Malia sits on Crete's north-coast road, about 35 km east of Iraklion and a short ride east of Hersonissos. Buses on the Iraklion-Agios Nikolaos corridor stop in or near town during the season, making it easy to visit without a car.
Drivers should allow extra time in summer, when resort traffic and parking near the beach can be tiresome. The palace is east of town, so a car, taxi or bus is useful if you do not want a hot roadside walk.