Heraklion

In the heart of Heraklion, just a few steps from the Morosini Fountain, the Basilica of Agios Markos —also known as St. Mark’s Basilica —stands unobtrusively amid the bustle of Lions Square. We appreciated this striking contrast: outside, the cafés are bustling, and passersby come and go; inside, the building’s understated architecture invites you to slow down. Originally a Venetian church converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era, it now houses the Heraklion Municipal Art Gallery. A brief … [Read more...] about Basilica Agios Markos (Heraklion): visit + photos

Heraklion, the bustling capital of Crete, isn’t the most well-known destination for boutique hotels. The city’s hotel scene is dominated by large, standardized chains. However, a few establishments stand out for their distinct character, attention to detail, and a more intimate experience. Whether you’re looking for a historic landmark, a laid-back seaside atmosphere, or a concept centered on contemporary art, here is our selection of the best boutique hotels in Heraklion and the surrounding … [Read more...] about 5 best boutique hotels in Heraklion (2026): our reviews

Exploring Heraklion? The Historical Museum of Crete, also known as the Historical and Ethnographic Museum, is a must-see for anyone who wants to understand the island beyond its ancient past. We were surprised by the breadth and coherence of its collections, which trace over a thousand years of the island’s history, from early Christian times to the present day. In this article, check out our photos and all our tips for making the most of your visit to the Historical Museum of Crete. In this … [Read more...] about Historical Museum of Crete (Heraklion): visit + photos

Are you passionate about ancient history? The Palace of Knossos, just a few kilometers from Heraklion, is one of Europe’s most important archaeological sites. We were struck by the sheer scale of the site from the moment we stepped onto it: here, the Minoan civilization—Europe’s first major Bronze Age civilization—left a legacy that is both monumental and enigmatic. In this article, check out our photos and all our tips for making the most of your visit to the Palace of Knossos. In this … [Read more...] about Palace of Knossos (Heraklion): visit + photos

Good food is part of the travel experience! Heraklion is brimming with great dining options, from Cretan taverns in the small squares of the old town to elegant restaurants serving innovative cuisine and contemporary cafés. We dined at several restaurants in the Cretan capital and were won over by the richness of the cuisine, from farm-fresh ingredients to olive oil-based desserts. In this article, you'll find the restaurants we tried during our trip, as well as a selection of additional spots … [Read more...] about Where to eat in Heraklion: best restaurants (+ tips)

Planning to visit Heraklion by car?Here's everything you need to know about stress-free parking: Is it difficult to park in Heraklion? Parking in Heraklion is a serious business, especially in the city center. The medieval alleyways are narrow, traffic density is high, and local habits don't help: double-parking is commonplace. We found this to be the case during our visit to the Cretan capital. The problem remains acute all year round, with a notable peak from June to September, when ferry … [Read more...] about Where to park in Heraklion (tips, parking lots, etc.)