Malia is a modern town , and one of the most popular resorts in Crete. The economy of the town is very much centered around tourism. The town is well located almost halfway btween Iraklion and Agios Nikolaos, and provides all the facilities that a visitor wants..

The main road of the town is full of shops of all kind (jewellery stores, furs, super markets etc), and pubs, bars and discos.

There is also a small picturesque port mainly in use by the local fishermen. There are quite a few tavernas there offering fresh fish.