Malia is a big tourist resort, located 36 km east of Heraklion. Inhabited by about 3750 residents. Malia has a very long history that begins even from Neolithic times and culminates the Minoan period, when Malia was one of the most important cities of Crete. Located 3 km east stands the famous Palace of Malia, equal in fame and archaeological value to the palaces of Knossos and Phaistos are the same age. Most visible are the ruins of the New Palace period (17th-15th centuries BC). According to mythology, here reigned Minos' brother Sarpedon. Outside the palace area near the coast, northeast of the palace, the great Old excavated necropolis important piece of the large funerary complex at "Chrysolakkos" which found the famous gold jewelry with two bees, a symbol of fertility preserved in the Archaeological Museum Heraklion.

Except for the very important Minoan findings worth visiting the church of Panagia Galatiani and admire the famous paintings. The accommodation is ensured by numerous hotels of all categories, with furnished apartments and rooms. Swimming and water sports can enjoy the long sandy beach of the village and the nearby beaches of Stalis (3 kilometers west) and River (actually the quiet east end of the beach road). Food and drink plenty of good, one can find many taverns and restaurants and cafes in the town. The many good youth hangouts, the famous bars and other entertainment opportunities attract many visitors especially tourists. So because the climate here allows even the pleasant winter nights in February, it is good to visit if you can, this season and have fun with the locals and many visitors these days. Access from Heraklion is easy by the New National Road, with bus, taxi and rented or private cars and motorcycles.