Heraklion, Crete – A Complete Guide to the City
Heraklion, Crete – A Complete Guide to the City
Heraklion is the largest city and capital of Crete, a lively destination where ancient history, Venetian architecture, museums and modern city life come together. Located on the northern coast of the island, it is one of the most important cultural, commercial and transport centres in Greece.
For many visitors, Heraklion is the gateway to Crete, thanks to its international airport and busy port. But the city deserves much more than a brief stop on the way to the beaches. Its historic centre, impressive Venetian fortifications, bustling markets, traditional cafés and world-class museums make it a rewarding destination in its own right.
Just a few kilometres south of the city lies the Palace of Knossos, the most famous centre of Minoan civilisation. Beyond the urban area, the wider Heraklion region offers traditional villages, vineyards, archaeological sites, mountain landscapes and beautiful beaches along both the northern and southern coasts.
Whether you are interested in history, gastronomy, culture, shopping or exploring the island, Heraklion is an excellent place to begin discovering Crete.
Discover Heraklion
Heraklion is a city of contrasts. Around the historic centre, narrow streets and pedestrian areas lead to Venetian fountains, churches, lively squares and traditional markets. A short walk brings visitors to the old harbour, where the imposing Koules Fortress stands beside the Venetian shipyards.
The city is built around a compact historic core, still partly enclosed by impressive Venetian walls. Within these fortifications, visitors can discover some of the most important landmarks of the Cretan capital, including Lions Square, the Archaeological Museum, Agios Minas Cathedral and the central market.
Heraklion is also a modern commercial and university city. Its streets are busy throughout the year, with shops, cafés, restaurants, cultural venues and nightlife. Unlike smaller coastal towns, it has a distinctly urban atmosphere, offering visitors an opportunity to experience everyday life in Crete beyond the traditional holiday resorts.
The waterfront is another important part of the city. The harbour promenade provides views of the sea, fishing boats and the Venetian fortress, while the nearby coastal areas offer opportunities for walking, dining and relaxing.
Heraklion is particularly suitable for visitors who enjoy exploring cities on foot, discovering historical landmarks and combining cultural sightseeing with local food and shopping.
History and Cultural Heritage
The history of Heraklion is closely connected with the development of Crete and the civilisations that have shaped the island over thousands of years.
The area was already an important centre during the Minoan period, when the nearby Palace of Knossos served as one of the principal centres of Minoan civilisation. The settlement that developed around the harbour was connected to Knossos and its maritime activities.
During the Byzantine period, the town developed as a fortified coastal settlement. In 824 AD, Arab forces captured the city and established a settlement known as Rabdh al-Khandaq, a name associated with the defensive trench surrounding it. The name Chandax, used in later centuries, developed from this historical name.
The Byzantines recovered the city in 961 AD. Later, following the conquest of Crete by Venice in the thirteenth century, Heraklion became the administrative centre of Venetian Crete. The Venetians called the city Candia, a name that was also used for the island during this period.
Under Venetian rule, the city became an important commercial, cultural and military centre. Its fortifications were gradually strengthened, creating the impressive walls and harbour defences that remain among its most significant monuments today.
The Ottoman siege of Candia began in 1648 and lasted for approximately 21 years. The city finally surrendered in 1669, after one of the longest sieges in European history. Under Ottoman rule, it became known as Kandiye.
Crete eventually became part of the modern Greek state in 1913. Since then, Heraklion has developed into the island's largest urban centre and an important destination for culture, education, commerce and tourism.
Heraklion's cultural identity is also connected with important figures in Greek literature and art. The city and the wider region are associated with the writer Nikos Kazantzakis, whose grave is located on the Venetian walls, and with the Cretan School of painting, represented by artists such as Michael Damaskinos.
The city's churches, museums, fountains and fortifications provide a visible record of its Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman past.
Things to See and Do in Heraklion
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the most important archaeological attraction in the Heraklion area and one of the most significant prehistoric sites in Europe. Located approximately five kilometres south of the city centre, it was a major political, economic and religious centre of Minoan civilisation.
The palace reached its greatest importance during the second millennium BC. Its complex architecture included courtyards, ceremonial rooms, residential areas, workshops, storage spaces and elaborate drainage systems. The famous Throne Room, the Grand Staircase and the remains of colourful frescoes help visitors imagine the sophistication of Minoan society.
Knossos is also closely connected with Greek mythology, particularly the stories of King Minos, the Labyrinth and the Minotaur, as well as Daedalus and Icarus.
The site was excavated first by Minos Kalokairinos in 1878 and later extensively by British archaeologist Arthur Evans. Some of the reconstructions carried out by Evans remain controversial, but they have become part of the site's modern appearance.
A visit to Knossos is one of the essential experiences in Crete, particularly for travellers interested in ancient history and archaeology. It is worth allowing enough time to explore the site and understand its different areas.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece and an essential stop for anyone interested in the history of Crete.
Its collections cover thousands of years, from prehistoric times to the Roman period, with a particular emphasis on Minoan civilisation. Many of the most famous objects discovered at Knossos and other archaeological sites around Crete are displayed here.
Highlights include the Phaistos Disc, the Snake Goddess figurines, the Bull-Leaping fresco, the Bull's Head rhyton and a remarkable collection of Minoan pottery, jewellery, sculptures and everyday objects.
The museum provides valuable context for a visit to Knossos. Seeing the objects and artworks in the museum before or after exploring the palace helps visitors understand the artistic achievements, religious practices and daily life of the Minoans.
Koules Fortress – The Venetian Harbour
One of the most recognisable landmarks of Heraklion is Koules Fortress, which dominates the entrance to the old Venetian harbour.
Originally known as Rocca al Mare, the fortress was built by the Venetians to protect the harbour and the city from attacks arriving by sea. It acquired its final form during the sixteenth century, between 1523 and 1540.
The fortress has thick stone walls, vaulted rooms and several levels. Inside, visitors can explore its historical spaces and learn about its military role in the defence of Venetian Candia.
The upper level offers impressive views across the harbour, the city and the Cretan Sea. It is particularly atmospheric in the late afternoon, when the sunlight illuminates the stone walls and the fishing boats in the harbour.
A walk around Koules and the old harbour is one of the best ways to begin discovering Heraklion.
The Venetian City Walls
The Venetian Walls are among the most impressive surviving fortifications in the Mediterranean. Built and strengthened over several centuries, they surrounded the historic city with massive defensive structures, bastions, gates and moats.
Their importance became especially clear during the Ottoman siege of Candia, which lasted from 1648 until 1669. The fortifications resisted repeated attacks for more than two decades before the city finally surrendered.
Today, significant sections of the walls remain accessible, and visitors can walk along parts of the fortifications to enjoy views over Heraklion.
One of the most meaningful places along the walls is the grave of Nikos Kazantzakis, the internationally recognised Cretan writer. His simple tomb is located on the Martinengo Bastion and bears the famous inscription: "I hope for nothing. I fear nothing. I am free."
Walking along the Venetian Walls offers a different perspective on the city and provides an opportunity to appreciate the scale of its historic defences.
Lions Square and the Morosini Fountain
Lions Square, officially known as Eleftheriou Venizelou Square, is one of the liveliest meeting points in Heraklion.
At its centre stands the famous Morosini Fountain, built during the Venetian period and completed in 1628 under the direction of Francesco Morosini. The fountain is decorated with carved stone lions and reliefs depicting scenes from nature and mythology.
The square is surrounded by cafés, restaurants, pastry shops and shops, making it a popular place throughout the day. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the historic centre, as several of Heraklion's main pedestrian streets connect to it.
Visitors should take time to enjoy a traditional Greek coffee or try the famous local bougatsa, a pastry often filled with sweet cream or cheese.
Agios Minas Cathedral
The Cathedral of Agios Minas is one of the largest churches in Greece and one of the most important religious landmarks in Heraklion.
Dedicated to Saint Minas, the patron saint of the city, the cathedral stands in a spacious square in the centre of Heraklion. Its impressive architecture includes a large central dome, twin bell towers and richly decorated interior spaces.
Construction began in the nineteenth century and the cathedral was inaugurated in 1896. Its size and prominent position make it one of the most recognisable buildings in the city.
Nearby, visitors can also find the older Church of Agios Minas and the Church of Agia Aikaterini, which houses an important collection of religious art associated with the Cretan School of painting.
Agia Aikaterini of Sinai
Located near Agios Minas Cathedral, the historic Church of Agia Aikaterini of Sinai is an important monument of the Venetian period.
The church was built in the sixteenth century and became a centre of learning and artistic activity during the Cretan Renaissance. It is particularly associated with the Cretan School of painting, whose artists developed a distinctive style combining Byzantine traditions with influences from Western European art.
Among the artists connected with this tradition was Michael Damaskinos, whose works are represented in the church's collection.
For visitors interested in religious art and the cultural history of Crete, Agia Aikaterini is an especially worthwhile stop.
St Titus Church
The Church of St Titus is one of the most historically significant religious buildings in Heraklion.
Dedicated to Saint Titus, the first bishop of Crete according to Christian tradition, the church has a long and complex history connected with the island's Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods.
Its architecture reflects the different stages of its development. During Ottoman rule, the building was converted into a mosque, before returning to Christian use in the nineteenth century.
Today, it is an important Orthodox church and a notable landmark in the historic centre. Its location also makes it easy to include in a walking tour of the city.
25th August Street and the Venetian Buildings
25th August Street is one of the most attractive historic streets in Heraklion. Connecting the old harbour with Lions Square, it forms a natural route between two of the city's most important areas.
The street is lined with historic buildings, neoclassical architecture, shops, cafés and restaurants. Among its notable landmarks are the Venetian Loggia, the Basilica of St Mark and the Church of St Titus.
The Venetian Loggia is particularly impressive. Built during the seventeenth century, it served as a meeting place for Venetian officials and members of the city's nobility. Today, it houses the Heraklion City Hall.
A walk along this street provides a good introduction to the architectural character of the historic centre.
Heraklion Central Market – 1866 Street
For visitors who want to experience the everyday life of Heraklion, the central market is one of the most interesting places to explore.
Located along 1866 Street and the surrounding market lanes, this area has traditionally been a commercial meeting point for residents of the city and people arriving from the surrounding villages.
The shops sell local cheeses, herbs, honey, olive oil, traditional sweets, fresh produce and other Cretan products. Visitors can also find cafés, small restaurants and shops selling clothing and everyday goods.
It is an excellent place to discover local ingredients, buy edible souvenirs and experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional Cretan market.
Historical Museum of Crete
The Historical Museum of Crete presents the history of the island from the early Christian centuries to modern times.
Its collections include Byzantine and Venetian objects, religious art, historical documents, traditional costumes and exhibits relating to the Ottoman period and the more recent history of Crete.
One of the museum's most notable features is its collection connected with the writer Nikos Kazantzakis. Visitors can also learn about the Battle of Crete and the island's experiences during the Second World War.
It is an excellent complement to the Archaeological Museum: while the latter focuses mainly on ancient history, the Historical Museum helps explain the later periods that shaped the island's identity.
Natural History Museum of Crete
Located on the coastal avenue near Dermatas Bay, the Natural History Museum of Crete is dedicated to the natural environment of Crete and the wider Eastern Mediterranean.
Its exhibitions explore the island's ecosystems, wildlife, geology and biodiversity. Visitors can discover realistic representations of natural landscapes, fossils, specimens and interactive displays.
One of the most popular features is the earthquake simulator, which introduces visitors to the seismic activity of the region. The museum also offers educational activities and exhibitions suitable for families with children.
It is a particularly good choice for visitors who want to learn more about Crete's natural environment beyond its archaeological and cultural attractions.
Plateia Eleftherias – Freedom Square
Freedom Square is one of the main public spaces in Heraklion. Located close to the Archaeological Museum, it is surrounded by important buildings and provides access to several central streets.
The square is a useful starting point for exploring the city and is also a place where residents meet, relax and enjoy the surrounding cafés.
Nearby, visitors can find the remains of St George's Gate, a historic passage through the Venetian fortifications that once connected the city with its port.
Cretaquarium – Thalassokosmos
Located in Gournes, east of Heraklion, Cretaquarium – Thalassokosmos is one of the largest aquariums in the Mediterranean region.
It introduces visitors to marine life in the Mediterranean, with aquariums displaying a wide variety of fish, invertebrates and other marine organisms.
The aquarium is a popular attraction for families and anyone interested in the underwater world surrounding Crete. It can be combined with a visit to the nearby coastal areas and beaches east of the city.
Beaches in Heraklion
Although Heraklion is primarily known as a historical and cultural destination, the wider area has a long coastline with beaches suitable for swimming, water sports and relaxing by the sea.
Some beaches are close to the city and easy to reach by public transport, while others are located further along the northern or southern coast.
Ammoudara Beach
Ammoudara is one of the most popular beaches near Heraklion, stretching for several kilometres along the northern coast, west of the city.
Its long sandy shoreline, organised facilities, beach bars and water sports make it a convenient option for visitors staying in Heraklion. The beach is also accessible by local bus, making it particularly practical for travellers without a rental car.
Amnisos Beach
Located east of Heraklion, Amnisos is a sandy coastal area with organised sections and easy access from the city.
It is also close to the archaeological area of ancient Amnisos, which was an important harbour associated with Minoan Knossos. The nearby coastline and wetlands around the river estuary add natural interest to the area.
Karteros Beach
Karteros is a popular beach east of Heraklion, known for its long sandy shoreline and lively summer atmosphere.
It attracts visitors interested in swimming, beach bars and water sports, including windsurfing. The beach is easily accessible from the city and is a popular choice among local residents.
Agia Pelagia
Agia Pelagia is a seaside resort located northwest of Heraklion, built around a sheltered bay with clear water and a sandy beach.
The bay is particularly suitable for swimming, while the surrounding area offers hotels, restaurants, cafés and opportunities for water sports. Its protected position makes it a popular choice for families and visitors looking for a coastal destination within driving distance of the city.
Ligaria Beach
Close to Agia Pelagia, Ligaria is a beautiful bay surrounded by hills and coastal accommodation.
Its sandy shoreline and relatively sheltered waters make it an appealing place for swimming and relaxing. The area has a more intimate atmosphere than some of the larger beaches along the northern coast.
Matala Beach
On the southern coast of the Heraklion region, Matala is one of the most recognisable seaside destinations in Crete.
The beach is famous for the sandstone cliffs and caves overlooking the bay. During the 1960s and 1970s, Matala became associated with the international hippie movement, and its distinctive history remains part of the village's identity.
The clear water, village atmosphere and nearby archaeological sites make Matala a rewarding excursion from Heraklion.
Kommos Beach
Located south of the archaeological area of Phaistos and close to Matala, Kommos is a long sandy beach with an impressive natural setting.
The area is also important archaeologically, as remains of an ancient Minoan harbour settlement have been discovered nearby. Parts of the beach are protected because they provide nesting habitat for loggerhead sea turtles.
Agiofarago Beach
Agiofarago is a beautiful and relatively secluded beach on the southern coast, reached by a walking route through a dramatic gorge.
The landscape combines rocky cliffs, clear water and a sense of isolation that makes it very different from the organised beaches near Heraklion. Visitors should be prepared for the walk and check local conditions before visiting.
Local Food and Gastronomy
Heraklion is one of the best places in Crete to discover the island's gastronomic traditions. The city's food culture combines traditional Cretan cooking with contemporary restaurants, local markets and a growing interest in wine tourism.
The region is particularly well known for its olive oil, wine, cheeses, honey, herbs and fresh agricultural products. Olive groves and vineyards cover much of the surrounding countryside, while traditional villages continue to preserve local recipes and food customs.
Heraklion is also part of UNESCO's Creative Cities Network in the field of gastronomy, reflecting the importance of food in its cultural identity.
Some traditional Cretan dishes and products worth trying include:
Dakos: Barley rusks topped with fresh tomato, olive oil and local cheese.
Kalitsounia: Small pastries filled with cheese, herbs or sweet ingredients.
Chochlioi: Snails prepared in traditional Cretan styles, often with rosemary and vinegar.
Apaki: Smoked and marinated pork, traditionally prepared with herbs and spices.
Gamopilafo: A traditional rice dish cooked in meat stock and commonly served at Cretan celebrations.
Staka: A rich traditional dairy preparation used in several Cretan dishes.
Xerotigana: Thin fried pastries traditionally served with honey and sesame.
The area around Heraklion is also one of Crete's most important wine-producing regions. The wine routes around Peza and Archanes offer opportunities to visit wineries, learn about local grape varieties and taste wines produced in the island's vineyards.
For a genuine local food experience, explore the central market, visit traditional tavernas and try products from the surrounding villages.
Shopping and Local Life
Heraklion is the main shopping centre of Crete and offers a much wider variety of shops than most of the island's smaller towns.
The historic centre is the best area to explore on foot. Daedalus Street, 25th August Street, Handakos Street and the streets around Lions Square are filled with clothing shops, boutiques, cafés and local businesses.
For traditional products, the central market around 1866 Street is particularly interesting. Visitors can find olive oil, local cheeses, honey, herbs, spices, traditional sweets, raki and other products from the Cretan countryside.
Heraklion also has a lively café and nightlife culture. Areas around Lions Square, Korai Street and the old town are popular for evening drinks, restaurants and bars. During the summer, cultural performances, music festivals and outdoor events add to the city's atmosphere.
Unlike smaller holiday destinations, Heraklion remains active throughout the year. It is a working city where visitors can experience everyday Cretan life alongside its historical attractions.
Excursions and Places to Visit Near Heraklion
The wider Heraklion region is one of the most rewarding areas of Crete to explore. Within relatively short driving distances, visitors can discover important Minoan archaeological sites, traditional villages, monasteries, vineyards, mountains and beautiful beaches.
Archanes
Located south of Heraklion, Archanes is one of the most attractive traditional villages in the region.
Known for its colourful restored houses, picturesque streets and traditional architecture, the village has developed a reputation for its gastronomy and wine production. Its central squares are surrounded by cafés, tavernas and small shops.
The surrounding area has a long history of wine cultivation and is home to important archaeological remains connected with Minoan civilisation.
Archanes is an excellent destination for visitors who want to experience traditional Cretan village life and explore the countryside around Heraklion.
Phaistos Palace
The Palace of Phaistos is one of the most important archaeological sites of Minoan Crete. Located in the fertile Messara Plain, in the southern part of the Heraklion region, it was an important administrative and cultural centre during the Bronze Age.
The archaeological site is particularly impressive because of its position overlooking the surrounding plain and the distant mountains.
Phaistos is also famous for the discovery of the Phaistos Disc, one of the most mysterious objects of Minoan archaeology, now displayed at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
A visit to Phaistos can easily be combined with nearby archaeological sites, traditional villages and the beaches of southern Crete.
Ancient Gortyna
The archaeological site of Gortyna is one of the most significant historical destinations in southern Crete.
Gortyna developed into an important city during the Greek and Roman periods and later became the capital of the Roman province of Crete and Cyrenaica.
Among its most important discoveries is the famous Gortyn Code, an extensive inscription of ancient Greek law carved into stone. The site also includes remains of Roman buildings, temples, a theatre and the Basilica of Agios Titos.
For visitors interested in ancient history, Gortyna offers a fascinating insight into the political and social life of Crete during antiquity.
Matala
Matala is one of the most famous coastal villages in southern Crete and a popular excursion from Heraklion.
Its sandy beach is overlooked by impressive sandstone cliffs containing caves that were used in ancient times as burial places and later became associated with the hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s.
Today, Matala combines its alternative cultural history with a lively seaside atmosphere, traditional tavernas, cafés and small shops.
The village is an excellent destination for a day trip, particularly when combined with Phaistos and the wider Messara region.
Zaros and Lake Votomos
At the southern foothills of Mount Psiloritis, the village of Zaros is known for its natural springs, traditional character and beautiful mountain surroundings.
One of its main attractions is Lake Votomos, a small artificial lake surrounded by greenery and walking paths. The area is particularly pleasant for a relaxing visit, with traditional tavernas nearby serving local dishes.
Zaros is also a starting point for exploring the Rouvas Gorge and the surrounding mountain landscape.
Rouvas Gorge and Rouvas Forest
The Rouvas Gorge is an impressive natural destination in the southern part of the Psiloritis mountain range.
The hiking route passes through a landscape of rocky formations, streams and rich vegetation before reaching the beautiful Rouvas Forest, known for its large oak trees.
The area is particularly attractive to visitors interested in hiking and nature. Walking conditions can vary depending on the season, so suitable footwear and preparation are recommended.
Fodele
The village of Fodele, located northwest of Heraklion, is traditionally associated with the famous Renaissance painter El Greco, who was born in the region in the sixteenth century.
The village is surrounded by greenery, orange groves and a small river valley. Its traditional streets, cafés and local shops create a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the busy city.
Visitors can also explore the El Greco Museum and the nearby Byzantine Church of the Panagia, making Fodele an interesting cultural excursion.
Cretaquarium and Gournes
East of Heraklion, the coastal area of Gournes is home to Cretaquarium, one of the most popular family attractions in the region.
The aquarium offers an introduction to Mediterranean marine life and provides an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
The surrounding area also has beaches and coastal villages, making it possible to combine a visit with a relaxing day by the sea.
How to Get to Heraklion
Heraklion is the main transport hub of Crete and is easily accessible by air, sea and road.
By air: Heraklion International Airport, Nikos Kazantzakis, receives domestic and international flights. It is located only a short distance from the city centre, making it convenient for visitors arriving from Athens and many European destinations. Flight availability varies by season.
By ferry: Heraklion has one of the busiest ports in Greece, with regular ferry connections to Piraeus and several Greek islands. Overnight ferries from Athens are a popular option for travellers bringing their own vehicle or preferring to travel by sea.
By bus: Heraklion is the main centre of the intercity bus network in Crete. Regular services connect the city with destinations such as Agios Nikolaos, Rethymno, Chania, Ierapetra and Sitia. Local buses also serve nearby attractions and coastal areas, including Knossos and Ammoudara.
By car: The national road connects Heraklion with the other main towns of Crete. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the wider region, particularly archaeological sites, traditional villages and beaches that are not directly served by public transport.
Best Time to Visit Heraklion
Heraklion is a year-round destination, although the best time to visit depends on the type of experience you are looking for.
Spring (April–May): Spring is an excellent season for sightseeing, walking through the historic centre and visiting archaeological sites. Temperatures are generally comfortable, and the surrounding countryside becomes greener with wildflowers and vegetation. It is also a good period for excursions to villages and mountain landscapes.
Summer (June–August): Summer is the busiest tourist season. The city has a lively atmosphere, outdoor cafés and restaurants are full, and cultural events take place throughout the region. It is also the best period for combining sightseeing with swimming at nearby beaches. However, temperatures can become very high, especially when visiting archaeological sites such as Knossos.
Autumn (September–October): Autumn is one of the most pleasant times to visit Heraklion. The weather is often warm, the sea remains suitable for swimming and the city is generally less crowded than during the peak summer months. It is also a particularly interesting season for exploring the vineyards and traditional villages of the region.
Winter (November–March): Winter offers a different experience of Heraklion. As the largest city of Crete, it remains active throughout the year, with shops, restaurants, museums and cultural activities. It is a good season for travellers interested in local life and history, although some tourist services and seasonal excursions may operate on reduced schedules.
Visitor Tips
Explore the historic centre on foot: Most of the main monuments, squares, churches and museums are within walking distance of one another.
Visit Knossos and the Archaeological Museum: These two attractions complement each other and provide a much better understanding of Minoan civilisation when visited together.
Allow time for the Venetian Walls: Walking along the fortifications offers a different perspective on the city's history and architecture.
Visit the central market: It is one of the best places to discover traditional Cretan products and local food.
Try local bougatsa: The sweet or savoury pastry is a popular choice for breakfast or a snack in the city.
Explore beyond the city: Archanes, Phaistos, Gortyna, Matala and Zaros offer very different experiences and are worth including in your itinerary.
Wear comfortable shoes: The historic centre has pedestrian streets and uneven stone surfaces, while archaeological sites involve considerable walking.
Plan museum and archaeological visits ahead: Check current opening hours, ticket availability and any seasonal changes before travelling.
Use public transport where practical: Knossos and several nearby beaches can be reached by bus, but a rental car offers greater flexibility for exploring the wider region.
Is Heraklion Worth Visiting?
Heraklion is much more than an arrival point for visitors travelling around Crete. It is a destination with a remarkable historical identity, a lively modern atmosphere and access to some of the most important cultural sites on the island.
The Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum reveal the achievements of Minoan civilisation, while the Venetian Walls, Koules Fortress, historic churches and old harbour tell the story of the many cultures that shaped the city.
Beyond its monuments, Heraklion offers excellent gastronomy, traditional markets, shopping, nightlife and easy access to beaches and beautiful countryside.
For travellers who want to understand the history and culture of Crete, Heraklion is an essential stop. It is worth spending at least one full day exploring the city itself, while two or three days allow more time to discover Knossos and some of the surrounding region.