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Malia Holidays

Malia Holidays

Read more about Malia

The party capital of Crete, Malia has everything you need for the best holiday. Tons of sun, lively beaches, banging clubs and pocket-friendly prices.

Destination highlights

  • Party paradise
  • 6km stretch of coastline
  • Popular summer destination
  • Entertainment for everyone

    • Jump to...

    Beaches | Hotels | Food & drink | Nightlife | Events | Things to do | Weather | Important information | Reviews |

    What are the best beaches in Malia?

    Beach holidays in Malia mean days soaking in the sunshine, hitting up the beach bars, and appreciating its peaceful side, too. These are the top beaches to visit:

  • Potamos Beach – a great sand spot for experiencing the quieter side of Malia, soaking up the rays and enjoying everything island life is all about.
  • Malia Beach – this main stretch of sand is popular with every type of visitor, thanks to its clear, shallow waters and fun-filled activities.
  • Tropical Beach – a quieter cove with soft, golden sands and clear waters - a relaxing spot for those all-important beach days.
  • Sun Beach – just east of Malia, this beach is an entertainment hub with trampolines, pools, and plenty of other activities for everyone.
  • Elounda – located further afield from Malia, this is a top swimming destination and perfect for a short road trip.


    • Malia beach

    What are the top hotels in Malia?

    Malia holidays are all about sunshine, good food, and wild parties. Finding the perfect place to relax is key, and that’s why you need to check out these top hotels:

  • Sirens Beach - a five-star hotel offering a taste of the luxury lifestyle, with a beachfront location and top-class facilities.
  • Manolis Apartments - a dreamy apartment complex in a serene atmosphere, just steps from the sand with every amenity you need.
  • Hotel Matheo Villas and Suites -find peace after a day of fun-filled activities and a night out on the town in this gorgeous hotel.
  • Casa Malena - beautiful beach views, a tranquil ambience and complete holiday vibes - all in one place.
  • Kyknos Beach Hotel and Bungalows - a hotel with the best of both worlds, offering a beachfront location and top-class entertainment facilities.
  • Danelis Apartments - a charming, family-run hotel with exciting facilities and a natural landscape.


    • Click here to book your Malia beach break


    What’s the food like in Malia?

    Greek food is a treat for your tastebuds with its fresh ingredients and unique flavours. These are some dishes you definitely need to try on your trip:

  • Dakos - traditional Cretan salad, made with goat’s cheese, Cretan rusks, tomatoes, and olive oil
  • Cretan cheeses - found everywhere across Crete, especially Anthotiros, Kefalotiri, and Mizithra
  • Kalitsounia - a traditional pie made with a variety of local cheeses
  • Gamopilafo - also known as ‘wedding rice’ - made with meat and poultry which is boiled for hours, then served with rice cooked in butter and lemon
  • Raki - a classic alcoholic beverage served after every meal across Crete


    • Looking for somewhere to eat in Malia? Check out these top restaurants:

  • The Brassiere - a popular taverna with something for everyone, including pasta, pizza, and all the classic Greek dishes.
  • San Giorgio Restaurant - a traditional Greek taverna in the heart of the old town, serving up classic dishes, live music, and Greek dancing.
  • Red Lion Gastropub and Restaurant - the number one restaurant for variety, serving up all kinds of cuisine from all over the world.
  • Elia Restaurant - an iconic beachfront Greek restaurant with modern appeal, heaps of ambience and top-class food.


    • Malia food

    Where's the best nightlife in Malia?

    Malia is the number one party hotspot in Crete. You’re sure to have a holiday to remember. Check out these nightlife venues for a wild time:

  • Candy Club - one of the most popular clubs in town, known for playing chart-toppers that will keep you dancing all night long.
  • Apollo Club Malia - The R&B, Grime, and Urban number one spot for the best night out.
  • Oasis Pool Bar - home to the hottest pool party in town and the best cocktails you’ll ever drink.
  • Babylon - cocktails in style, served in two different bar areas, with the top DJs in Malia and a proper party vibe.
  • The Loft - brilliant food paired with hip-hop, R&B and drum & bass vibes.


    • Malia night

    What events can I go to in Malia?

    The gorgeous coastal town of Malia is renowned for its lively events, from live music and beach parties to traditional festivals. Here are the hottest ones to check out:

  • Easter (April) - a huge celebration in Greece (even more so than Christmas!), with religious processions on the way to mass the night before Easter, and lots of food on Easter Sunday.
  • Summer Love Festival (June) - experience buzzing nights with big-name line-ups throughout the month of June.
  • Take Off Festival (June) - the hottest six-day festival for you and your best pals, with the best DJs and artists, pool parties, paint parties and so much more.
  • Malia Live Beach Festival (June) - a festival taking place every week in June at the Crystal Beach Club, where you can enjoy some of the best artists from the UK.
  • Kornaria Festival (July–August) - set in the Cretan town of Sitia, less than two hours from Malia, this festival runs for two months and includes concerts, theatre shows, and art exhibitions.
  • Dormition of the Virgin Mary Festival (15th August) - the largest religious celebration across the island of Crete, with a fair for all the villages, celebrations and feasting.
  • Houdetsi Festival (August) - a four-day cultural event in Houdetsi, less than an hour’s drive from Malia, in a celebration of music, food, and art.


    • Things to do in Malia

    Feel like royality at the Minoan Palace of Malia

    As the third-largest Minoan palace on the island, this is an archaeological site not to be missed. During your time here, you can delve into history and learn more about the Minoan civilisation, the buildings, and drop by the museum too.

    Oh Dia

    Hire a private yacht or join a tour and head on over to the small island of Dia, located a few miles off the coast of Heraklion. The boat trip will offer the opportunity for snorkelling, fishing, and experiencing something new.

    Get galloping

    Take a trip to Amarillis Stable, only a 10-minute drive from the main hub and from here, ride off into the mountains, or along the nearby beach.

    Try canyoning at Roza Gorge

    Roza Gorge can’t be hiked due to its steep descents, however, there is the option to experience it another way: canyoning. There are canyoning schools on the island that book group tours to take you on an adventure you won’t forget!

    Hit the sands

    Island life means soaking up the sunshine and being by the sea. Experience Malia’s main sands and the quieter coves for a relaxing beach day.



    Malia gorge

    What's the weather like in Malia?

    With a warm, Mediterranean climate, beach holidays to Malia are always on the cards. This coastal town is warmest in summer, but if you fancy an autumn escape or a winter getaway, then the temperature is still much warmer the UK.

    Month

    Average temp.

    Sea temp.

    Hours of sunshine per day

    Jan 11 °c 16 °c 4 h
    Feb 11 °c 15 °c 5 h
    Mar 13 °c 15 °c 6 h
    Apr 15 °c 16 °c 8 h
    May 18 °c 19 °c 10 h
    Jun 22 °c 22 °c 12 h
    Jul 25 °c 24 °c 12 h
    Aug 25 °c 25 °c 11 h
    Sep 23 °c 24 °c 10 h
    Oct 19 °c 22 °c 7 h
    Nov 16 °c 20 °c 5 h
    Dec 13 °c 18 °c 4 h

    Click here to book your Malia beach break »

    Important Information about travelling to Malia

    How long does it take to fly to Malia?

    Flights from the UK to Malia take around four hours.

    What’s the time difference between the UK and Malia?

    The local time in Malia is two hours ahead of the UK.

    What currency do they use in Malia?

    The official currency used in Malia is the Euro.

    What language do they speak in Malia?

    The official language of Malia is Greek.

    Will Covid-19 affect my holiday to Malia?

    We are currently closely following the Covid-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to Greece on the FCDO website.

    Do I need any vaccinations to visit Malia?

    We’d advise you to speak to a healthcare provider about the up-to-date vaccinations needed before you book your trip.

    Do I need a visa to travel to Malia?

    British passport holders don’t need a visa to enter Malia. Holders of other passports are advised to check with their national embassy for any visa requirements.

    Here are some other destinations you might be interested in...

    • Agia Pelagia
    • Agios Nikolaos
    • Amoudara
    • Chania
    • Elounda
    • Fodele

      • Customer reviews

      At On the Beach, we’ve sent many satisfied customers to Malia for a bit of sunshine. But don't just take our word for it, read some of their 5-star reviews below.

      Holly Brady:


      Easy app to use, booked many holidays with this company and never disappointed! Brilliant!!

      Elizabeth Finnigan:


      Amazing service will always book with On the Beach.

      Amanda Burroughs:


      Always my first choice for booking holidays. Seamless from beginning to end every time. Great locations, accommodations and prices.

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    Top Malia Hotels

    Malia Beach Hotel

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Aegean Sky

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    Malia Bay Hotel

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    Triton Garden

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    Mirage Studios - Adults Only

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    Real Palace Hotel & Studios

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    Happy Days Studios

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    Aeolos Beach

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    Malia Holidays

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    Kristalli Apartments

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    Malia Mare Hotel

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    Kyknos Beach Hotel & Bungalows

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    Villa Mare Monte

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    Solimar Ruby Hotel

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    Marianna Studios

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    Yiannis Manos Apartments

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    Eltina Apartments - Adults Only

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    Dedalos Hotel

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    High Beach Hotel Studios & Apartments

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Maria Rousse Studios

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    Villa Aphrodite Hotel Aparts and Studios

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Meropi Aparthotel

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Royal Heights Resort

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Maliatim Apartments

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Dionyssos Hotel - Adult Only

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Stella Maria

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Niriedes - Dionyssos Village

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Theo Star Beach Apartments

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Danaides Apartments

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Oasis Studios - Adults Only

    Malia, Crete East, Crete

    Malia Weather

    Malia enjoys a typically beautiful Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. June to September are the most popular times to go on Crete holidays because of the ideal sunny weather; at their peak temperatures can reach 40° Celsius, which is perfect for working on your tan!

    Spring is fresh and lovely, with colourful bursts of wild flowers scattered across the countryside while autumn is pleasantly peaceful. In the winter the weather in Crete can be wet and sometimes cooler with occasional rain showers.

    Jan 12ºC
    Feb 12ºC
    Mar 14ºC
    Apr 19ºC
    May 23ºC
    Jun 26ºC
    Jul 30ºC
    Aug 30ºC
    Sep 24ºC
    Oct 20ºC
    Nov 15ºC
    Dec 13ºC

    Landscape

    The coast at Malia is awash with beautiful sandy beaches lapped by the brilliant-blue Cretan Sea. Huge stretches of sand lie to the east of the main resort, with a central section that has great facilities for sunbathing and swimming as well as bars immediately on hand. Further east, towards the Tropical Beach, is quieter and a little more chilled out, while families may want to use the child-friendly facilities at Sun Beach Hotel. While the resort is teeming with shops and bars, a little way inland you can experience a more traditional atmosphere in the winding streets of the old village.

    Things To Do on Malia Holidays

    The Minoan Palace of Malia lies on a quiet costal plain to the east of Malia, away from the bustle of the resort. Set against a backdrop of mountains these important archaeological ruins are incredibly evocative, and unlike the palace at Knossos there has been no reconstruction, so the site is largely as the Minoans left it. The palace was first built in 1900BC, and the remains of a large town are being excavated nearby.

    Further east you can visit the Milatos Cave that contains a shrine and casket of bones in memory of those who were killed here by the Turks in 1853 during the war of independence.

    Culture

    Malia has a long history reaching back into antiquity; Malia's Minoan palace was originally constructed in 1900BC during the Middle Bronze Age. Following the end of the Minoan era Malia, like the rest of Crete, experienced a succession of invasions and occupations from Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Turks, finally becoming part of Greece in the early twentieth century. The shrine in the Milatos Cave bears testimony to the struggle for independence from Turkish rule.

    Apart from Malia's beaches and pulsating nightlife there's plenty of culture to experience. On International Tourist Day in September The Malia and Stalis Festival takes place, with traditional Greek music, dance and Cretan culinary specialities to sample. Huddled around the square in Malia old town are several tavernas that host evenings of traditional Greek music and food throughout the summer.

    The centre of Crete's religious calendar is Holy Week, and like the rest of the island Malia village has celebrations to mark this special time of year.

    Book a Malia Holiday now!

    Malia is a fantastic Crete holidays destination with so much to offer: buzzing nightlife, beautiful beaches and fascinating archeology. On the Beach has amazing deals on flights and accommodation in Malia, so book now for an idyllic holiday in the sun!