Mirtos (or Myrtos) is a picturesque seaside village in southeastern Crete, near Ierapetra in the Lassithi region. With its laid-back charm, friendly atmosphere, and authentic character, Mirtos is considered one of the hidden jewels of the island.
There are no pharmacies, banks, or ATMs in the village itself, but the nearby town of Ierapetra has all necessary services. You can easily reach it by car or catch a bus that runs every two hours.
The Beach and Natural Beauty
Mirtos has one of the finest beaches in the region, with soft ash-grey sand and crystal-clear waters — perfect for swimming and soaking in the calm beauty of the Libyan Sea. A major plus is that the beach is sheltered from the strong northerly winds and the meltemia that often affect other parts of Crete’s southern coast.
The main beach stretches out in front of the village’s tavernas and cafés, expanding further west where you’ll even find quieter spots ideal for camping. Just 4 km west lies the village of Tertsa, home to another stunning beach worth exploring.
To the east, there’s a more secluded beach with large pebbles and a few tamarisk trees along the road to Ierapetra. It’s often nearly deserted, as most visitors favor Mirtos’ main beach.
A Village with Soul
Despite its growing popularity, Mirtos has managed to preserve its traditional charm. In summer, the village comes alive with the sounds of the sea and visiting travelers. In contrast, the winter months are peaceful, with locals focusing on agricultural life.
What sets Mirtos apart is its unique blend of color and character. Blue shutters, whitewashed houses, hanging red tomatoes ripening in the sun, green mulberry trees, and vibrant flowers create an almost postcard-perfect setting.
Peaceful Days and Quiet Nights
If you're looking for loud nightlife, Mirtos may not be your place. But if you seek peace, good food, and warm hospitality, you'll feel right at home. Spend your days lounging on the beach, sipping coffee by the sea, reading, or wandering through the narrow village streets. Evenings are for savoring fresh food and local wine in one of the welcoming seaside tavernas or tucked-away village eateries.
Discover More
A visit to Mirtos feels like stepping back in time. The village blends into the landscape with quiet grace. Stroll through its whitewashed alleyways, especially in spring when houses are freshly painted for Easter, and admire gardens filled with flowers, herbs, and quirky decorations like old olive oil tins used as pots.
Be sure to stop by the local kafenio — the heart of village life — where locals gather for coffee, card games, and conversation. Try a traditional Greek coffee, brewed slowly the old-fashioned way.
Don’t miss the small restored church of Agios Antonios (Saint Anthony) and the adjacent old school, which now houses a museum featuring Minoan artifacts, folk art, and traditional tools.
Day Trips and Walks
From the edge of the village, you can walk up to the Minoan site of Pirgos. The trail starts near the river on the Ierapetra side and takes about 30 minutes to reach the hilltop ruins. The climb is moderate and best done in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Mirtos and the sea.
Where to park
There are a few parking areas available, but they tend to fill up quickly. These are the main parking spots. You can also park along the street, though you might have to search a bit for a space
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qgPhMBzdtfcuccN78
https://maps.app.goo.gl/j6UypYYdnYrSFuwE9
