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15 Best Things to Do in Heraklion (Greece)
The capital of Crete, Heraklion is a port with a long and compelling story to tell. Over the centuries the city has been controlled by the Byzantines, Moors, Venetians and Ottomans before joining modern Greece in the 20th century.
The Venetians were in charge all through the late Medieval and Renaissance periods, when they built sophisticated, four kilometre defences that would withstand an Ottoman siege for 21 years. Much earlier, Knossos, in the hills to the south, was a centre for the Minoan Civilisation and has been called Greece’s oldest city.
The palace complex at the archaeological site is a maze of ruins, with walls still coated with colourful frescoes thousands of years old. Many Minoan treasures are kept at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the best place in the world to study this civilisation.
Let’s explore the best things to do in Heraklion :
At semi-mythical Knossos is a Bronze Age city and palace built by the Minoan civilisation.
The site has been inhabited for around 9,000 years and reached its zenith about 2000 BC when the palace was built.
You may know Knossos from the many Greek mythological figures associated with the city and palace, like King Minos, the Minotaur, and Daedalus and Icarus.
Investigating the labyrinthine ruins of the palace on Kephala Hill, you’ll learn about ancient earthquakes and wars, and see the highly sophisticated architecture furnished with plaster, beams, light wells, drainage and water supply systems.
The Throne Room, Sacred Repositories and Pillar Crypts are outstanding in the west wing, while the east wing held the residential apartments and reception halls.
To the south is the Corridor of Procession and entrance with the Prince of Lilies fresco, while to the north is the beguiling Bull Hunt fresco.
2. Heraklion Archaeological Museum
There’s no better museum in the world to dip into Minoan history.
Finds from Minoan sites all over Crete have been brought here, and many of the exhibits are masterpieces of ancient art.
One breathtaking example is the iconic and life-sized Prince of the Lilies, from the fresco at the entrance to the Palace of Knossos, composed around 1600-1500 BC. Or there’s the Phaistos Disc from the palace of the same name, a clay disc 15cm in diameter, covered with 241 tokens, the meaning of which is still disputed today.
Other extraordinary works include the Snake Goddess figurines, the bee pendant from Malia, the mesmerising bull’s head rhyton from Knossos and a huge array of decorative weapons, pottery, frescoes, clay figurines and gold jewellery.
Recommended tour : Archaeological Museum of Heraklion: Guided Walking Tour
3. Historical Museum of Crete
If you want to fill in the gaps and find out what came after the Minoans, this museum has a complete timeline for the island beginning in the 4th century AD. In the galleries are sculptures, frescoes, jewellery, coins, manuscripts, architectural fragments, woven art, cannons, portable religious icons, ceramics and more.
A model measuring 4 x 4 metres also shows how Heraklion looked during Venetian times.
Extra attention is paid to the Battle of Crete from the 20 May to 1 June 1941, in which Axis forces conquered the island, but only after heavy losses.
Another feather in the museum’s cap is that it has the only two paintings by the Crete-born Renaissance master El Greco remaining on the island.
These are the Baptism of Christ and View of Mount Sinai.
4. Venetian Harbour
In a pocket to the west of Heraklion’s new harbour is where the city’s maritime activity happened in Venetian times.
At the mouth of the harbour is the Koules Fortress, which we’ll talk about next.
On dry land, facing the water there are two separate rows of arches, the vestiges of Venetian arsenals or shipbuilding warehouses.
These structures give a small hint of just how sophisticated Venetian maritime activity was in those times.
You can carry on along the mole, past the fortress to look back at the enormous cruise liners in the modern port.
5. Koules Fortress
Guarding the Venetian harbour is a square-shaped fort built when the island was under the control of the Republic of Venice in the 16th century.
Koules Fortress went up between 1524 and 1540 and took the place of an earlier fort built after the Venetians first took Heraklion in the 1200s.
It’s no mystery why Koules Fortress has stood the test of time, as it was built to last, and has external walls up to 8.7 metres thick.
The building was involved in the second-longest siege of all time, during the Siege of Candia (Heraklion), when the Ottomans were at the gates for 21 years from 1648 to 1669 before the city finally fell.
The fort’s upper level has a clear view of the harbour, while in the vaulted passageways below are cannons, hundreds of cannonballs, piles of amphorae, information panels and a brief film about the history of the fort.
6. Venetian Walls
Heraklion has had a wall of some kind since the First Byanzatine Period beginning in the 4th century.
This was bolstered by the Moors in the 9th and 10th centuries, and again by the Byzantines after they retook the city.
But it was the Venetians, responding to the growing threat from the Ottoman Empire, who went the extra mile.
From 1462 to 1560 they constructed an almost unsurpassable, four-kilometre system of fortifications with four gates and seven bastions, all surrounded by a moat.
Laid out in straight lines, these walls helped keep the Ottomans at bay during that 21-year siege, said to have cost 100,000 Turkish lives: They finally made their breakthrough at the western St Andrew Gate in 1669. You can find this fateful spot, and set off on an adventure over ramparts and through Renaissance arcades and passageways.
7. Agios Minas Cathedral
With room for 8,000 worshippers, the Agios Minas Cathedral is one of the largest in Greece.
It was built across 30 years in the second half of the 19th century, and the project was delayed by the Cretan Revolt against Ottoman rule in 1866-1869. An interesting side note is that construction was partly funded by the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Abdülaziz.
Inside allow a few minutes to appreciate the Byzantine-style frescoes of apostles, bible episodes, and Christ Pantocrator in the crown of the main dome.
Another bold fitting is the iconostasis, made of marble and replacing the wooden original in the 20th century.
8. Venetian Loggia
This 17th-century Mannerist monument on St Titus’ Square is a holdover from Heraklion’s Venetian days.
The loggia was where Heraklion’s nobility would meet to thrash out political and commercial matters.
In Ottoman times the Loggia became the seat of the high finance officer, as well as the secretary general who was responsible for mediating between Heraklion’s Christians and the Turkish authorities.
By the end of the 19th century the Loggia was in a state of disrepair, and wouldn’t be restored until after the Second World War.
Since then the building has been a town hall, hosting the weekly meeting of the Municipal Council.
The Loggia is closed to visitors, but you can look around the arcade on the ground floor.
9. St Catherine of Sinai
Next to the cathedral on St Catherine Square is a former monastery church founded in the 10th century.
The surviving church building dates to the 16th century, and at that time it was also a school for science, literature and art.
It is believed that Doménikos Theotokópoulos (El Greco) was one of the pupils.
Another, Michael Damaskinos, is regarded as one of the most accomplished post-Byzantine Cretan painters, and the star of the Cretan School.
He may well have painted the six marvellous icons that form the centrepiece of the museum for Christian art inside the church.
Also on show are paintings, manuscripts, vestments and wooden sculptures.
10. Natural History Museum of Crete
Run by the University of Crete, the Natural History Museum has a remarkable venue in a converted former power plant.
The exhibitions cover the zoology and botany of the eastern Mediterranean region, as well as Crete’s palaeontology, mineralogy and geology.
You can get a sense of Crete’s wildlife and ecosystems in highly detailed “Mega-Dioramas”, and see the island’s fish, insects and reptiles for yourself in the terrariums and aquariums at the “Living Museum”. Crete isn’t a stranger to seismic activity, and was the epicentre of an infamously destructive earthquake in the year 365 AD: At the “Seismic Table” you can experience an earthquake for yourself and get some facts about the science behind them.
11. Agios Titos Church
On the action-packed August 25th Street, Agios Titos is the oldest church in the city and is dedicated to Saint Titus, Crete’s first bishop.
It goes back to 961 AD and was ordered by the emperor Nikephoros II Phokas after the island was retaken by Byzantine forces.
The last millennium has been full of mishaps, as the church has been toppled several times through fire and earthquakes.
The most recent took place in 1856 and the Agios Titos had to be rebuilt from scratch.
An interesting thing about this reconstruction is that it took place under Ottoman rule, so the current design is actually intended as a mosque.
The minaret was pulled down in 1920, and the church was given an Orthodox renovation in 1925. Among the relics inside is the skull of St Titus, which was originally taken back to Venice in the 17th century, but has now been returned to the church.
12. Morosini Fountain
Down from the Loggia, Lions Square is one of the liveliest places in the old centre of Heraklion.
Tourists pass through on their tour of the city take the weight off at cafe tables, potter around the shops and line up for ice creams.
All eyes are drawn to this monument, unveiled in 1628 after more than a year of construction.
It was fed by an aqueduct that channelled water 15 kilometres from Mount Juktas.
Rising from the lower basin is an octagonal pedestal with the four lions that give the square its name.
That basin below has eight lobes and has reliefs with images from Greek mythology like nymphs and the god Triton.
13. St Mark’s Basilica
A few metres from the Morisini Fountain is the grand portico of another monument from Heraklion’s Venetian era.
St Mark’s Basilica was built as soon as the Venetians conquered the city in the 13th century and is dedicated to their patron saint.
The basilica was a symbol of Venetian power, and was the venue for official ceremonies and the place where the Venetian nobility were laid to rest.
The basilica became a mosque in Ottoman times, when its bell tower was replaced with a minaret that was eventually pulled down in the 20th century.
Today it’s Heraklion’s Municipal Art Gallery and opens its doors almost every day.
14. Amoudara Beach
Beginning on the western shoulder of Herakion’s city centre, Amoudara is a sandy beach that extends for another six kilometres.
Five of the bathing areas along the way are awarded the Blue Flag each year for their amenities and the quality of the water.
The beach is long enough to suit people who want some energy and crowds, and those who are happy to travel a bit further for peace and seclusion.
The beach gets moderate waves and has the right wind conditions for windsurfing.
Carry on past the western edge of Amoudara and you’ll come to the majestic Almiros Gorge, at the entrance of which is the Almiros Wetlands, a green oasis against Crete’s arid landscape.
15. Wine Tourism
One way to get in touch with Crete’s ancient history is to take a trip into the ancient, hilly landscape to the south of Heraklion.
Above 300 metres you’ll begin to see vineyards, growing grape varieties like Greek Vilana, Vidiano and Mandilaria, but also Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, to name a few.
To take things to the next level you can book a tour and tasting at three wineries near Heraklion: Domaine Paterianakis, Lyrarakis and Douloufakis.
Lyrarakis calls on local varietals and has helped to revive two ancient Cretan wines, Plyto and Dafni.
You’ll take a tour of the facilities, wrapped in idyllic countryside, hear firsthand winemaking insights from the owners and sit down to a guided tasting session.
15 Best Things to Do in Heraklion (Greece):
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Historical Museum of Crete
- Venetian Harbour
- Koules Fortress
- Venetian Walls
- Agios Minas Cathedral
- Venetian Loggia
- St Catherine of Sinai
- Natural History Museum of Crete
- Agios Titos Church
- Morosini Fountain
- St Mark's Basilica
- Amoudara Beach
- Wine Tourism
19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Heraklion
Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 27, 2023
Many travelers arrive on Crete in Heraklion and continue on to other parts of the island without allowing much time, if any, to see the sites. But this city, the island's capital and chief port, is full of history and attractions in and around the Old City. It has a beautiful waterfront area with seaside restaurants, several important museums, and lovely squares where you can easily spend an afternoon in a street-side cafe. The vibrant Old City is of most interest to visitors, and it's worth taking some time to see.
In ancient times, Heraklion was the port of Knossos, where the Minoans, Europe's oldest known civilization (they lived on Crete between 2700 BC and 1450 BC) traded gold, ceramics, and saffron. Today, visiting the Minoan Palace of Knossos is one of the top things to do in Heraklion.
Enjoy your visit to this city and plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions in Heraklion.
The Palace of Knossos
Koules fortress, heraklion archaeological museum, natural history museum of crete, cathedral of st. minas, historical museum of crete, agios titos church, morosini fountain in lion square, loggia (town hall), walking along the waterfront, shopping in the old town, walk the ancient venetian walls, ammoudara beach, el greco museum, fodele, cretaquarium thalassocosmos, day trip to matala, day trip to the palace of phaestos, heraklion, greece - climate chart.
Crete's biggest and best-preserved Minoan site lies just five kilometers southeast of Heraklion. It is one of the most important tourist attractions on Crete.
A vast monumental palace, with four wings built around a spacious central courtyard, Knossos is believed to have been the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos . Remarkably sophisticated, it included ceremonial spaces, living areas, storage rooms, elaborate decoration, and a complex drainage system.
Although excavations show that there was a palace here as early as 2000 BC, what you see today dates mainly from 1450 BC. Take into consideration when touring the site that some slightly over-imaginative reconstruction from the early 20th century has taken place. The frescoes you see are replicas; the originals are in Heraklion Archaeological Museum .
Buses from the Old Town leave every 15 minutes for Knossos during the summer season, making it extremely easy to visit. If you have your own car, parking is free.
You can easily spend a morning or afternoon strolling around the Old Town, seeing the sites and soaking up the atmosphere. Heraklion grew up around the sea, and still today, the old town focuses on the harbor.
The most notable monument along the harbor is the 16th-century Venetian Fort of Koules . Fishing boats line the shore, where a walkway runs along the waterfront.
Across the road but fronting the harbor are the Venetian Arsenals , easily recognizable by the stone facade and huge archways. This is where the Venetians repaired their ships. To the west of the harbor, the scenic promenade stretches along the sea and is lined with seafood restaurants.
The Old Town is protected by a circuit of massive defensive walls, which have been demolished in parts. Inside, its pedestrian-only streets are lined by aristocratic buildings, churches, and boutiques, and open onto leafy squares with fountains and busy cafés.
Occupying a prominent position on the waterfront of Heraklion, the Koules Fortress is an impressive Venetian fortress dating from the early 16 th century. An easy and scenic walk from the shoreline along a breakwater takes you to the main entrance located on the right-hand side.
Although it's an imposing sight from afar, the recently renovated interior is equally, if not more, impressive. Grand wooden doors open into rooms where period pieces are on display, and plaques offer insight into the history. With walls as thick as 8.7 meters, it's quiet and cool, making it easy to spend time exploring the 26 rooms and vaults. Inside these quiet chambers are historical artifacts like old cannons, amphora (pots), and stone carvings.
Incredible views out to sea and over the harbor towards town can be had by climbing the stairs to the roof. If it's windy, be sure to watch out for sea spray from the waves crashing against the rocks.
Magnificent 3,500-year-old frescoes from Knossos, including Prince of the Lilies and Bull-Leaping, are on display at this museum. Be sure to check out the Snake Goddess, a glazed ceramic figurine of a lady holding two snakes, dated 1600 BC, and the Phaistos Disk, a clay disc bearing a curious spiral of symbols from around 100 BC.
The museum's treasures are spread out over 27 different galleries and cover more than 5,500 years of history. The courtyard area has the preserved remains of the Venetian Monastery of St. Francis, destroyed in an earthquake in 1856.
This world-class museum is Heraklion's principal tourist attraction, apart from the actual site of Knossos, and lies in the eastern part of the old town.
Address: Xanthoudidou 1, Heraklion, Crete
A visit to the Natural History Museum of Crete is an ideal thing to do for families. Situated right on the waterfront and just down from the Historical Museum, this is an impressive modern museum that showcases the best of Crete.
Fun activities for children and adults include an earthquake and tsunami simulator. In addition, an entire floor is devoted to stuffed animals that live or once lived around the Mediterranean Sea. Make sure you try out the illusion exhibit for a mind-bending experience.
Also on display are artifacts from the Palace of Knossos. Displays have information in multiple languages. The building is bright and air conditioned, and makes for a good escape from the mid-day heat in Heraklion.
Official site: https://www.nhmc.uoc.gr/en
Dedicated to the patron saint of Heraklion, the Cathedral of St. Minas is an impressive building located in the Old Town. Dating from the late 19 th -century, this is the largest church in Crete, and it's renowned for its extensive religious iconography.
The church interior has beautifully painted walls lit up by a stunning chandelier. One of the must-see frescoes is located in the dome, showing Christ Pantocrator. In front of the church is a lovely square.
This is an active church with regular services and is also the seat of the Archbishop of Crete.
With a succession of foreign occupiers, Crete's history is complicated but fascinating. This museum traces 1,700 years of history on the island, from early Christian times to the modern era.
You'll see religious icons, stone carvings, ceramics, textiles, and folk costumes from the Byzantine, Venetian, and Turkish periods, as well as somber space dedicated to the Cretan Resistance Movement and those who lost their lives during WWII.
Particular highlights include two paintings from the 16th century: The Baptism of Christ and the View of Mt. Sinai and the Monastery of St. Catharine.
Everything is well presented and clearly labeled, and there's a peaceful garden café. You'll find it in a restored neoclassical mansion, a 10-minute walk west of the old harbor.
Address: 7 Lyssimachou Kalokairinou Street, 71202 Heraklion, Crete
Official site: http://www.historical-museum.gr/eng/
You'll most likely come across this historic church as you walk the pedestrian zone of Heraklion. It is unmistakable, with two massive palm trees in front.
The original Agios Titos Church was built here late in the 10th century. Over the years through a series of earthquakes and disasters, the original buildings tumbled to ruins. The solid looking building that stands here today dates from the mid 19th century and was once a mosque.
If it's open, take a look inside the church and be sure to look up to see the chandeliers. The square in front of the church is leafy and green with several small cafés featuring patio seating.
The Morosini Fountain is at the center of Heraklion's Old Town, not far from the Loggia. It's an ideal place to orient yourself as you explore the warren of streets in the surrounding area.
Dating from 1628, this fountain, surrounded by mature trees and cafés, is the center of action in the old city. When the weather is warm, you'll almost always find a lively scene of locals and tourists enjoying the surrounding cafés and ice-cream shops. In the evening, the square around the fountain hums with people enjoying the nearby nightlife.
The Morosini Fountain played an important role in providing drinking water to the citizens of Heraklion. It was originally connected to a 14-kilometer aqueduct and brought water to the city from the slopes of Mt. Juktas.
Restored to its original condition after years of neglect, today the fountain consists of four lions with water pouring out of their mouths into a pool below.
Located in the heart of the Old Town is the Loggia, which today operates as Heraklion's town hall. Considered by many to be Crete's best-preserved Venetian building, this impressive structure is free to enter and worth a quick look. The large shady arcade under the arches is a great place to escape the intense summer sun.
Built by Morosini, the building dates from 1628 and is a reproduction of the famous Basilica in Vincenza, albeit on a much smaller scale.
Nearby is a wonderful area of narrow streets lined with restaurants with patios, as well as interesting shops.
If you've arrived after a long flight or ferry ride and would like to stretch your legs, a stroll along the waterfront is a great idea. Some of Heraklion's best seafood restaurants, an ancient fortress, museums, and amazing views are what you'll find here.
The walks consist of two sections: the main waterfront stroll, running along the sea from east to west; and the breakwater walk, which extends out past the historical fort.
The waterfront stroll starts at the breakwater and runs east to the traffic roundabout past the ancient Venetian arches and west to the Natural History Museum. This is the option you'll want to choose if you want to stop for a bite to eat or learn a bit about the island.
To take the breakwater walk , head towards the ancient Koules Fortress and keep going. This 4.6-kilometer return walk takes you out into the sea and provides great views back towards the city and mountains in the distance. At about the halfway point, some interesting tile work adorns the breakwater.
This can be a hot walk in the middle of the day. The high breakwater stops the prevailing winds, so it can be still and humid and there is no respite from the sun.
The Old Town of Heraklion has close to 1,000 shops, many of which are found in the extensive maze of pedestrian-only streets. Located in among the narrow streets and alleys, you'll find lovely restaurants, hidden patios, and retail shops selling pretty much anything you can imagine.
If you are on the hunt for the perfect souvenir from Crete, head to the pedestrian-only 1866 Street , known as the Central Market . This narrow street is full of vendors, with wares piled high and spilling out onto tables. You can find shirts, fridge magnets, jewelry, linens, and all manner of kitsch for sale. If you have no room in your bags, don't worry, even luggage to transport all your new purchases is available.
The shops, restaurants, and cafés are literally everywhere in the Old Town. Just pick a street and start walking, take random turns, and you'll be amazed at what you discover.
The Old Town area of Heraklion is surrounded on three sides by massive Venetian Walls that tower above the surrounding city. The walls date from the Middle Ages but have been improved and enlarged over the millennia. Today, after much hard work and persistence, the walls have been restored to their former glory, and today are a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to walk and explore.
Access is generally near a gate, and once on top of the walls, your views out over the Old Town and surrounding areas are impressive. The walls stretch for approximately 4.5 kilometers.
Only five minutes from downtown Heraklion is Ammoudara Beach. Golden sand and clean, clear waters backed by tavernas await the sun starved.
Small to medium sized waves, perfect for bobbing about in, are usually common here as is a cooling breeze. Sun beds and umbrellas are free to use if you purchase drinks or food from one of the roaming waiters. The beach is long and fairly wide, also perfect for strolling.
If the wind is up, this is one of Crete's most popular spots for kiteboarding . A kite school offering lessons and rentals is located right on the beach should you wish to try your luck at this fast growing, adrenaline-pumping sport.
In the 16th century, Heraklion was home to an important school of religious icon painters. One of its members, Domenikos Theotokopoulos (1541-1614), went on to become a world-class artist, better known as El Greco.
He was born in the humble village of Fodele, set amid orange groves 28 kilometers west of Heraklion. Today, the stone cottage where he was born is a museum. Theotokopoulos moved to Spain in 1577 and lived and worked there until his death. His paintings are noted for their intense color and drama, and you can see several reproductions of his works here.
Address: Fodele, 71500 Heraklion, Crete
Fans of historic churches will want to be sure to swing by the impressive Cathedral of St. Minas. This building was started in 1862, and work continued for 33 years until its completion in 1895.
The cathedral is usually open, so take a few steps inside and gaze up at the impressive frescoes on the walls and ceiling. Also of note are the colorful stained-glass windows. Depending on the time of day you visit, the light shining through them is mesmerizing. At the front of the cathedral near the altar is a massive chandelier.
At this huge modern aquarium, you can see 2,500 marine species from the underwater world of the Mediterranean, swimming around in 1.7 million liters of seawater.
A fascinating day out for kids and adults alike, it has 32 vast glass tanks displaying everything from hunter sharks to minuscule seahorses, jellyfish, turtles, lobsters, and octopus, all in beautifully-lit turquoise sea water against a backdrop of rocks, sand, and seaweed.
The aquarium is located at a former American military base in Gournes, 13 kilometers east of Heraklion. A lovely on-site café with outdoor seating serves quick bites and cold drinks.
Address: Gournes, 71003 Heraklion, Crete
Official site: https://www.cretaquarium.gr/en
The long and wide stretch of beach at Matala is protected on two sides by rocky headlands, creating a calm, clear beach, perfect for swimming. On one side, the rock face is riddled with caves, which make this one of the most unique beaches to visit on Crete. The other side is home to restaurants that overlook this beautiful stretch of sand and the turquoise waters of the bay.
Overlooking the Libyan Sea, 67 kilometers southwest of Heraklion, Matala is one of the most visited resorts on Crete's remote south coast. Unlike places like Plakias, where tourists tend to spend several days or more, Matala is more of a day-tripping destination and does not have much by way of seaside accommodation. Hotels and other amenities are located in the town, back from the beach, although restaurants line the edge of the beach and one entire side of the bay.
Matala was made famous by the hippies in the 1960s, who lived here in the caves at the end of beach, including Joni Mitchell, who even wrote about it in the song Carey .
No one is certain how Matala's extraordinary caves were made-some archaeologists believe they were Roman or early Christian tombs.
Phaestos is another magnificent Minoan palace, which some people prefer to Knossos , as it is unrenovated and more atmospheric. What you see today are the ruins of a palace, built around 1600 BC, centering on a spacious paved courtyard and beautifully located on a sunbaked hillside backed by the rugged heights of Mount Psiloritis overlooking the deep blue Libyan Sea.
The views from the site are spectacular, and in summer, it catches a blissful cool breeze. Phaestos was abandoned around 1400 BC, the same time as Knossos, and archaeologists still have to find a good explanation why. It lies 62 kilometers south of Heraklion, just a 15-minute drive from Matala .
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Exploring Crete: For ideas on how to spend your time and what to see on this beautiful Greek Island, see our guide to the Top Tourist Attractions on Crete. One of the most popular tourist destinations is the seafront city of Agios Nikolaos . The outstanding nearby beaches, shopping, and great dining will make you want to linger here. Other good options are Rethymnon , with a similar atmosphere to Heraklion, but smaller, and the scenic city of Chania .
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Heraklion Sights & Attractions
The Minoan Palace of Knossos
The Minoan Phaestos Palace
The Caves of Matala
Discover the Best Sights in Heraklion! The region of Heraklion has many interesting sites to visit, including archaeological sites, fortresses, and various monasteries. As it is a lively tourist-friendly destination, there are also places for children to have fun.
In brief, the top places to visit in Heraklion include the Minoan Palaces of Knossos and Phaistos and the Venetian structures in Heraklion Town, like the Koules Fortress and the Morosini Lions Fountain .
You can see the best Sights of Heraklion below : Ancient sites, Museums, Churches, Castles, and more points of interest . You can filter all attractions by category and location. After seeing all the sights, don't skip checking out All Things to Do in Heraklion (best beaches, villages, restaurants, and more)
Minoan Palace of Knossos
The Minoan Palace of Knossos, the largest and most famous Minoan site, lies about 5 km south of Heraklion Town. Discovered in the early 20th century by the British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans, the site covered an area of 20,000 square meters with around 1,300 rooms at its peak. It boasts magnificent frescoes and still bears witness to the ancient Minoans' advanced engineering knowledge.
Phaestos Minoan Palace
The Minoan Palace of Phaistos is the second most important Minoan site in Crete after Knossos. Enclosed by Mount Ida and the mountain ranges of Asterousia and Dicte, it bears many architectural similarities to Knossos, but on a smaller scale and without many labyrinths.
Koules Fortress
Koules Fortress is the symbol of Heraklion Town. It stands at the entrance of the port and dominates the lovely Venetian harbor. The fortress was originally built by the Venetians in the 13th century but underwent some transformations by the Ottomans, who ruled Crete till the late 19th century.
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Morosini Lions Fountain
The Venetian Morosini Fountain was constructed in 1628 and it is one of the most distinctive landmarks of Heraklion Town, as it boasts four imposing lions, as well as relief sculptures. It is located in the city center, in the on Lions (or Eleftheriou Venizelou) Square.
Minoan Palace of Malia
Malia Archeological Site preserves evidence of residential, commercial, and industrial activity of a city from 3500 years ago. This is the third largest Minoan palace and is attributed to the mythical King Sarpedon. The complex includes grain silos and storehouses with sophisticated drainage systems.
Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion boasts one of the richest collections not only in Greece but also on an international level. It houses findings exclusively from the most important Minoan centers, such as Knossos and Phaistos, as well as from other ancient sites, like Gortyn and Arhanes.
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The caves of Matala were chiseled by hand on the rock formations right above the beach thousands of years ago. They are thought to have served as residences in prehistoric times, while, during the 1960s, they became famous for housing an international hippie community.
Mount Ida Psiloritis
Psiloritis is the highest mountain in Crete, with Mount Ida being the highest summit (2456 meters) and one of the best places to go hiking on the island. The wild landscape of Psiloritis is truly magnificent and on the mountain, you will come across many caves, gorges and forests.
Venetian City Wall
The Venetian Walls at Heraklion are part of the old town. The construction project started with the purpose of reinforcing the pre-existing Arabic and Byzantine fortifications but under the threat of a war, a total reconstruction started to seem necessary.
Gortyn Ancient Site
The city of Gortyn was one of the strongest in ancient Crete. It lies 44 km southwest of Heraklion, close to the villages Agioi Deka and Kasteli. It is here that the famous Gortyn law code as well as a superb Roman Odeon were excavated. The findings testify to the prosperity of the ancient city of Gortyn, which used to be an ally of Rome and the capital of Crete and Cyrenaica.
Venetian Loggia
Temporarily closed In the center of the town, close to the old port of Heraklion, there is an impressive building, the Venetian Loggia. This elegant building that now houses the Town Hall was constructed in the 17th century and was used as a meeting point for the noblemen.
Cretaquarium
Founded in 2005, this is the largest aquarium in the Mediterranean. It presents marine life in impressive reproductions of the Mediterranean natural landscapes, offering visitors a chance to see over 2,000 creatures that belong to 200 different species.
Heraklion Art Gallery
Housed inside the Basilica di San Marco, in the heart of Heraklion Town, the Municipal Art Gallery boasts an extensive collection of over 900 works tracing the evolution of Cretan artistic creation from its beginnings to its more recent expressions. Visitors can see paintings, sculptures, engravings, icons and mosaics.
Portela Gorge
Portela Gorge is located in the southeastern part of Crete and it is 4.6 kilometres long, up to the area of Keratokampos. Hiking there usually lasts about 2-3 hours and the gorge is very popular among experienced canyoners.
Panagia Kaliviani
The Monastery of Panagia Kaliviani is located close to Moires village, in the southwestern part of Heraklion. It is a relatively modern monastery, as it was probably built in the early 20th century.
Agia Ekaterini
The church of Agia Ekaterini of Sinaites was built in the 13th century by the Venetians and, during Ottoman rule, it was converted into a mosque. The church is located in the heart of the town, next to the church of Agios Minas and today houses a collection of rare 15th and 16th-century icons.
Asterousia Mountains
Asterousia Mountains is a 60-km-long mountain range in southern Heraklion, stretching between the Messara Plain and the Libyan Sea. It is one of the most unique places in Crete, being ideal for visitors who enjoy hiking and exploring off-the-beaten-track paths.
Agios Titos
The church of Agios Titos was originally constructed in the 10th century by the Byzantines. Later on, it was renovated by the Venetians and, when Crete was conquered by the Ottomans, it was turned into a mosque. This is where the skull of Saint Titus is guarded.
Ancient Rizinia
The ancient town of Rizinia, in the area of Prinias, is located about halfway between Gortyn and Knossos. Archaeological excavations have revealed the ruins of two Archaic temples, a Minoan sanctuary and a necropolis.
Kotsanas Museum
Housed in the Venetian mansion Palazzo d' Ittar, in the heart of Heraklion Town, the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the secrets of ancient Greek technology, through a collection of highly advanced devices, such as an automatic servant, an automatic theater, a hydraulic clock and the Antikythera mechanism.
Kazantzakis Museum
This museum is housed in a modern building in Myrtia. Nikos Kazantzakis was born in Heraklion and is considered to be one of the most important Greek writers of the 20th century.
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Visit Heraklion: Top 13 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
Things to do in heraklion: the 13 best places to visit and highlights.
You want to visit Heraklion , the capital of Crete , and you’re looking for the best things to do ?
You’re at the right place!
In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 13 best places to visit in Heraklion , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.
In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Heraklion (and its surroundings!) in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.
And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips to make the most of your stay.
So, what to do in Heraklion? Where to stay?
1. The archaeological museum of Heraklion
2. the palace of knossos, 3. koules fortress, 4. the old town of heraklion, 5. churches to see in heraklion, 6. the historical museum of crete, 7. natural history museum of crete, 8. beaches in heraklion, 9. the best activities to do in heraklion, 10. heraklion wine region, 11. excursion to the lagoon of balos from heraklion, 12. visiting santorini from heraklion, 13. the 7 best day trips from heraklion, how many days to visit heraklion, visit heraklion in 1 day, visit heraklion and its surroundings in 2 days, visit heraklion in 3 days, visit heraklion in 4 or 5 days or a week, where to stay in heraklion, where to eat in heraklion, rent a car in heraklion, renting a boat in heraklion, tourist map of heraklion, you’re traveling to crete these articles will help you, visit heraklion: 13 must-see attractions.
The archaeological museum is the main attraction of Heraklion and certainly the most interesting museum to visit during your trip to Crete .
It has a magnificent collection which gives you a very precise idea of the history of Crete lasting over 5500 years , from the Neolithic to the Roman period. But its fame is mainly derived from the many objects from the Minoan civilisation.
Completely renovated, the museum is modern and I really liked the chronological organisation of the 27 rooms as well as the explanatory panels translated into English (quite rare in Greece …).
Among the most famous objects to see at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, the many artefacts from the Palace of Knossos (see below):
- The statuettes of the snake goddesses
- The Bull’s head rhyton with golden horns, a kind of vase used during religious ceremonies
- The frescoes: the “Prince of Lillies”, the “Parisian” or the Dolphin fresco.
To visit the archaeological museum of Heraklion, you need a priority access ticket if you don’t want to wait for hours.
You can buy it easily by clicking on the green button below:
If you have also planned to visit the Palace of Knossos (another unmissable spot in Heraklion that I mention below) in addition to the museum, the best option is to go for a combined ticket.
The ticket also includes an audio guide (in English) to download on your smartphone before the visits.
You can buy it directly by clicking on the button below:
As I told you, the Palace of Knossos is the other unmissable tourist spot in Heraklion.
If you are an archaeology and history buff, you should include it into your tour in Crete.
The Knossos ruins were first uncovered in 1878 , but it was not until 20 years later , under the leadership of Sir Arthur Evans, an archaeologist, that the archaeological excavations really began.
The latter, who put the majority of his savings and 35 years of his life in this endeavour, was thus responsible for the discovery of Minoan civilisation (which he chose to name in reference to King Minos , a legendary figure in Crete).
In its heyday, the palatial complex contained the private residences of the king and queen , as well as several residences reserved for officials and priests.
There were also thermal baths , warehouses where large jars containing oil, wine, and cereals were stored, grain silos, workshops and a theatre.
There are no two ways about it, there isn’t much left of the buildings today, but one of the main features to see during your visit to Knossos is :
- The bull’s head fresco and its red and black columns that can be found in all the photos representing the Minoan palace
- The fresco room where copies of the original frescoes are kept, you can admire the originals at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
- The throne room where, according to Sir Evans, King Minos used to sit (in reality it would have been a room where religious rituals took place)
- The megaron of the queen where the famous Dolphin fresco is located
- The Prince of Lillies fresco (Southern end of the central courtyard)
- The giant Pithoi: the huge jars used for storing food and wine.
All the practical information can be found in my dedicated article: Visit the Palace of Knossos.
The visit to the Palace of Knossos really goes hand-in-hand with the archaeological museum, so you must to buy a combined ticket to visit both sites (excellent idea for 1 day).
Here’s where you can book it:
If you only want to visit the Minoan palace of Knossos , you can book one of the tickets below (by clicking on the orange link):
- Priority access ticket with a digital tablet that shows the relics in the palace in 3D + English audioguide
- Priority access ticket with a audio guide that can be downloaded on your phone
- Guided tour of the Palace of Knossos in English – Small group of 8 people maximum
- Private tour with a guide in English, German or Italian (no French options at the moment).
Among the things to see in Heraklion , you must visit the fortress of Koules.
Located at the entrance of Heraklion harbour, it was built by the Venetians in the 16th century . Recently renovated, you can visit the interior and see the exhibition dedicated to the history of the city and the monument.
At the moment there is also a temporary exhibit on the discovery of several wrecks and a French ship “La Thérèse” by Captain Cousteau off Heraklion. Unfortunately, the explanatory panels are only in Greek, which is a shame.
You can then climb the ramparts and enjoy the view of the port and the city.
The entrance fee is €4.
Where to park in Heraklion?
Since part of the historical centre is reserved for pedestrians or residents’ vehicles, you must leave your vehicle behind before going there.
You will find several car parks (covered or open-air) in the small streets around the historical museum of Crete just before arriving at the fortress.
The old town is the best place to walk in Heraklion.
From the fortress, you must take the main street, “25 Avgoustou” which crosses the old town and explore the small alleys in the surrounding area.
All lined with shops and nice restaurants with shaded terraces, you’ll feel like wandering around and stopping for a drink or sampling local specialities.
Things to see in the old town of Heraklion:
- Agiou Titou Square, where the Basilica of Agios Titos is located
- The Venetian loggia, a beautiful 17th century building where the nobles met to discuss economic life. It is now home to Heraklion Town Hall.
- Saint Mark ‘s Basilica (see below)
- The Morosini Lions Fountain, named after the governor of Crete who commissioned it in 1628. It is located on Plateia Venizelou, one of the most lively spots in Heraklion.
- Rue 1866 and its many shops, which will leads to the Bembo fountain, the first fountain built in Heraklion.
When visiting Heraklion, everything can be covered on foot. You won’t have much choice here, as access to the old town is reserved for pedestrians.
But if you can’t walk too long, you can also take the hop-on hop-off bus that makes a circuit around the historical centre.
There are stops at the fortress, the archaeological museum and the bus even goes up to the Palace of Knossos , which can be really practical if you don’t have a car.
To book your Hop On Hop Off bus tour in Heraklion, just click on the green button below:
During your stay in Heraklion , you can admire several religious buildings:
- Church of Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul: built in the 13th century under the Venetian rule, it is located on the seafront, not far from the Venetian port and the fortress. You can admire it from the outside as it is rarely open to the public.
- The Basilica of Agios Titos that I mentioned earlier in the section on the historical centre of Heraklion. This pretty cathedral was originally a Byzantine sanctuary. The site was later converted into a Catholic church before becoming an Ottoman-dominated mosque and then an Orthodox church. Inside, you can see pretty woodwork and beautiful icons. Free entry.
- The Agios Minas Cathedral: Built in the 19th century, it is now one of the largest in all of Greece. The dome with its ceiling adorned with frescoes is really worth a look. Free entry.
- The Basilica of Agios Markos, dedicated to the patron saint of Venice , built in the 13th century. Today, it houses the municipal art gallery where works by Cretan, Greek and foreign artists are exhibited. Free entry.
You’re going to Heraklion?
You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!
The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Heraklion on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!
Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!
So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Heraklion.
And if you see a good offer, book it!
Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.
To check the current best deals for your hotel in Heraklion, simply click on the green button below 😎:
Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Heraklion!
You must take the opportunity during your trip to Heraklion to visit the historical museum of Crete.
This museum is comprehensive and very well thought out, and will take you on a journey through the history of Crete for over 1700 years.
Using interactive terminals and an audio guide available in English , you can browse the various rooms with a collection of objects dating from the Byzantine period to the Second World War.
Among the master pieces, you will find 2 Greek-style paintings , an impressive model of Heraklion and numerous Venetian jewels.
Entrance ticket price: € 5 Note that the museum is closed on Sundays.
It’s an excellent place to visit in Heraklion if it’s raining!
This touristic guide of Heraklion continues with another museum to visit: the Natural History Museum of Crete.
Located on the seafront and not far from the historical museum, here you can discover the fauna and flora of the island.
In fact, if you are interested in this subject and you have also planned to visit Chania during your itinerary in Crete , you must visit the botanical garden of Crete.
I have discussed this in more detail in my article here: What are the best things to do in Chania?
Coming back to the museum, it was completely renovated this year and features numerous reconstructions of the Mediterranean ecosystem, a vivarium and a space reserved for the fossils discovered in Crete.
Make sure to see the life-size model of the Deinotherium , a gigantic mammal that lived on the island 9 million years ago!
Part of the museum is also dedicated to the study of earthquakes.
Do you want to take some time to refresh yourself on your visit to Heraklion?
I’ll get this out of the way, you won’t be able to enjoy the most beautiful beaches in Crete in Heraklion.
The closest beach to Heraklion is Karteros beach , which runs parallel to Amnissos beach , but they are just next to the airport and are therefore not very quiet.
You can also go to Ammoudara beach , 4 km away from the historical centre. It is the best known beach for swimming in Heraklion but it is often windy.
If you’re looking for better beaches, you must go to Agia Pelagia , about twenty km from Heraklion.
Here is a list of the best activities to do during your holidays in Heraklion, during your road trip in Crete . To make it easier for you, I have classified them into 2 categories.
We’ll start with the water/sea activities (click on the orange links to reserve):
- My favourite activity to do in Heraklion is a superb boat trip to the island of Dia . You will have the chance to go snorkelling in a beautiful spot and spend a great day.
I would particularly recommend this cruise because it accommodates only a small group of up to 10 people and also includes a good meal.
However, it is important to book in advance using the green button below, as the 10 seats fill-up quickly and there is only one cruise per day:
- Boat trip with barbecue lunch included and bathing stops – A little different from the previous trip, since you will be travelling along the coast of Heraklion.
- First scuba diving experience with an English- speaking instructor – The team is really very nice and will help build your confidence.
- Jet ski rental on Ammoudara beach
- Parasailing – Still at Ammoudara beach
- Snorkelling trip with an English -speaking instructor – The best way to discover the island’s underwater fauna!
- Diving session for experienced divers with Open Water or Advanced Open Water options. On the agenda: the magnificent El Greco cave or the wreck of the Messerschmitt, a German fighter from the Second World War.
- Diving course lasting over several days to get your Padi Open Water certification
- Night diving or diving at the wreck of the Byron (a huge cargo ship) for certified divers – English speaking instructor.
Here is my selection of other activities to do in and around Heraklion:
- Quad bike tour with an English-speaking guide – Half day (1 outing in the morning or afternoon) – An excellent off-beat route! This is our favourite among the Travel Tips!
- Quad bike – Same as the one above but without an English-speaking instructor. Starting in the morning, afternoon or at sunset.
- Canyoning down in the Kalami Gorge with 11 rappelling descents – And with an English-speaking instructor, which is the cherry on the cake!
- Horseback riding in the Cretan mountains + Lunch with all family farm products included – Also available without lunch by clicking here.
- Guided tour of Heraklion on electric bike followed by an excellent mezze tasting – Duration: 2 hours
- Cretan cooking classes to learn how to make the famous tzatziki, stuffed vine leaves and other specialities of the island
- Typical Cretan and Greek dance classes – Duration: 2 hours
What are the things to do in Heraklion with children?
If you have decided to visit Heraklion with your family , you must take your children to:
- CRETAquarium (ticket available for purchase here!) , to admire the fish of the Mediterranean.
- Acqua Plus water park (ticket available here!) – Toboggan rides, lazy river, swimming pool, and more than 50 attractions for the whole family to spend a great day!
- Watercity Waterpark – Another water park located near Heraklion that also offers plenty of slides, rafting, a wave pool…
- Dinosauria Park with its life-size reproductions of moving dinosaurs. In addition to the ticket price, you will also have access to the planetarium and a 5D film.
What are the things to do around Heraklion?
You now know the things to do in Heraklion! It is time to continue your holiday in Crete by exploring the surroundings.
I have prepared my selection of the best things to do in the vicinity of Heraklion.
Most of the wines produced in Crete come from the South of Heraklion .
All around Heraklion , you will find about twenty wineries , some offering wine tastings .
Some of the best-known ones are:
- The Lyrarakis estate that has received many awards for its white grape varieties. Tastings start from €10. You can book these on the official website.
- Diamantakis is one of the few estates to produce the red wine “Petali Liatiko”. Tastings are available by reservation only from Mondays to Fridays, closed on weekends.
- The Gavalas estate, Crete’s largest organic wine estate. Open Monday to Friday. Book here.
If you don’t want bother with the reservations or if you don’t have a car , you should opt for an organised trip to visit the estates.
And what’s great is that you will also have an English -speaking guide to accompany you all day long.
The best wine tour includes:
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel
- Visit to an olive oil production estate + tasting
- Visit to a wine estate + tasting of 5 different wines
- Lunch with Cretan specialties included.
Book your guided visit to Heraklion wine region by clicking on the green button below:
And if you want to go on a little more upscale trip, you can also choose to participate in a tasting of 15 different wines with a visit to 2 estates.
Guests can also enjoy an excellent gourmet lunch in one of the best restaurants in the area.
Click here to book!
The lagoon of Balos is one of the most beautiful places to see in Crete.
It’s not really close to Heraklion but if you are planning to stay only in this part of Crete and not in Chania (much closer to Balos), it would be a shame not to not visit this place.
From, Heraklion you shouldn’t go by car because it takes too long.
The best option is to choose an organised trip. The bus will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel and will take you to Kissamos where you will embark on a magnificent cruise.
The boat will drop you off at the island of Gramvoussa where you can swim and then return to the lagoon of Balos where you will then have the rest of the day to enjoy.
Book your trip to the Lagoon of Balos from Heraklion by clicking on the button below:
To learn more about Balos , you should read my dedicated article: Visit Balos Beach.
As with Balos, Santorini is not really near Heraklion.
And yet, from the port of Heraklion , you can go in a high-speed boat and find yourself in Santorini, in the Cyclades , in just 2 hours and 30 minutes!
Once in Santorini, a bus will take you around the island , with an English-speaking guide. A visit to the 2 most famous and picturesque villages of the island is on the agenda: Oia and Fira.
You will have about 90 minutes minutes in the first village and 2 hours and 45 minutes in the second, which gives you ample time to click beautiful pictures of the white and blue houses.
The bus will then take you back to the port to take the ferry back to Heraklion.
Book your trip to Santorini from Heraklion now by clicking on the green button below:
To visit Heraklion and its surroundings , if you haven’t rented a car, you will have to go on an organised trip with transport included because public transport is not very developed here, apart from the main cities.
Here is my selection of the best trips to take from Heraklion.
For more details about the prices and reservations , just click on the orange links:
- Hiking in the Samaria Gorge, an unmissable hiking experience. Round-trip transport + English guide. All the information is in my dedicated article: Visit the Samaria Gorge.
- Cruise to the famous island of Spinalonga + stop for a swim on the splendid beach of Kolokitha + discover the seaside resorts of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos – If there are no seats available, you can also book here!
- From Heraklion – Day on the pink sand beach of Elafonissi , one of the most famous beaches on the island. To find out more, read my article: Visit Elafonissi.
- One-day Land Rover Safari across the Lassithi Plateau with an English-speaking guide
- Jeep safari to Preveli beach, among the best of the most beautiful beaches to go to Crete – Lunch included in a traditional tavern – English-speaking guide
- A trip to the small island of Chrissi , renowned for its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Also available here if the other trip is already full.
- Visit to Chania, Lake Kournas and Rethymnon – The best way to see 2 of Crete’s most beautiful cities in one day!
To visit the city of Heraklion itself and discover the main places of interest, it won’t take you more than a day.
But if you want to visit Heraklion and its surroundings, add a few activities, day trips, and you have plenty to keep you busy for a whole week.
I’ll give you an idea of the itinerary.
Are you planning to spend a day in Heraklion? It’s enough to visit the city and see the main places in my top things to see list.
Here is an example of a walking tour of Heraklion in one day:
- Visit to the historical museum of Crete
- Visit Saint Peter and Saint Paul church
- Explore the Koules fortress
- A walk through the old town of Heraklion, up Rue 25 Avgostou
- Visit to the archaeological museum of Heraklion
- Explore the Agios Minas Cathedral
- (Optional visit to the Natural History Museum of Crete )
- Take your car or the bus back to reach the Palace of Knossos .
You can also start by visiting the Palace of Knossos in the early morning and resume your itinerary from the historical museum of Crete to spend the rest of the day in Heraklion.
For 2 days in Heraklion , you can continue from the schedule of the first day and add the following for the second day:
- Road trip or organised trip to the wine region of Heraklion with wine tastings
- Relaxation at Ammoudara beach where you can rent a jet ski or parasail
If you are not too interested in the wine estates, you can also choose another activity. Here are my recommendations:
- The cruise in a small group to the island of Dia
- Boat trip with swimming stops and barbecue lunch
- First scuba diving experience with an English- speaking instructor – Excellent safety conditions, so you can have good time and the team is super friendly
- A quad bike tour to drive on the tracks and discover places off the beaten track – Another benefit: your instructor speaks English!
If you have 3 days in Heraklion , in addition to the previous 2 days, you must go on a trip to Balos .
Believe me, you won’t regret getting up early to see this heavenly place!
If you are staying for 4 days or even plan to spend 5 or 6 days or a week in Heraklion , you can choose any of the trips.
My top 3 are:
- Hiking in the Samaria Gorge
- Cruise to the famous island of Spinalonga
- From Heraklion – Day on the pink sand beach of Elafonissi
To organise your week-long tour from Heraklion , you must read my article: 7-day itinerary in Crete.
- Intra Muros Hostel: Hostel located a 5-minute walk from the old town. Dormitory bed from 21€. Strong points: comfortable, warm welcome, cleanliness, roof terrace. The best choice for cheap accommodation in Heraklion!
- Kronos Hotel: Located just next to Heraklion fortress. Double room with impeccable cleanliness and balcony (some with a sea view) from 65€, breakfast included. Strong points: the location is perfect for visiting Heraklion, good breakfast and friendly staff.
- Atrion Hotel: Located in the historical centre. Comfortable and warm double room with balcony from 85€, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent location and excellent breakfast. It’s my favorite hotel for its excellent value for money in Heraklion!
- DOM Boutique Hotel: Located in the heart of the old town. Modern, spacious and elegantly decorated double room from 110€, breakfast included. Strong points: excellent breakfast, attentive staff, setting, very good bedding. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Heraklion!
- GDM Megaron: This 5-star hotel is also located in the centre of Heraklion, not far from the Venetian port. The hotel offers beautiful rooms with a balcony from 190€, breakfast included. Strong points: rooftop swimming pool, wellness area, exceptional breakfast, great staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Heraklion!
- Peskesi: Located in the historical centre of Heraklion, on rue Kapetan Haralampi. The restaurant serves delicious Cretan dishes with an original twist. The food is fresh, hearty, reasonably priced and everything is served in a very pleasant and warm setting. We loved it!
- Merastri: Located on Chrisostomou street, away from the old town. Very typical dishes in ample quantities, superb setting, warm welcome, dessert and liqueuer offered, excellent value for money, I highly recommend it! It’s best to reserve a table for this restaurant in Heraklion!
- Plani: Located in the old town, rue Ariadnis. Here too, you will have the opportunity to taste delicious Cretan specialities in a small and very charming inner courtyard. The cheap prices and extremely friendly staff are the highlights.
If you are interested in local specialities, this guided tour should also please you.
Your guide will take you to small stalls and the Heraklion market where you can have coffee, olives, cheeses, pastries and wines.
How to get to Heraklion
To get to Heraklion, the best is to take a flight.
Heraklion Airport is just a 10-minute drive from the city centre.
As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices. You have to know that the flight prices to Corsica can vary a lot throughout the year!
So to check the rates and schedules, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:
Heraklion can also be reached by ferries from the port of Piraeus in Athens . It’s 8h30 to 9h30 journey.
You can also get to Heraklion from many Greek islands of the Cyclades archipelago: Santorini, Naxos , Paros , Mykonos, Tinos .
And lastly, there is a boat that allow you to get to Heraklion from the island of Rhodes .
To check prices and schedules of ferries to Crete, simply click on the button below:
Heraklion can be mostly explored on foot.
But if you want to make the most of your stay and go on a small road trip in Crete and have complete independence when exploring the most beautiful places around Heraklion, renting a car will be absolutely essential.
To compare the car rental prices in Heraklion easily and quickly, you must use Booking.com Cars .
The site is really very convenient because you can directly compare the rates of the different international (Hertz, Europcar) or local rental companies present at the airport.
Click on the button below to compare car rental rates for your trip to Heraklion:
If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Crete, you should book it with Samboat.
Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!
So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Crete? 😊
To help you visualise the city a bit better, I have created this tourist map of Heraklion , with all the best places to visit and things to do in Heraklion and its surroundings.
You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a small arrow on it.
So what have you planned to in Heraklion?
Discover all my articles about Crete : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Crete are listed there.
- 27 Best things to do in Crete : All the best places to visit and activities
- Itinerary: 4-5 days in Crete – Itinerary to prepare a short stay in East or West Crete
- Itinerary: One week in Crete – The perfect itinerary to visit Western Crete
- Itinerary : 7 days in Crete – The best itinerary to visit East Crete in 1 week
- Itinerary: 10 days in Crete – How to visit Crete in 10 days
- Itinerary: 2 weeks in Crete – The perfect itinerary for 14-15 days in Crete
- Road trip to Crete: The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10 and 15 days
- Chania : The 15 best places to discover
- Heraklion : TOP 13 places to visit
- Rethymnon: The 13 best things to do
- Balos Beach : All my best tips to visit Balos Lagoon!
- Elafonissi Beach : The definitive guide to discover Crete’s famous pink sand beach
- Palace of Knossos: The definitive guide to visit the most famous archaeological site of Crete
- Samaria Gorge : How to plan the best hike in Crete
- Where to stay in Crete? The guide to the best hotels, ordered by city and budget
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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.
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Many Minoan treasures are kept at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the best place in the world to study this civilisation. Let’s explore the best things to do in Heraklion: 1. Knossos. Source: Timofeev Vladimir / shutterstock. Knossos Palace. At semi-mythical Knossos is a Bronze Age city and palace built by the Minoan civilisation.
Today, visiting the Minoan Palace of Knossos is one of the top things to do in Heraklion. Enjoy your visit to this city and plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions in Heraklion. On This Page: The Palace of Knossos. Old Town. Koules Fortress. Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
See buildings and impressive structures that stood the test of time and monuments of important figures of history as you walk the corners and streets of Heraklion. And to completed these man-made wonders are the natural landscapes of the region that you can explore in luxurious tours.
Things to Do in Heraklion, Greece: See Tripadvisor's 120,196 traveller reviews and photos of Heraklion tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in October. We have reviews of the best places to see in Heraklion. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
In brief, the top places to visit in Heraklion include the Minoan Palaces of Knossos and Phaistos and the Venetian structures in Heraklion Town, like the Koules Fortress and the Morosini Lions Fountain. You can see the best Sights of Heraklion below: Ancient sites, Museums, Churches, Castles, and more points of interest.
You want to visit Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and you’re looking for the best things to do? You’re at the right place! In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this guide of the 13 best places to visit in Heraklion, with all points of interest and must-see attractions.