Agios Nikolaos is noted for its pristine beaches and beautiful bays which are perfect for enjoying a myriad of water activities such as sailing, skiing, diving and snorkeling. Dotting the coast are many lovely Agios Nikolaos cabin rentals where you can choose to stay if you are an avid beach lover. Located in the city is the 7th century old Byzantine church with its bell tower, drum and dome. Here, you can see a number of well-preserved frescoes of the 19th, 10th and 11th centuries and feast your eyes with a panoramic view of the city and bay. One of the major landmarks of Agios Nikolaos is Lake Voulismeni that is located in the center of the city, at the foot of the cliffs. According to folklore, the goddess Athena and Artemis bathed in it. Every year at midnight on Orthodox Christian Easter day, hordes of people gather around the lake to celebrate the event with fireworks and sizzling dance and music performances. Other attractions include the Archaeological Museum, Iris Museum, Vrokastro and Panagia Kera, From Agios Nikolaos, you can enjoy great day trips to the Island of Spinalonga, Elounda, Asomatos, and the picturesque Mirabello Bay.

Agios Nikolaos is an interesting place for shopping enthusiasts. The city boasts numerous shopping options from beachfront shacks, to quaint boutiques, designer stores, jewelry shops and art galleries which sell an impressive variety of goods like woven fabrics, top designer labels, exquisite jewelry, high quality leather goods, local food products and fine antiquities. Besides, there is a good selection of restaurants, cafes, bars and tavernas which can be found anywhere, along the beaches, and near all the major places of interests and Agios Nikolaos villas, ,, and apartments. Some of the worth visiting restaurants include the small and friendly "Grigoris”, "9 Muses", "Obelix" "Mediterraneo", "Piato" on the harbour.