The lively resort village of Malia is located 35 from Heraklion. In Crete it is known as a party center attracting young people from all over Europe. But besides bars and clubs, there are several places that will captivate lovers of excursions. What sights of Malia are worth visiting?

Minoan Palace of Malia

The ruins of the palace of Malia are the legacy of the glorious Minoan civilization that flourished in Crete 4,000 years ago. At that time, Malia was an important center of trade with significant political and economic influence. And her palace was inferior in scale only to the palaces of Knossos and Festus. Until 1880, the existence of Ancient Malia was a mystery to researchers, until one of the locals discovered gold objects a few meters from the future archaeological site. This was the impetus for the excavations.

In the 20th century, research continued successfully. Then the gold jewelry "Bees" was found - one of the most valuable jewelry ever discovered in Greece. "Bees" have been the subject of numerous scientific papers. But no one has yet been able to find out the exact date of creation of the pendant and the technology that made it possible to make the jewelry so perfect. You can see the find in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

Many interesting objects have been preserved in the archaeological zone of Ancient Malia. Among them are pantries, an altar in the Central Courtyard, a front staircase, a loggia, an agora, a necropolis, a Western Courtyard with Processional Roads, a Northern Courtyard with the remains of a pottery workshop, and the palace itself with the Hypostyle Hall, which used to be decorated with columns.

Address: The Minoan Palace is located 3 km from the center of Malia. You can get to it on foot, by taxi for 3 euros or by bus Malia - Heraklion, which makes a stop near the archaeological zone
Opening hours: daily (except Monday) from 8:00 to 20:00
What to bring: A bottle of water, a hat, money for souvenirs, a printed map of the palace to help you navigate

Malia old town

If the resort part of Malia attracts with its parties, the Old Town is like another world with narrow streets, old churches, cozy squares and traditional cafes. In Old Malia there are attractions worthy of attention:

  • Church of Agios Nektarios , built in the 1970s. It is covered from top to bottom with frescoes by Michalis Vasilakis, the most famous modern icon painter of Crete;
  • The Church of Panagia Galatiani is the oldest in Malia. The history of its construction is unique: mud mixed with animal milk was used as a material. The church was erected in different historical periods, and this was reflected in its external appearance;
  • The Venetian church of Agios Ioannis , surrounded by bougainvillea, is a favorite place for tourists to take pictures. Most of the time it is closed. Visitors are allowed inside on special occasions (such as Easter);
  • The ancient well is a reminder of the past when there was no running water in Malia;
  • Monument to the heroes who fell in the First and Second World Wars.

In the evening, you can relax in one of the taverns of Old Malia, ordering a meze and enjoying live Cretan music.


Please note: you can get to know all the sights of Malia during a trip on the Happy Train sightseeing train. There are several routes to choose from. You can go to the mountain village of Mohos or take a trip to the outskirts of Malia, Stalis and Hersonissos. Happy Train follows the serpentines, which offer beautiful views. The price of the trip is 22 euros

Milatos cave

Milatos cave is located 15 km from Malia. In Crete, it is known in connection with the tragic massacre of the Turks over the locals who took refuge in a cave. Inside, you can see a church built as a tribute to the victims. In ancient times, the cave was used as a place of worship for the gods. Archaeologists have found here the remains of a sacred altar. But besides this, Milatos is known for its natural charm. After walking 200 meters along the path from the parking lot, you will find yourself in front of the main entrance. Through it you can get into the central part of Milatos, the walls of which are covered with stalagmites and stalactites - they divide the cave into chambers.

Please note: children should not be taken to the Milatos cave due to the fact that it is not equipped. In addition, there is a crypt inside - because of the tragic events, many consider Milatos a terrible place.

Despite the difficult past, Milatos is able to surprise with wild natural beauty and views that open up to the surroundings: green hills, coastline and sea.


Address: Milatos Cave, Vrachasi. It is more convenient to get to the cave by a rented car. You need to leave Malia along the road leading to Agios Nikolaos and near the village of Vrahasi turn towards the village of Milatos. The village of the same name is located 3 km from it
Ticket price: free
What to bring: comfortable shoes and a flashlight – the cave is not lit.

Mary's Cave

Mary's Cave is one of the little known, but at the same time the most beautiful in Crete. It is located on the trail leading from Malia to Mohos. The length of the cave is 30 m. Inside it is “decorated” with bizarre stalagmites. The peculiarity of the cave of Mary is in a stable temperature: it is always warm here and outerwear is not needed.

How to get there: Mary's Cave is located on a popular trekking trail. It leads to the village of Mohos - you can get there on foot
Ticket price: free
What to bring: a bottle of water, comfortable shoes, a camera - the views in Maria's Cave are mesmerizing.