Heraklion Town:
Beaches, Stays, Things to do

Apartments and hotels in Heraklion from Crete Island

Heraklion (Iraklion or Herakleion) is the largest city in Crete, as well as the capital of the region and economic centre of Crete island. The first European civilisation, known as the Minoan civilisation, flourished here over 5000 years ago.

Currently, Heraklion has a population of approximately 177,064 people. Heraklion is a very cosmopolitan and dynamic town, particularly during the summer when thousands of visitors come to shop in the market or visit the museums and other places of interest. The city is also a commercial and scientific centre for the island. In recent years, it has made remarkable progress in academic research and technological innovation.

History of Heraklion

Heraklion’s roots trace back to the 820s when Arab traders from al-Andalus founded the city, originally known as Rabḍ al-ḫandaq. Over the centuries, it underwent several transformations, becoming known as Chandax and later Candia during the Venetian era. The name Heraklion was revived in the 19th century, inspired by the ancient sunken city of Heracleion near the Nile’s Canopic Mouth​​.

Strategically located near the Minoan palace of Knossos, Heraklion has been a focal point since the early Minoan period. It became a significant Byzantine fortress after its reconquest in 960 AD. The city’s fortifications were later enhanced by the Venetians, who bought the city in 1204 following the Fourth Crusade, leading to a flourishing period known as the Cretan Renaissance​​.

The Ottoman siege from 1648 to 1669 marked one of the longest in history, and the city’s surrender led to a prolonged Ottoman rule, during which the port’s decline shifted the trade to Chania. The modern era saw Heraklion becoming part of the autonomous Cretan State under Ottoman suzerainty in 1898 and then joining the Kingdom of Greece in 1913. Today, Heraklion is the capital of Crete, rich in history and culture

Photos of Heraklion Town

Heraklion Town Map

Our Selection of Best Accommodations in Heraklion Town

In the heart of Heraklion city, a diverse array of accommodations awaits to cater to every traveler’s needs. From the luxury seeker to the budget-conscious, Heraklion’s hotels range from high-end boutique stays with panoramic sea views to cosy, family-run guesthouses steeped in Cretan hospitality. Experience the convenience of city-center hotels that put you steps away from vibrant markets and historical sites or opt for a waterfront resort where the Mediterranean greets you each morning.

On our site, you can find the best 604 hotels and villas for perfect holidays in Heraklion. Check the list below to discover your ideal stay in Heraklion.

  • 9.7 / 10
  • 16 Filellinon

Situated in Heraklio Town, 1.5 km from Venetian Walls and 1.8 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, H Experience Spectacular Rooftop Loft features air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. The property features city and quiet street views, and is 4.7 km from The Palace of Knossos.

The apartment with a terrace and mountain views has 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.

A car rental service is available at the apartment.

Popular points of interest near H Experience Spectacular Rooftop Loft include Cultural Conference Centre of Heraklion, Municipal Art Gallery and Morosini Fountain. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 4 km from the accommodation.

from

€132

/night

    • 710 m
    • 9.2 / 10
    • 181 Leoforos Knosou

    Set in Heraklio Town, 3 km from The Palace of Knossos, GD Gallery Suites offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking and a bar. Among the facilities at this property are room service and a concierge service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The property is non-smoking and is located 3.1 km from Venetian Walls.

    At the hotel, every room is fitted with a balcony with a city view. Complete with a private bathroom equipped with a shower and free toiletries, the units at GD Gallery Suites have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and certain rooms will provide you with a seating area. At the accommodation every room includes bed linen and towels.

    Guests at GD Gallery Suites can enjoy an à la carte breakfast.

    Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 3.5 km from the hotel, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 16 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 4 km from GD Gallery Suites.

    from

    €71

    /night

      • 760 m
      • 9 / 10
      • 5 Παρμενιωνος

      Aurora Studio Apt for Couples & Friends is situated in Néa Alikarnassós, 2.8 km from Venetian Walls, 3.2 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and 4.2 km from The Palace of Knossos. This apartment is 17 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos and 2.7 km from Cultural Conference Centre of Heraklion.

      This air-conditioned apartment has 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, and a kitchen with an oven and a toaster. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.

      Municipal Art Gallery is 4.2 km from the apartment, while Morosini Fountain is 4.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 3 km from Aurora Studio Apt for Couples & Friends.

      from

      €49

      /night

        • 760 m
        • 8.7 / 10
        • 78 Leoforos Knosou

        Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, Fani’s Holiday Home with Hot Tub is located in Heraklio Town. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.

        The holiday home with a terrace and garden views features 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.

        At the holiday home guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub. Guests can also relax in the garden.

        Popular points of interest near Fani’s Holiday Home with Hot Tub include Venetian Walls, Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Cultural Conference Centre of Heraklion. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 4 km from the accommodation.

        from

        €162

        /night

          • 850 m
          • 9.6 / 10
          • Kekropos

          Situated 3.2 km from Venetian Walls and 3.3 km from The Palace of Knossos, KoNoSo Luxury Apartments in Heraklio Town features air-conditioned accommodation with views of the city and free WiFi.

          Each unit comes with a sofa, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a well-fitted kitchen, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a hair dryer. An oven, a toaster and fridge are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

          Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 3.7 km from the apartment, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 16 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 4 km from KoNoSo Luxury Apartments, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

          from

          €54

          /night

            • 860 m
            • 9 / 10
            • Ulaf Palme 72 Crete

            Featuring sea views, Ioannis Appartment offers accommodation with a garden and a balcony, around 3 km from Venetian Walls. The property features city views and is 4 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum and 4.1 km from The Palace of Knossos.

            The air-conditioned apartment consists of 2 separate bedrooms, 1 bathroom and a living room.

            Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 18 km from the apartment, while Cultural Conference Centre of Heraklion is 3 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 5 km from Ioannis Appartment.

              • 880 m

              Things to do near Heraklion Town

              In Heraklion, adventure and culture converge. Step back in time at the Palace of Knossos, or meander through vibrant markets for a taste of local life. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Cretan winemaking with a vineyard tour, hike through the stunning gorges, and as dusk settles, join the locals in a spirited taverna to revel in Crete’s nightlife. Heraklion is a playground of experiences, each promising to leave an indelible mark on your journey.

              Listed below are the things to do near Heraklion Town:
              • Heraklion Archaeological Museum

              Join a guided tour of Knossos, a complex of more than 1500 interlocking rooms, once an astonishing palace built for a mighty king of the Bronze Age. Knossos is considered Europe’s oldest city.
              As you wander through the labyrinthine ruins, get the chance to see the original throne of ‘’Minos”, the mystifying sanctuaries, the luxurious domestic quarters of the royal family, Crete’s treasures pantries, and the water-management systems.
              The first palace of Knossos was erected soon after 2000 BC. In 1700 BC, a catastrophic earthquake destroyed the Palace. A new palace was built immediately, the most monumental of all, and for over 300 years it represented the pre-eminent center of power in Bronze Age Crete.
              The new palace was an imposing complex with important architectural innovations, splendid frescoes adorning the walls, hundreds of rooms distributed in four storeys, impressive storage areas, specialized workshops, and spacious courts hosting ceremonies and feasts.
              Learn how during the last decades of the 14th century BC, a series of earthquakes led to the final destruction of the palace. 

              • Heraklion Archaeological Museum

              Explore the oldest civilization in Europe on a full-day tour from Chania. Enjoy a guided tour of the Minoan Palace of Knossos, visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, and wander through Heraklion Town.
              Begin your tour from your accommodation in Chania, and as your drive, learn about the myths of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur or the story of Daidalos and Ikaros. In Heraklion, head to the Palace of Knossos and explore the ruins.
              Next, visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and admire over 15,000 ancient Greek artifacts. Afterward, enjoy a walking tour of the town of Heraklion. Discover a Venetian fortress at the entrance of the harbor, gorgeous Neoclassical buildings and Byzantine churches.

              • Heraklion Archaeological Museum

              Don’t miss out on the Archeological Museum of Heraklion, one of the most important museums in Europe in its field. This museum provides a unique opportunity for the visitor to marvel at the remnants of the first of civilization in Europe, the Minoans. This tour will guide you through a period of time that extends over a 5000 years, from the Neolithic to the Roman era. Find out how Cretan people used to live, their occupation, religion, architecture, travel, arts and more.

              This singularly important Minoan collection contains unique examples of Minoan art, many of them true masterpieces. The Heraklion Museum is rightly considered as the museum of Minoan culture par excellence worldwide.

              The museum, located in the town center, was built between 1937 and 1940 by architect Patroklos Karantinos on a site previously occupied by the Roman Catholic monastery of Saint Francis which was destroyed by earthquake in 1856. The museum’s antiseismic building is an important example of modernist architecture and was awarded a Bauhaus commendation. The colours and construction materials, such as the veined polychrome marbles, recall certain Minoan wall paintings which imitate marble revetment. The two-story building has 27 galleries, a gallery for audio-visual displays, extensive modern laboratories, a cloakroom, a cafeteria and a museum shop that sells museum copies, books, postcards and slides.

              • Heraklion Archaeological Museum

              Embark on a captivating day tour that seamlessly combines comfort, history, and exploration, all from the convenience of a bus equipped with air conditioning, led by a professional driver. Starting from the picturesque region of Rethymnon, journey towards the heart of Cretan civilization in Heraklion.

              Knossos Palace, 2 hours of free time (without a guide):
              The first stop on our tour is the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace, where you can freely explore the echoes of history at your own pace. You’ll have the opportunity to discover the complex labyrinth-like structure, storied frescoes, and archaeological wonders that have intrigued visitors for centuries. This self-guided visit to Knossos allows you to immerse yourself in the world of the Minoans and uncover the myths and realities of Europe’s oldest city at your leisure.

              Archaeological Museum (optional)
              We provide an optional stop for those interested in visiting the museum on their own. Alternatively, you can choose to head directly to the town if you prefer. This flexibility allows you to tailor the experience to your interests. Following the footsteps of history, the journey continues to the vibrant town of Heraklion, where the Archaeological Museum awaits. The museum, one of the most significant in Greece, houses an extensive collection of Minoan artifacts, providing a deeper understanding of the civilization you just explored at Knossos. Wander through exhibits displaying pottery, jewelry, frescoes, and more, each piece narrating its own story of the island’s rich heritage.

              Heraklion Town, free time for 3 hours:
              After immersing yourself in ancient history, enjoy some leisure time in the bustling city center of Heraklion. Here, you’re free to explore at your own pace, whether that means savoring local Cretan cuisine at a quaint taverna, strolling through the lively streets and squares, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of modern-day Crete amidst its historical backdrop.

              • Heraklion Archaeological Museum

              See the very best of Heraklion in just half a day on this small group tour with an expert guide. The tour begins with a visit to the mysterious Knossos Palace, where you can enjoy skip-the-line entry meaning more time to explore. Learn about the history of King Minos who lived at the palace, and the legend of the Minotaur that lived in the palace’s labyrinth.

              Next, take a stroll in the city center of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Wander through the city’s ancient streets and marvel at the picturesque architecture from the Venetia, Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Learn about the city’s history and how it was the birthplace of El Greco and Nikos Kazantzakis. Walk along the busy streets and marvel at the local’s going about their daily life.

              Finally, visit Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum, one of the most popular Bronze Age museums in Europe. Enjoy an hour and a half guided tour of the museum and admire its vast collection of fine art and jewelry. At the end of the tour, you can continue exploring the museum and the city at your own leisure.

              • Heraklion Archaeological Museum

              Following pick-up from your hotel in Chania, travel along the northern coast of Crete by comfortable bus. Make your way to the archaeological site of Knossos, where King Minos built his palace. Get a 2-hour guided tour of the monument, designed by Daedalus in such an intriguing way that no visitor was said to find their way out without the help of a guide!

              Journey through the incredible history of King Minos and the Minoan civilization, and hear about some of the legends of Crete at what was once the island’s largest palace.

              Then, drive to the ancient city of Heraklion to take a guided tour of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Learn more about the island at what is considered to be one of the finest museums in the world dedicated to Minoan art with its many galleries of historic frescoes, jewelry, statues and more. Get some free time for coffee or lunch, and shop for souvenirs in the city center before the return journey to Rethymno.

              Beaches near Heraklion Town

              Listed below are the beaches near Heraklion Town:
              • 5.3 km
              Karteros beach is located 5.3 km away.

              The Karteros Bay, situated at the exit of the synonymous Karteros Gorge, lies 7km east of Heraklion and stretches 3.5km to the east. It pays homage to the Byzantine General, Krateros, who in 824AC attempted to liberate Crete from the Saracens by landing his ships on the bay’s beach, but unfortunately, he was defeated. The bay encompasses two villages, Karteros and Amnissos, which have now merged due to the area’s rapid evolution. The area’s development can be attributed to its proximity to Heraklion and the presence of an exquisite beachfront featuring fine golden sand.

              You’ll find numerous hotels, eateries, and beach bars in close proximity to the bay. Karteros Bay is exposed to the northern winds, and as a result, the water tends to be wavy. The water is shallow with almost no rocks, except for a few areas. The least crowded part of the beach is situated next to the “Nikos Kazantzakis” airport, 7km west of Heraklion, known as Florida. This part got its name from an old tavern that no longer exists and is the most serene of all the beaches. Compared to the easternmost beaches, Florida has fewer umbrellas and facilities. The river from the Karteros Gorge empties into Florida, creating a small wetland on the beach, which dries up during the summer. It’s certainly worth a visit, especially in the spring.

              While in Florida, you should stop by the old Church of St. John and St. Nikon Metanoite, constructed within a large cave. Moreover, don’t be startled if you spot horses on the beach as it’s home to the Heraklion Riding Club.

              • Karteros beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 5.4 km
              Ammoudara beach – Heraklion is located 5.4 km away.

              Ammoudara, a beach extending 7km west from River Giofyros, located 1km west of Heraklion’s centre, draws in thousands of tourists annually, predominantly due to its expansive sandy coastline. Now a suburb of Heraklion, the beach is known for its unique brownish sand, with a rocky strip about 50m inland signifying the ancient shoreline.

              Whether you prefer bustling environments or more private settings, Ammoudara caters to all. The coastline offers organized beaches equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, and a plethora of water sports. Known for its year-round strong winds, Ammoudara is a popular spot for windsurfers. For a quieter experience, the beach’s western area, starting from the Pancretan Stadium and extending east towards the Xeropotamos wetland and dunes, is ideal. River Almiros and River Gazanos’ mouth areas, along with the Ellinoperamata industrial area, also offer peaceful beach spots.

              The surrounding locale is also remarkable. The Almyros river spring, Crete’s largest water source, forms the area’s most extensive habitat. Nearby lies the Almiros gorge, an easy location for a leisurely walk. Alternatively, you can opt for a hike up the Stroumboulas mountain, Heraklion’s volcanic-like mountain.

              • Ammoudara beach - Heraklion
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 8.0 km
              Ellinoperamata beach is located 8.0 km away.

              Situated 8km west of Heraklion city, Linoperamata, also known as Ellinoperamata, is a scenic sandy beach stretching up to 7km long, beginning from Linoperamata and culminating at the Pancretan Stadium, 1km west of Heraklion. The beach is uniquely bordered by the Almiros river in the west.

              The locals do not frequent Linoperamata as much due to the presence of a local Power Station and heavy industries in its western region. Nevertheless, the beach boasts of clean water and a serene atmosphere. Unlike the highly organized beaches in the neighboring Ammoudara, Linoperamata has a more natural appeal, although there are a few hotels in the vicinity.

              Open to the northern winds, the beach is often wavy, making it a favorite among windsurfers. Getting to Linoperamata from Heraklion is convenient via the city’s bus service.

              • Ellinoperamata beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 8.9 km
              Vathianos Kambos beaches is located 8.9 km away.

              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.

              • Vathianos Kambos beaches
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue

              Gorge to hike near Heraklion Town

              Listed below are the gorges to hike near Heraklion Town:
              • 8.2 km

              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.

              • Astrakiano Gorge
              • 9.1 km

              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.

              • Kounaviano Gorge
              • 9.3 km

              Almyros Gorge, situated in Ellinoperamata, is the closest canyon to the west of Heraklion city. The gorge, a small oasis near the bustling city, is formed between Keri hills and the post-Minoan town of Kastrokefala. It serves as a crucial habitat, primarily due to the largest holly wood (Phillirea media) in Crete located on its eastern side. Other species like platan trees, carob, and wild olive trees also thrive here despite overgrazing.

              The gorge has various names, such as Keri Gorge, named after the adjacent hill, or Almiros, due to its closeness to the Almiros river. It’s also called Ellinoperamata, the area where the gorge terminates. Frequently termed Porofarago, a common name for Cretan gorges, it’s also known as the Three Churches, in honor of the three chapels — Santa Marina, St. Antonios, and St. Paraskevi. Its commencement point near the Strouboulas peak gives it the Strouboulas name, while stories of Satanist assemblies and ghost sightings have resulted in its spooky moniker, the Ghosts’ Gorge.

              Despite its proximity to Heraklion, few people have ventured here. Cars can reach the location where the 14th-century monastery of Agios Ioannis Farangitis (Saint John inside the Gorge), dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, was constructed near the canyon exit. The surviving chapel of Saint Marina was used as a cemetery, while the main temple was the present two-aisled chapel of Saint Anthony and Saint Paraskevi with significant frescoes. A little further, a shrine dedicated to Saint George can be found, and after nearly 1:30 hours of walking, the chapel of Lord Christ at the gorge’s starting point is reached.

              The trail is lined with various trees, and the vegetation thickens as one ascends. Initially, the gorge is typically dry but transitions into a small stream during spring. While ascending, one can encounter three small waterfalls, which form at a site with a pinkish limestone hue after prolonged, heavy rainfall.

              Almiros Gorge is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers. To reach this wild beauty, navigate towards the equally breathtaking Lake of Almiros. Located just a short distance from the path leading to the gorge, this lake is a wonder in itself. The lake’s crystal-clear water, flowing directly from the spring-fed mountain cliffs, offers an extraordinary view all the way to its bed.

              • Almiros Gorge
              • 12.2 km

              A petite gorge forms to the west of the Rogdia village and opens up at the Paliokastro area. The journey begins from the ancient Koukos watermill, situated on the primary road linking Rogdia to Achlada, and takes you down to its most striking feature, the 10-meter tall Rechtra waterfall, which can be accessed through a relatively steep descent with ropes. As you traverse down the gorge, you’ll encounter several small waterfalls, the cave-like chapel of Panagia Spiliotissa, and finally arrive at the Paliokastro beach.

              One of the most astounding sights is a cave situated right in the heart of the gorge, which has been converted into a studio for creating Christian icons by a hagiographer, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. It is highly recommended to stop by this unique site, engage in conversation with the artist, admire the icons, and perhaps purchase a few.

              You can also conveniently reach the fall by trekking up the gorge from Paliokastro.

              • Spiliotissa Gorge, Rogdia

              FAQ

              Is Heraklion worth visiting?

              Absolutely! Heraklion is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Crete, Greece. The city is filled with historical sites, gorgeous architecture, fantastic restaurants and nightlife, and excellent beaches. Plus, it’s a great place to explore the culture and meet locals. It’s definitely worth a visit!

              Does Heraklion have a beach?

              Heraklion has stunning beaches that draw visitors from around the world. The best ones include:

              • Ammoudara Beach: Located close to the airport, it’s a great option for those who are short on time.
              • Psaromoura Beach: This is an ideal spot for windsurfing and other water sports activities.
              • Ligaria beach: With crystal clear waters and white sand, this beach is perfect for swimming or just relaxing in the sun.

              Is Heraklion a party town?

              While Heraklion is known for its historical and cultural attractions, it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. The city is home to many lively bars, clubs and cafes where you can enjoy great music and food.

              What is the history of Heraklion?

              The first European civilisation, known as the Minoan civilisation, flourished here over 5000 years ago.

              What is the population of Heraklion?

              Currently, Heraklion has a population of approximately 177,064 people.

              What is the significance of the Palace of Knossos?

              The Palace of Knossos is the most famous archaeological site on the island and was at the centre of an advanced society which inhabited Crete thousands of years ago.

              What can be seen at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion?

              The museum houses significant pieces from the Neolithic until the Roman times, including the Minoan civilization’s most important artefacts.

              What is the Old Town of Heraklion like?

              The Old Town is a pedestrian-only area with upscale shops and eateries, and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook leafy squares complete with fountains and bubbling cafés.

              What is the Cathedral of St. Minas?

              The Cathedral of St. Minas is a beautiful church located in the Old Town of Heraklion, known for its extensive religious iconography.

              What can be found at the Central Market?

              The Central Market is a pedestrian-only street that vendors use to display their mountains of clothes, jewellery, and other items spread out onto tables.

              What is the Koules Fortress?

              The Koules Fortress is a fortress that dates back to the early 16th century and occupies a prominent position on the waterfront of Heraklion.

              What is the Natural History Museum of Crete?

              The Natural History Museum of Crete is a modern museum located right on the waterfront, highlighting what makes Crete great.

              What are the Venetian Walls?

              The Venetian Walls are a series of defensive walls and other fortifications that were first built during the Middle Ages and rebuilt by the Republic of Venice.

              What is the Morosini Fountain?

              The Morosini Fountain is situated in the middle of Heraklion’s Old Town and it provides a great starting point if you want to explore the narrow streets nearby.

              What is the Loggia?

              The Loggia is Heraklion’s town hall, with its preserved Venetian architecture, considered one of Crete’s best buildings and is free to enter.

              What is the average temperature in Heraklion city?

              The average temperature in Heraklion city ranges from 15°C (59°F) in winter to 29°C (84°F) in summer.

              Where is Heraklion city located?

              Heraklion city is located on the north coast of the island of Crete, Greece.

              What is the nearest airport to Heraklion city?

              The nearest airport to Heraklion city is Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER), which is located about 5 km (3 miles) east of the city center.

              What are some popular attractions in Heraklion city?

              Some popular attractions in Heraklion city include the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Venetian Walls and Fortress, the Koules Fortress, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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