Malia Travel Essentials

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"Party Hub of Crete"

Malia Tourism

Malia, often spelled Mallia, is located in the outskirts of Mount Selena, 34 km east of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Malia is immensely popular for its massive and pristine white sand beaches along with electrifying nightlife. The old town offers numerous clubs, bars and restaurants, endless options to stay, various entertainment and several attractions. Apart from this, the valley consists of many springs and is famous for its greenhouse grown bananas all over Greece.

Although famous for its iconic nightlife events like 'Glow Paint Party' and several big-name DJs and events, Malia is also home to the third largest Minoan Palace in Crete, an archaeological site located east of the village. Some other attractions in Malia's village are old Malia village, old olive mill, monastery of St. George Selinari, and churches of Saint Nektarios and Panagia Galatiani, which were constructed using milk instead of water. Popular activities in this party village include water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, boating and much more. Some of the popular day trips from Malia include a trip to the mountain villages of Krasi and Mochos, hiking to Raza Gorge and visiting the Lassithi plateau.

The party village of Malia consists of the Old town or Old Malia, where people roam around exploring during the day. The nightlife takes place on Dimokratias Street, which connects Old town to Gloxanie beach and has many bars, taverns, and world-renowned DJs. The 1.5 km long strip is popular among partygoers and supported by nearby hotels and apartments, as the strip and beach roar with loud music and half-drunk people just after midnight. Most of the accommodation options are available close to the strip or around the much calmer, old town. Not considered appropriate for families and kids, Malia still has some options in the form of resorts located on the outskirts of Malia village. For a much quieter family stay, one can also choose accommodations available at the border of Malias and Stalis to experience the best of both worlds.

Must Know Before You Travel to Malia

  • Malia is small enough to be explored on foot. Car, motorbikes, scooters or even a bike are available to explore nearby places or attractions.
  • Hourly buses run from Heraklion KTEL central bus station to Malia, it costs around EUR 4-6. Fastest mode would be a taxi, costing about EUR 40-55, taking about 30 minutes.
  • Several quad safaris or buggy safaris can be booked through local agencies or online to explore Minoan Palace and other nearby villages.
  • Food and accommodation in Malia is cheap while drink prices in clubs and bars are affordable. Other premium experiences like safaris, water sports can be expensive.
  • Most shops open from 9 AM to about 12:00 AM.
  • Restaurants and cafes open till around midnight.
  • Taverns From 12:00 PM till early hours.
  • Tap water is considered safe but may pick up some minerals and taste salty, hence potable water is advised.

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Malia Old Town
An old church on a small island in Malia
Ruins of Minoan Palace in Malia

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