Sissi is a sleepy, palm-fringed village wrapped around a cute harbour that feels miles away from the hustle, bustle and neon lights, but with all the cold beers and fresh seafood you could ever need on your jollies.
Why do people love going on holidays to Sissi?
The "Real Crete" vibe - Unlike its noisy neighbours, Sissi has kept its village charm, complete with whitewashed alleys and locals who actually have time for a chat.
A foodie's dream - The harbour is lined with traditional tavernas where the "catch of the day" was probably in the water an hour before it hit your plate.
Botanical beauty - The village is famously picturesque and bursting with colours, packed with flowers that gardeners dream bout and tropical palms that make every stroll feel like a walk in paradise.
Prime location - You’re perfectly tucked between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, making it a class base for exploring the island without the tourist crowds.
What is the best time to visit Sissi?
Crete is the king of the long summer, and Sissi benefits from a sheltered position that keeps things feeling balmy for most of the year. Whether you're a sun-worshipper looking to bake or a hiker after that fresh mountain air, there's a season that will suit your Sissi holidays down to the ground.
Spring (March to May) - Expect pleasant highs of 18-24°C as the island erupts in colour, making it the best time for exploring the nearby Selinari Gorge.
Summer (June to August) - It’s officially red-hot with temperatures hitting a whopping 30°C+, perfect for lazy days spent floating in the calm harbour waters.
Autumn (September to October) - The heat mellows to a delish 25°C and the sea is at its warmest, offering a gorge vibe for late-season sun-seekers.
Winter (November to February) - Things get peaceful and a bit more drizzly with averages around 14°C, but it's a stun time to see the snow-capped peaks in the distance.
What are the best beaches to visit on your Sissi holidays
While much of the northern coast is known for its big waves, Sissi’s unique inlets provide pockets of total calm. You won't find mahoosive stretches of commercial sand here; instead, it’s all about intimate coves where you can tuck into your holiday book in peace.
Limani Beach - A tiny, protected patch of sand right in the harbour, perfect for a much-needed wave-free dip in clear water. Perf conditions to whip a lilo out on the open water.
Boufos Beach - Located just a short walk east, this rocky-sandy hybrid has a cool lounge bar for those boujee sunset cocktails.
Avlaki Beach - A secluded little cove hidden between headlands, ideal for couples who want a private spot away from the main village for a bit of romance.
Kalimera Beach - A well-kept sandy stretch with shallow, crystalline water that is a total winner for the littluns and slightly nervous swimmers.
Things to do on your Sissi holidays
Don’t let the quiet reputation fool you; Sissi has more than enough going on to keep your holiday itinerary popping off. From ancient history to off-road thrills, you can be as active or as chilled-out as you like.
Visit the Milatos Cave - Head into the hills to explore this historic cavern, which offers a cool, eerie escape from the midday Greek sun.
Happy Train rides - Jump on the local "mini-train" for a breezy tour through the olive groves and traditional villages nearby.
Malia Minoan Palace - Step back in time at this impressive archaeological site, located just a 10-minute drive away for a yearned-after dose of culture.
Boat rentals - Channel your inner captain and hire a motorboat to find secret swimming spots that aren't on the map.
Selinari Monastery - Visit this stunner religious site tucked into the gorge, known as the protector of travellers - very appropriate for your jollies.
Sissi Mini Golf - Challenge the gang to a round at the island's largest course, complete with a bar for the losers to buy the rounds.
