Heraklion travel guide

Heraklion, the capital city of Crete, has a rich history dating back to the Neolithic period. It was the main port of the Minoan Civilization, the first advanced civilization in Europe, and home to the legendary King Minos.

In 824 AD, the Arabs conquered Crete and established their capital in Heraklion, then known as Rabdh El Khandak. The Byzantines reclaimed the city in 961 AD, only for it to fall into the hands of the Venetians in 1204.

The Venetians fortified the city, building massive walls and impressive buildings, leaving behind a rich architectural heritage that attracts tourists today. In 1669, after a 21-year siege, the city was taken by the Ottomans, who ruled until 1898, when Crete became an autonomous state.

Heraklion officially became part of Greece in 1913. Throughout the 20th century, the city expanded and modernized, while preserving its historical charm. Today, it is a vibrant city that beautifully blends ancient history and modern lifestyle.

Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is steeped in a rich cultural history that is deeply entwined with its customs and traditions. The locals here are known for their warm hospitality, a characteristic feature of Greek culture. It's commonplace to be offered a glass of 'raki' or 'tsikoudia', traditional Cretan spirits, as a welcome gesture in homes and restaurants.

The people of Heraklion value their afternoon siestas, usually taken between 2 and 5 pm, so don't be surprised to find many establishments closed during this time. Heraklion's culture is also reflected in its vibrant festivals and events. The Feast of Agios Titos in August, for instance, is a major event featuring food, music, dancing, and religious processions. It's also customary to tip waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff; a small amount of change is usually sufficient.

Cretan music and dance play an integral role in Heraklion's culture. The 'pentozali', a traditional Cretan dance, is often performed at local festivals. Remember, the city is staunchly proud of its heritage, so showing respect for local traditions and customs is highly appreciated by the inhabitants.

The best time to explore Heraklion, the largest city and capital of Crete, Greece, is during the late spring (May) and early autumn (September). These periods offer warm, sunny weather with average temperatures ranging from 20-28°C, ideal for outdoor exploration and beach activities. Avoiding the summer high season (July and August) means fewer crowds at major attractions like the Palace of Knossos and Heraklion Archaeological Museum. The city's vibrant cultural life is especially evident in September during the Heraklion Summer Arts Festival, offering numerous concerts, theatre performances, and art exhibitions. Visitors in May can witness the Feast of Saint George, featuring traditional music, dancing, and food. For wine lovers, the harvest period in September presents a unique opportunity to visit local vineyards and sample the region's renowned wines. We recommend booking accommodation and activities well in advance for these periods to secure the best deals. Remember, the best time to explore Heraklion depends on your personal preferences regarding weather, crowd levels, and cultural activities.

When in Heraklion, the insider tip is to visit the local markets, particularly the 1866 Street Market. This bustling market is often overlooked by tourists, but it is here where you can experience the local culture at its most authentic. It's a lively spot where locals buy their fresh produce, meat, fish, and other everyday essentials. But, it's not just a place for shopping. The market is also a gastronomic delight with numerous taverns offering traditional Cretan dishes and local wines. Make sure you try 'Bougatsa,' a local pastry filled with cream or cheese, often enjoyed for breakfast. While the market operates daily, it's especially vibrant on Saturdays. So, for an authentic taste of Heraklion life, skip the tourist traps and head to the 1866 Street Market.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Heraklion, Greece. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Heraklion, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Greece. Check out the best things to do in Heraklion by browsing over 382 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the stays and 20 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Heraklion with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Heraklion from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Heraklion with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Heraklion travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Heraklion!

With destinations such as Heraklion, a trip to Greece needs no further explanation. Spanning over 131,957 square kilometers, Greece is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Greece has something to enchant every traveler.

In Heraklion alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Knossos Palace, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and Morosini Fountain. Thus, a trip to Greece becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Greece offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Greece. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Greece and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Heraklion, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Heraklion offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Heraklion travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

You've explored Heraklion's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Heraklion. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Heraklion, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

International travelers can fly to Heraklion by booking flights with Jet2, Aegean, Eurowings, Condor, and Transavia, offering flights to Heraklion International. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Heraklion.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Heraklion, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Heraklion. Go to this page to compare all flights to Heraklion.

To navigate Heraklion effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 20 car rental companies in Heraklion, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Heraklion start at 30 EUR per day or 209 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Fiat 500, Toyota Aygo Automatic. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Heraklion, starting at 9 EUR per day or 66 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500, Toyota Aygo.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Heraklion, Greece below.

The city of Heraklion is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Greece. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Greece has it all.

Each destination in Greece offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Greece that are as magical as the city of Heraklion. The most popular travel destinations in Greece are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Heraklion, the capital of Crete, boasts a variety of transportation options to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. The local bus service, operated by KTEL, is reliable and covers most parts of the city and its suburbs, as well as routes to other towns on the island. The buses are frequent, affordable, and a great way to immerse yourself in local life.

Taxis are readily available in Heraklion and are a convenient but slightly more expensive way to get around. They can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. If you prefer to drive, there are numerous car rental agencies in the city offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs. Car rental provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

For a unique local experience, consider renting a bicycle or motorcycle. This is a popular mode of transportation in Crete and allows you to experience the city just like a local. It's an ideal choice for short trips within the city or for exploring the scenic coastal roads.

Experience the authentic charm of Greece by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Heraklion. Explore other destinations around Greece with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Heraklion to other amazing locations in Greece, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Greece for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Heraklion.