Malia

The basics

Explore the archaeological ruins to see a central palace courtyard, ceremonial steps, and workshops (some of the ancient sculptures and relics unearthed here have been relocated to the archaeological museum in Heraklion). Along with learning about Minoan culture, you'll hear how the seafront palace and town were destroyed by an earthquake. Several tours in Crete include a visit to Malia, both sightseeing tours and private tours that can be customized according to individual interests.

Things to know before you go

• Malia is a must-see attraction for history buffs and families seeking educational experiences.

• Uneven surfaces at the archaeological ruins make this site largely inaccessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for sun exposure (shade is rare).

How to get there

The town of Malia is about 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of Heraklion, on the coast of Crete. The archaeological site is 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) east of the town, and the two are connected by taxi and bus services.

When to get there

The most popular time of year to visit Crete is from May through October, with peak season in the summer months. Travelers looking to avoid the crowds and hot temperatures might want to plan a trip during the cooler months of spring and fall.

More Minoan history

Continue an exploration into Minoan history in Crete with a visit to the Palace of Knossos. The same earthquake that destroyed the seafront palace and town of Malia also toppled Knossos. Today, the palace ruins are worth a visit to see villas, palaces, tombs, wall paintings, and more.

How big is the Palace of Malia?

The Palace of Malia covers an area of around 7,500 square meters (80,729 square feet). This colossal archeological site is the third-largest of Crete’s Minoan palaces; during a visit, you can see the palace’s foundations and the layout of its rooms, including a large central courtyard and ceremonial steps.

Is Malia a good place to go?

Yes, Malia is a good place to go. Aside from sandy beaches and nightlife, the big draw for history buffs is the archeological site roughly 2 miles (3 kilometers) east of the town. You can see the preserved ruins of a Minoan palace and its adjoining settlement.

Why is Malia famous?

Malia is famous for its buzzing nightlife scene, which is particularly popular with travelers under 30. However, it’s not all clubs and partying—the island is also renowned for housing the Malia Palace Archaeological Site, one of Crete's three major Minoan palaces believed to date back to 1900BC.

Does Malia have a port?

Yes, Malia has a small port on its outskirts but this is really for fishing boats and small vessels. For cruise ships and ferries, you'll need the busier port of Heraklion. It takes around 30 minutes by car if traveling between Malia to Heraklion Port.

Is Malia busy in July?

Yes, Malia is usually busy in July as this tends to be the peak tourist season in Crete. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and lots of sunshine, it’s a good time to come. However, for a quieter visit that still has plenty of sun, aim for April through June instead.

Is Malia ok for older people?

Yes, Malia is ok for older visitors. Though it's often associated with the lively 18-30’s nightlife scene, there's an abundance of attractions well-suited for the mature traveler, such as the Malia Palace Archaeological Site. For a more relaxed experience, avoid the peak months of July and August.