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As someone that’s been to Crete more times than I can count, Heraklion is the main hub to know about and discuss first before you dive into how to plan a trip to Crete.
Even if you don’t choose to stay around the area, you’ll want to visit at least once, to see Knossos and some of the main highlights.
Personally, I don’t find the town of Heraklion the prettiest, and prefer Chania for the beauty of it’s Venetian harbor and overall vibe.
Let’s get started!
How to Get to Heraklion
Heraklion is the main port and capital of Crete island, making it one of the easiest entry points to the island.
- By Plane: Direct flights arrive daily from Athens and major European cities. Heraklion International Airport (HER) is just 10–15 minutes from the city center. You’ll have no issue booking a flight here and then catching a taxi or taking a rental car for your days on the island.
- By Ferry: You can also take the overnight ferry from Piraeus (Athens), which is a great option if you want to avoid flying. Book a cabin if you want to sleep properly.
I use and compare prices for car rentals, with Discovercars.com. It is a giant rental and comparison site on the market and it has a lot of perks that make sense if you travel often.
Once you head to Discover Cars, you’ll find an easy search engine to filter by location, dates and pick up location.
Tip: Always check a few different pick up locations when booking a rental car.
Top Things to Do in Heraklion
1. Visit Knossos Palace
Knossos is the most visited archaeological site in Greece together with the Acropolis of Athens and Lindos in Rhodes which gets about half a million visitors a year. I will always suggest to do this as a guided tour (book a guide in advance) since there is a lot to learn that will fascinate you, about the hierarchy, the customs, the culture of the Minoans.
Please book your ticket ahead of time and consider a guided tour for the best experience, the price is not that high for what you get and you can find something affordable with pick up and drop off from Heraklion for less than $30.
2. Walk the Old Town & Lion Square
The old town of Heraklion is walkable and has a lot of car free roads and alleyways to discover. If you want to do as locals do, grab a coffee (freddo espresso always), and people-watch around Morosini Fountain (also known as Lion Fountain). The pedestrian streets nearby are perfect for a slow wander.
3. Eat Bougatsa at Kirkor
This is a local classic right on the main fountain square. It offers traditionally made classic bougatsa, a phyllo and cream or cheese based pastry, that we traditionally eat for breakfast, but you can enjoy anyway you like. The sweet version comes with cinnamon and sugar, but I’m more of a savory (feta cheese) fan.
4. Check Out the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Even if you don’t love museums, this one is worth it. It ties into Knossos and Minoan history in a way that makes it all click. Here is the only place you might also get to see some of the artifacts that have captivated people for ages. like the Snake Goddess, the Dolphin Fresco and the Bull Leaping Fresco. Αs always, I am going to recommend a guided tour. While the museum exhibits are beautiful to browse on their own, you won’t get enough context to appreciate them fully.
Before leaving, stay for a coffee in the museum grounds, the shade and view are a great spot to relax for a moment or journal.
You can prebook a ticket with audio guide here.
5. Sunset Walk Along the Venetian Walls
You get views over the sea and the city, and a little cardio. Go before dinner. You can walk around the promenade and explore the Fortezza (the old Venetian ruins).
6. Eat at Peskesi Restaurant
This is hands down one of the best restaurants on the island, if not all of Greece. Everything is local, seasonal, and rooted in traditional Cretan recipes with a modern twist. There is a strong farm to table ethos, and the food is slow and deliberate. A lot of local greens and flavors you won’t find elsewhere, or interesting combinations of cheeses and meats. You will love the pork chops, smoked sausages and wild green salads. The decor and setting are also impeccable.
7. Take a Photo at the Koules Fortress
Right at the harbor. Super windy, super photogenic. If you walk along the pier, it’s a great spot for sunset.
8. Go for a Swim at Ammoudara Beach
It’s the closest decent beach to Heraklion city. Nothing fancy, but if you need a swim, it’s there.
9. Buy Local Products at the Central Market (1866 Street)
Most food markets are a yes for me, you’ll always find something interesting to browse. This one is more about honey, olive oil, herbs, soap and other local goods. Great if you want to pick up some souvenirs or gifts for people back home.
10. Order Raki (or wait for them to bring it)
Raki is the traditional Cretan distilled alcohol, similar to vodka. It often arrives without notice at the end of the meal on the table, with something sweet or on its own. Sometimes you’ll find it flavored (my favorite) with lemon, honey, and spices. It’s easier to drink but more lethal, since it’s sweet and goes down faster. If you enjoy a drink with your meal, you might want to taste it.
11. Go wine tasting in Archanes
Just 20 minutes from Heraklion, the village of Archanes is one of Crete’s wine hubs and up-and-coming cultural regions. You can visit local wineries, do tastings, and enjoy a long lunch in a traditional taverna. It’s a great half-day trip if you have a car. You can also book a tour with a local company if you prefer to dine and wine, and have someone else do the driving.
2. Explore Dinosauria Park (Great for Kids)
If you’re traveling with children or just love a bit of prehistoric fun, there’s Dinosauria Park in Gournes, just outside Heraklion. It’s got life-sized dino models, interactive exhibits, and even a small cinema. Surprisingly entertaining, especially if you want a break from ruins and museums and the kids need something different.
13. Check Out the Planetarium (Planet Crete)
Right next to Dinosauria is Planet Crete, a modern digital planetarium with space shows in Greek and English. It’s a small but super cool experience, especially on a hot day or if you’re traveling with kids or teens who love science.
14. Visit Cretaquarium
Located about 20 minutes from Heraklion, Cretaquarium is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in Europe. It’s home to hundreds of species native to the Mediterranean Sea, including sharks, rays, seahorses, and jellyfish. The displays are modern and immersive, with plenty of educational content for both kids and adults. It’s a great half-day trip that you can combine with a nearby beach stop, especially if you’re looking for something family-friendly or weatherproof.
15. Sail to Dia Island or Go Diving
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, book a sailing trip to Dia Island, a small uninhabited island just north of Heraklion that you’ll be able to spot when the weather is good.
It’s peaceful, scenic, and ideal for snorkeling or swimming in crystal-clear water. Alternatively, Heraklion is a solid base for diving, with several dive centers offering trips to underwater caves, wrecks, and vibrant marine life.
Where to Eat in Heraklion
Beyond the famous Peskesi, Heraklion has a solid food scene that blends tradition with creativity. Here are a few favorites to check out:
- Ladokolla is laid back but eclectic with great twist on local flavors, excellent wines and impeccable service.
- Athali is a cozy spot, perfect for all seasons. Make sure to go for some traditional options here, like the pilaf with meat, or the snails. Hearty portions!
- A Little Wine, A Little Sea sits right on the water and serves up huge portions of seafood and meze.
Where to Stay in Heraklion
If you want something modern and central, Olive Green Hotel is a great pick. I particularly like the rooms with balconies at the top. it’s right in the heart of Heraklion with stylish rooms and easy access to shops, museums, and the harbor.
If you’re after something a bit fancier, King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa offers an elevated stay with stunning views, spacious rooms, and full relaxation vibes just outside the city.
And if you’re planning a beach-focused trip or looking for a relaxing break, check out my full guide to the best all-inclusive resorts in Crete and Greece.
FAQ: Visiting Heraklion, Crete
How many days should I spend in Heraklion?
I would say 2 days is minimum or three if you want to explore more of the city and surrounding area.
- Should I stay inside or outside of Heraklion?
If it’s your first visit, staying inside Heraklion is the most convenient, especially for the attractions, alleyways, and the food scene.
- What’s the best time to visit Heraklion?
May to early October is ideal. July and August are hottest and busiest, but if you want fewer crowds, late September is a sweet spot. Winter is off-season, but still mild, especially for museum visits or food-focused travel.
- How much time should I spend in Crete overall?
Ideally 7 to 10 days. Crete is huge and each region feels different. Combine Heraklion with Chania, Rethymno, or the south coast for variety. If you only have 4–5 days, stick to 1–2 main bases to avoid spending too much time in transit. For a shorter trip I would stay in Chania or Rethymno and do a day trip to Heraklion instead.
- Should I rent a car in Heraklion?
If you’re staying only in the city, you don’t need one. Heraklion is walkable and has taxis if you must get places faster. But if you want to explore the rest of the island, renting a car is highly recommended. Some of Crete’s best beaches and mountain villages are only reachable by car. Check out Discover Cars for a price comparison of all major companies and what they offer.
- What should I not miss?
If you only have limited time don’t skip Knossos, and try at least one of the restaurants in the main town, so you get the chance to walk around explore and watch the sunset near the water.
Day Trips from Heraklion
Heraklion is a great base for exploring other parts of Crete but to see Crete in full you’ll have to move hotels and change base at least once during your stay.
Don’t worry though, there is so much to see you’ll be glad to do it!
Here are just a few of the places recommended:
- Chania
A completely different vibe from Heraklion. Chania is a lover’s town, more Venetian, romantic, and walkable. You can visit for a day if you’re up for a long drive (about 2.5 hours one way), but ideally stay a night. I’ve got a full guide to Chania that covers where to stay, what to eat, and what not to miss.
- Rethymno
A charming old town halfway between Heraklion and Chania. It’s quieter than both, with a lovely harbor, fortress, and a great beach. It makes for a relaxed day trip if you want a break from city energy. It is also more of a student town.
- Matala & South Coast Beaches
Matala is famous for its hippie caves and laid-back beach scene. You can combine it with stops in Agia Galini or even a mountain village or two for a completely different side of Crete. Expect relaxation and rugged coastline.
- Lasithi Plateau
If you’re into nature, mythology, or scenic drives, heading inland to the Lasithi Plateau and the Dikteon Cave (legendary birthplace of Zeus) makes for a unique inland trip.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Must Know When Visiting Greece
- Emergency: Dial 112 for all emergencies. For police, dial 100. For ambulance 166. For fire dial 199.
- Language: English is widely spoken in most tourist areas. Common phrases to learn are “Kalimera” (Good morning), “Yia” (Hello and Bye – informal), and “Efharisto” (Thank you).
- Water: Tap water is safe in Athens, mainland Greece and a small number of islands. Always ask beforehand.
- Driving: Right-hand side, international driving permit recommended. Book your rental car with Discover Cars for the best rates and comparisons across all major and local companies.
- Accommodation: Booking.com for the most options on hotels, apartments and hostels. Free cancellation in a lot of places and no need to pre-pay. Great for their rewards points system.
- Islands: There are a lot of islands, spread out around the country. Start with a map or ferry service to get an idea of travel times. Ferry Scanner is the best for ferry bookings to the Greek islands.
- Activities: From cultural sights to day trips, food tours and city guides, use Get Your Guide.
- Public Transport: For Athens, use the Athens Metro. If you are not renting a car, use Trains (Hellenic Train) or KTEL (Public Buses) services.
- Domestic Airlines: The main airlines for air travel are Aegean Airlines and Sky Express. I recommend Aegean Airlines and its rewards program.
- Taxi: Always use a taxi app, instead of flagging down a taxi from the road. Use FREE Now (formerly BEAT).
- Culture: A siesta nap is still common in less touristy areas. This also means businesses will close between 2 PM – 5 PM. Except for hospitality businesses, everything is closed on Sundays.
