things to do in crete, heraklion

Things to Do in Heraklion, Greece: See Tripadvisor's 108,134 traveler reviews and photos of Heraklion attractions. per adult. It is a small island with Venetian fortification which had a tumultuous history and ended up being a leper colony. At the northern end of the bay, there is a series of man-made caves that date from the Neolithic period. Although at first sight, it isnt as picturesque as Rethymnon and Chania after exploring it you will discover that there are a lot of things to do and see. Geologic Formations. Visit Crete. Heraklion Archaeological Museum Reviews | U.S. News Travel Cultural Tours. This is an active church with regular services and is also the seat of the Archbishop of Crete. AU$117.28. Lato Boutique Hotel: Situated right by the harbor, this boutique hotel has everything you need and more, including a rooftop bar with views of Heraklions Venetian style fortress. from . Race through the beautiful waters around Heraklion, and stop in remote beaches such as Tripiti, Panagia, or Thiseas for a swim or snorkel. A jet ski safari and snorkeling tour awaits! The walls stretch for approximately 4.5 kilometers. Case in point, Old Town Rethymnois simply beautiful. You can get there by public bus that you can take from the bus station next to the port. The island near Agios Nikolaos is a former leper colony, where the afflicted were sent to die in isolation. Did you know that Crete has been producing wine since Minoan times? He was born in the humble village of Fodele, set amid orange groves 28 kilometers west of Heraklion. This price stays the same whether you arrive during the day or at night. Enjoy a wonderful day exploring Santorini, one of the most romantic of the Greek Islands. Day Trips. It is easy to walk around and enjoy the history of the very small island. Buses from the Old Town leave every 15 minutes for Knossos during the summer season, making it extremely easy to visit. Walk the streets of Spinalonga. Things to Do in Heraklion with Kids - Tripadvisor Displays have information in multiple languages. 1. GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel: This luxurious hotel was built in 1925 and is a listed building. Popular things to do. Ill have to try to visit next time Im in Greece. 1. It houses artefacts from the Neolithic period to the Roman times. You might also be interested in: The best places to stay in Crete. from . The Old Town is protected by a circuit of massive defensive walls, which have been demolished in parts. It is one of the most interesting and beautiful museums I have seen and totally worth a visit. Lets dive into the best things to do in Heraklion, Crete. per adult. Click here for more information and to book your ticket admission. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. The cathedral is usually open, so take a few steps inside and gaze up at the impressive frescoes on the walls and ceiling. From April to October, hours are 8 a.m. to 8 pm. A short and easy bus ride takes you to the extensive ruins of Minoan Knossos, up in the hills 5km behind the city. Come with U.S. News on a tour of the Four Seasons Hotel Boston. Heraklion sounds sounds an amazing, historical destination. Looks like an interesting trip. ADVENTURE IN YOU 2014 - 2023 Affiliate Disclaimer, Terms & Services, Privacy Policy, Top Things to Do in Heraklion, Crete That You Cant Miss, 10 Underrated Cities in Europe That Will Steal Your Heart, Unreal Fairytale Towns in Europe that You Have to See. At the museum, you will see many findings from the archaeological sites of Phaistos and Knossos. In the evening, the square around the fountain hums with people enjoying the nearby nightlife. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Heraklion - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor It comes flattened out with a fork for eating. Its all plants and fairy lights and upturned barrels. Minoan Palace of Malia. per adult. The boat arrives at Gramvousa, which is also known as Pirate Island as it was once a hideaway for rebels. If you're an animal lover, traveling with kids or just looking to kill some time, the Cretaquarium should be on your list. Guides (both people and books) are available on site. Bougatsa is basically delicious creamy . Heraklion, also known as Iraklio, is the capital city of the island of Crete and a working city, so it remains busy even in the winter. Crete is a large island with a varied landscape ranging from high mountain peaks to deep, stunning gorges, and some of the most . Nearby is a wonderful area of narrow streets lined with restaurants with patios, as well as interesting shops. Additional content contributed by Liza S. James & Sarah of TheWholeWorldOrNothing are full-time backpackers and part-time thrill seekers. Unlike nearby Chania and Rethymnon, Cretes capital (you might also see it go by the Greek spelling Iraklio) is not known for its beautiful architecture. When the sun sets, its time for a taste of the nightlife. The other historic building that youll pass (they stand out easily in Heraklion) is the Venetian Loggia. . In fact, its one of the best museums Ive been to in Greece not just for its impressive collections but also the way it conveys the context (something strangely ignored in some museums). This elegant-looking museum tells the story of the island from the 4th century AD onwards using a fascinating collection of sculptures, frescos, jewelry, coins, and canons! After take-off from a mountain in Avdou, this tandem paragliding experience will have you on a smooth flight over Heraklion. SPECIAL OFFER. If you're going to visit during the summer, travelers also strongly recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and beat the intense afternoon heat. The bus cannot be caught from within airport grounds so you will need to walk a little way to reach the public bus stop. . 1. They were built by the Venetians in order to protect the city from the Turks. Bougatsa is basically delicious creamy things in filo pastry, topped with a dusting of cinnamon. event : evt, You'll find plenty to keep you busy in Crete. Click here for more information and book your day trip to Santorini. If you are planning to visit here and the ancient Palace of Knossos, buy a combined ticket for the two at 16 which is valid for 3 days. . Travelers recommend Nature & adventure National parks Family-friendly activities Museums & exhibitions Private tours Walking tours Food & drinks Our most recommended things to do in Crete 1. It is one of the most important tourist attractions on Crete. The hotel has its own restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Cretan and international dishes. Impressive gorges, remote villages, ancient sites, and secluded beaches are just some of the impressive sights youll see while exploring Heraklion on foot. . Many travelers said that the shark tank in particular is a can't-miss spot in the aquarium. If you're going to visit during the summer, travelers also strongly recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and beat the intense afternoon heat. Take to the skies and get a birds eye view of the city! Follow them on social media to keep up with their journey and awesome travel tips. So many interesting things to do! You can also head out to the beach, which is 5 minutes away. Small to medium sized waves, perfect for bobbing about in, are usually common here as is a cooling breeze. A vast monumental palace, with four wings built around a spacious central courtyard, Knossos is believed to have been the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos. I stayed at boutique hostel Intra Muros which is a good basic option for a night or two in the summertime, and theres another boutique hostel in town called So Young. The population of the city is thought to have been about 300,000, and the site has been remarkably well preserved. Stretching for about 10 miles through southern Chania Prefecture's White Mountains, Samaria Gorge is thought to be one of the longest canyons in Europe. The last stop of the tour is in Agios Nikolaos, with time for shopping or a coffee. Agios Minas Cathedral in Heraklion city. Once the home of Europes oldest civilization, the Minoans, who lived on the island between 2700BC and 1450BC, the city is packed with history and archaeological ruins. Jacques Cousteau has dived there several times, trying to learn more about its mystery. The Museum contains many items discovered all over Crete tracing the ancient history of the island. Exploring Crete: For ideas on how to spend your time and what to see on this beautiful Greek Island, see our guide to the Top Tourist Attractions on Crete. The Atrion Hotel: This elegant hotel is situated close to the city center and the main promenade. 19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Heraklion Recent visitors highly recommend visiting both of these places, as some artifacts featured were excavated from the Palace of Knossos. After all that exploration youll need a good evening feed. The Historical Museum of Crete, located in the capital city of Heraklion, chronicles Cretan life from early Byzantine times to the Modern period. Want less action, more relaxation? Click here for more information and to book your entry ticket. But this city, the island's capital and chief port, is full of history and attractions in and around the Old City. Happy travels. 4WD Tours. Recent travelers hail Elafonisi as one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, if not in all of Greece. The hostel also serves really good breakfast, and theres also a pool for you to take a dip on a hot day. And it sounds of Stelios Kazantzakis (literally nearly every cafe and bar I walk into is playing his hits). Simone. Ultimate Guide to Things to do in Heraklion Crete [2023] Bus times are not as frequent as you might imagine considering how close it is to the city. April 20, 2022. Although excavations show that there was a palace here as early as 2000 BC, what you see today dates mainly from 1450 BC. I recommend starting the morning with the city's beloved bougatsa. It is unmistakable, with two massive palm trees in front. Visit Heraklion: 13 Must-See Attractions 1. It is one of the most impressive archaeological sites I have ever visited. But never fear: You can avoid the throngs of visitors by venturing a little farther away from the parking lot. In the 16th century, Heraklion was home to an important school of religious icon painters. The museum is situated in the house close to the church where the artist was born. If you wish to travel from the airport in Heraklion to the city centre, you have two options: bus or taxi. Check out this car rental in Heraklion for various transport options. After Spinalonga, you will get back to Elounda, where you will have time for a swim and a delicious lunch made with traditional Cretan products. Unlike places like Plakias, where tourists tend to spend several days or more, Matala is more of a day-tripping destination and does not have much by way of seaside accommodation. 7. But all that labor was for naught the Ottomans captured the Fortezza less than 100 years after its completionand went on to rule Crete for more than two centuries. I love aquariums! All rights reserved. Some of Heraklion's best seafood restaurants, an ancient fortress, museums, and amazing views are what you'll find here. The archaeological site of Knossos is considered on of the most important sites in Greece and the oldest city in Europe. If you're planning a family holiday in Crete, the chances are you'll find yourself visiting Heraklion with kids at least once during your stay.. contains affiliate links*. on the ruins of a neolithic settlement. Today, the Fortezza plays host to a range of cultural events, including the Rethymnon Renaissance Festival. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Im Chrysoula, born and raised in Athens, Greece. 30+ Best things to do in Crete (with photos) - ZigZag On Earth Cretaquarium is also a very fun place to visit, especially for children. Things to do in Crete Meander between coastal villages, colorful old towns, and idyllic beaches on Greece's largest island. But youll also find lots of delicious fresh seafood, grilled lamb and plenty of cheese. Situated right on the waterfront and just down from the Historical Museum, this is an impressive modern museum that showcases the best of Crete. See all things to do. Ranking of the top 9 things to do in Crete. Visit Knossos Palace. If you're interested in the older stuff, check out the nearby Heraklion Archaeological Museum. . Heraklion Crete - Complete Travel Guide | Discover Greece Youre unlikely to ever need to go there, as pretty much all of the tourist destinations are served from A (at the moment, at least). Occupying a prominent position on the waterfront of Heraklion, the Koules Fortress is an impressive Venetian fortress dating from the early 16th century. Enjoy your visit to this city and plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions in Heraklion. The Old Town of Heraklion has close to 1,000 shops, many of which are found in the extensive maze of pedestrian-only streets. Highlights include a mini-statue of a Snake Goddess and the . Travelers also lauded the picturesque drive coming into the beach. You did a great job introducing me to somewhere Ive never even heard of. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. 48 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Crete, Greece - TourScanner This building was started in 1862, and work continued for 33 years until its completion in 1895. Known for being the cradle of western civilization, Crete is home to ancient settlements and ruins spread all over the island. Morosini Fountain (Lion's Fountain) 1,518. Historic Sites. Things to Do in Heraklion Prefecture. Beach Activities Iraklion is home to some of the best beaches in Crete. What an idyllic way to spend an afternoon! Ticket costs: Full: 15.00 Reduced: 8.00 . While the majority of tourists on the island stay outside the capital city, it's close to one of Crete's biggest sights - the Minoan palace of Knossos - as well as a string of family attractions. Fountains. You can walk along the shore while gazing up at the massive mountains nearby as well as climbing up the boulders scattered around the sand. Today, visiting the Minoan Palace of Knossos is one of the top things to do in Heraklion. Now they are living their dream and hope to inspire you to put your fears aside and go follow yours. Hours are seasonal. If youve got kids, theres always the Natural History Museum (it has dinosaurs and an earthquake simulator) or the Aquarium although bear in mind its 15km out of town. 30 Jan Sharing is caring! Tourists flock here for the nightlife of nearby mega-resorts (such as the notorious Malia and Hersonissos) and the famous Minoan palace Knossos. The Palace of Knossos, in Heraklion, is the most famous archaeological site on the island. Also keep an eye out. Enjoy your visit to this city and plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions in Heraklion. Even if the place is technically a bit out of the city, it cannot be left out of this list. The sea is clear and the beach is less busy than the main one at Ammoudara, so its a worthy alternative if you dont like crowds. All artifacts (spanning some 5,000 years of history) in this museum were excavated exclusively from archaeological sites in Crete. Ive never been to Heraklion, but it looks fun! The Greek Island of Crete is a great place to explore staying within a fairly reasonable budget and without leaving the European comfort zone. 7,545. Sofias House: This family-run hotel is a favorite for its clean, modern rooms and signature customer service. . per adult. It lies 62 kilometers south of Heraklion, just a 15-minute drive from Matala. Things to Do in Crete. Here you will discover a lot of species that live in the Mediterranean. Its mostly tourist knick-knacks these days, but youll find the odd thing of interest (especially in the spice and herb shops) and if you wander away from the main streets in the morning youll find fishmongers and butchers. The archaeological site has a different feel to any other thanks to the restoration of Sir Arthur Evans, who has famously (or infamously) reconstructed big parts of the site in the early 1900s. Santorini 1 day guided Excursion, with Highspeed from . Oh my, the cheese! This museum traces 1,700 years of history on the island, from early Christian times to the modern era. Heraklion, also known as Iraklio, is a port city and the capital of the Greek island of Crete. Depending on the time of day you visit, the light shining through them is mesmerizing. There is the chance to learn about local handicrafts at the Lassinthos Eco Park and toast everyones health with a glass of local Raki which is not unlike brandy! THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Heraklion - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor The church is one of the most beautiful buildings still remaining in Heraklion. The sisters' approach to biodynamic wine is rooted in both history and forward-thinking progress. It all started with a conversation about wanting more from life and a desire to travel the world. It is located on a hill with beautiful views of the Messara plain and Psiloritis mountain. Enjoy plenty of fun at this amazing waterpark. Heraklion Greece: Travel Guide 2023 | Greeka It is a hugely popular travel destination. Things to Do in Heraklion. The Old Town area of Heraklion is surrounded on three sides by massive Venetian Walls that tower above the surrounding city. The aquarium is located at a former American military base in Gournes, 13 kilometers east of Heraklion. This is the option you'll want to choose if you want to stop for a bite to eat or learn a bit about the island. It has a chilled out family-friendly vibe and all the tavernas have photographs on their menus. Those who didn't said it was difficult to really enjoy the attraction because the heat was so intense. Afterward, the safari heads off-road into the mountains. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Heraklion - UPDATED 2023 - Tripadvisor Discover their ancient tradition of wine-making on a full-day wine tour. Heraklion has lots of cool bars with buzzing atmospheres for a great night out. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices. Editors Tip: The best way to travel around Heraklion (and the rest of Crete) is by renting a car. But still, you cant really go wrong with that classic combination of sun, sea, chicken souvlaki and a cold beer to wash it down. Heraklion Countryside House: Past guests think this is one of the best value-for-money properties near Heraklio Town. Top Things to Do in Heraklion, Greece - Heraklion Attractions. 1 - Visit the Knossos Palace As the most important Bronze Age archaeological site on the island, Knossos Palace has welcomed nearly 600,000 curious visitors per year. Two paintings by El Greco are major highlights of the museum:The Baptism of ChristandView of Mt. Things to Do in Heraklion. You will then be taken back to the port for your return journey back to Heraklion. the palace's history and mythology will really come to life. This is a really interesting excursion that begins with a transfer to Elounda, where there is a short boat trip over to Spinalonga, which for many years was a leper colony. 2023. If you do get turned around, don't despair: The area isn't huge, and once you see the Venetian Fortezza or the harbor, you can easily regain your bearings. Top Things to Do in Crete, Greece - Crete Attractions. Tickets cost 9 for the summer months and 6 for the winter months. In addition, an entire floor is devoted to stuffed animals that live or once lived around the Mediterranean Sea. Heraklion, Crete: City Guide & Top things to do Dedicated to the patron saint of Heraklion, the Cathedral of St. Minas is an impressive building located in the Old Town. The Palace of Knossos. Heraklion and the main airport are just under 15 minutes away by car. Cretan cuisine is traditionally Greek where moussaka and mezze of stuffed vine leaves, tzatziki dip, and meatballs abound. Are you up for some action on the water? Travel Tip: If youre a history lover, nothing beats learning about the history of a place with a local guide. Sinai and the Monastery of St. Catherine. Get off the beaten track and spend a full eight hours discovering the Minoan path by Land Rover. When the weather is warm, you'll almost always find a lively scene of locals and tourists enjoying the surrounding cafs and ice-cream shops. (Some travelers felt the placards didn't offer up enough information about the attraction.) it can be found in the small village of Fodele, which lies west of Heraklion. Grand wooden doors open into rooms where period pieces are on display, and plaques offer insight into the history. The Morosini Fountain is at the center of Heraklion's Old Town, not far from the Loggia. The park is divided into two linked areas one for adults and one for children. 5Hour Safari Tour in Crete(Heraklion)with Quad,ATV Jeep,Buggy, Monster and Lunch. 73.78. There are also plenty of water sports to enjoy, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing. Once you arrive, your visions of pristine sandy stretches may be spoiled by the legions of tourists who have also made the trek, especially in the summer months. Lions Square is one of the most colorful parts of the old city. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Particular highlights include two paintings from the 16th century: The Baptism of Christ and the View of Mt. If you have no room in your bags, don't worry, even luggage to transport all your new purchases is available.
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