Although it's an imposing sight from afar, the recently renovated interior is equally, if not more, impressive. Though we really wanted to go to Crete, we never had the time; until now. Most of the interesting and worth visiting places in Heraklion and its surroundings are churches, chapels and monasteries, but there are also some exceptions. Also of note are the colorful stained-glass windows. There are no beaches in Heraklion city proper. They also have lots of people, traffic, construction, and other drawbacks that come with large cities. It's even possible to take a day tour to Santorini by boat, although I think that would make for a long day! The walls stretch for approximately 4.5 kilometers. The other two famous beaches in the Heraklion Region are Hersonissos and Malia, some 20 miles (30 km) east of the city, on the northern shore. The tour around the city may take you to Byzantine churches, Venetian walls, and fortresses, or Archaeological Museum. The church interior has beautifully painted walls lit up by a stunning chandelier. What we loved about these beaches is how raw and natural they feel. "@type": "Answer", Some of its most notable landmarks include 16th-century Koules Fortress, Jesus Gate and the Venetian City Wall. Going to Crete from Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Syros, Milos, and Tinos is a brilliant idea. It is unmistakable, with two massive palm trees in front. Across the road but fronting the harbor are the Venetian Arsenals, easily recognizable by the stone facade and huge archways. With a busy port connecting Heraklion with other parts of Greece, and an international airport, people arrive from all over the world on a daily basis to take their vacations in Crete. In fact, we don't really know what they called themselves It's only us that refer to them as Minoans! Juktas. Everything is well presented and clearly labeled, and there's a peaceful garden caf. Flights . Add your answer Posting guidelines More questions about this property 2 Answers Is the hotel high rise what is a good number to request over a year ago June is a great time to visit Crete and Chania is the best choice.I would suggest two locations: Falassarna is an easier option (more hotels and places to visit). Agios Nikolaos is a tiny port east of Heraklion with a lake in the middle. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'happyfrogtravels_com-leader-4','ezslot_13',136,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-happyfrogtravels_com-leader-4-0');In Chania, we strongly advise you to stay in the Old Town. Dine out at one of the many bars and restaurants, have cocktails with friends, visit a nightclub to dance the night away or catch live music. Minoan history, who they were, and what happened to them is something of a mystery. Why you should visit Heraklion? No visit to Heraklion would be complete without seeing the Palace of Knossos and you should include it in your Heraklion sightseeing itinerary. Nearby is a wonderful area of narrow streets lined with restaurants with patios, as well as interesting shops. The vibrant Old City is of most interest to visitors, and it's worth taking some time to see. Do not miss to visit and make some occasional picture of the Venetian Lodge (this is a real Venetian treasure in the heart of the Greek city). Start planning Church of Saint Titus reviews TripAdvisor traveler rating 807 reviews Google 4.7 By Senioronabudget The church is a church. This world-class museum is Heraklion's principal tourist attraction, apart from the actual site of Knossos, and lies in the eastern part of the old town. Heraklion Archaeological Museum 7,509 Reviews #5 of 88 things to do in Heraklion Museums, History Museums Xanthoudidou & Hatzidaki Sts, Heraklion, Crete 710 02, Greece Open today: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Save Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion 18 Book in advance from $31.04 per adult Check availability View full product details Y1493EDdarrenr 7 4 The journey is truly beautiful. The best beach in Chania is Elafonisi. Lets take a look at both cities. However, in the vicinity of the city of Heraklion, especially to the west, you will find beautiful beige sand beaches and wonderful places to walk along the coast enjoying the dark blue colour of the Mediterranean. The aquarium is located at a former American military base in Gournes, 13 kilometers east of Heraklion. The fantastic Agios Minas Cathedral is to the west. As mentioned above, outstanding architecture dots the city, so lose yourself in its leafy streets. There are plenty of things to do in Heraklion, and so the city is definitely worth visiting. As such, is a much bigger city, 150,000 inhabitants, while Chania has some 50,000. As you probably have heard, the island of Crete is one of the places in the world with the most delicious fruits, vegetables, cheese, olives and wines. To us, its the best of, Greece is our favorite European country. If you're looking for a photo opportunity as you wander around the city, you'll stumble across the Lion's Square sooner or later. The capital city of Heraklion is home to many of Crete's most popular tourist attractions, including the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Heraklion Fortress. A fascinating day out for kids and adults alike, it has 32 vast glass tanks displaying everything from hunter sharks to minuscule seahorses, jellyfish, turtles, lobsters, and octopus, all in beautifully-lit turquoise sea water against a backdrop of rocks, sand, and seaweed. This can be a hot walk in the middle of the day. Each is worth at least a half-day visit, but we found the heart of Crete in the small towns. Ready to treat yourself? Exploring Heraklion (Iraklio), Crete | Is It Worth Visiting? "@type": "Answer", Nothing compares to Chania. Do not forget to take a closer look at Chanias main tourist attractions. In fact, Heraklion itself, as we can see it today, was founded in 824. This page has more details onwalking the walls in Heraklion. View of Heraklion from the fortress | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. Consequently, out of the two best beaches near Heraklion, we strongly recommend Amoudara. Fun activities for children and adults include an earthquake and tsunami simulator. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'happyfrogtravels_com-leader-2','ezslot_9',131,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-happyfrogtravels_com-leader-2-0');Chania has a fantastic city beach. Likewise, you wont believe the number and quality of the restaurants that dot the city. I only wish I had found it first when I was researching Crete! Would you like even more travel information about Greece? They include Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Heraklion an appealing road-trip destination just 20 miles away. Small to medium sized waves, perfect for bobbing about in, are usually common here as is a cooling breeze. One of the most popular tourist destinations is the seafront city of Agios Nikolaos. No other country in the old continent has such, Thank you for a wonderful, informative and interesting article. Remarkably sophisticated, it included ceremonial spaces, living areas, storage rooms, elaborate decoration, and a complex drainage system. Win win we like that! We werent expecting much and were so pleasantly surprised! In order to appreciate the history and significance of the palace, you might like to take a guided tour. That said, if you have to choose between Heraklion or Chania, we strongly recommend Chania. These are nice enough beaches, but mostly for the young to party. Despite what you might read, Heraklion has no beach itself due to the various structures, walls and fortifications. Today, the fortress has been restored and opened to the public. The island is a feast to the senses and exceeded our high expectations. Rural area near Heraklion by Roger Davies. Once again, you can arrive in Heraklion and leave from Chania (or vice versa). "text": "There are plenty of things to do in Heraklion, and so the city is definitely worth visiting. Buses from the Old Town leave every 15 minutes for Knossos during the summer season, making it extremely easy to visit. What you see today are the ruins of a palace, built around 1600 BC, centering on a spacious paved courtyard and beautifully located on a sunbaked hillside backed by the rugged heights of Mount Psiloritis overlooking the deep blue Libyan Sea. The best places to stay in Chania are Chanias Old Town and Elafonisi beach. Both offer sunbeds and places to eat. " After Easyjet cancelled our flight , we stayed her overnight and adored it. } Hurghada is a beach resort town stretching some 40km along Egypt's Red Sea coast. Read about the 40 best attractions and cities to stop in between Luxor and Heraklion, including places like stanbul, Hagia Sophia, and The Blue Mosque The island of Crete has a lot to offer, and so it can be tempting to skip over sightseeing in Heraklion itself. Take note that you cannot bathe in the heart of the Old Town. They will tell you at the Hotel reception. Not much hiking is planned.There will be 2 of us (we are retired) for the first few days then will be joined by two other family members in their early 30s.We will be traveling from Germany.Your advice for locations and lodging informations will be greatly appreciated. The best way to travel to Sitia from Agios Nikolaos is by taxi or private transfer. Summers are very long and the months of July and August are very hot and heavy. No, we have not forgotten Knossos, the best archaeological site in Crete. They also have lots of people, traffic, construction, and other drawbacks that come with large cities. Matala was made famous by the hippies in the 1960s, who lived here in the caves at the end of beach, including Joni Mitchell, who even wrote about it in the song Carey. The stone building is located on the port and is one of the most photographed and visited places in the city. Dating from 1628, this fountain, surrounded by mature trees and cafs, is the center of action in the old city. Knossos Royal Palace Map - Attractions (Historical), The harbor in the Old Town of Heraklion | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. The same can be said about Chania and Heraklion. Hotels near Lampogialo - Rage Room, Heraklion on Tripadvisor: Find 15,610 traveller reviews, 25,098 candid photos, and prices for 600 hotels near Lampogialo - Rage Room in Heraklion , Greece. This building was started in 1862, and work continued for 33 years until its completion in 1895. Heraklion, also known as Iraklio is the largest city of Crete, known for its sandy beaches, intense nightlife, and amazing cuisine. Recommended for its great location. The Morosini Fountain is at the center of Heraklion's Old Town, not far from the Loggia. The city's landmark is the 16th c. Koules fortress in the westernmost side of the old . The Old Port is Venetian and boasts the one and only Kk Hasan Pasha Mosque, built by the Ottomans after conquering the city in 1649. Heraklion offers some of the best archaeological remains in the Mediterranean. Restored to its original condition after years of neglect, today the fountain consists of four lions with water pouring out of their mouths into a pool below. Enjoy your visit to this city and plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions in Heraklion. For more details, check here Irini Hotel Heraklion, Astoria Hotel Heraklion Located next to the archaeological museum in Heraklion, the Capsis Astoria is one of the most well known hotels in the city, and has a lovely rooftop pool. The Crete Historical Museum is another one to add to you itinerary. To the east of the port, youll find the Venetian City Walls and the Castle. As you probably know, island hopping around Greece is extremely popular and totally worth it. Over the years through a series of earthquakes and disasters, the original buildings tumbled to ruins. You'll most likely come across this historic church as you walk the pedestrian zone of Heraklion. Some of the oldest archaeological remains in the world are a step away. At this huge modern aquarium, you can see 2,500 marine species from the underwater world of the Mediterranean, swimming around in 1.7 million liters of seawater. Official site: https://www.nhmc.uoc.gr/en, Cathedral of St. Minas | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. Access is generally near a gate, and once on top of the walls, your views out over the Old Town and surrounding areas are impressive. If you are on the hunt for the perfect souvenir from Crete, head to the pedestrian-only 1866 Street, known as the Central Market. Choice include luxury hotels, budget hotels, and everything in between! Gorgeous Venetian palaces surround the mosque. For more details, check here Atrion Hotel Heraklion, Kastro Hotel Heraklion Another hotel that is recommended for its excellent location and facilities, guests comment happily on the friendly staff and lovely breakfast. Phaestos is another magnificent Minoan palace, which some people prefer to Knossos, as it is unrenovated and more atmospheric. At the tip of the port, you will find the Lighthouse of Chania, built by the Venetians in the 16th Century but reconstructed by the Egyptians in the 1820s. Chania Region is known for its wonderful hiking routes. } Some of them are quite popular and touristic, but there are also plenty of hidden gems that can turn your swimming experience into a real adventure. Nondescript buildings from the 60s onwards coexist with outstanding historic ones. If not, sit back and enjoy the view of it from one of the surrounding cafes with a coffee! }] A kite school offering lessons and rentals is located right on the beach should you wish to try your luck at this fast growing, adrenaline-pumping sport. You can find shirts, fridge magnets, jewelry, linens, and all manner of kitsch for sale. The Old Town area of Heraklion is surrounded on three sides by massive Venetian Walls that tower above the surrounding city. Some consider Balos the best beach in Chania, while others Falassarna, or Frangokastelo. On the other hand, Heraklion is more authentic, for lack of a better word. He was born in the humble village of Fodele, set amid orange groves 28 kilometers west of Heraklion. A lovely on-site caf with outdoor seating serves quick bites and cold drinks. The Old Town is pretty impressive too, a mix of Greek, Ottoman, and Venetian architecture. Both airports are close to each citys center and served by public buses and taxis. His paintings are noted for their intense color and drama, and you can see several reproductions of his works here. The Old Town of Heraklion has close to 1,000 shops, many of which are found in the extensive maze of pedestrian-only streets. With a population of 173,450 people, Heraklion is not only the largest city on the island of Crete, but also the fourth largest city in Greece after Athens, Thessaloniki and Patras. The church is dedicated to Agios Titos (Saint Titus), a disciple of Apostle Paul and first Bishop of Crete. How do I embed a video clip into PowerPoint? if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'happyfrogtravels_com-leader-3','ezslot_11',133,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-happyfrogtravels_com-leader-3-0');Getting to the top requires a nights sleepover. The region of Heraklion has a colorful palette of beaches. When you return to our hotel at the end of a busy day in the state capital, you can look forward to a delicious meal in our lounge and a great night's sleep in our super-comfy beds. Nondescript buildings from the 60s onwards coexist with outstanding historic ones. It has a fascinating history stretching back thousands of years, as you can see from our first choice of attractions in Heraklion. Crete has three airports: Heraklion and Chania, both international, and Sitia Public Airport, a small regional one. For more details, check here Astoria Hotel Heraklion. The problem is it can be tough to figure out how to get there from nearby Agios Nikolaos. Santorini or Mykonos in the Cyclades Which One to Visit? Copyright 2022 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. This is a shame, as there's lots of interesting things to discover in Heraklion. Built in the 16th century at the entrance to the old port, this impressive fortress formed part of the defensive network at Heraklion. Heraklion, the island's capital was once home to an important Minoan civilization and has seen the likes of Venetians and the Byzantines. For more details, check here Kastro Hotel Heraklion, Olympic Hotel Heraklion Offering good value for money, the Olympic Hotel is located in the heart of the city at Kornarou Square. The city is located in the central parts of the northern coast of Crete and is a centuries-old historical center. Daves Travel Pages has a number of affiliate links placed within the travel blog. Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. I think this location is more attractive than most that are nearby. It is easy not to get lost since the port and the fortress are great orientation points. Your email address will not be published. If you have your own car, parking is free. A visit to the Natural History Museum of Crete is an ideal thing to do for families. Several flights a day connect Athens to Heraklion and Chania. Whether you actually need to buy anything or not, you should visit here for a half hour or so as part of your Heraklion sightseeing itinerary. "acceptedAnswer": { If you're looking for a relaxed atmosphere and stunning scenery . You can stop there on your way to Vai, one of the best beaches in Crete. Is Heraklion in Crete nice? If it's windy, be sure to watch out for sea spray from the waves crashing against the rocks. Have you checked this post: https://happyfrogtravels.com/where-to-stay-in-crete-best-hotels-cities-and-beaches/Youll find recommendations for the best hotels.Please let me know if there is anything else I can help.Milos, Your email address will not be published. May and October also make a fine time to visit Heraklion with a bit warmer weather. "@type": "Question", Whether you want to rent a paddle boat or watch the locals surfing on Eisbach - a visit to the English Garden, the largest park in Munich, is always worthwhile. Fishing boats line the shore, where a walkway runs along the waterfront. Heraklion is the largest city of Crete and one of Greece's major urban centres. If it's open when you are walking around the top attractions of Heraklion, pop inside to take a look at the chandeliers and interior. During the summer months, the archaeological museum is open from 08.00 20.00. Koules Fortress, Heraklion by Robert Linsdell. Visiting Heraklion, a Thriving Cultural Hub in Greece. . Phaestos was abandoned around 1400 BC, the same time as Knossos, and archaeologists still have to find a good explanation why. Is Heraklion worth visiting? Both have a lively local population, but Chania is more touristy. . 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. Is Heraklion worth visiting? The city is very safe and some of the possible dangers are stray dogs and jellyfish in the sea. Located in among the narrow streets and alleys, you'll find lovely restaurants, hidden patios, and retail shops selling pretty much anything you can imagine. There are coffee houses, taverns, and restaurants everywhere. The Old Town is protected by a circuit of massive defensive walls, which have been demolished in parts. Learn how your comment data is processed. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'happyfrogtravels_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_14',137,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-happyfrogtravels_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');Zorba the Greek, by Nikos Kazantzakis, begins describing gorgeous Mount Juktas presiding over Heraklion City. Official site: https://www.cretaquarium.gr/en, View of the beach at Matala from a restaurant | Photo Copyright: Michael Law. Is Heraklion worth visiting. The first people appear on the beach in April even if the water is still cold. We, Greece is our favorite country in all of Europe. }, { Please pin this guide on places to visit in Heraklion for later. Overlooking the Libyan Sea, 67 kilometers southwest of Heraklion, Matala is one of the most visited resorts on Crete's remote south coast. Is Heraklion worth visiting? Pros: Only 25 minutes drive from Heraklion airport The staff are amazing, really, all of them are very nice and always eager to help and willing to give you the best service possible so the feeling is amazing! if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'happyfrogtravels_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_4',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-happyfrogtravels_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Chanias Old Town is not that big. It's a good place from which to take day trips to other parts of the island. The Palace of Knossos | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. It has been rebuilt and repaired many times over the centuries since it was first constructed in the 10th century. Some people even think that the palace is the labyrinth itself! Discover the best things to do in Heraklion in Crete, and start planning an unforgettable trip. So clearly, many of Cretes nicest beaches are here, in Chania Regional Unit. In the 16th century, Heraklion was home to an important school of religious icon painters. One of the points of interest you may come across when walking the walls, is the tombstone of Nikos Kazantzakis. In ancient times, Heraklion was the port of Knossos, where the Minoans, Europe's oldest known civilization (they lived on Crete between 2700 BC and 1450 BC) traded gold, ceramics, and saffron. Can you connect iPhone to iPad via Bluetooth? In winter, however, the schedule is quite different. We always use it and love it! Be sure to check out the Snake Goddess, a glazed ceramic figurine of a lady holding two snakes, dated 1600 BC, and the Phaistos Disk, a clay disc bearing a curious spiral of symbols from around 100 BC. 19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greece, 20 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens, 14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Santorini, Herakleion Map - Attractions (Historical), 14 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit on Crete, 17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos, 14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Rethymnon, 13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Chania, Where to Stay in Santorini: Best Areas & Hotels, 8 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do on Delos, 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bodrum, 9 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Rhodes Town, 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Smos, Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide, 11 Top-Rated Resorts on the French Riviera, 11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Petoskey, MI, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, https://heraklionmuseum.gr/?page_id=1406&lang=en, At the top end of the mid-range category and in a great location near the water, and walkable from the ferry port, is the, Right on the waterfront and offering great value is the, In a quiet part of town and close to the bus station is the, Also close to the bus station and recently renovated is the. Greece Island Hopping - Meet Us There. July and August are peak seasons and almost everything becomes costlier. Be sure to visit also the Orthodox Church of Agios Titos, which has a typical Byzantine appearance. Koules is a Venetian Castle, of a type known as a castle of the sea'. The cathedral is usually open, so take a few steps inside and gaze up at the impressive frescoes on the walls and ceiling. "acceptedAnswer": { The romantic feeling is hard to describe in words. 2022 Happy Frog Travels - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP. }. Granted, Chania and Heraklion are the most famous cities in Crete. Chania is famous around Crete and Greece for its incredible architecture. The pedestrian streets inside the old city section of Heraklion are perfect for aimless wanderings. Once you exit the city, youll find yourself in the middle of some of the best natural places in Crete. Other good options are Rethymnon, with a similar atmosphere to Heraklion, but smaller, and the scenic city of Chania. Further north you will find Hrisi Akti and Agii Apostoli, some of the best beaches near Chania. The place dates back to the Bronze Age. Whilst no one really knows for sure, many believe that Knossos palace is the one mentioned in the myth of the Minotaur. | Read 44,801-44,820 Reviews out of 44,994 Heraklion Prefecture Skafidaras Crete Restaurants Restaurants near Amounda Bay Hotel Restaurants near Amounda Bay Hotel Leof. 30 Best Things to Do in Thessaloniki (Greece), The island is one of the culinary hubs in the world, The Beginners Guide to Living on the Ionian Islands, Greece, 15 Best Things to Do in Kalamata (Greece), 21 Best Things to Do in Zakynthos (Greece), 21 Best Things to Do in Kefalonia (Greece), 20 Best Things to Do in Skopelos (Greece). Both Chania and Heraklion have gorgeous cathedrals, picturesque old towns, numerous restaurants, and lots of places to shop. On one side, the rock face is riddled with caves, which make this one of the most unique beaches to visit on Crete. The other side is home to restaurants that overlook this beautiful stretch of sand and the turquoise waters of the bay. An easy and scenic walk from the shoreline along a breakwater takes you to the main entrance located on the right-hand side. Everywhere you see olive and citrus trees and the feeling is like in a dream. Check out what 47,122 people have written so far, and share your own experience. The waterfront stroll starts at the breakwater and runs east to the traffic roundabout past the ancient Venetian arches and west to the Natural History Museum. Heraklion is well known for its lovely subtropical climate. We traveled from Rethymnon to Chania City by bus. Heraklion is a typical Greek city. Absolutely stunning. ", There's several choices of boat tours from Heraklion you might take. Many travelers arrive on Crete in Heraklion and continue on to other parts of the island without allowing much time, if any, to see the sites. Popular day trip tours that will help you experience the real Crete include: Day Tour of Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka, From Heraklion: Afternoon Sailing Trip to Dia Island, From Heraklion: Full-Day Gramvousa and Balos Tour, From Heraklion: Chania, Lake Kournas and Rethymno Tour, Samaria Gorge: Day Trip from Agia Pelagia, Heraklion & Malia, Crete: Day Tour to the Island of Chrissi from Heraklion, From Heraklion: Day Excursion to Elafonisi. Some consider it the oldest city in Europe. Palace of Knossos is also within close reach. The best sunsets in Chania are here, on a sidewalk overlooking the sea. Nothing can compare to its pink sand, thousands of blues and greens, and relaxed atmosphere. However, you are in Greece, so you will enjoy comfortable sunbeds, umbrellas, delicious coffee, and a peaceful environment. Originally from Belgrade, I live between Barcelona and Athens, and travel as much as I can. There is a large market there too! In fact, it is one of the best beaches in Crete, Greece, Europe, and the World. However, it is assumed that the ancient city of Knossos, which is located not far from here, had its own port in the area of Heraklion approximately 4,000 years ago. In ancient times, Heraklion was the port of Knossos, where the Minoans, Europe's oldest known civilization (they lived on Crete between 2700 BC and 1450 BC) traded gold, ceramics, and saffron. What we liked the most is that Chania is a real city, not built for tourists and Disneyesque. Today, the stone cottage where he was born is a museum. Since they are not really urban beaches, they tend to be less crowded. The coast of Heraklion is dominated by the large port, so close the old town there are no beaches. Whether you plan to base yourself in Heraklion for your entire vacation, or just want to spend a night or two before moving on to a road trip around Crete, there's plenty to see and do. This is one of the most impressive churches on Crete. You dont need to worry about a thing. It's renowned for scuba diving, and has numerous dive shops and schools in its modern Sekalla district. One of the biggest attractions is the massive and deserving respect fortress Castello del Molo. I find that these are a great way to combine sightseeing, and taste the local cuisine. This museum and archeological site holds the remains of one of the most important Minoan civilizations on Crete. Searching for one more reason to visit? The Heraklion central market is a bustling place, where you'll find fruit and veg sellers, butchers, fishmongers, olives, cheese, and a few random tourist stalls thrown in for good measure. To the east, youll Agia Triada, the ruins of a small Minoan palace. Heraklion is the capital of the Heraklion Regional Unit, the most populated one out of the four in Crete. At about the halfway point, some interesting tile work adorns the breakwater. I enjoy visiting places of worship of all faiths. However, may not be of interest to everyone. With the famous site of Knossos close by, museums, art exhibitions, and lots of places to eat, Heraklion is a good place to stay and then explore more of thee surrounding area." "@context": "https://schema.org", Perhaps if we ever do work out what it says, we will learn more about life in Minoan times! We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). There isnt a single ugly building. The only reason why you should decide between Chania or Heraklion is time constraints. Though Heraklion has several impressive buildings, it pales in comparison to Chania. Required fields are marked *. However, Cretes most famous natural spot is Samaria Gorge, on the southern coast of the Chania Regional Unit. Sun beds and umbrellas are free to use if you purchase drinks or food from one of the roaming waiters. Today I go over t. "acceptedAnswer": { The best places to stay in Heraklion are in the Old Town. The large shady arcade under the arches is a great place to escape the intense summer sun. Heraklion waterfront walkway | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. Is Heraklion worth visiting? If you've arrived after a long flight or ferry ride and would like to stretch your legs, a stroll along the waterfront is a great idea. For that, you must walk a couple of minutes north to a lovely beach. This way, you will get a better understanding of the civilisation and Crete's history. "@type": "Answer", There are plenty of things to do and explore in the city. Revies by OffHotels Users. Find out more here about thePalace of Knossos. Depending on the time of day you visit, the light shining through them is mesmerizing. We strongly recommend arriving in one city and leaving from the other. That is why the beach is so pristine. With a succession of foreign occupiers, Crete's history is complicated but fascinating. Magnificent 3,500-year-old frescoes from Knossos, including Prince of the Lilies and Bull-Leaping, are on display at this museum. Address: 7 Lyssimachou Kalokairinou Street, 71202 Heraklion, Crete, Official site: http://www.historical-museum.gr/eng/, Agios Titos Church | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. We fell in love with Rethymno. Inside, its pedestrian-only streets are lined by aristocratic buildings, churches, and boutiques, and open onto leafy squares with fountains and busy cafs. The beach is long and fairly wide, also perfect for strolling. People say Heraklion is perfect because summers are great for the beach and winters are perfect to stay long hours outside enjoying the mild temperatures. Morosini Fountain | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. Whatever your interests are there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy. Chania vs Heraklion for trekking: Chania is located near the famous Samaria Gorge, an amazing 15km walk down to the beach of Agia Roumeli. ", Both Chania and Heraklion have gorgeous cathedrals, picturesque old towns, numerous restaurants, and lots of places to shop. "text": "Despite what you might read, Heraklion has no beach itself due to the various structures, walls and fortifications. Heraklion to Timisoara Flights, Fares @ 47572 | MakeMyTrip INTL Flights Flights Hotels Villas & Apts Holiday Packages Trains Buses Cabs Visa More TRIP TYPE One Way FROM TO DEPART RETURN PASSENGERS & CLASS SEARCH Fare Type: Regular Armed Forces NEW Student Senior Citizen Double Seat Popular Filters Late Departures ( 2 ) 77,837 Heraklion is the capital of Crete and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. For more details, check here El Greco Hotel Heraklion, Castello Hotel Heraklion With open plan family rooms, the Castello could be a good choice for families looking for hotels in Heraklion. If it's open, take a look inside the church and be sure to look up to see the chandeliers. Both cities are fascinating, quite different, and for sure worth a visit. https://happyfrogtravels.com/where-to-stay-in-crete-best-hotels-cities-and-beaches/, Koh Yao Yai Island: Things to Do, Where to Stay and How to Get, Visiting Sambor Prei Kuk Temples in Kampong Thom Province, Where to Stay in Marseille: The Best Hotels and Neighborhoods, Where to Stay in Ao Nang: The Best Beaches and Other Areas, The Best Books About Greece: From History to Art, 10 Reasons to Travel to Greece Now (in 2022). Here are some of the most frequently asked questions visitors have when planning things to do in Heraklion. This 4.6-kilometer return walk takes you out into the sea and provides great views back towards the city and mountains in the distance. However, go to Heraklion if you are into archaeology. Skiathos or Skopelos in the Sporades (Greece) Which One to Visit? There are also a number of museums and galleries in Rhodes that are worth visiting. 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. As you probably know, we moved to Greece a couple of years ago. Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Itineraries | Bicycle Touring, Last Updated On January 14, 2022 by Dave Briggs 1 Comment. Chania is often thought to be the prettier town of the two, but undoubtedly Heraklion has more things to see, especially with top attractions such as the Palace of Knossos. Several buses a day connect them in about 3 hours. The best time to visit Heraklion would be during June and September when it is less crowded and the weather is pleasant. Particular highlights include two paintings from the 16th century: The Baptism of Christ and the View of Mt. "mainEntity": [{ . - See 7,437 traveler reviews, 7,339 candid photos, and great deals for Heraklion, Greece, at Tripadvisor. The trip from Athens to Chania lasts approximately 8 hours. The shops, restaurants, and cafs are literally everywhere in the Old Town. Located 1866 Street, between the Meidani and Kornarou Square, this is a good place to get a feel for the authentic side of Cretan life. The reason is that the city is one of the largest in Greece, and it has a lively port as well as one of the most important airports in the country.
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