Crete’s Historic Capital
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is a vibrant city where ancient history meets modern Greek life. As the birthplace of Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of archaeological wonders, beautiful beaches, and bustling urban energy. From the iconic Palace of Knossos to the Venetian fortress guarding the old harbor, Heraklion captivates visitors with its rich cultural tapestry and warm Mediterranean charm.
Essential Heraklion Information
- Language: Greek (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Timezone: Eastern European Time (EET) UTC+2 (UTC+3 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)
- Visas: Part of the Schengen Area (allowing border-free travel in 26 European countries)
- Tipping: Not obligatory, but 5-10% is appreciated for good service in restaurants
Where to Stay in Heraklion: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
Old Town Center
The heart of Heraklion, offering a maze of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and historical sites. It’s perfect for those who want to be in the middle of the action and close to major attractions like the Venetian Loggia and Morosini Fountain.
Koules Fortress Area
Located near the old port, this area offers stunning sea views and is ideal for history enthusiasts. It’s close to the famous Koules Fortress and provides easy access to boat trips and seaside restaurants.
Nea Alikarnassos
A residential area east of the city center, offering a more local experience and budget-friendly accommodations. It’s well-connected to the city center and provides a quieter alternative to the bustling tourist areas.
Ammoudara
Located west of Heraklion, Ammoudara is known for its long sandy beach. It’s perfect for families and those looking for a beach holiday while still being close to the city’s attractions.
Poros
A coastal suburb south of Heraklion, Poros offers beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s popular among younger travelers and those looking for a mix of beach relaxation and evening entertainment.
Must-See Sights in Heraklion
- Palace of Knossos: The largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete, showcasing the grandeur of Minoan civilization.
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum: One of the most important museums in Greece, housing artifacts from the Minoan civilization.
- Koules Fortress: A 16th-century Venetian fortress guarding the old port, offering panoramic views of the sea.
- Historical Museum of Crete: Covering the history of Crete from early Christian times to the modern era.
- Lions Square: The heart of Heraklion, featuring the Morosini Fountain, a Venetian monument from the 17th century.
- Venetian Loggia: A beautiful example of Venetian architecture, now housing part of the town hall.
Discover Heraklion’s Hidden Gems
- Koules Beach: A small, rocky beach near the fortress, perfect for a quick dip away from the crowds.
- Natural History Museum of Crete: An interactive museum showcasing Crete’s unique ecosystems and geological history.
- Venetian Walls: Walk along the massive Venetian fortifications that once encircled the city.
- Bembo Fountain: A hidden Renaissance fountain in the historic center, often overlooked by tourists.
- Moni Palianis: A picturesque 14th-century monastery just outside the city, known for its miracle-working myrtle tree.
Food Highlights: Must-Try Cretan Dishes
- Dakos: A Cretan meze of barley rusk topped with chopped tomatoes, feta cheese, and olive oil.
- Kalitsounia: Small cheese or herb pies, either sweet or savory.
- Snails (Chochlioi Boubouristi): A local delicacy, fried with rosemary and vinegar.
- Cretan Cheeses: Try local varieties like graviera, mizithra, and anthotyros.
- Raki: The local spirit, often served as a digestif after meals.
7 Essential Tips for Visiting Heraklion
- Visit Knossos Early: Arrive at the Palace of Knossos early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
- Use Local Buses: The city has an efficient bus network for exploring nearby beaches and villages.
- Explore the Market: Visit the central market to sample local products and experience daily Cretan life.
- Beach Day Trips: Take day trips to famous beaches like Matala or Vai, easily accessible from Heraklion.
- Evening Volta: Join locals for the evening stroll (volta) along 25th of August Street and the old harbor.
- Museum Pass: Consider buying a combo ticket for the Archaeological Museum and Knossos if you plan to visit both.
- Siesta: Many shops close in the afternoon for siesta, plan your shopping accordingly.
How to Get to Heraklion
By Air: Heraklion is served by one main airport:
- Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER): Located about 5 km east of the city center, it’s the main gateway to Crete. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, with increased traffic during the summer season. It’s well-connected to the city center by bus and taxi services.
By Sea: Heraklion is a major port city with regular ferry connections:
- Heraklion Port: Located in the city center, it offers ferry services to several Greek islands and mainland ports, including Piraeus (Athens), Santorini, and Rhodes. The port is within walking distance of many hotels and is served by local buses.
Note that while Heraklion doesn’t have a rail network, it’s well-connected to other parts of Crete by an extensive bus network operated by KTEL, making it easy to explore the rest of the island.
