Top things to do in Malia

The Help Bar, Squeeze Bar and Mango Cocktail Bar are just a few of our notable mentions, but the list is endless! The Villa Malia Cocktail Lounge offers a relaxing atmosphere in a botanical setting, perfect for a romantic evening under the palm trees and twinkling lights, and for those who want to watch the world go by, squeezed into an authentic street filled with foliage, the Gianis Bar won't disappoint. Party-goers can head to Oceana and Cloud 9 Club for an energetic atmosphere and lively nights of music - the fun never stops here!

Discover another world in Crete on a 4x4 tour - join us on an adventure-filled jeep safari. Venture into the Cretan countryside to discover majestic landscapes, legions of wildlife and local traditions. Malia is full of energetic excursions in the area, but Safari Crete Club is our favourite. Exploring the terrain since 2002, Safari Crete Club offers a range of itineraries, from the historic Minoan Road to animal-focused Katharo and sunset tours. Enjoy this unique experience on a private tour and be inspired by the Club's motto: Interact, Smell, Taste, Experience, Explore and Enjoy.

The archaeological site of the Palace of Malia is one of the most visited places on Crete. It is a collection of ruins in the middle of the Greek countryside, dating back some 3,500 years. The site measures an impressive 7,500 square metres, making it the third-largest Minoan palace of all time, named after the town where it is located. If you're interested in Greek mythology, the site is thought to have been ruled by Zeus' older brother, King Sarpidon.

Stroll through the maze of narrow streets in the village of Malia, home to traditionally decorated Greek houses, pretty taverna squares and old churches. Once there, you can browse the local boutiques selling handcrafted souvenirs and summer accessories, try tasty treats in chic restaurants and, of course, explore historic sites.

If you've had enough of the beach, enjoy a sunny day at one of Malia's water parks. Meropi Aqua has been designed with children in mind and offers a splendid water play area with spiral slides, an octopus-shaped water staircase and fast lanes to challenge your family to a fun-filled ride down. For a large-scale water park with all the rides and facilities for adults and children, head to Aqua Plus, which offers extreme water rides such as Kamikaze, as well as play areas designed with children in mind.

Greek cuisine is so popular in Europe that it would be criminal to avoid it on your holiday in Malia. This charming town serves everything on a platter, from lamb kleftiko and souvlaki to freshly prepared seafood specialities. Head to Taverna Harma for traditional Greek dishes in a family-run taverna, or try the Malia Star in the main street for a varied menu of Italian, Mexican and Greek dishes. Don't worry, if you're feeling homesick, there are fast food outlets such as McDonalds and Burger House just a few minutes' walk away.