Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is a dense historical city, marked by centuries of overlapping civilizations. Between Minoan palaces, remarkable museums and beaches accessible from the center, we’ve found that it works better for families attracted by history, museums and cultural discoveries than for those looking only for the beach. Discover our ideas for what to do in Heraklion with children, illustrated with photos. Bonus: useful tips for organizing your family holiday.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Visiting Heraklion with children: a good idea?
For what age group is this city suitable?
In our opinion, Heraklion becomes easier to appreciate from around 7 – 8 years of age, for children capable of appreciating a historical context and walking on uneven floors. The Kotsanas Museum, however, with its interactive replicas of ancient machines, can arouse the curiosity of children as young as 6. Toddlers in strollers will encounter real difficulties: cobbled streets, frequent staircases, uneven floors on most archaeological sites. If necessary, use a baby carrier.
Why visit Heraklion with your family?
The town offers a concentration of varied activities within a compact perimeter: interactive museums, a major archaeological site, a beach accessible in 15-20 minutes by car and a historic center to explore on foot. We appreciated the fact that most attractions are grouped together within 2 km of each other, limiting logistical fatigue. What’s more, Cretan gastronomy is simple and generous, making it well-suited to the needs of children. Heraklion is also a convenient base for visiting other sites on the island.
WHERE TO STAY IN Heraklion
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Downtown
GDMMegaron Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Near Ammoudara Beach, west
Paralos Lifestyle Beach Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Inland
Manili Boutique Suites & Villas – See prices, photos and availability
1. Explore Knossos Palace
Why visit with children?
Knossos is one of the easiest archaeological sites to tell children about. It’s not just a field of ruins: it’s the birthplace of the myths of the Minotaur, the Labyrinth, Daedalus and Icarus. We’ve observed that these stories immediately capture the imagination of children aged 7-8 and over, even those with no prior classical culture. The palace, which extended over 20,000 m² with several floors and frescoed apartments, gives a concrete idea of the sophistication of Minoan civilization. Partial reconstructions carried out since the 1900 excavations allow children to visualize what this inhabited space looked like.
What we liked
We were fascinated by the frescoes still visible, by the scale of the site and by the special atmosphere generated by these open-air remains. A guided tour is highly recommended for families: without a context, children can quickly lose interest in the ruins. We believe that a guided tour transforms the experience and allows children to leave with real images in their minds, rather than a succession of misidentified stones.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: between 2 and 3 hours.
- Horaires :
- Summer (April 1 – October 31): daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Winter (November 1 – March 31): daily, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Opening times vary slightly according to season and period, so please check before you visit.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
- Difficulties and PRM access: uneven terrain, numerous steps. Limited access for people with reduced mobility and baby carriages. Paying toilets near entrance.
- Rates: €20 in high season
- Access: 5 km south of Heraklion, 15min by car, 30min by public transport (line 2, frequent departures from the main station). Consult timetables and fares here.
- Parking: on-site parking.
- Family tip: very busy site, large groups from 9am. It’s best to arrive as soon as the site opens (8am), as organized groups and the heat make for a much less comfortable visit in the middle of the day; or in the late afternoon (5-6pm in summer) for a quieter visit. Renovation and restoration work visible in some areas, site open.
- Book your ticket now to save time!
2. Discover the Kotsanas Museum: ancient inventiveness
Why visit with children?
This is the museum we recommend most to families visiting Heraklion. Where other museums require you to pay close attention to the display cases, the Kotsanas Museum offers working reconstructions of machines invented over 2,000 years ago. You can handle some of the replicas and watch demonstrations, making the visit accessible from around 6 years of age. We were particularly surprised by Antikythera’s astronomical computer, Archimedes’ mechanisms and Heron of Alexandria’s automated theater: all objects that provoke questions in children rather than leaving them indifferent.
What we liked
We loved the interactive aspect of this place, a rarity in a city where most museums remain contemplatively adult-oriented. The visit is as playful as it is instructive, in our experience, and children who love science or mechanics will find it a real source of amazement. The reasonable duration (1h to 2h) is well suited to families, without exhausting the youngest visitors.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: between 1 and 2 hours.
- Horaires :
- Summer (May-October): daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Winter (November – April): Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm, weekends 10am to 5pm.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
- Difficulties and PRM access: steps at the entrance and stairs to connect the 2 exhibition floors. Limited access for baby carriages and PRM.
- Price: €7.
- Access: historic center, near the Koules Fortress, about 10-15 min. on foot
- The nearest parking lot is Parking Iraklio Center, an 8-minute walk away.
- Public transport: “ΤΣ ΛΙΜΑΝΙ” stop. View schedules and rates here.
RENT YOUR CAR IN Crete
- Our preferred agency is Rental Center Crete
everything is included in the price and the service is excellent. No stress! - Choose a car with a decent engine for greater comfort on the few mountain roads.
- Book early for choice.
- If you prefer international brands, compare prices on DiscoverCars
3. Push open the doors of Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum
Why visit with children?
If your family has visited Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a natural extension of that experience. It houses the world’s largest collection of Minoan artefacts, and offers a close-up view of the palace’s original frescoes, whose colors remain surprisingly vivid. We’ve found that children who have already heard of the Minotaur or Minoan civilization find it easier to access the contents of this museum. On the other hand, without prior preparation, the visit may weigh heavily on children under 8, who are unaccustomed to traditional archaeology museums.
What we liked
We were particularly struck by the “Snake Goddess” (2nd millennium BC) and the Phaistos disc, whose hieroglyphs remain undeciphered: two objects that naturally raise questions in curious children. The chronological presentation helps families to follow a common thread and understand the evolution of this civilization without getting lost in the halls.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: between 1h30 and 3h depending on level of interest.
- Horaires :
- Summer (April 1 – October 31): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday, 8am to 8pm; Wednesday, 1pm to 8pm.
- Winter (November 1 – March 31): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm; Wednesday, 10 am to 5 pm.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
- Accessibility for disabled visitors: ramps, elevators, adapted toilets, wheelchairs available.
- Price: €20, concessions €12
- Access: historic center of Heraklion. The nearest parking lot is Parking Theseus Heraklion City, an 8min walk away. Public transport: stop “ΠΛΑΤΕΙΑ ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΑΣ – ΑΣΤΟΡΙΑ”. View schedules and rates here.
- Book your ticket now to save time!
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4. Visit the Koules Fortress on the Old Port
Why visit with children?
Koules Fortress, built by the Venetians between 1523 and 1540 at the entrance to the historic port, is one of Heraklion’s most visually arresting monuments for children. A massive fortress by the sea, with ramparts to explore and an unobstructed view of the Aegean Sea: the setting speaks for itself. We’ve found that this type of venue works well with children who like medieval history or military constructions, from around 6-7 years of age. The visit remains short (around 1h), which is an advantage in a busy schedule.
What we liked
We enjoyed the walk along the harbor to the fortress, which is great to do with children. The view from the ramparts over the Cretan capital and the sea is a highlight of the visit. Note that the fortress also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events: check the program before your visit.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: approx. 1 hour.
- Opening hours: generally 8am to 7pm, but may vary from month to month. Visit the official website for more info here.
- Difficulties and PRM access: uneven ground, numerous stairs and narrow passages. Difficult access for strollers and people with reduced mobility.
- Price: €10.
- Access: near Heraklion’s Old Port. The nearest parking lot is Parking Iraklio Center, a 10min walk away. Public transport: “ΤΣ ΛΙΜΑΝΙ” stop. View schedules and rates here.
5. Bathing at Ammoudara Beach
Why visit with children?
Ammoudara Beach is the most accessible beach from the center of Heraklion and one of the most suitable for families with children. Over 5 km long, it’s easy to find a space without feeling cramped. Its shallow waters are a real asset for families: children can get into the water more easily than on beaches with steeper slopes. We appreciated the coexistence of areas equipped with deckchairs and umbrellas and wilder stretches for those who prefer to settle in freely.
What we liked
We found that Ammoudara fulfils its function as an urban beach without any major inconvenience: the sand is clean, access from the town is direct and services (restaurants, sanitary facilities) are present in the landscaped areas. It’s a good option for a relaxing half-day after a busy cultural morning.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: half-day or full day, depending on your schedule.
- Opening hours: freely accessible beach.
- Difficulties and PRM access: sandy beach, generally accessible. Some landscaped areas make access easier. Even if some beaches are supervised, never leave your children unsupervised.
- Rates: free access. Deckchairs and umbrellas available for a fee in landscaped areas.
- Access: 5 km west of central Heraklion. By bus: approx. 30min. By car: 15min. Consult bus timetables here.
- Parking: possible along the beach, easier off-season.
- Catering: several tavernas and beachside snack bars in landscaped areas.
It’s time to book!
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6. Discover the Natural History Museum of Crete
Why visit with children?
Crete’s Museum of Natural History features exhibitions on the island’s flora, fauna and geology. For many families, the main attraction remains the earthquake simulator, when accessible. This installation seeks to reproduce the sensations of an earthquake with progressive vibrations, allowing children to physically understand the intensity of these phenomena that have shaped Crete’s geological history. Let’s be honest: apart from this installation, the museography is not very captivating and mediation is limited. This museum is best suited to children with a curiosity for the natural sciences or the environment.
What we liked
Our highlight is the earthquake simulator. It’s a memorable sensory experience for children, giving concrete meaning to abstract geographical notions. For the rest, we advise you not to devote an entire half-day to it if your schedule is tight.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h to 1h30 for families.
- Opening hours: open November to April, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; May to October, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed January 1, Monday, first day of Great Lent, Easter Sunday and December 25.
- Difficulties and PRM access: the museum is fully PRM-accessible (slope, lift, toilets) except for the earthquake simulator, which is not PRM-accessible. Information is available in Braille at the reception desk (in Greek and English).
- Prices: €8, reduced €5 (children aged 4 to 18, students, seniors aged 65 and over), free for children under 4.
- Access: the museum is located on the waterfront. Find all access information here, depending on how you arrive.
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7. Explore the old town and its Venetian monuments
Why visit with children?
Strolling through Heraklion’s historic center is an activity that’s accessible to all ages, provided you adapt your pace and distances. The Morosini Fountain (known as the Lion Fountain), the arcades of the 17th-century Loggia and the alleyways around Agios Minas Cathedral form an itinerary that children can approach as a hunt for architectural details. We’ve found that concrete visual references – the sculpted lions, the arcades, the Venetian facades – more easily hold children’s attention than abstract historical explanations.
What we liked
We particularly enjoyed the 1866 shopping street, where the traditional market offers spices, Cretan herbs and local produce in a lively atmosphere. It’s a great way to get children involved in the sensory discovery of the city. A walk along the Venetian ramparts also offers an original view of the fortifications that once surrounded the entire city.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 1h30 to 2h for a leisurely stroll.
- Opening hours: free access at all times.
- Difficulties and PRM access: cobbled streets, sometimes steep, difficult for baby carriages. Limited access for PRMs in some alleyways.
- Admission: free access.
- Access: historic center of Heraklion, on foot from most hotels in the center.
- Family tip: mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit, away from the heat of midday. Avoid strollers on cobbled streets.
- Book your ticket now to save time!
HAVE FUN in: Crete
8. Marvel at the Thirathen Museum
Why visit with children?
The Musée Thirathen is an atypical place that works particularly well with children who are curious or sensitive to music. It’s not a contemplative museum: the visit is guided by the manager himself, a passionate musician who plays instruments and sings during the presentation. We’ve found that this lively format captures attention far beyond what a conventional showcase would allow. Children who are usually bored in museums can be pleasantly surprised by this approach. The collection traces several centuries of Cretan and Greek musical traditions through rare and well-preserved instruments.
What we liked
We loved the friendly atmosphere and the generosity of the guide, who shares his passion without artificial theatrics. The moments when he sings traditional Cretan melodies create a real connection with the place and the local culture. It’s an experience we particularly recommend for families looking for something other than archaeological sites, or who want to introduce their children to Mediterranean music in a lively and memorable way.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: between 30 and 45min
- Opening hours: Summer (May 1 – August 30): Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Winter (September 1 – April 30): Monday to Saturday, 9am to 3:30pm. Always closed on Sundays. Visit the official website for more info here
- Difficulties and PRM access: steps at the entrance and stairs to connect the 2 floors. Limited access for strollers and PRM
- Admission: €10. Access: historic center, near Agios Minas Cathedral
- Nearest parking lot: Theseus Heraklion City parking lot 5min walk away. Public transport: “ΑΓΙΟΥ ΜΗΝΑ” stop. View schedules and rates here
9. Dive into the history of Crete at the Museum of the History of Crete
Why visit with children?
The Museum of the History of Crete covers the Byzantine period right up to the present day, which distinguishes it from the Archaeological Museum, which focuses on antiquity. For families, the detailed models of Venetian ships, old maps and reconstructions of traditional interiors are the most accessible elements for children aged 8-10 and over. We feel that the rooms devoted to the Second World War and Cretan resistance to German occupation are best suited to teenagers, or to children accompanied by parents who can provide context. The museum’s pedagogical approach makes history understandable for a variety of audiences.
What we liked
We appreciated the chronological progression, which allows visitors to follow the history of the island without getting lost, and the diversity of the objects on display, which provide concrete points of interest for children: a period weapon, a model ship, a reconstructed interior speak more directly than a text on a label. This is a museum we recommend as a complement to the Archaeological Museum, for families who want a complete overview of Cretan history.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: between 1h and 2h
- Opening hours: Summer (April – October): Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Sundays. Winter (October – March): daily, 9am to 5pm. Visit the official website for more info here
- Handicap access: museum accessible to handicapped persons, ramps and elevators available. Rates: €8 in summer
- Access: historic center, near St Peter’s Monastery, close to Koules Fortress
- Nearest parking lot: Parking Iraklio Center, 3 minutes’ walk
- Public transport: “ΣΟΦΟΚΛΗ ΒΕΝΙΖΕΛΟΥ-ΙΣΤΟΡΙΚΟ ΜΟΥΣΕΙΟ” stop. View schedules and rates here
Where to eat in Heraklion with children
Restaurant menus regularly feature olive oil, fresh vegetables, local cheeses and stewed meats. Local taverns don’t systematically offer children’s menus, but dishes are easily shared: mezzés, grills, mixed salads. Lunch is generally served from 12 to 3pm, and dinner from 7:30 to 11pm, so you’ll want to plan ahead if your children are hungry early in the evening. We also liked the fact that Cretan restaurants often offer a small dessert at the end of the meal.
Among our addresses, Restaurant Peskesi takes an eco-responsible approach, using products from its own farm and offering olive oil tasting, an original experience to share with curious children. Restaurant Xalali is simpler and more convivial, serving traditional Cretan cuisine in an unpretentious setting that’s perfect for families. Café Tiny Rebels is ideal for parents looking for a quality coffee break with children, in a calm vintage setting.
Where to stay in Heraklion with your family
For families, the historic center remains the most convenient area: the main attractions are within walking distance, and most establishments are well served by city bus routes. Check the availability of family or connecting rooms before booking, as the offer varies from establishment to establishment. For the best choice, we advise you to book as early as possible. Hotels located close to the Theseus Heraklion City parking lot offer a good compromise between accessibility and parking. For a stay with children, we recommend avoiding establishments too far out of town unless you have a car, as distances can quickly become tiring on foot with children. Find out more about where to stay in Heraklion here.
Visiting Heraklion with children in season
Spring (April – May)
This is the period we most recommend for families. Temperatures are mild, sites are open at summer times and visitor numbers are reasonable. Knossos can be visited without the pressure of large groups. Children are better able to cope with walks and long days of sightseeing in these temperatures.
Summer (June – August)
The heat is a factor to be weighed seriously with children: temperatures regularly exceed 30°C (86°F) to 35°C (95°F). Open-air archaeological sites like Knossos become strenuous in the middle of the day. Ammoudara Beach, on the other hand, is ideal, and museum opening hours are extended. We advise you to concentrate your cultural visits in the mornings as soon as they open, and reserve the afternoons for the beach.
Autumn (September – October)
September remains warm and the sea is just the right temperature for swimming. From October onwards, temperatures become milder and the city returns to a calmer rhythm. We appreciate this period for its ability to combine cultural visits and seaside relaxation without any major thermal constraints.
Winter (November – March)
Heraklion remains lively in winter, with temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 15°C (59°F). Museums are open, prices are lower and queues are non-existent. For families, this is a credible option if your children are interested in museums and history, and you don’t have swimming as a priority. Bring warm clothing: rainy spells are still possible in winter, especially between December and February. However, we have found that some tourist establishments and taverns close out of season.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Heraklion suitable for baby carriages?
Not impossible, but we didn’t find Heraklion particularly comfortable with a stroller. Some of the main avenues, the seafront and parts of the town center are relatively easy to navigate, but the cobbled streets, sometimes narrow sidewalks, slopes and frequent changes of surface quickly make getting around difficult. The main tourist sites, such as Knossos and the Koules Fortress, have many steps, uneven floors and little shade in some sections. In our opinion, a baby carrier is often the most practical way to enjoy the sights, especially if you’re planning to visit several sites in one day.
How many days in Heraklion with children?
Two days allow you to cover the main activities without overloading. Three days give you more flexibility and allow you to visit at a more comfortable pace, with time for the beach and breaks. If Heraklion is part of a larger holiday in Crete, one or two days are enough for the must-see sights.
When is the best time to visit Heraklion with your family?
Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are the most suitable periods: moderate temperatures, sites open during summer hours, reasonable visitor numbers. Summer is possible, but requires careful planning to avoid visits in the heat of the day.
What to do if it rains in Heraklion with children?
There are several covered museums where you can spend a good day despite the rain: the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, the Kotsanas Museum, the Natural History Museum (for the earthquake simulator) and the Museum of the History of Crete. The retro-gaming-oriented Video Games Museum may also be of interest to older children.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
What to do in Crete
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful cities
Most beautiful beaches in Crete
Best archaeological sites
Best museums
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Crete
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
Attractions in Heraklion
Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
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