On the remote south coast, Ierapetra is Europes southernmost town and has more hours of sun per year than anywhere else in Europe. A 17th-century Venetian fortress presides over the harbour, hosting open-air theatre during the summer festival. On the edge of town, the long, grey-sand beach is lined with hotels, tavernas and bars. Daily excursion boats run to the tiny uninhabited island of Chrissi, known for its white beaches and turquoise sea.
