![\"visit](\"https:\/\/cretelovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/visit-Heraklion-one-week-itinerary-7-days.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nThis opinion is completely independent<\/strong>, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.<\/p>\n\n Heraklion and its surroundings offer plenty to keep you busy for a week. You can explore the old town, its museums and the Palace of Knossos, while enjoying a variety of excursions throughout Crete. A week will be ideal! <\/p>\n\n If you’re doing a road trip around Crete, 2 to 3 days are enough as you visit the rest as you go along.<\/p>\n\n To help you find your way around our itinerary below, here’s our map of Heraklion’s main tourist attractions:<\/p>\n\n Heraklion’s city center is easily reached on foot, with most attractions concentrated within a 1-2km radius. We found walking the most pleasant way to discover the city. If you’d like to get to more remote sites, the city bus network serves the main tourist areas, the beaches and the airport (more info here<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n By car, traffic can be heavy and parking tricky in the historic center. We recommend Parking Theseus Heraklion City<\/strong><\/em>located at Thiseos 18<\/em>, which offers a convenient valet parking service (approx. \u20ac2-3 per hour). <\/p>\n\n Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Downtown<\/strong> Near Ammoudara Beach<\/strong>, west Inland<\/strong> See our complete selection of the best hotels in Heraklion<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n There are many possible combinations. In this itinerary we try to balance the days and let you discover all the facets of Heraklion. On this first day, we invite you to explore the historic heart of Heraklion. The Cretan capital boasts a remarkable Venetian heritage that bears witness to four and a half centuries of occupation. We took great pleasure in wandering through the narrow streets, where each facade seems to tell the story of an episode in this long history. <\/p>\n\n Start your visit at the Morosini Fountain<\/strong> (Lion Fountain), built in 1628 in Eleftheriou Venizelou<\/em> Square. Its sculpted lions recall the power of the Republic of Venice and its emblem, the Lion of Saint Mark. Not far away, the Loggia<\/strong>, an elegant 17th-century Renaissance building, catches the eye with its graceful arcades and finely decorated facade. Once a meeting place for the Venetian aristocracy, it now houses the town hall. We consider it one of Crete’s finest Venetian relics. <\/p>\n\n Continue your stroll to theChurch of Agios Titos<\/strong>, originally built in the 10th century and rebuilt in its present form during the Ottoman occupation. You’ll also pass the Basilica of Agios Markos<\/strong>, the former seat of the Venetian Catholic Cathedral, now transformed into an art gallery. We recommend a stroll along shopping street 1866<\/strong>, whose traditional market abounds in spices, Cretan herbs and local produce. <\/p>\n\n At the end of the day, head for Agios Minas Cathedral<\/strong>, one of Crete’s most imposing religious buildings. Built between 1862 and 1895, it is dedicated to Saint Minas, protector of the city. Its architecture blends neo-Byzantine influences with classical elements, with a vast dome, two bell towers and a facade that dominates the square. <\/p>\n\n Inside, you’ll see detailed frescoes, Orthodox icons and a huge bronze chandelier. We also enjoyed the nearby Agios Minas Church (1735), which miraculously survived the 1856 earthquake and preserves revered 17th-century icons. <\/p>\n\n The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion<\/strong> is a must-see if you want to understand Minoan civilization. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of Minoan artefacts. Here, we saw the famous Knossos<\/em> frescoes in astonishingly vivid colors, the remarkably fine “Snake Goddess” (2nd millennium BC), and the mysterious Phaistos<\/em> Disc, whose hieroglyphics remain undeciphered. <\/p>\n\n You’ll be amazed by the level of sophistication of this ancient civilization, visible in the delicate jewelry, elaborate pottery and expressive figurines. The chronological presentation allows you to follow the evolution of this culture, from the first settlements to its artistic apogee. <\/p>\n\n Allow between 1h30 and 3h for the visit (\u20ac20, concessions \u20ac12). Book your audioguide tickets now to avoid the queues.<\/a><\/p>\n\n See all our tips<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n Knossos Palace<\/strong>, just 5km south of Heraklion, represents the most important center of Minoan civilization, whose origins date back to over 7000 B.C. Considered the oldest urban site in Europe, it would have been the administrative and religious center of the region. We were fascinated by the myths that originated in this legendary city: the Labyrinth, the Minotaur, Daedalus and Icarus. The palace, built around 1900 B.C., covered an area of 20,000 sq. m. and featured several floors of luxurious, frescoed apartments.<\/p>\n\n The partial reconstructions carried out by archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century will give you an idea of the palace’s grandeur. You’ll see the restored frescoes (including the famous “Prince of Lilies”), the throne room, the characteristic red columns and the inner courtyards. We advise you to arrive early in the morning (8 a.m.), as large groups start around 9 a.m. <\/p>\n\n Allow between 2 and 3 hours for the visit (\u20ac26, combined ticket possible with the Archaeological Museum). Please note that renovation work is underway until 2030, but the site remains open. Book your guided tour now to learn all about this incredible place.<\/a><\/p>\n\n On your return to Heraklion, treat yourself to a seaside day at Ammoudara Beach<\/strong>, just 5km west of the town center. This long stretch of golden sand stretches for over 5km along the north coast. We enjoyed its lively yet relaxed atmosphere, with sections equipped with deckchairs and parasols, but also quieter areas for those seeking peace and quiet. <\/p>\n\n The shallow sea makes it ideal for families. You can reach the beach by bus (approx. 30min) or car (15min). Find out about bus timetables here<\/a>, or consider renting a car<\/a> if you plan to make many return trips. <\/p>\n\n Head east to Crete for an excursion that combines history, nature and coastal scenery. The island of Spinalonga and the town of Agios Nikolaos are an ideal combination for a day rich in discovery. We were struck by the contrasts of this excursion, between the emotion of the historic site and the gentle pace of life on the east coast. <\/p>\n\n The island of Spinalonga<\/strong>, a former 16th-century Venetian stronghold that became a leper colony in the early 20th century, is a place charged with emotion. We were struck by the atmosphere that emanates from these ruins, between the walls of the fortress and the old dwellings. Victoria Hislop’s novel “The Island of the Forgotten” helped make this site known the world over. <\/p>\n\n The boat trip from Elounda<\/strong> takes around 15 minutes and offers superb panoramic views of the Gulf of Mirabello. <\/p>\n\n The town ofAgios Nikolaos<\/strong>, nicknamed the “Cretan Saint-Tropez”, is well worth an extended stopover. Its Lake Voulismeni<\/strong>, linked to the sea by a canal, forms the heart of the town. We enjoyed strolling along the quays lined with restaurants and caf\u00e9s. Agios Nikolaos is about 1h15 drive from Heraklion. Allow a full day for this excursion. <\/p>\n\n See program and availability for guided tour.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n The Kotsanas Museum<\/strong>, dedicated to ancient Greek technology, offers an often overlooked facet of this civilization. Far from the usual pottery, you’ll discover functional reconstitutions of machines and inventions created over 2,000 years ago. We were astounded by the precision of Antikythera’s astronomical computer, considered to be the first analog computer in history. <\/p>\n\n Archimedes’ mechanisms, Heron of Alexandria’s automated theater and ancient surgical instruments bear witness to astonishing sophistication. The interactive aspect of the museum makes it as entertaining as it is instructive, ideal for children and adults alike. <\/p>\n\n Allow 1 to 2 hours for your visit. Next up is the Thirathen Museum<\/strong>, a little-known cultural gem that plunges you into the world of traditional Cretan and Greek music. What makes this place truly unique is that the tour is guided by the manager, a passionate musician who enlivens the explanations by playing instruments and singing. <\/p>\n\n We loved the friendly atmosphere and the generosity of this guide, who shared his passion by singing Cretan melodies. The collection retraces several centuries of musical tradition through rare and meticulously preserved pieces. <\/p>\n\n Allow 30-45 minutes for your visit. See our dedicated article.<\/a><\/p>\n\n The Koules Fortress<\/strong> is the symbol of Heraklion. Built between 1523 and 1540 by the Venetians in the early 16th century, it protected the city and its port against Ottoman invasions. A tour of its ramparts and halls will take you back in time to the turbulent history of Crete. We particularly appreciated the breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea from the fortifications. <\/p>\n\n Today, the fortress hosts exhibitions and concerts, adding a contemporary cultural dimension to the monument. Allow around 1 hour for your visit (\u20ac10). Visit the official website for more info here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n Then enjoy a stroll along the Old Port<\/strong>, where fishing boats rub shoulders with passing sailboats. The atmosphere at the end of the day is particularly pleasant. <\/p>\n\n To plan your road trip:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read more<\/a> >>><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n For our first day’s excursion, we headed west to Crete to discover the island’s two most beautiful Venetian towns. We particularly appreciated the contrast between these two cities, each with its own unique atmosphere. The route from Heraklion runs along the north coast, offering beautiful views of the Cretan Sea. <\/p>\n\n Rethymnon<\/strong>, about an hour and 15 minutes’ drive from Heraklion, boasts a charming old port, the Fortezza fortress<\/strong> and narrow streets lined with colorful facades. Here you’ll discover a remarkably well-preserved Venetian heritage, with fountains and churches that bear witness to a glorious era. We loved the atmosphere of the alleyways, with their mix of traditional caf\u00e9s and craft stores. If your excursion allows, a stop at Lake Kournas<\/strong>, Crete’s only natural freshwater lake, offers a green and peaceful setting. <\/p>\n\n Chania<\/strong> unveils a Venetian port<\/strong> considered one of the most photogenic in Greece, dominated by its iconic lighthouse. Stroll along the restaurant-lined quays and explore the narrow streets of the old town. We recommend this tour for those who want a varied overview of western Cretonia in one day. See program and availability for guided tour.<\/a><\/p>\n\n If you have an extra day or would like to replace one of the excursions on our itinerary, Balos lagoon<\/strong> is a must. Its turquoise waters with changing reflections, fine sand and rocky cliffs create a landscape worthy of a tropical postcard. We were captivated by the shades of blue in this stretch of water. The contrast between the shallow waters of the lagoon and the deep blue of the open sea is striking. <\/p>\n\n The tour includes a stop on the island of Gramvousa<\/strong>, crowned by a 16th-century Venetian fortress. From Heraklion, organized tours take you to Kissamos, where you take the boat. Allow a full day, as the journey is quite long. <\/p>\n\n We strongly recommend booking in advance, as this excursion is very popular in high season. See program and availability.<\/a><\/p>\n\n The Museum of the History of Crete<\/strong> offers a 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, antique maps and period weapons will transport you through the turbulent centuries of Cretan history. You’ll also discover reconstructions of traditional interiors that shed light on daily life in different eras. Allow 1 to 2 hours for your visit (\u20ac8 in summer). Visit the official website for more info here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n The walk along the Venetian ramparts offers a unique perspective on the fortifications that once completely surrounded the city. You can admire the elegant arches of the ancient Monastery of St. Peter and St. Paul<\/a><\/strong>. This building, located in the heart of the town, is a remarkable testimony<\/strong> to the Venetian period<\/strong> in Crete. Built in the 13th century<\/strong>, it has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries. We were impressed by its Gothic architecture<\/strong>. Partly restored, it now hosts a variety of cultural exhibitions<\/strong> and offers a journey back in time through Cretan history. <\/p>\n\n We particularly enjoyed the 1866 shopping street<\/strong> with its traditional market, where the smells of spices, Cretan herbs and local produce create an enchanting atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n Crete’s gastronomy is renowned. Fancy a food tour? Find out more and book.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n And if you’re interested in other subjects, take a look at our list of the best museums in Heraklion<\/a>. There’s also the Sacred Art Museum and the Natural History Museum. <\/p>\n\n Matala<\/strong>, about 1h15 drive south of Heraklion, is famous for the caves carved into the cliffs<\/strong> overlooking the beach. These caves, originally Roman tombs, became the refuge of an international hippie community in the 1960s-1970s. Joni Mitchell and Cat Stevens are said to have stayed here. We found Matala’s atmosphere to be unique, a blend of counter-cultural heritage and Mediterranean lifestyle. You can visit the caves, enjoy the crystal-clear beach and have lunch in the village. <\/p>\n\n If you’re coming on your own, we suggest combining a visit to Matala with a detour to the nearby archaeological site of Phaistos<\/strong>. Some organized tours also include the ruins of Gortyna<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n See program and availability for guided tour.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n According to Greek mythology, Zeus was born in the Grotto of Dikteon<\/strong>, nestled in the Dikti mountains. This sacred site is as fascinating for its mythological significance as for its stalactite and stalagmite formations. We were impressed by the atmosphere inside this thousand-year-old cave. A visit to the cave takes around 45 minutes. <\/p>\n\n The Lassithi Plateau<\/strong>, at around 850m altitude, is one of the few permanently inhabited plateaus in Europe. Surrounded by mountains, this vast green area is distinguished by its traditional windmills and crops. The plateau is about an hour and a half’s drive from Heraklion on winding mountain roads. Bring good shoes to descend into the cave, as the path has steps that can be slippery. <\/p>\n\n See program and availability for SUV tour.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n Elafonissi<\/strong> is one of Crete’s most famous beaches, renowned for its pink sand mixed with crushed coral and its crystal-clear blue waters. We were amazed by the natural beauty of this place, the only one of its kind in Europe. The small islet of Elafonissi can be reached by wading through the shallow waters. <\/p>\n\n Please note: from Heraklion, it’s a 3.5-hour drive on winding roads through the mountains. We recommend this tour for travellers prepared to spend a long day or for those who can combine the visit with an overnight stay in the west of the island. An organized tour greatly simplifies the logistics of the trip. <\/p>\n\n See program and availability.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n The Samaria Gorge<\/strong> is the longest gorge in Europe, stretching 16km through the Samaria National Park in the White Mountains(Lefka Ori)<\/em>. The trail descends from Omalos (1230m above sea level) to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, on the shores of the Libyan Sea. We were impressed by the sheer size of this canyon, whose walls are 300m high in places. The narrowest passage, known as the “Iron Gates”, is just 3m wide. <\/p>\n\n The route passes through endemic cypress and pine forests, along the riverbed and through ancient abandoned villages. We recommend this excursion for walkers in good physical condition. The hike lasts between 5 and 7 hours, depending on your pace. The gorges are open from about May to October (depending on weather conditions). Bring good hiking boots, plenty of water and sun protection. <\/p>\n\nPractical tips for visiting Heraklion in 1 week<\/h2>\n\n
What can you see in Heraklion in 1 week? Is it enough or too long?<\/h3>\n\n
Maps of must-see attractions<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Heraklion](\"https:\/\/cretelovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/map-attractions-heraklion-EN-1024x678.png\")
Getting around Heraklion<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Heraklion](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Town\/i-xZ54vSJ\/0\/Mk272nTwfK3NrTgdP7FdNzK8DrzWmQgsqPKXtxHKv\/L\/IMG_7636-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nWhere to sleep in Heraklion<\/h3>\n\n
WHERE TO STAY IN Heraklion<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n![\"Paralos](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Hotels\/Bestof\/i-fLGMkMK\/0\/L66bMh6wKn2THJXJcJfvSvzkRCkQB8mzwrnzGBNBL\/L\/heraklion%20bests%20hotels%20-%20life%20beach-2-L.jpg\" "\\"\\"\/")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nOur ideal itinerary: A week in Heraklion<\/h2>\n\n
Day 1 – Highlights of the historic center<\/h2>\n\n
![\"historical](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Venetian-Loggia\/i-tgSmBzX\/0\/KfghqRgFdxPJkFMvm925mzdfWQXNtcW5DFx8wb4JG\/L\/Venetian-loggia-heraklion-crete-greece-8090-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nMorning: The old town and Venetian heritage<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Fontiane](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Lion-fountain\/i-zF5MgV8\/1\/KLdjz8n2FgdXN8VMdLnsxcLVxZrDLP9PP7VTgWq8f\/L\/Lion-fountain-heraklion-crete-greece-8092-L.jpg\")
Sightseeing: Agios Minas Cathedral<\/h3>\n\n
![\"](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Best-of\/i-55rGKB9\/0\/MKGxCcbJf3cNdNfnPfVjP8DzHzLrZmQpvn7hPdjxK\/L\/agios%20minas-2-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nAfternoon: Heraklion Archaeological Museum<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Museums](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Archaeological-Museum\/i-LWdmgzS\/2\/KcFX35bkp6WX6xDBwpQQmXJKBMW8fwFRkb9dHrCdt\/L\/archeological-museum-heraklion-crete-greece-8183-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n![\"Heraklion](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Archaeological-Museum\/i-4FKnZPk\/1\/MwZxnPh9QvXkvpqPCLHPgqSGsXvhvT2ZXkc5h5QHt\/L\/archeological-museum-heraklion-crete-greece-8158-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n RENT YOUR CAR IN Crete<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\n
![\"Driving](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Palaiochora\/Drive-Mountains-to-Palaiochora\/i-3FB5j3D\/1\/Kj7Nt7cgMJrhqF2hG3FjcJg77Cvp8csFFZ3hkBMHN\/S\/mountains-crete-greece-5128-S.jpg\" "\\"\\"\/")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nDay 2- Knossos Palace and beach<\/h2>\n\n
Morning: Exploring the Palace of Knossos<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Knossos](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Knossos\/i-bqCx93Q\/1\/KL2NbMQxDds8qpj6zZVLPPbTM5VCV8WvDdW8NQcKx\/L\/palace-Knossos-crete-greece-3537-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n![\"Knossos](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Knossos\/i-JqF7fzL\/1\/KXr8T89CWjffZcRFKpDhWNLFBcXcrj4Xgb4zTppgj\/L\/palace-Knossos-crete-greece-3518-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nAfternoon: Relaxation at Ammoudara Beach<\/h3>\n\n
![\"](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Best-of\/i-JxjP2Zq\/0\/LDsbrD9KGM2qsQWP2wLxzLpK6VJDBDtMXJdRsxjPt\/L\/ammoudara%20beach-2-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nDay 3 – Excursion to the island of Spinalonga<\/h2>\n\n
![\"boat](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Agios-Nikolaos\/Spinalonga-boat\/i-gg6wxXK\/1\/MV7xJvrvDNF4pgXJPLH889z4xxDBtGBz3RwZpvqM5\/L\/boat-spinalonga-crete-greece-7574-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Agios-Nikolaos\/Spinalonga-island\/i-ZD7v5gP\/1\/M3LSRSt4ZqVL5xRQgqZwSzgxqq7rXt2VVXxFvW2sm\/L\/spinalonga-island-crete-greece-7674-L.jpg\")
Day 4 – Crete’s ingenuity<\/h2>\n\n
Morning: The Kotsanas Museum<\/h3>\n\n
![\"](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Best-of\/i-4jjvvKB\/0\/KnxptP6rS4xqbZcWH47tFxM5d6HtfcDKCjMRwJQTw\/L\/museum%20ancien%20greek%20technology-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nAfternoon: Thirathen Museum<\/h3>\n\n
![\"](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Best-of\/i-j24Mj8F\/0\/LXQHt3ZnCBpZh7DbW4StLHqxFqqrwv3JrPj3WF3Xn\/L\/thiraten%20music-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nEvening: Koules Fortress and the Old Port<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Koules](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Koules\/i-ZrcFdwk\/0\/LHpMxsGmX2qCf3x6v8bp7DT2wGhmbg7bWX32s6sRN\/L\/koules%20fortress%20heraklion-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nOUR GUIDE TO Crete<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\n
![\"medium-FR-Crete-eBook-road-trip\"](\"https:\/\/cretelovers.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Medium-Crete-eBook-Cover.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\nDay 5 – Excursion to Rethymnon and Chania<\/h2>\n\n
![\"Chania\"\/](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Chania\/Seafront\/i-fsbrHsm\/0\/MctRtq4KKJz5xGF4W9xKGcZjf9sfsxL5FcDWQgtDM\/L\/chania%20ville%20port%20venitien-L.jpg\")
Morning: Rethymnon<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Rethymnon\"\/](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Rethymnon\/Venetian-Fortezza\/i-nnDGVDW\/0\/KT4R6643xmQsKnP54pc9fZkPP4Zb5mJDFTVtqwhWr\/L\/rethymno_fort-L.jpg\")
Afternoon: Chania<\/h3>\n\n
Day 6: Balos lagoon and Gramvousa island<\/h2>\n\n
![\"Balos](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Balos-Lagoon\/Balos-lagoon\/i-7f6KXQJ\/1\/Mh77wg3TLfdh37p2ZwVKZv3CH8S4NH5Hw89vqLw2S\/L\/boat-lagoon-crete-greece-4596-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nDay 7 – History and wandering<\/h2>\n\n
Morning: The Museum of the History of Crete<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Museum](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Best-of\/i-MVw7rR2\/0\/MhCjP952qXNL8jD5KR3m4qgg7rpXZvJ8FBPxb2vH8\/L\/museum%20of%20crete%20history-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nAfternoon: strolling and shopping<\/h3>\n\n
![\"Monastery](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Heraklion\/Best-of\/i-WMjCP2x\/0\/LGCM36RVGGvPTW8KCCBk4HbXR3ZF6bqBHqbgDfTVw\/L\/monsatery%20st%20peter-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nAlternative 1: Food tour or Culture<\/h2>\n\n
Alternative 2: Excursion to Matala <\/h2>\n\n
![\"Matala](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Matala\/Beach\/i-5v2qXbv\/0\/Krqtr4GQ5rRv8pKz3jN5gg58DQQnnn9638n482DzL\/L\/Matala-beach-crete-greece-6544-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n![\"matala\"\/](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Matala\/Town\/i-J2cVDdH\/0\/KbR5JrFDjFJFJGGj39H2pFBmt3dK2mjdbGpLX5nV4\/L\/Matala-beach-crete-greece-6484-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nAlternative 3: Zeus Grotto and Lassithi Plateau <\/h2>\n\n
![\"Cave](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Malia\/Zeus-cave\/i-6g4CQWb\/0\/Km2JZw3PTN7Wrh2qVNnxjLVmCdP8dmRW6CVwsxdws\/L\/zeus-cave-psychro-crete-greece-7600-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n![\"Lassithi](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Malia\/Lassithi-plateau\/i-CTjxjcm\/0\/KK7DRwLDvScDdh93bkKjBgT8sSKpkX2Q8hLmBWJd4\/L\/windmills-Lassithi-crete-greece-8049-L.jpg\")
Alternative 4: Elafonissi (long route)<\/h2>\n\n
![\"Heraklion](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/West-coast\/Elafonisi\/i-x5dSBxj\/1\/LMSJ4bPHCthWxrHJWmhwRdQ9vDZ7Dr3xKzDHWTsQL\/L\/Elafonisi-beach-crete-greece-4929-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nAlternative 5: Samaria Gorge (hiking)<\/h2>\n\n
![\"Heraklion](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Loutro-coast\/Samaria-Gorge\/i-Kh8dPZv\/0\/MT4CTG99cbdCJcj8K3cCCWkXXwcg7KZbMnwmP3933\/L\/samaria_hike_river-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n
![\"Heraklion](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Excursion-Santorini\/i-cb9zp7F\/0\/NPgQFgzrnwwZBMTcz8P6swkSXpskSb3Q6sNTXcxtd\/L\/Amoudi_Bay_Oia_Santorini_Greece-2114-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n![\"Heraklion](\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Crete\/Themed-parks\/Watercity-Anapolis\/i-bNLv4pt\/0\/LptcWWVqNfJbRfTwGt88dCQNJ7Mqf8DtDjhNcv3fK\/L\/watercity_anopolis-1-L.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n