The prefecture of Lassithi occupies the eastern part of the island and it is divided into 8 municipalities: Agios Nikolaos (capital), Ierapetra, Sitia, Neapoli, Makri Gialos, Lefki, Lassithi (Plateau of Lassithi) and Itanos. The region covers an area of 1,820 square kilometres.
Its population is approximately 75,000 citizens and the principal occupations are farming, stock-breading and tourism. The main products of the Prefecture are cereals, olive oil, olives, carobs and currants, potatoes, oranges and mandarins.