The Ultimate Travel Guide to Heraklion Town

What to Know Before Visiting Heraklion Town

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

Gallery

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.

  • 8.5 / 10
  • 23 Πάτρας

Situated in Mastambás, 3.3 km from The Palace of Knossos and 3.4 km from Venetian Walls, Cozy Deco Suite – Heraklion city features air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. With city views, this accommodation provides a patio.

This apartment features 3 bedrooms, a kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom fitted with a bath. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.

A car rental service is available at the apartment.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 3.8 km from Cozy Deco Suite – Heraklion city, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 17 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 4 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

from

€72

/night

  • 480 m
  • 8.2 / 10
  • 118 Καλλιπόλεως

Situated in Mastambás, 1.8 km from Venetian Walls and 3.4 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Heraklion City House offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers access to a terrace and free private parking.

With free WiFi, this 2-bedroom apartment features a flat-screen TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with a dishwasher and oven. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.

The Palace of Knossos is 4.4 km from the apartment, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 17 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 5 km from Heraklion City House.

from

€115

/night

  • 550 m
  • 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
  • 8.2 / 10
  • 5 Παρμενιωνος

Camelia Studio Apt for Couples & Friends is set 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.

The apartment is fitted with 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with an oven, a toaster, a washing machine, a fridge and a stovetop. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.

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

from

€46

/night

  • 760 m
Booking.com

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.

  • 2.1 km
  • 2.1 km
  • 2.1 km
  • 2.1 km
  • 2.1 km

Beaches near Heraklion Town

  • 5.3 km