Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is centrally located on the island’s northern coast. It is one of Greece's largest cities and home to the country’s busiest charter airport. For many, Heraklion is their first stop when arriving in Crete.

A City Full of Life

Thanks to its central location, excellent connections to mainland Greece and Europe, and numerous hotels, Heraklion is a common starting point for exploring Crete. The city offers a mix of lively shopping streets, charming squares with terraces, a colorful daily market, and traditional Cretan tavernas. A visit to Knossos, the legendary Minoan palace, is a must.

Strolling through Heraklion, you’ll find the Venetian harbor, the ancient fortress of Koules, and remnants of the city's rich past. The massive city walls, the longest in Europe, once protected Heraklion from invaders. The Venetian fortress also served as a prison for Cretan rebels. Today, the harbor is filled with colorful fishing boats and vibrant seafood tavernas.

Historic Sights & Landmarks

• Agios Titos Cathedral: A Byzantine church, later rebuilt after an earthquake, housing the relics of Saint Titus.

• Venetian Loggia: A stunning 16th-century Venetian building that now functions as part of the town hall.

• Morosini Fountain (Lions Square): The heart of the city, a popular meeting spot surrounded by cafés and restaurants.

• The Agora (Market Street): A bustling market selling everything from fresh produce to local delicacies like thyme honey and raki.

• Plateia Eleftherias (Freedom Square): A spacious crescent-shaped square near the Archaeological Museum, lined with restaurants and green spaces.

Museums & Culture

• Archaeological Museum: Home to a vast collection of Minoan artifacts, showcasing Europe's earliest civilization.

• Historical Museum: Chronicles Crete’s 2,000-year history, including Venetian and Ottoman influences.

The City Walls & Nikos Kazantzakis' Tomb

Heraklion is surrounded by medieval walls that once made it a nearly impenetrable fortress. Walking along the walls offers fantastic city views and leads to the tomb of renowned Cretan writer Nikos Kazantzakis, inscribed with his famous words:
"I hope for nothing, I fear nothing: I am free."

A Rich History

Originally named Herakleion after the mythical hero Hercules, the city has seen Arab, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule. Each era left its mark, from the grand Venetian fortifications to Turkish mosques. In 1913, Crete unified with Greece, and Heraklion became its capital in 1971.

Getting Around

Heraklion serves as Crete’s transport hub, with buses connecting to nearly all parts of the island, making it an ideal base for day trips and excursions.

Whether exploring ancient ruins, enjoying fresh seafood by the harbor, or soaking in the lively atmosphere of its squares and markets, Heraklion is a city that blends history, culture, and modern life seamlessly.

Where to Park in Heraklion

Parking in the city can be challenging, especially during peak tourist season. However, there are several options:

Municipal Parking Lots: Look for designated public parking areas, such as those near the port

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These are convenient and reasonably priced.

Activities and Tours

For activities and tours in or from Heraklion, you can rely on our partner Upiria via the "easy deals" button below.