Heraklion
Eastern Europe and the Balkans · Greece
Did you know?
- Knossos is tied to the legend of the Minotaur.
- Raki, also called tsikoudia, is a strong grape spirit.
- Koules is the harbor fortress beside a historic center enclosed by Venetian walls.
See also
Overview
Heraklion's historic core combines pedestrian streets, Venetian walls and the Koules harbor fortress. A coastal promenade gives sightseeing days a seaside finish.
Languages: Greek
Why go?
Heraklion is the capital of Crete and the main gateway to the Minoan ruins at Knossos, the birthplace of the Minotaur legend. The city's Archaeological Museum holds the world's finest collection of Minoan artefacts. The historic center features a pedestrianized core, Venetian walls, a harbor fortress (Koules), and a coastal promenade. It's an ideal base for exploring central and eastern Crete.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting in
Heraklion International Airport (HER) has frequent flights from Athens and Thessaloniki with Olympic Air and Aegean Airlines, plus Easyjet and charter flights from many European cities. The main bus station, just east of the city walls near the ferry port, connects to other towns on Crete.
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Getting around
The historic center is walkable. Local bus 2 runs from the center to Knossos palace. Taxis are available but not described in the article.
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When to go
Heraklion has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for sightseeing. The Heraklion Summer Arts Festival runs from June to September.
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Where to stay
Budget options include the Heraklion Youth Hostel (check recent reviews), Prince of Lillies Hotel in Karteros (singles from €30), and Mirabello Hotel (rooms €30-55). Life Hotel, near the port and bus station, has doubles around €70.
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Food and drink
Cretan specialties include raki (tsikoudia), a strong grape spirit, and local wines like Marouvas and Kotsifali. Taverns such as Avli (mezedes €4-9, mains €10-16) and Ippokampos serve fresh seafood. Visit the central market for mountain herbs and spices.
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Things to do
The must-sees are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (€12) and the Palace of Knossos (€15). Also visit the Koules fortress (€4), Historical Museum (€7.50), and Natural History Museum (€7.50). For outdoor fun, head to Amoudara beach, water parks, or try horse riding. The city also has a summer arts festival.
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Stay safe
Road safety is poor: pavements are often obstructed, drivers may ignore pedestrian crossings, and motorcyclists frequently ride on pavements. Stray cats and dogs are common; dog packs may bark but generally do not attack if left alone.
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Connect
Free WiFi is provided by the municipality and in many cafes. 3G and 4G mobile networks are available.
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Day trips
Easily reached are Rethymno (1 hr west), Chania (1.5 hr west), and Agios Nikolaos (east). Closer options include the CretAquarium (15 km east, €10) and Lychnostatis Open-Air Museum (east of Hersonissos). For longer excursions, consider Phaistos Palace, Matala beach, or the Samaria Gorge from Chania.
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Go next
Heraklion is well-connected by ferry and bus to other Cretan towns. The main road (E75) runs west to Rethymno and Chania, and east to Agios Nikolaos and Sitia. Nearby islands like Santorini are reachable by ferry.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- sleep
Aquila Atlantis Hotel
Centrally located in a quiet area.
Recorded price: Double €179-380
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- sleep
Astoria Capsis Hotel
Recorded price: €73.5-250
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- sleep
Candia Maris Resort - Adults Only
This 5-star spa resort is on the sandy beach of Amoudara, west of Heraklion. Tennis courts and 3 outdoor pools are featured amidst its 40,000-m² garden.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
7 Thalases
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Avli
Down an alleyway, in the cozied-up courtyard of a nondescript building. You know they are serious when the menu (and the sign) is in Greek only. Don't worry; the owner's daughter speaks perfect English and will sit down with you to explain the choices. A big selection of seasonal mezedhes and a smaller one of main dishes; all are super-fresh and most are local. No house wine; there's a board with today's by-the-glass, and of course a free raki with dessert. Hard to call it a hidden gem, since tourists obviously have discovered the place and are leaving ridiculously glowing reviews all over. They are right.
Recorded price: Mezes €4-9, mains €10-16
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Cooking with love
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Epsilon Restaurant
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Herbs' Garden
The name has been inspired from the traditional Cretan herbs. Offers a spectacular view of Heraklion's Venetian fortress and Cretan Sea. Opens from early afternoon and serves fresh fish and salads accompanied by local aperitifs and a variety of fine wines. Later in the afternoon there is special coffee and tea arrangements, fresh fruit juices, ice cream and cocktails.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
Free municipality WiFi in many public areas; 3G/4G networks available.
Money
Local currency is Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, but cash is preferred in smaller tavernas and markets.
Safety
Road safety is poor; pedestrians should be cautious. Stray dogs are common but generally harmless.