Agios Nikolaos is the most photogenic town on Crete's eastern coast, built around the small inland lake of Voulismeni and opening straight onto the deep blue Mirabello Gulf. Once a sleepy fishing port, it has grown into the most sophisticated base in eastern Crete without losing the easy pace of a Greek seaside town. The lake is the social heart: cafes wrap around its edge, the harbour sits a footbridge away, and a paved seafront promenade leads north past sheltered swimming coves all the way toward Elounda.

The town itself is compact and walkable. Whitewashed lanes climb the hill above the lake, opening onto small squares, the archaeological museum, and shaded courtyards where locals still gather for long lunches. By night, lights reflect off the water and the harbour-front tavernas fill with grilled fish, raki and Cretan mezze. The vibe leans grown-up rather than party-driven, which is part of the appeal for couples and families seeking a calmer base on Crete.

Beyond the centre, the Mirabello coastline is a string of pebble coves and resort beaches threaded along the road north. To the south, sandy Almyros and the open beaches around Kalo Chorio reward a short drive. Agios Nikolaos also makes one of the best touring bases in the east: Spinalonga island, the Lasithi Plateau, the palm beach at Vai, and the upscale shores of Elounda are all within easy reach. Expect a mix of stylish boutique stays, harbour-front apartments, family-friendly suites and a handful of adults-only properties looking out over the bay.