Intro:
A visit to Heraklion, the capital of the island, the fourth largest city of Greece and one of Europe’s fastest growing tourism destinations. Experience the busy life of the citizens and come with us to the biggest open air market of the city. Also visit Cretaquarium or Thalassokosmos located in the small town of Gournes, just outside Heraklion city that hosts sea organisms from over 250 species in more than 60 tanks!
Full Description:
Our day begins with a visit to the city’s biggest open air market that is located in the neighborhood of Pateles, a few minutes away from the city center of Heraklion. Walk around the dozens of stands and be greeted by the friendly merchants who offer their products at very good prices and are willing to give you a taste. Shop around like the locals do and try the high quality products of the Cretan soil.
Next up is the city center of Heraklion. We will have our stop in the city’s main square, the Liberty square and you will have time to scroll around the city center. Visit Daidalou, the main commercial street, have a cup of coffee in the Lions Square or visit the Archaeological museum of Heraklion and discover the greatness of the Minoan civilization. You can furthermore visit the fortress of Koules, one of the strongest fortresses built by the Venetians that is located in the old port of Heraklion. Admire the Venetian walls of the city while learning about the capital of the island.
Our last destination is the Cretaquarium where you can admire various Mediterranean marine species. After the tour, you can have a small break in the aquarium’s bar-restaurant before we head back to your hotels.
Bring your family or friends along to one of Heraklion’s most fun attractions with a full day pass. Bask in the sun and enjoy the tropical weather as you go down the water slides, float along the lazy river, or take the kids to the unique playground.
Spend a day at WaterCity and take part in the many activities, meant to help you unwind, but also to get your adrenaline pumping. Experience the wide range of water games and feel like a kid again. Playgrounds, slides, a jacuzzi, and a 385-meter lazy river are waiting for you to visit.
Make the most of your day with a delicious cocktail or meal from one of the restaurants and bars open at the park, with exciting options to purchase at your own expense. And don’t worry about your family’s safety while you’re away, as there are lifeguards present at all times.
Bring your family or friends along to one of Heraklion’s most enjoyable attractions with a full-day pass. Bask in the sun and enjoy the tropical weather as you slide down the water slides, float along the lazy river, or take the kids to the unique playground.
Spend a day at WaterCity and participate in the many activities designed to help you unwind and get your adrenaline pumping. Experience a wide range of water games and feel like a kid again. Playgrounds, slides, a jacuzzi, and a 385-meter lazy river are waiting for your visit.
Make the most of your day with a delicious cocktail or meal from one of the restaurants and bars open in the park, with exciting options available for purchase at your own expense. Don’t worry about your family’s safety while you’re away, as lifeguards are present at all times.
Embark on an off-road e-bike tour from Analipsi and discover the beauty of the Cretan countryside. Travel at a slow to moderate pace with many stops to rest, take photos, learn about Crete, admire the views, and visit the highlights of the area.
After a short safety introduction, jump on your bike and travel through low-traffic roads to the countryside following a route of farmer and quiet tarmac roads. Go uphill on rural smooth dirt tracks and back downhill on asphalt roads.
Hear stories about the cultivation of the olives, the use of plants, the traditional life, ethics, and the nature of Crete from your guide.
Located 16km east of Heraklion, between Kokkini Hani and Kato Gouves, lies the tourist resort of Gournes. The area of Gournes, originally a separate village, is now part of a 23 kilometer stretch of unified beachfront that begins in Vathianos Kambos and ends in Malia. The fertile plains of Gournes are abundant with vegetable crops and olive groves.
The name ‘Gournes’ is derived from the Latin word ‘urna’ which means water troughs for livestock. However, there is another theory suggesting that the name comes from the Minoan larnakes (urns) that were found in the area.
The beaches of Gournes, like most on Crete’s north coast, are exposed to north winds. The beachfront is dotted with small artificial piers constructed to absorb wave impact and to preserve the sand. This has resulted in the formation of several sandy coves between these piers. The area’s long beach, located on the west part of Gournes, is well organized with lifeguards and umbrellas.
As you head east, the coast becomes rockier and you’ll come across a small torrent. A kilometer further east, you’ll find the former American Airbase of Gournes, which was abandoned in the early 1990s. Despite the derelict buildings, the area is home to the International Exhibition Center of Crete, the Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), the City Hall, and the Aquarium. There is also a small port and the longest beach of Gournes, a beautiful sandy stretch that extends to the beaches of Gouves. Particularly noteworthy is the well-organized municipal beach of Gouves, located west of the Old Base boundary.
During your visit to Gournes, don’t miss the chance to see the old church of the Annunciation in the old village and the picturesque church of Agios Ioannis Pezetis with its ancient frescoes. An excavated Minoan settlement and cemetery nearby have revealed many vases, figurines and seals. One of the most popular attractions in Gournes is the Cretaquarium. Once the largest aquarium in southern Europe, it continues to attract thousands of visitors daily and is located within the former U.S. base.
Situated 15km west of Heraklion and to the west of Vathianos Kambos, Kokkini Hani is a thriving resort, nestled amidst numerous crops grown in the region’s fertile plain. Its name, meaning “Kokkinis’s Inn,” harks back to the early 1900s when an inn run by a man named Kokkinis provided a resting place for weary travellers en route to Heraklion.
The resort boasts numerous beaches, safeguarded by artificial mini piers. Characterized by sandy shores and shallow turquoise waters, these beaches, though located in front of hotels, are open for public access. The resort is replete with shops and restaurants, and the beaches are well-equipped with umbrellas, lifeguards, and water sports facilities, providing all the necessary tourist infrastructure. In comparison to Malia and Hersonissos, Kokkini Hani’s nightlife is rather subdued.
Close to Vathianos Kambos, on Kokkini’s eastern side and near the coast, lies the small archaeological site of Niros Villa. This mansion from the Late Minoan Times served as the dwelling of a high-ranking Minoan priest, presumably overseeing the local Minoan harbour. Open to the public, this site offers visitors a glimpse of the architecture of a Minoan religious structure from 4000 years ago. Excavations at the villa have unearthed several large bronze axes – the emblem of the Minoans, along with jars, offering tables bearing raw clay, and a host of other smaller artefacts.
Kato Gouves, often referred to as Gouves, is a sought-after holiday destination nestled 18km east of Heraklion, at the base of Mount Ederi. Historically, the valley of Kato Gouves was a fertile ground for vegetables, olives, and cereals, cultivated by the inhabitants of Ano Gouves. Today, it’s been transformed into a tourism hub, featuring numerous hotels. Unlike the bustling resorts of Malia and Hersonissos nearby, Gouves offers a tranquil vacation experience, making it an ideal spot for families and the elderly. The sandy beaches here are loved by families, and are conveniently close to all necessary amenities.
Gouves beach is well-equipped with facilities such as umbrellas, sunbeds, lifeguards, water sports, and diving centres, alongside showers and changing rooms. The sea, featuring fine sand and shallow waters, is exposed to the common north winds. As a result, there are several small piers and marinas in the vicinity where you can enjoy a swim, shielded from the waves. The coastal road of Gouves runs parallel to the coastline, simplifying the task of locating your perfect beach spot! Enjoy an evening stroll on this road while admiring the sunset. The road also boasts numerous cafes and restaurants, offering panoramic sea views. Furthermore, Gouves’ main road houses a number of supermarkets, shops, pharmacies, clinics, and ATMs.
One must-visit spot is the Church of St. Constantine, nestled in a quaint pine forest adjacent to the sea. Its picturesque seaside location makes it a popular wedding venue, especially for couples from Heraklion. If your visit falls on a Saturday, you’re likely to witness a traditional Greek wedding or baptism. Beyond the shoreline, 2km to the north, lies the village of Ano Gouves. Its narrow streets, churches, and coffee shops exude a traditional charm. Further north, you can explore the Cave of Agia Paraskevi near the village of Skotino. To the east, Mount Ederi stands tall, home to radars used by the Americans for the operation of the erstwhile US air base in Gournes.
Situated 15km east of Heraklion lies the well-liked tourist resort of Vathianos Kambos. It derives its name from the nearby village of Vathia, found just a few kilometers to the south. The region is known for the Vathianos River that drains into the area and dries up during the summer. It is characterized by several contiguous bays with golden sands and shallow waters. Due to its north-facing beach front, the area experiences regular wave activity in the months of July and August, leading to the construction of numerous small piers that help to break the waves, retain the sand, and safeguard swimmers.
The most developed beach of Heraklion is found in the westernmost part of Vathianos Kambos, within the Estavromenos settlement. It is widely recognized as Arina, named after a local hotel. This extensive sandy beach attracts thousands of locals who flock there daily for a swim. The beach is teeming with umbrellas, bustling beach bars, and offers a plethora of beach sports options.
Moving east of Arina, you’ll come across the small bay of Agii Theodori. Here, you can still find the carved Minoan shipyard visible in the sea. Further on, you’ll encounter the successive coves of Vathianos Kambos, hidden from the main road due to the hotels interspersed between them. These bays are somewhat protected due to the presence of small piers. Only a handful of locals are privy to these secluded beaches, which extend all the way to Kokkini Hani.
Perched atop the rocky hill of Prophet Elijah (Profitis Ilias) near Smari, at an elevation of 590 meters, lie the remnants of a fortress surrounded by a robust defensive wall. This location offers sweeping views over the fertile plains of Kasteli and Smari. Archaeologist Hadji-Vallianou believes this fortress to be the site of ancient Lyttos mentioned by Homer. The city was continuously inhabited from 1800 BC to 630 BC before being deserted by its residents.
Inside the city walls, three oblong structures can be found, and a sanctuary of Athena Ergani was identified on the northern side, confirmed by ceramic plates depicting the goddess Athena. These plates are considered the oldest representations of Athena in Crete. A settlement was constructed around the peak, enclosed within a secondary wall. A stone-paved street connects the village to the citadel. Large buildings, likely used as warehouses and workshops, were located outside the second wall.
The terraces outside the citadel are also fascinating, as they demonstrate how the city’s inhabitants managed to preserve the minimal soil in the area and cultivate wheat. Furthermore, the city’s development in such a rugged and rocky location would not have been possible without the presence of the water spring now found inside the Prophet Elijah church, situated just a few meters below the peak.
The archaeological site of Fourni can be found on a hill with the same name, situated 17km south of Heraklion and southwest of Kato Archanes. To visit the site (which is not always open, but you can contact the guard), you can either walk along the Minoan path that starts from Kato Arhanes and crosses the stunning artificial grove of Fourni, or climb the stairs from the Apano Archanes ring road.
At Fourni, archaeologists have identified a preminoan cemetery (2800BC-2200BC) which is, in fact, the largest prehistoric cemetery in the Aegean Sea. Additionally, more graves have been discovered, dating back to the period between 2200BC and 1200BC. You can also see the quarry from which the materials for the cemetery’s construction were extracted.
Archaeologist Ioannis Sakellarakis began excavations in 1964, and so far, 26 buildings have been uncovered, with most of them being graves. The objects found in these graves suggest that ancient Archanes had strong connections with the Aegean, Egypt, and the East.
Due to its significant findings, Fourni is considered the most important Minoan cemetery on Crete. The most notable discovery was the unlooted sarcophagus of the “Queen,” containing jewelry (over 140 pieces) of immense value and other items believed to accompany her to the next world. Remains of an ox and a horse sacrifice were also found. Many of these findings are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and the Archaeological Museum of Archanes.
On the eastern end of the extensive Vathianos Kambos beach, near the Agii Theodori church, lies a rocky peninsula. Here, one can still see the carved rock that once housed a large shipbuilding yard during the Minoan Era.
Researchers have found that this large carving, measuring 48 meters in length and 11 meters in width, could have been used by the Minoans to build ships up to 50 meters long. Additionally, there is a smaller carving to the south that was likely used for storing timber.
It is interesting to note that the surrounding area has sunk into the sea over the centuries, with remnants of Minoan buildings both inside and outside the water. The carving was likely filled with water when the ship was completed, allowing it to be easily lowered into the sea.
On the eastern side of the expansive Karteros bay lies the small hill of Paleochora, which was once home to the Minoan settlement of Amnissos. The name Amnissos can be traced back to the Linear B tablets, the Minoan script, as a-mi-mi-so. Discoveries at Amnissos include a Minoan harbor, numerous buildings, and an outdoor archaic sanctuary where the god Zeus was worshiped. The settlement of Amnissos dates back to the 19th century BC.
Mythology tells us that when Zeus was just a newborn baby, he had to be taken to the Dikti cave to hide from his father, Cronus. While en route and above Amnissos, his navel fell here, which led to the area being called Omfalio Pedio (Navel Valley) in ancient times.
At the eastern side of the hill, near the parking lot of the bustling Amnissos beach, the Minoan mansion of Lilies can be found. Dating back to the 16th century BC, the mansion features murals with floral motifs and blooming lilies. It is believed to have housed an important person, possibly the king of Knossos, Minos, during his vacation. The villa consisted of a hall, bathroom, sanctum, kitchen, and stone-paved areas.
The murals with lilies likely depict a sacred garden and are the primary evidence of Minoan artificial gardens. This is suggested by the lilies drawn in jagged frames, which may represent artificial ponds. Similar ponds can be seen in numerous Egyptian depictions of luxurious gardens.
The mansion was destroyed by fire in the 15th century BC but was ultimately abandoned during the 12th century BC. The building was excavated in 1932 by professor Spiros Marinatos, but sadly, it was severely damaged by German troops during World War II.
To the west of Paleochora hill, you will find the ruins of one of the largest temples of ancient Crete, the Temple of Zeus Thenatas. The temple was built in the 7th century BC and operated until the second century AD. Surrounding the temple, you will see a strong wall with boulders, a part of which is on the sandy beach. Inside the temple, a circular altar can still be discerned.
Located along the road to the University Hospital of Heraklion, the Holy Monastery of St. Theodore was established by Timothy Tzannis circa 1980.
Located on the southern fringes of Heraklion, the Holy Monastery of Santa Irene Hrysovalantou is a male monastery established on April 14, 2002, by Father Methodios Samaritakis. Presently, a small group of monks are involved in producing wax and incense, as well as overseeing the House of Elders, which accommodates senior citizens.
The monastery commemorates its annual celebration on July 28.
The Monastery of Virgin Mary Theogennitor, situated near Mohos, boasts a prime location overlooking the Stalis coastline. Despite being relatively new, this monastery has earned a significant reputation, primarily due to its founder, Father Apostolos. Previously a monk at the St. John Monastery in Anopolis, Apostolos was evicted in 2009 and subsequently established this monastery.
Agia Marina Monastery is situated 500 meters south of Voni village, and on its feast day (July 17), it attracts massive crowds from all across Greece. The number of visitors to Agia Marina is the highest in Crete, resulting in car queues stretching for kilometers. Numerous vendors can be found along the way to the church. Many devotees make vows to Agia Marina and walk to the monastery from Heraklion city.
Established in 1895 by John Kaparounakis, the monastery was built at the site where he claimed to have miraculously recovered from a severe illness after drinking water from a spring. A small chapel already existed there, but it was owned by a Turk, Hosref Pasha, who refused to permit the monastery’s construction. Legend has it that Agia Marina intervened, causing Pasha’s three children to fall ill. Upon realizing what had occurred, Pasha sold his property to Kaparounakis, who then renovated the existing church and built the Agia Marina Convent.
Agia Marina is considered the patron saint of sick children, and numerous miraculous events have been reported at the monastery. Visitors are often struck by the room filled with personal items from those who have experienced miracles, such as crutches.
The Agia Anastasia Gorge commences from Kenourgio Horio in the Pediada Province (at an elevation of 160m) and concludes at the coastal village of Gournes. It’s named after the cavernous chapel of Saint Anastasia situated near its entry point. The stream that flows within it collects water from the region east of Sgourokefali and originates near Agia Triada.
Its plant life mainly consists of oleanders and the gorge narrows at various points along its path. A descent through the gorge typically takes around three hours. Regrettably, the gorge has been heavily polluted by trash and waste from nearby sheepfolds. Despite ongoing appeals from hiking clubs to the Hersonissos municipality, the situation remains dire.
The Aposelemis Canyon, also known as the longest and most significant geological canyon in the northern part of the Heraklion prefecture, terminates at the settlement of Agrianá (locally known as Adrianna), near Hersonissos. The Aposelemis River traverses this canyon, though water is only present in parts of the canyon following heavy rainfall. However, the river at higher altitudes retains water throughout the wet months, thanks to the phyllite rocks. Despite its length, accessibility, and proximity to Heraklion, the canyon remains relatively undiscovered by the local population. The Aposelemis Canyon is characterized by strikingly beautiful and imposing vertical walls that reach up to 200 meters in height, along with several rock shelters. The canyon floor is smooth throughout, posing no technical challenges. In recent times, the Hersonissos Municipality has constructed a lovely trail along the canyon floor, making the walk both enjoyable and easy. The trail also features recreational areas with wooden benches at the start and end points.
This crucial ecosystem is home to waterfowl and birds of prey. A hidden riparian forest, particularly in the upper region of the canyon, is the real gem. The mixed forest is made up of ancient trees with massive trunks, truly natural marvels. Trees such as the plane, holm oak, oak, holly, carob, osier, among others, can be found here. The dense forest often obscures the trail. An old stone bridge, Xerokamares, is located just before the southern entrance, within the river. The most convenient way to access the canyon is via its northern exit. A dirt road from the bridge of the old national road leads to the Aposelemis gorge. Following this dirt road, you’ll pass the picturesque yet ruined settlement of Plevris, and eventually reach the bridge of the new highway, where the trail begins. It takes at least two hours to traverse the gorge.
The Astrakiano and Kounaviano canyons are two verdant gorges that converge near Skalani village and empty out onto Karteros beach. The combined length of these canyons is roughly 21 km. Situated to the east of Heraklion city, these gorges are part of the broader Mount Jiouktas area. They offer easy walking trails, making them perfect for families and children.
The longer of the two, Astrakiano, begins at the Paliarda location in Kolomodi and extends to the area beneath the deserted Kato Astraki village, after crossing the picturesque Astrakiani Kamara bridge. From Kato Astraki, a brief trail leads to the Neraidospilios site, known for its stunning pond and gushing water caves.
The path along the Karteros river commences from this point, offering a lush green trail equipped with wooden bridges and railings. After crossing the Aitania bridge at Kaki Rachi, we reach Kali Rachi where the Astrakiano and Kounaviano Gorges, originating from Peza, merge. From Kali Rachi, the river continues to Karteros along a well-structured path. This section, known as Karteros Gorge, passes by ancient water mills and the historic Saint Nicholas Church (Agios Nikolaos). Near the Karteros gorge exit, at the Mesa Karteros spot, you’ll find an old inn and a second chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas. This location, accessible by car from Karteros, is an ideal picnic spot.
The Astrakiano canyon (Astraki – Kali Rachi) measures about 7km, with a hiking duration of 3-4 hours. The Kounaviano Gorge (Peza- Kali Rachi) is roughly 4km long, requiring about 2 hours for trekking. The shared section of the Karteros gorge (up to the second Saint Nicholas chapel (Kali Rachi – Mesa Karteros)) is approximately 6km.
The canyons’ route is abundant in natural, morphological, aesthetic, historical, and cultural aspects. The landscape boasts exceptional natural beauty, featuring springs, ponds, rivers, mini waterfalls, and lush vegetation. Prior to World War II, the canyon housed 10 watermills, and locals would fish for eels and crabs, some of which still exist today.
The Kounaviano gorge, known for its lush vegetation, is the greenest canyon in the entire Heraklion prefecture, serving as a verdant oasis in the heart of Pediada province. The gorge is named after the village of Kounavi in its district, even though it actually begins from the village of Peza, hence it could be referred to as Pezzano Gorge. This gorge is a tributary of the Karteros river and runs parallel to the Astrakiano gorge. The Astrakiano and Kounaviano gorges converge at the Kaki Rachi area near Skalani, forming the Karteros Gorge. Kounaviano’s entrance is situated at the northernmost point of the fertile Peza plain, collecting all the area’s water. It has numerous springs along its bed, some of which retain water throughout the year.
In recent years, the gorge’s trail has been marked and cleared, with the addition of small bridges, wooden railings, and informational signs. Walking along this trail is a delightful and easy experience, shaded by perennial plane, oak, and other trees. The riverbed walk is simple, without significant altitude changes or difficulties. At the gorge’s starting point, two small waterfalls can be seen. Old watermills, once used to grind the area’s cereals, can be found at three different points along the trail. This region has always been one of Crete’s most productive. Additionally, limestone kilns and various fruit tree gardens can be spotted. A walk from the gorge’s entrance at Peza to its exit at Kaki Rachi near Skalani takes approximately 2 hours.
Featuring garden views, Fyrogenis Cozy Family Friendly House in Gournes offers accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 1.4 km from Gournes Beach. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment with a terrace and mountain views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, and 2 bathrooms with a bath. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
The apartment has a barbecue and a garden.
Popular points of interest near Fyrogenis Cozy Family Friendly House in Gournes include American Base Beach, Gournon Beach and Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 10 km from the accommodation.
Featuring mountain views, Villa Living E-motion provides accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 1.1 km from Gournes Beach. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa comes with 7 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
A car rental service is available at the villa.
Popular points of interest near Villa Living E-motion include Kokkini Chani Beach, American Base Beach and Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 9 km from the accommodation.
Set in Gournes, 800 metres from American Base Beach and 1 km from Gournes Beach, Marions Haus offers a garden and air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony and free WiFi.
Offering a terrace and mountain views, the apartment includes 1 bedroom, a living room, satellite flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchenette, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Diving can be enjoyed nearby.
Gournon Beach is 1.3 km from the apartment, while Kokkini Hani Beach is 2.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 10 km from Marions Haus.
from
€43
/night
Set in Gournes, near Gournes Beach, American Base Beach and Kokkini Chani Beach, Nikolas Villa features a garden. Complimentary WiFi is featuredthroughout the property.
All of the air-conditioned units feature a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, fully-equipped kitchen and terrace.
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 1.2 km from the holiday home, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 16 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 10 km from Nikolas Villa.
from
€57
/night
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