minutes. Car rentals near the area of Anissaras are priced €42 ($46, £36) per day. Alternatively, a taxi ride to Stalis Beach costs between €15 ($16.50, £13) and €20 ($22, £17.40) and also takes 15-20 minutes. There is a local bus service connecting Anissaras to Stalis, which costs €2 ($2.20, £1.70) and takes 20-25 minutes. Stalis Beach is famous for its broad sandy shore and shallow waters, ideal for families with children. Stalis beach is well-equipped with various amenities, including water sports facilities, beachfront tavernas, and shops, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all.

How to get to Anissaras?

Listed below are the best ways to get to Anissaras.

• Bus. To reach Anissaras by bus, travelers can use the KTEL Irakleiou – Lasithiou S.A bus service. From Heraklion, buses run hourly to Anissaras, with the journey covering 21 kilometers (13 miles) and taking 20 minutes. The bus stop in Anissaras is called “Analipsi.” Tickets for this route cost €2 ($2.20, £1.70) to €4 ($4.40, £3.40) per person. Travelers should board the bus heading towards Agios Nikolaos and inform the driver they want to get off at Anissaras. If you do not want to book a car rental from Hersonissos and have it delivered directly to your hotel in Anissaras, you can alternatively use public transport and take the bus to Hersonissos. You will then have to walk for about 1-2 km to most of the hotels in Anissaras. Buses are quite frequent from the capital and you will arrive quite quickly to your destination, but if you have a lot of luggage, it might be better to take a taxi.
• Taxi. Taking a taxi to Anissaras offers a more convenient but expensive option. From Heraklion Airport, the journey covers 21 kilometers (13 miles) and takes 20-25 minutes. The fare for this trip typically ranges from €30 ($33, £26) to €40 ($44, £34). Taxis provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for transfers or additional waiting times. This option is particularly suitable for groups or families with children, as it offers comfort and flexibility.
• Car Rental. You can reach Anissaras with a rental car from Heraklion or its airport easily. The trip will only take about 20 minutes for the 24 km along the northern coast of Crete. You just have to follow the new National Road 90 and then take the Kastelli exit and continue towards the north up to your hotel or the main beach. Hiring a car is definitely the best option to get around, as the public transport is not always dependable and consumes a lot of time. You will also be able to explore more of the beautiful destinations on the island.

A medium-sized car like a Nissan Micra, Toyota Yaris or Peugeot 208 is ideal for visiting Anissaras, offering a good balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. This vehicle type is perfect for Crete’s varied terrain, from coastal roads to narrow village streets. Renting a medium-sized car costs around 42 € ($46, £36) per day. These cars provide enough space for luggage and passengers, making them suitable for couples or small families. The drive from Heraklion to Anissaras, a 24-kilometer (15-mile) trip, takes about 30 minutes via the New National Road, a well-maintained route with scenic coastal views.

Can you rent a car to go to Anissaras?

Yes, visitors can indeed rent a car to travel to Anissaras, Greece, which is a convenient and flexible option for exploring the area. The driving distance from Heraklion Airport (HER) to Anissaras is 24 kilometers, making it a short and easy drive that typically takes 30 minutes. Car rental prices in Crete vary from €18 ($20, £15) per day for a standard economy car to €65 ($71, £56) per day for more comprehensive options, such as SUVs or luxury vehicles.

Booking a Crete car rental at least three days in advance is advisable to secure better rates and availability. Economy cars are generally the most cost-effective option, being around 80% cheaper than more luxurious models. The roads in Crete are generally in good condition, especially along the north coast, making the drive to Anissaras straightforward.

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

• Insurance: Renters should consider the rental company’s insurance options when choosing the right car to rent in Crete. Basic insurance coverage, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP), Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) or Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), to reduce their financial liability in case of accidents or damage to the vehicle.
• Driver’s Age and Gender: Age and gender restrictions may apply when renting a car in Crete. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21, although some may have higher age limits for specific vehicle types.
• Type of Car Needed: Renters should assess and know how to choose the right car to rent in Crete, with their specific requirements, such as passenger capacity, luggage space, and fuel efficiency, to suit their needs.
• Hotel Delivery: Some car rental companies in Crete offer the convenience of hotel delivery, allowing renters to bring their vehicles directly to their accommodation. This service is beneficial for those staying in nearby areas like Anissaras.
• One-way Rental Possibility: Renters who plan to travel to different parts of Crete or depart from a location other than Crete should consider a one-way rental. One-way rentals allow travelers to pick up the vehicle in Crete and return it at another location, such as Crete’s airport, without the need to backtrack.
• Documents Needed and Airport Pickup: Renters typically must present a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit (if applicable), and a credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit and rental charges. Some companies may also require additional identification, such as a passport or proof of address.

What is the nightlife in Anissaras?

The nightlife in Anissaras is a quiet, hotel-centered evening entertainment scene and local leisure option in Crete, Greece, near Hersonissos, Heraklion, and Stalida, and it is a type of low-key nightlife destination. The nightlife in Anissaras provides visitors with relaxed hotel bars, family-friendly shows, and peaceful seaside dining rather than busy nightclubs.

According to travel guides, “Anissaras is known for its quite atmosphere, with most nightlife found within resort hotels rather than along a bustling strip”. This calm nightlife benefits couples and families wanting to unwind after a beach day without loud crowds. Its main alternative is the popular nightlife of Hersonissos, which is only a short taxi ride away for those seeking clubs and dance bars.

Tourists and resort guests, often called vacationers or holidaymakers, enjoy Anissaras nightlife for evening drinks and entertainment. The area’s nightlife style evolved in the late 20th century as hotels aimed to attract visitors wanting both rest and some evening fun on-site. Anissaras nightlife includes hotel lounges, themed nights, live music acts and romantic seaside tavernas.

What are the best bars to drink in Anissaras?

Find below a list with the best bars to drink in Anissaras.

• Gorgona Bar. Gorgona Bar is a highly-rated establishment located on an unnamed road in Anissaras 700 14, Greece. With a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 616 reviews, it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Gorgona Bar is known for its friendly service and scenic beachfront location. It is open daily from 10 AM to 2 AM, making it a perfect spot for both daytime relaxation and evening entertainment.
• Minos Bar. Minos Bar, located at 89PJ+33, Anissaras 700 14, Greece, is another top-rated venue with a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 10 reviews. This bar offers a cozy and intimate setting, ideal for enjoying a quiet drink. Minos Bar operates daily from 11 AM to midnight, providing a great spot for both afternoon and evening visits.
• 4 Tessera. 4 Tessera, located at Ευρώπης 3, Limenas Chersonisou 700 14, Greece, features an impressive Google rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 158 reviews. This bar offers a sophisticated menu of Mediterranean and European dishes, along with a wide selection of drinks. 4 Tessera is open daily from 12 PM to 11 PM, providing a perfect setting for both lunch and dinner.
• Beach Bar Royal Mare. Beach Bar Royal Mare, located at 89PJ+M3, Anissaras 700 14, Greece, is a beachfront bar with a perfect Google rating of 5 out of 5 from 2 reviews. This bar offers a setting for enjoying drinks right by the sea. Beach Bar Royal Mare is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, making it an ideal spot for daytime relaxation.
• Copa Cabana. CopaCabana, located at Agias Paraskevis 125, Limenas Chersonisou 700 14, Greece, is a bar with a Google rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 50 reviews. This bar offers a lively atmosphere with a wide range of drinks and occasional live music. CopaCabana is open daily from 10 AM to 2 AM, providing a great spot for both daytime and nighttime entertainment.

What are the best places to stay in Anissaras?

Anissaras, Greece, features a variety of excellent accommodation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Among the best hotels in Anissaras to stay are Panorama Seaview Studios & Apartments, Mitsis Royal Mare Thalasso & Spa Resort, and TUI SUNEO Chrissi Amoudia.

• Panorama Seaview Studios & Apartments. Panorama Seaview Studios & Apartments, located at Aristofanous, Souliou &, Anissaras 700 14, Greece, is a highly recommended accommodation known for its comfortable and spacious apartments with sea views. With a TripAdvisor rating of 4 out of 5 based on numerous traveler reviews, this property is well-regarded by its guests. Prices start at €50 ($55, £43) per night, though rates may vary depending on the season and room type. The apartments are equipped with modern amenities, including kitchen facilities, making them ideal for both short and extended stays.
• Mitsis Royal Mare Thalasso & Spa Resort. Mitsis Royal Mare Thalasso & Spa Resort, a luxurious 5-star accommodation option located in Ανισσαράς 700 14, Greece, has received excellent reviews on both TripAdvisor and Booking.com. The resort features a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 2,713 reviews on TripAdvisor, ranking it #4 out of 90 hotels in Crete. Offering a wide range of amenities, including 385 luxurious rooms, seven restaurants, four bars, a multi-awarded Thalasso Centre, and 29 secluded pools, Mitsis Royal Mare ensures a lavish and relaxing stay. Sample prices start from €197 ($217, £170) per night.
• TUI SUNEO Chrissi Amoudia. TUI SUNEO Chrissi Amoudia is another popular accommodation option located in Ανισσαράς 700 14, Greece. The hotel has garnered positive reviews on TripAdvisor, with a rating of 4 out of 5 based on 1,257 traveler reviews. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including around-the-world dining options and numerous activities. Conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from the beach and 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) from the resort center of Hersonissos, TUI SUNEO Chrissi Amoudia offers both relaxation and easy access to local attractions.

Booking accommodations in advance for Anissaras is highly recommended, especially during the peak tourist season from June to August. Anissaras is popular for upscale hotels and villa resorts that fill up quickly during busy periods. Advance booking ensures a more efficient itinerary.

What are the best restaurants in Anissaras?

Anissaras, Greece, offers a variety of exceptional dining options for visitors. Among the top-rated restaurants are Saradari Restaurant  and The Big Blue.

• Saradari Restaurant. Saradari Restaurant, located at Αγίου Γεωργίου, Anissaras 700 14, Greece, is a highly recommended dining spot 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) from the center of the port of Hersonissos, making it easily accessible for visitors in the area. Operating daily from 10 AM to 12 AM, Saradari allows guests to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a late-night meal. The restaurant has earned a rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on 975 reviews. The menu features a variety of cuisines, including seafood, Mediterranean, sushi, European, and Greek dishes, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
• The Big Blue. The Big Blue, located at Pontou & Makedonias 10, Anissaras, Chersonisos 700 14, Greece, is a popular restaurant with a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. It has earned a commendable rating of 4 out of 5 based on 189 reviews. The Big Blue offers a variety of dishes, including traditional Greek, Cretan, and international cuisine, along with a wide selection of drinks, beers, wines, cocktails, milkshakes, and coffees. Sample prices at The Big Blue are considered reasonable, with a meal consisting of a Greek Salad, garlic bread, soup, chicken & chips, and two juices costing €39 ($43, £34).

 

What is the distance from Anissaras to Heraklion?

Anissaras is 24 kilometers (15 miles) east of Heraklion, Crete’s capital, with various transportation options available. The quickest way to travel is by car, taking about 22 minutes. Car rentals start at 18 € ($19.50, £15.30) per day, offering flexible travel. Public buses are an economical option, with a 25-minute journey costing 6 € ($6.50, £5.10) for a one-way ticket, with regular service. Taxis provide a more direct option, costing 30 € to 40 € ($32.50 to $43.50, £25.50 to £34). Private transfer services from Heraklion Airport offer door-to-door convenience, ranging from 35 € to 45 € ($38 to $49, £30 to £38.50).

What is the distance from Anissaras to Agios Nikolaos?

Anissaras is located 44 kilometers (27 miles) west of Agios Nikolaos. The most efficient way to reach Agios Nikolaos is by car, taking about 40 minutes. Car rentals start at 30 € ($33, £26) per day, providing flexibility. Public buses offer a budget-friendly option, with a 1-hour journey costing 7.50 € ($8.20, £6.40) per one-way ticket, running hourly. Taxis provide a more direct option, costing between 50 € and 65 € ($55 to $71, £43 to £56). For those arriving at Heraklion Airport, private transfers to Agios Nikolaos range from 60 € to 75 € ($66 to $82, £51 to £64), offering door-to-door convenience.

Is Anissaras safe to visit?

Anissaras is safe for visitors making it ideal for families and tourists seeking a relaxing vacation. The town is well-maintained, with local authorities ensuring visitor safety. Standard precautions, like staying vigilant, remain important. In emergencies, key contact numbers are available. The European Emergency Call Number is 112, while police can be reached at 100. The Fire Brigade’s number is 199, and the Coast Guard’s is 108. For medical emergencies, the ambulance service (EKAV) is reachable at 166. The nearest hospital, Venizelio – Pananio Hospital of Heraklion, can be contacted at +30 2813408000.

Published on June 22, 2025