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Things to do in Heraklion


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Six unmissable experiences in Heraklion

Crete is a land of myths, legends, museums and landmarks, and nowhere on the island brings these together like the capital. There’s plenty for history buffs to get excited about in and around Heraklion, with the labyrinth of Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. But look beyond the crumbling columns and Minoan art, and you’ll find a side of Heraklion that quietly worships nature. Sample the goodies at olive groves and vineyards, hop on a boat to visit a neighboring island, or pull on your hiking boots to explore the nearby forest-filled mountains and gorges.

Top six things to do in Heraklion

1. Step back in time at Knossos Palace

Top of Heraklion’s must-see list for a week in Crete has to be the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos. This sprawling complex, once the center of Minoan civilisation, is steeped in myth and legend. Take a guided tour of the throne room, frescoes and ruins for the full historic context and just imagine the hooves of the Minotaur clattering through the labyrinth.

2. Unearth Crete’s ancient past at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum

You’ll find one of the world's most important collections of Minoan art on a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Follow up a trip to Knossos Palace with a visit here, as there’s a real treasure trove of palace artefacts and every exhibit tells a story of the island’s history, from Neolithic times to the Roman era.

3. Hike in Crete’s mountains and gorges

If rugged mountaintops and views of the Aegean get your pulse racing, then take a trek up nearby Mount Juktas. Legend has it that Zeus, king of the gods, is buried there, and it certainly offers some mighty views. Stop off in charming mountain villages like Archanes, or head to Karteros Gorge and Rouvas Forest and Gorge for wilder scenery.

4. Take a boat trip

Heraklion’s coastal location makes it easy to head out on the water for a daytrip. In under an hour, you can cruise to Dia Island for wild, unspoilt beaches. Or if you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure on the high seas, you could set sail on a pirate-themed cruise.

5. Indulge your inner foodie

Vineyards and olive groves carpet the Cretan countryside, so make sure you get a taste of the local flavors. Head to Heraklion’s old town to visit 1866 Street Market and see stalls piled high with fresh local produce. And if you want a more structured experience, try a guided tour that includes a honey tasting, a winery and an olive oil mill.

6. Make a splash at a waterpark

For family fun you can’t beat racing down water slides, splashing in the wave pools and chilling in a lazy river. From Heraklion you can book day tickets for two top-notch waterparks, both within easy reach, Watercity and Acqua Plus.


Get ready for your visit to Heraklion

Heraklion is best known for having one of Europe’s earliest civilizations, the ancient Minoans, along with the ruins of Knossos Palace, home of the mythical Minotaur.

Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum have to be top of your list for things to do in Heraklion for a day. After learning about the ancient Minoan civilisation, wander down to the Venetian old town and harbour to soak up the views of Koules Fortress and the Aegean Sea.

You could easily base yourself in Heraklion for a week or more, balancing daytrips to waterparks and the mountains with time checking out the town itself, with its Venetian old town and historic attractions.

Don’t miss:

  • Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum - for a glimpse into Heraklion’s ancient past

  • The buzzing cafes and the Morosini Fountain in Lions Square - in the city center

  • The Venetian harbour overlooking the Aegean

Heraklion is a pretty compact city, so walking is your best way of getting around in the center. Taxis aren’t too pricey if you want to visit neighboring beaches or the historic sites, but many guided tours come with fuss-free transfers included.


Frequently asked questions about Heraklion

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