Heraklion Things to Do

The bustling harbour, with its Venetian fortress, is the hub of the city, and encompasses both the ancient fishing harbour and new modern port. Ideal for strolls, the harbour is also home to restaurants and cafes, and frequented by local fishermen, and offers regular ferry services departing for Athens and Santorini.  

 

Heraklion's major attraction, the Archaeological Museum, displays an impressive array of Minoan artefacts, including the most important finds from the civilization which dates back to 1,600 BC, whilst the Historical Museum of Crete celebrates the history and culture of the island, from Byzantine and Venetian sculpture to local folk art.

 

The main commercial centre on the island, Heraklion boasts excellent shopping, from designer clothes to locally-made goods and products. Popular buys and souvenirs include leather goods, jewellery, folk art, olive oil, sponges and local wine. 

 

Offering respite from the heat of the city, the many north-coast beaches around Heraklion include Amoudara, Kokkini Hani and Gouves, as well as a host of hidden coves and quiet inlets to escape to.

 

Activities include swimming, tennis, fitness centres, cycling, horse-riding and rock-climbing, and there is a water park for family fun located between Heraklion and Hersonissos.

 

Being centrally located, most of the island's attractions are accessible from Heraklion. Ancient sites such as Knossos and Phaestos are easily reached from the city, and as well as the many beaches, other day trips include boat trips along the coast and to Spinalonga Island, and across to neighbouring Greek islands or mainland, such as Thessaloniki and Rhodes. Tour the island and visit one of the many mountain villages, such as Fodele, natural sights such as the Lassithi Plateau, the former fishing village of Aghios Nikolaos or the town of Rethymnon.