The important part of the nightlife in Heraklion is its nightclubs, which drag people from all around the globe, offering up an amazing party time, huge dance floors, outstanding DJs playing international and Greek hits, and all-night-long events. Find below the best 8 Pubs & Bars in Heraklion.

Nightlife in Crete

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and is known for its beautiful Venetian cities of Chania and Rethymnon, its crystal clear seas and for its beautiful beaches.

Even Crete’s nightlife does not disappoint and really offers something for everyone. The island has earned a reputation as one of the best Greek island revellers and the seaside resorts of Malia and Hersonissos are a favourite among young people who want to dance and dance until dawn.

Every locality is full of nightclubs of all kinds with DJs playing music until late at night. There is a wide range of entertainment to suit all tastes and all ages, from foam parties to traditional Cretan evenings with music and dancing.

The Nightlife in Heraklion: The Best Pubs & Bars

Heraklion is the largest city in Crete with a rich history, from the Minoan civilization to its courageous resistance against the German invasion, during the Second World War. Its nightlife is much more relaxed and elegant and is mostly frequented by the local youth.

The city offers many opportunities to spend an evening: You can have a drink at sunset, dine in one of the taverns selling traditional Cretan cuisine and then head to one of the many more crowded nightclubs. There is an interesting variety of bars and clubs.

In the centre of Heraklion found Early Street, a pedestrian street full of cafes with Greek and foreign music throughout the year. The street attracts mostly young people. In the taverns of the city, you can enjoy Greek traditional and modern folk music while drinking Greek ouzo.

Jailhouse Rock Bar

Open Monday to Saturday from 18.00 to 4.00.

After you have seen Morosini Fountain (Lion’s Fountain), come to this bar. If you want to try some delicious beer, Jailhouse Rock Bar is a decent choice for you. Rock, metal, punk and country music by Johnny Cash, and Johnny Rotten are the ammunition of this pub.

Xalavro Open Bar

Open daily from 9.00 to 4.00.

Xalovra is a magnificent open-space bar located in the heart of Heraklion.

This atmospheric place came out from the ruins of a house from the 1900s!

Far from your usual piña colada holiday fare, this is where you can get a whisky soda laced with popcorn, or a vodka swizzle featuring avocado and black pepper.

Each summer Xalavro organizes a Cocktail Festival where you can try some of the best drinks mixed by bartenders from all over the world.

Dish Bar

Open daily from 9.00 to 4.00 am.

Located in Agios Titos Square in the heart of the city, Dish Cafe Bar Restaurant is a favourite of the local nightlife, with its delicious local and Mediterranean cuisine and rare label whiskey, vodka, liquor and snacks. Excellent service, a relaxed atmosphere and selected Greek music guarantee a good dose of pleasure.

Almyra Seaside

Open daily from 9.00 to 2.00 am.

This bar-restaurant enjoys a unique location right next to the sea on the bay of Agia Pelagia, west of the city of Heraklion. Chef Petros Kosmadaskis offers traditional Greek memorable meals at good prices while the service is friendly and the drinks and cocktails are excellent.

Swing Thing

Open daily from 19.00 to 2.00.

If you love cocktails, this is the place for you!

The cosy atmosphere of this place makes guests feel relaxed and have a nice time. A number of reviewers consider the staff accommodating. Service at this spot is something one can name prompt. From the guests’ viewpoint, prices are average. As for the Google rating, this bar achieved 4.8.

The Bitters Bar

Open from 20.00 to 4.00.

The Bitters Bar is a bar in the speakeasy-style reminiscent of the era of US prohibitionists. The bitter herbs are distilled with herbs and spices that were originally used for medical reasons, later becoming an ingredient for cocktails like the ones served here. The bar is also open from early in the morning for coffee.

Guernica Bar

Open daily from 12.00 to 4.00.

The Guernica bar is famous for its history and traditions and is featured in many guidebooks around Crete. The place is very popular and always full of people. The main reason to come here is the music, but cocktails and wines are also not left behind!

Stone Cocktail Bar

Open Monday through Thursday from 21.00 to 5.00, Friday and Saturday from 21.00 to 6.00.

The Stone is a bar in a minimalist industrial style and cocktails located in Korai Square, in the centre of Heraklion. The bartender experts prepare classic cocktails such as martini dry, daiquiris and mojito, plus unique cocktails, such as the Mastiha Sour (based on the traditional Greek drink Mastiha) and the Ginger Tini (for those who are attracted to the spicy flavours).

Let us all know in the comment below what is your favourite bar in Heraklion!