1. Knossos
What would be a trip to Crete without visiting Europe’s oldest city dating back to 7,000 BC? Knossos is a timeless archaeological site located around 6 kilometers from central Heraklion which should definitely be on the top of your list. Find the best guided tour on Viator.
2. Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion is the most visited museum in Crete and one of the most visited in whole of Greece. There you will find some of the most famous artifacts of Crete such as the Phaistos Disc, the Snake Goddess, Ladies in Blue and Bull Leaping frescoes. Highly recommended if you want to learn more about the history of Crete. Tickets are available on Viator.
3. Koules Fortress & Venetian Harbour
The Venetian Harbour of Heraklion is one of the most frequent visited place in the city. An evening walk along the harbour is ideal on a warm summer night and a visit to the 1500s Venetian Koules fort which has been recently renovated is one of the best things to do!
4. Heraklion Town & Liontaria Fountain
Heraklion is one of the oldest cities in Crete with a historic monument on every other corner. The Lions Fountain or Liontaria as it is in Greek is the most common meeting point for all locals. So do it like the locals do, find yourself a nice café in one of the city alleys, order yourself a cold coffee and relax!
5. Agios Minas Cathedral
As you wander around the city alleys, make sure to drop by Agios Minas, the largest church on the island which surely deserves a visit. You can admire its beautiful architecture, murals and chandeliers and on top there is no entrance fee!
6. Matala Village
Matala is located on the southern part of the prefecture so it might not be as accessible as other places for some, however if you have rented a car, it shouldn’t be a problem or if you are fine with longer bus rides. The village is characterized by its colorful scheme and relaxed vide. Have we mentioned it used to be occupied by hippies in the 60s and 70s?
7. Cretaquarium
CretAquarium has an impressive exhibition of the Mediterranean marine fauna with many species making this an ideal visit for kids and adults alike. There you will be able to see the endangered Caretta-Caretta turtle that is found mainly in the Mediterranean and breeds in Crete.
8. Limanakia Beach
Limanakia is a costal area on the east side of Heraklion, close to the popular Hersonissos. Some of the best beaches in Heraklion are located there such as Gefyri and Sarantaris beach.
