Ierapetra is located in the southeastern part of the prefecture of Lassithi and is the largest city of the county. The city is located 36 km from Agios Nikolaos and holds the title of the most southern city of Europe. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rural exports in Greece and abroad and for Gaidouronisi.

Historically, the city was inhabited for over 3000 years and is built on the site of the ancient city Ierapytna.
According to the National meteorological Service, Ierapetra is the most warm and sunny area of Greece, while the county climate is mild Mediterranean. For that reason, the main occupation of the residents is the production and export of fruit and vegetables and olive oil. It is estimated that in the area of Ierapetra there are more than 12,000 acres of greenhouses and 100,000 acres of olive groves.

In the greenhouses are grown mainly tomatoes (in large quantities), peppers, cucumbers and aubergines and exports are made to Europe and mainly to Bulgaria (39%) and Germany (25%). Olive oil has a higher margin in export to countries such as USA, Japan, Australia, Germany, England, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and other EU countries.

A part of the population deals with tourism. The area has large hotels, inns, restaurants, and cafeterias. Unique ornaments are the beaches of Ierapetra. Its beaches are widely known to all and each year are awarded with Blue Flags. The south beach is well organized with clear waters and fine pebbles. The east beach extends one kilometers and over its entire length is stone paved. As for guests who want to explore the surrounding beaches, you will find the beaches of Agia Fotia, Kakkos, Koutsouras, Makrigialos, Myrtos beach or the beach of the Island Chryssis.