Would you like to visit Heraklion? You’re right! The lively capital of the island and a multi-faceted historic city! We were seduced by its exceptional heritage, its Venetian influences, its remarkable museums and its rich gastronomy. A veritable Mediterranean treasure trove of ancient history and Cretan joie de vivre!
Discover our 11 ideas for what to do in Heraklion, illustrated with photos we took on site. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Explore the old town and its Venetian traces: the Loggia and the Morosini Fountain
Why visit Venetian heritage?
In the heart of Heraklion, a rich Venetian heritage bears witness to four and a half centuries of occupation. As you stroll through its historic streets, you’ll see the imprint left by this era. We particularly appreciated the Morosini Fountain (Lion Fountain), located in PiazzaEleftheriou Venizelou and built in 1628. Its sculpted lions recall the power of the Republic of Venice and its emblem, the Lion of Saint Mark. Nearby, the Loggia, an elegant 17th-century Renaissance building, will catch your eye. Once a meeting place for the Venetian aristocracy, it now houses the town hall. Its graceful arcades and finely ornamented facade instantly evoke Italian influence. Considered one of Crete’s finest Venetian relics, it blends perfectly with the historic atmosphere of the town center.
Beyond these iconic monuments, we recommend taking the time to explore Heraklion’s historic center, where every stone tells a fascinating story, making the city one of the most beautiful in Crete.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: allow about 1? hours for a leisurely exploration of the old town and its Venetian monuments.
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: cobbled streets may be difficult to negotiate for people with reduced mobility.
- Book your guided city tour now!
WHERE TO STAY IN Heraklion
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Heraklion (coming soon)
2. Discover the Koules Fortress overlooking the Old Port
Why visit Koules Fortress?
The Koules Fortress is the symbol of Heraklion. Located at the entrance to the historic port, this imposing structure was built in the early 16th century, between 1523 and 1540, by the Venetians to protect the city and its port from Ottoman invasions. A visit to Heraklion Fortress will immerse you in the history of Crete, as you make your way through its centuries-old ramparts and ancient halls. You’ll also enjoy a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea and the Cretan capital. Today, Koules Fortress hosts artistic events, exhibitions and concerts, adding a contemporary cultural dimension to this historic monument.
Practical advice
- Access: Koules Fortress is located near Heraklion’s Old Port. The nearest parking lot is Parking Iraklio Center Parking, a 10min walk away. If you take public transport, the “ΤΣ ΛΙΜΑΝΙ” stop is the nearest. View route maps, timetables and fares here.
- Opening hours: generally open from 8am to 7pm, but opening times vary considerably from month to month, so please check here for the latest information.
- Price: €4
- Duration: approximately 1 hour.
- Difficulties: the site is difficult to access for people with reduced mobility. The ground is generally uneven, with many steps and narrow passages.
RENT YOUR CAR IN CRETE
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car with a decent engine for greater comfort on the few mountain roads.
- Book early for choice.
See our tips (coming soon)
3. Visit the Archaeological Museum: one of the most important in Greece
Why visit Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum?
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a must-see on any visit to the Cretan capital. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of Minoan artefacts! It offers a fascinating insight into the civilization that shaped Crete. Here, we saw the famous Knossos frescoes in astonishingly vivid colors. We were fascinated by the finesse of the “Snake Goddess” (2nd millennium BC) and by the mysterious Phaistos disc, whose hieroglyphs have still not been deciphered. You’ll be amazed by the level of sophistication achieved by this ancient civilization, visible in their delicate jewelry, elaborate pottery and expressive figurines. We particularly appreciated the chronological presentation, which allows us to follow the evolution of this enigmatic culture, from the earliest settlements to its artistic apogee. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, a visit to this museum will give you a better understanding of Crete’s unique heritage. The Archaeological Museum is one of the best museums in Heraklion!
Practical advice
- Access: Heraklion Archaeological Museum is located in the historic center. The nearest parking lot is Parking Theseus Heraklion City an 8-minute walk away. If you take public transport, the stop “ΠΛΑΤΕΙΑ ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΑΣ – ΑΣΤΟΡΙΑ”, is the nearest. View route maps, timetables and fares here.
- Horaires:
- Summer (April 1 – October 31) – Monday to Tuesday and Thursday to Sunday, 8am to 8pm and Wednesday 1pm to 8pm.
- winter (November 1 – March 31) – Monday to Tuesday and Thursday to Sunday, 8am to 3:30pm and Wednesday 10am to 5pm.
- We invite you to consult the latest information here.
- Price: €12, concessions €6
- Duration: 1h30 to 2h.
- Difficulties: the museum is accessible to wheelchair users, with ramps, elevators and adapted toilets, and wheelchairs can be borrowed.
- Book your audioguide tickets now to avoid the queues!
4. Admire the majestic Agios Minas Cathedral
Why visit Agios Minas Cathedral?
Agios Minas Cathedral is one of Crete’s most imposing religious buildings and Heraklion’s main Orthodox place of worship! Built between 1862 and 1895, it is dedicated to Saint Minas. We discovered that he is the city’s patron saint. Its architecture stands out from the rest of the town. It blends neo-Byzantine influences with classical elements, with a vast dome, two bell towers and an elegant facade that dominates the square in which it stands. Inside, you’ll find detailed frescoes, Orthodox icons and a huge bronze chandelier.
Not far from the cathedral, you can also see the small church of Agios Minas. Older (1735), we learned that it was once used as a place of worship before the completion of the great cathedral. We recommend a visit, as it miraculously survived the earthquake of 1856 and preserves venerated icons dating back to the 17th century.
Practical advice
- Access: Agios Minas Cathedral is located in the historic center. The nearest parking lot is Parking Theseus Heraklion City a 4-minute walk away. If you take public transport, the “Agiou Mina” stop is the nearest. View route maps, timetables and fares here.
- Price: admission is free.
- Duration: allow between 20 and 30 minutes.
- Difficulties: the building is accessible to wheelchair users: use the access ramp on the right of the main façade.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Crete a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Coming soon!
5. Explore Knossos: the most famous palace of Minoan civilization
Why visit Knossos?
Knossos Palace, just 5 km south of Heraklion, is the most important center of Minoan civilization, dating back to over 7000 BC. Crete’s most fascinating archaeological sites and human history. Considered Europe’s oldest urban site, it would have been the administrative and religious center of the region. We were fascinated by the myths that originated in this legendary city, such as those of the Labyrinth, the Minotaur, Daedalus and Icarus. The palace, built around 1900 B.C., covered an area of 20,000 m² and comprised several floors with luxurious apartments decorated with impressive frescoes. Excavations, which began in 1900, have revealed part of this archaeological gem, which you can explore during your visit. This is one of must-see places in Heraklion and one of Crete’s top attractions.
Practical advice
- Access: Knossos is located south-east of Heraklion, about 15 minutes by car and 30 minutes by public transport (line 2, frequent departures from the main station) from the town center. View route maps, timetables and fares here. On-site parking.
- Horaires:
- Summer (April 1 – October 31) – daily from 8am to 8pm and Tuesdays from 10am to 8pm.
- winter (November 1 – March 31) – daily from 8am to 5pm (and probably only 3pm at weekends).
- We invite you to consult the latest information here.
- Price: €15, but you can buy a combined ticket with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours.
- Difficulties:
- the terrain is uneven, with many steps. Access is therefore limited for people with reduced mobility.
- the toilets, located near the entrance, are subject to a charge.
- It’s a very touristy site. Large tour buses come every day. If you prefer a more leisurely visit, we recommend you come at 8 am (large groups start around 9 am) or in the late afternoon (5 or 6 pm in summer).
- Book your guided tour tickets now, to learn all about this incredible place!
6. Visit the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology
Why visit the Kotsanas Museum?
We loved visiting the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology! It offers a fascinating insight into the technological ingenuity of ancient Greece, revealing an often overlooked facet of this civilization. Far from the usual statues and pottery, here you’ll discover working reconstructions of machines and inventions created over 2,000 years ago. We were amazed, for example, by the precision of Antikythera’s astronomical computer, considered to be the first analog computer in history. The mechanisms of Archimedes, the automated theater of Heron of Alexandria and the surgical instruments of antiquity all bear witness to astonishing sophistication. We particularly appreciated the interactive aspect of this museum. You can watch demonstrations or handle some of the replicas yourself to understand how they work. A visit to this museum is as entertaining as it is instructive!
Practical advice
- Access: The Kotsanas Museum is located in the historic center, near the Koules Fortress. The nearest parking lot is Parking Iraklio Center an 8-minute walk away. If you take public transport, the “ΤΣ ΛΙΜΑΝΙ” stop is the nearest. View route maps, timetables and fares here.
- Horaires:
- summer (May – October) – daily from 10 am to 6 pm
- winter (November – April) – Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm and weekends, 10am to 5pm.
- We invite you to consult the latest information here.
- Price: €7
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
- Difficulties: there are steps into the museum and stairs between the 2 exhibition floors.
7. Taste the famous Cretan gastronomy
Why discover the Cretan diet?
Did you know that Cretan cuisine is one of the most renowned in Greece? It combines simplicity and creativity, sublimating Mediterranean products and flavors. Take a seat in a local taverna and discover authentic cuisine based on fresh, seasonal produce. Olive oil, sun-drenched vegetables, local cheeses and aromatic herbs are at the heart of traditional recipes. We enjoyed tasting emblematic dishes such as dakos, moussaka, spanakopita and dolmades. All accompanied by Cretan wines, grown in the region since antiquity. Each meal is an invitation to explore a different aspect of this centuries-old city. For a full immersion experience, we recommend a visit to a local market or an olive oil tasting in one of Heraklion’s finest restaurants. In fact, Heraklion is now one of only 7 cities in the world to be awarded the title of World City of Gastronomy in 2023! Further proof of the excellence of its culinary tradition.
Are you both a gourmand and curious? Enjoy local dishes on an ultra-gourmet food tour of Heraklion’s emblematic neighborhoods! – Find out more and book
Practical advice
- Restaurant service times: Greek tavernas generally serve lunch from 12pm to 3pm and dinner from 7:30pm to 11pm.
- Prices: expect to pay around €15-25 per person for a full meal with drinks. In Greece, it’s common for restaurants to offer a small dessert at the end of the meal. Usually fresh fruit, yoghurt with honey or a local sweet. This generous gesture will delight sweet palates and reduce the bill!
- Our favorite restaurants in Heraklion: Café Tiny Rebels, Restaurant Peskesi and Restaurant Xalali. Find out more below or in our article dedicated to the best restaurants in Heraklion.
- Tip: try the “mezedes”, an assortment of small dishes allowing you to sample different specialties, and don’t miss the raki, the local brandy often offered at the end of the meal.
8. Discover traditional musical instruments at the Thirathen Museum
Why visit the Thirathen Museum?
The little Thirathen Museum is one of Heraklion’s little-known cultural gems! It allowed us to plunge into the melodious world of traditional Cretan and Greek music. The unique collection of musical instruments it houses traces several centuries of musical traditions through rare and meticulously preserved pieces. What we particularly liked was that the Thirathen Museum is much more than just a collection of musical instruments; it’s a living, interactive cultural experience. What makes this place truly unique is that the visit is guided by the museum manager, a passionate musician who enlivens the explanations by playing instruments and singing. He also recounts the fascinating history of some of the instruments on display. We loved the friendly atmosphere and the generosity of the guide, who shares his passion with authenticity, creating moments of infectious joy as he intones traditional Cretan melodies. A deeply human visit that’s sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a precious memory, even if you’re not familiar with the world of music.
Practical advice
- How to find us: the Museum Thirathen is located in the historic center, near the Agios Minas Cathedral. The nearest parking lot is Parking Theseus Heraklion City a 5-minute walk away. If you take public transport, the “ΑΓΙΟΥ ΜΗΝΑ” stop is the nearest. View route maps, timetables and fares here.
- Horaires:
- summer (May 1 – August 30) – Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- winter (September 1 – April 30) – Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- We invite you to consult the latest information here.
- Price: €10
- Duration: allow between 30 and 45 minutes.
- Difficulties: there are steps into the museum and stairs between the 2 exhibition floors.
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9. Dive into the island’s past at the Museum of the History of Crete
Why visit the Museum of the History of Crete?
The Museum of the History of Crete offers a fascinating chronological exploration of the island, from the Byzantine period to the present day. Unlike the Archaeological Museum, which focuses on antiquity, this museum tells the more recent history of Crete through a rich collection of objects, documents and reconstructions. We were particularly impressed by the rooms devoted to the Second World War and Cretan resistance to German occupation. Detailed models of Venetian ships, old maps and period weapons will transport you through the turbulent centuries of Cretan history. You’ll also discover fascinating aspects of daily life in different eras thanks to reconstructions of traditional interiors. We appreciated the museum’s educational approach, which makes history accessible to all audiences.
Practical advice
- How to get there: The Historical Museum of Crete is located in the historic center, near the Saint Peter Monastery, close to the Koules Fortress. The nearest parking lot is the Parking Iraklio Center a 3-minute walk away. If you take public transport, the “ΣΟΦΟΚΛΗ ΒΕΝΙΖΕΛΟΥ-ΙΣΤΟΡΙΚΟ ΜΟΥΣΕΙΟ” stop is the nearest. View route maps, timetables and fares here.
- Horaires:
- summer (October – March) – daily, 9am to 5pm
- winter (April – October) – Monday to Friday, 9am to 3:30pm and Saturday, 10am to 4pm
- We invite you to consult the latest information here.
- Price: €5 in winter, €8 in summer
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
- Difficulties: the museum is accessible for wheelchair users, with ramps and elevators.
DISCOVER Heraklion
- What to do in Heraklion (coming soon)
- Best hotels (coming soon)
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
10. Stroll through the narrow streets to discover the most beautiful monuments
Why visit Heraklion’s old town?
Getting lost in Heraklion’s maze of narrow streets is undoubtedly the best way to capture the authentic soul of this multi-influenced city. As you wander through the cobbled alleys of the historic center, you’ll discover an astonishing mix of Venetian, Ottoman and neoclassical architecture, bearing witness to the Cretan capital’s rich past. We were charmed by the many Byzantine churches nestled between the buildings, such as theChurch of Agios Titos, an emblematic edifice originally built in the 10th century and rebuilt in its present form during the Ottoman occupation. Don’t miss the Basilica Agios Markos, former seat of the Venetian Catholic Cathedral, now transformed into an art gallery. The walk along the Venetian ramparts offers a unique perspective on the fortifications that once completely surrounded the city. Admire the elegant arches of the former Monastery of St. Peter and St. Paul, now a municipal cultural center. We particularly enjoyed the 1866 shopping street with its traditional market, where the smells of spices, Cretan herbs and local produce create an enchanting atmosphere.
Practical advice
- Duration: allow at least 2-3 hours for a leisurely stroll through the historic center
- Difficulties: some streets are cobbled or narrow, some sloping, which can be difficult for people with reduced mobility. In high season, some areas are very crowded.
- Tip: mornings and late afternoons are the ideal times to enjoy the lanes without the intense heat of midday.
11. Lazing on Ammoudara Beach
Why go to Ammoudara Beach?
Just 5 km west of central Heraklion, Ammoudara beach offers the ideal seaside break after exploring the city’s cultural treasures. This long stretch of golden sand stretches over 5 km along Crete’s north coast and is one of the most accessible beaches from the capital. We enjoyed its lively yet relaxed atmosphere, with sections offering deckchairs and parasols, as well as quieter areas for those seeking peace and quiet. The shallow water makes it ideal for families with children.
Practical advice
Ammoudara Beach is 5km from the town center, and can be reached by bus in around 30 minutes, or by car in 15 minutes.
We recommend that you check the bus timetable here, or consider renting a car if you plan to make many trips to the beach and back.
Here’s a map of Heraklion’s top attractions, mentioned in the article, to help you find your way around:
What to do in Heraklion: other ideas
Other museums
The Natural History Museum of Crete may be an interesting option if you have children. Here, they can discover the island’s unique ecosystem, with exhibits devoted to local flora, fauna and geology. However, due to the lack of mediation and the less than captivating museography, its greatest asset, in our opinion, is the earthquake simulator. It faithfully reproduces the sensations of an earthquake, with progressive vibrations. This interactive installation gave us a physical understanding of the intensity of the earthquakes that have shaped Crete’s geological history.
The Christian Art Museum is housed in the Church of St. Catherine of Sinai in the center of Heraklion, near Agios Minas Cathedral. This museum presents a collection of Cretan religious art from the 14th to the 19th century, mainly post-Byzantine icons from the Cretan School of painting. We saw works by the masters Angelos Akotantos (15th century) and Michail Damaskinos (16th century). The collection also includes wall paintings, wood carvings, liturgical objects and manuscripts. You’ll appreciate the diversity of religious art on display, reflecting Crete’s rich artistic tradition.
Other beaches
If you’d like to diversify your seaside experiences around Heraklion, there are several options in addition to the Ammoudara Beach mentioned earlier in this article. Karteros Beach, just 7 km to the east of the town, is less crowded than Ammoudara, yet offers comfortable facilities and crystal-clear waters. Its golden sands and numerous tavernas make it an ideal spot for a relaxing day out. A little further east, Amnissos Beach, an ancient Minoan seaside resort, combines historical interest with bathing pleasures. We appreciated its authentic, family atmosphere, less touristy than other beaches in the region. Both beaches are easily accessible by local bus, or by car, from the center of Heraklion.
Excursions around Heraklion
Discover Crete and its treasures from Heraklion: cruises, diving…
Ideally located on the north coast of Crete, halfway between Chania to the west and Ágios Nikólaos to the east, Heraklion is the ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of Crete. This central location facilitates access to the island’s main sights.
From Heraklion, you can easily organize day trips. Here are a few ideas:
- Discover the Aegean seabed in Agia Pelagia Bay – see prices, availability and book.
- Sail from Heraklion to theisland of Dia with meals and drinks included – see prices, availability and book.
- Discover the Pink Sand Beach of Elafonisi: one of Europe’s most awarded beaches – see prices, availability and book.
- Explore the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos and the village of Elounda on a one-day boat trip – see prices, availability and booking.
- Visit the famous island of Santorini on a day trip from Heraklion – see prices, availability and booking.
Useful tips for visiting Heraklion
Where is Heraklion?
Heraklion is located on the north coast of Crete, Greece’s largest island. Here are the driving times to the island’s major cities:
- Heraklion to Rethymnon = 1h10 drive
- Heraklion to Chania = 2h drive
- Heraklion to Malia = 30min drive
Here is a map to help you find your way:
RENT YOUR CAR IN CRETE
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car with a decent engine for greater comfort on the few mountain roads.
- Book early for choice.
See our tips (coming soon)
How to get to Heraklion
You can also go to Heraklion:
- By car, Heraklion is easily accessible from other Cretan towns via National Route 90, which runs along the island’s north coast. Here are some driving times from the other emblematic seaside towns on the island’s north coast: Rethymnon (1h10 drive), Chania (2h drive) or Malia (30min drive).
- By ferry from Athens (Port of Piraeus), as well as from other Greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos. To reach the Port of Heraklion from downtown, we recommend walking or taking a cab.
- By plane:Heraklion international airport is served by many European cities, including Paris, London, Berlin, Rome and Vienna.
Parking in Heraklion
Parking in Heraklion can be tricky, especially in the historic center where narrow streets and pedestrian zones limit your options. Several underground pay parking lots are available near the center, and we recommend the following Parking Theseus Heraklion Citylocated at Thiseos 18, 71201 Iraklio. It offers central parking with valet parking for your convenience, all for a very reasonable price. Expect to pay around €2-3 per hour.
For free parking, you can try the residential streets beyond the Venetian walls, but be prepared to walk at least 15min to reach the center. We found that the best solution was to park for the day in one of the center’s secure paid parking lots and explore the city on foot, as most attractions are grouped in a relatively compact area.
Getting around Heraklion
- By car, traffic can be heavy, and parking can be difficult, especially in high season.
- To avoid the hassle of driving and parking in the city, you might considerusing public transport. Heraklion has an efficient city bus network for getting around the city and its inner suburbs. The main lines serve the main tourist sites, the beaches and the airport (more info here).
- For trips to other towns in Crete, the central bus station offers regular connections (more info here).
- Cabs are plentiful and relatively affordable for short distances.
- We found Heraklion’s city center very easy to explore on foot, with most attractions concentrated within a 1-2 km radius. Walking will also enable you to better appreciate the atmosphere of Heraklion’s streets and squares.
- You can also opt for a sightseeing bus tour . Hop-on-hop-off buses are a great way to visit all the sights quickly and easily. Book your Hop-On-Hop-Off pass now.
Where to eat in Heraklion
You’re in for a treat in Heraklion! Here are some of our favorite restaurants, which you can find in our article on the best restaurants in Heraklion:
- Café Tiny Rebels: we loved this charming vegan café-brocante, ideal for lovers of cosy, original coffee shops. This little haven of peace, located near Agios Minas Cathedral, offers a culinary experience focused on fresh, local and healthy products. Enjoy specialty coffee, healthy hot chocolates and other refreshing beverages. The warm, vintage atmosphere lets you relax while admiring the vintage objects on display.
- Restaurant Peskesi: not only does this establishment offer refined Cretan cuisine, it is also environmentally responsible. We liked the fact that all the produce used comes from the restaurant’s own farm, where waste is turned into compost. The menu, enriched with historical details, gives a better understanding of Crete’s culinary heritage. We recommend that you opt for the olive oil tasting, a great opportunity to discover the subtleties of this emblematic product of the region.
- Restaurant Xalali: located in the heart of Heraklion, Xalali showcases Cretan gastronomy in a warm, friendly and unpretentious setting. We appreciated the simplicity of the dishes, prepared with local produce and inspired by traditional recipes. Here, the emphasis is on authenticity: simmered meats, tasty mezzés and seasonal vegetables share the limelight. All accompanied by a selection of Cretan wines, renowned for their unique character.
More ideas in our article on the best restaurants in Heraklion.
Are you both a gourmand and curious? Enjoy local dishes on an ultra-gourmet food tour of Heraklion’s emblematic neighborhoods! – Find out more and book
Heraklion in winter
Visiting Heraklion in winter offers an authentic perspective of the city, far from the hustle and bustle of summer tourism. From November to March, the Cretan capital returns to its local rhythm, with mild temperatures (10-15°C – 50-59°F on average) that allow you to explore the historic sites in comfort. You’ll appreciate this season for its more affordable prices and the absence of crowds at museums and archaeological sites. Although some seaside restaurants and tourist establishments close, local life remains lively. Rainfall is more frequent in winter (a maximum of 9 days per month), but rainy days alternate with sunny ones. Bring warm, waterproof clothing and an umbrella, just in case. This is also the ideal season to discover local traditions such as the olive harvest and the religious festivals that punctuate the Cretan winter.
