It boasts a beautiful natural setting and attracts history enthusiasts from all over the world! Its beautiful capital, Heraklion Town, is one of the busiest cities in Crete.Even though it has an often crowded city center, the main Town keeps its unique vibe. Our travel services are loved by our customers who rate us and have earned us the Silver Award at the annual Tourism Awards in Greece.Learn about us and read our customer reviews → The famous beach of Matala Discover the town of Heraklion
Best Things To Do In Heraklion in Crete
Heraklion city has a fascinating history stretching back thousands of years. This is a shame, as there’s lots of interesting things to discover when you visit Heraklion town. Heraklion is the largest city on the Greek island of Crete, and an entry point for most visitors to the island. To explore beyond Heraklion, rent a car or scooter for easy access to nearby villages and beaches. April to October offers warm, sunny weather perfect for sightseeing and beach days, with May, June, and September being especially pleasant and less crowded. Aquila Atlantis Hotel – With a rooftop pool and panoramic harbor views, it’s perfect for city stays with a touch of glamour.
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Many people believe that Knossos palace is the one mentioned in the myth of the Minotaur. Legend says that the magnificent Minoan palace of Knossos was built by King Minos. The Palace of Knossos is the most famous archaeological site in Crete. Two days would be perfect in order to see all the important Heraklion sights and discover a few curiosities along the way.
Seasonal adjustments or special rates may occur, so verify prices shortly before your visit. Most visitors encounter only minor leakify hub erotic photos issues such as occasional petty theft in crowded places. With its mix of authenticity and accessibility, Heraklion makes an excellent introduction to Crete.
EXPLORE HERAKLION!
- Ten years ago Marc Moskowitz wrote a book and made a documentary about the game of Go in modern China.
- The single most important archaeological site is the Palace of Knossos, about 5 kilometers south of the city center.
- Down by the water, the 16th-century Koules Fortress watches over the harbor entrance, its thick stone walls a reminder of the Venetian period when Heraklion, then called Candia, was a linchpin of maritime trade and defense routes.
- Discover the highlights of Heraklion to experience during your holiday!
Eleftherias Square and the pedestrianized 25th of August Street are perfect for strolling, shopping, and soaking up the local atmosphere. Its vibrant cafes, bustling markets, and modern art galleries add a lively edge to this historic hub. While the city’s past is ever-present, Heraklion also buzzes with contemporary energy. Known as Europe’s oldest city, Knossos is believed to be the home of King Minos and the labyrinth of the Minotaur. The city’s Venetian walls, built to protect against Ottoman invasions, are among the best-preserved fortifications in the Mediterranean.
The most popular destinations to visit after exploring Heraklion include Santorini, Chania, Rethymno, and Lassithi! Many of the country’s top hotels are found in Heraklion. Discover the highlights of Heraklion to experience during your holiday!
- Adding a third day gives you time for a nearby beach or a short day trip without feeling pressed.
- To reduce waiting times and enjoy a calmer visit, aim to arrive at opening time or in the late afternoon, avoid the hottest midday hours and consider visiting on a weekday rather than a weekend.
- The Fontana Morosini is found in Eleftheriou Venizelou Square, but the locals call it Lions Square or Lion for short.
- That said, everyday costs like local buses, simple meals and coffee remain relatively good value by broader European standards.
- Chania is often thought to be the prettier town of the two, but undoubtedly Heraklion has more things to see, especially with top attractions such as the Palace of Knossos.
- Hi, I’m Dave, and I’ve been creating helpful travel guides and itineraries for independent travelers on Dave’s Travel Pages since 2005.